2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

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2017 Kia Optima Hybrid
RENDERED 2026-08-02T13:06:34.812Z

Only 25 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 25 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.

How is this computed?

COMPLAINTS PER YEAR

2017: 25 complaints

View as data table

Year	Complaints
2011	34
2012	107
2013	50
2014	31
2015	12
2016	4
2017	25
2018	3
2019	0
2020	1

KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS

Only 25 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.

ENGINE

15 of 25 total reports mention: engine.

Show complaint excerpts

Hev is not working happened 2 two times already

NHTSA ODI report, 20231216

While driving my car started to decelerate in the middle of the freeway and I was in no position to pull over. The hybrid battery nearly completely drained before I was able to limp off the freeway.

NHTSA ODI report, 20231215

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

5 of 25 total reports mention: electrical system.

SERVICE BRAKES

4 of 25 total reports mention: service brakes.

CRASH INJURY

Show complaint excerpts

TL* THE CONTACT AND HIS DAUGHTER LEASED A 2017 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID.

NHTSA ODI report, 20200916

POWER TRAIN

2 of 25 total reports mention: power train.

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 of 25 total reports mentions: visibility/wiper.

SAFETY TIMELINE

R 20211129 — engine

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge.

Campaign 21V844000 — check if this car was fixed

I 20211222 — EA (closed 20240205)

Engine Fires

I 20220912 — DP (closed 20231212)

Loss of Motive Power

I 20230127 — DP (closed 20230807)

Pedestrian alert sounds

R 20231019 — latches/locks/linkages

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.

Campaign 23V594000 — check if this car was fixed

BUY-SMART CHECKLIST

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection

Test/inspect for engine issues (15 reports on file for this year).
Test/inspect for electrical system issues (5 reports on file for this year).
Test/inspect for service brakes issues (4 reports on file for this year).
Verify recall 21V844000 (engine) has been completed.
Verify recall 23V594000 (latches/locks/linkages) has been completed.

FAQ

Is the 2017 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 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid?

The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 60% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid have?

2 recalls on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.