2016 Kia Optima Hybrid

○ Not enough data
2016 Kia Optima Hybrid
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:51:16.448Z

Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.

This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.

Only 4 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

Complaints
4

Too few to rank

Recalls
0

None on file

Investigations
3

Opened by NHTSA

Top problem
—

Not enough data

Complaints per year

2011: 34 complaints 2011 2012: 108 complaints 2013: 55 complaints 2013 2014: 31 complaints 2015: 12 complaints 2016: 4 complaints 2016 4 2017: 26 complaints 2018: 3 complaints 2019: 0 complaints 2019 2020: 1 complaint
2011: 34 complaints 2011 2012: 108 complaints 2012 2013: 55 complaints 2013 2014: 31 complaints 2014 2015: 12 complaints 2015 2016: 4 complaints 2016 4 2017: 26 complaints 2017 2018: 3 complaints 2018 2019: 0 complaints 2019 2020: 1 complaint 2020
2011: 34 complaints 2011 2012: 108 complaints 2012 2013: 55 complaints 2013 2014: 31 complaints 2014 2015: 12 complaints 2015 2016: 4 complaints 2016 4 2017: 26 complaints 2017 2018: 3 complaints 2018 2019: 0 complaints 2019 2020: 1 complaint 2020

2016: 4 complaints

View as data table
YearComplaints
201134
2012108
201355
201431
201512
20164
201726
20183
20190
20201

Known problem areas

Only 4 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

Power train

2 of 4 total reports mention: power train.

FIRE
Show complaint excerpts

Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally report a serious safety incident involving my 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid, which caught fire and was completely destroyed on October 5, 2025.

NHTSA ODI report, 2025-10-21

Also filed under Engine and electrical system

Tl* the contact owns a 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid. While driving 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled and lost power.

NHTSA ODI report, 2017-12-05

Engine

2 of 4 total reports mention: engine.

FIRE
Show complaint excerpts

For the 2ND year, my Kia would not start in 32 degree weather in big bear, ca. This is an annual trip & took my Kia.the lights, radio all turn on but the engine will not start.

NHTSA ODI report, 2019-03-04

Exterior lighting

1 of 4 total reports mentions: exterior lighting.

Show complaint excerpts

The right passenger headlight won't work I changed the light bulb and it's completely off. At first when I attempted to change the bulb the light flickered and I thought that it might've not been put on all the way or it might've became loose.

NHTSA ODI report, 2019-05-23

Electrical system

1 of 4 total reports mentions: electrical system.

FIRE

Safety timeline

No recalls on file for this model year.

0 recalls · 3 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

  1. I
    2019-04-19Engineering analysisClosed 2024-09-19 Electrical overstress
  2. I
    2022-09-12Defect petitionClosed 2023-12-12 Loss of Motive Power
  3. I
    2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds

Buy-smart checklist

2016 Kia Optima Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Power train: 2 reports on file for this year.
  • Engine: 2 reports on file for this year.
  • Exterior lighting: 1 report on file for this year.

FAQ

Is the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.