2017 Kia Optima Phev
Only 23 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 23 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 23
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 3
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2017
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2017: 23 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 0 |
| 2017 | 23 |
| 2018 | 8 |
| 2019 | 1 |
| 2020 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Only 23 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
11 of 23 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Optima PHEV. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed up a steep hill, the vehicle lost motive power.
NHTSA ODI report, 2023-10-24
Also filed under Hybrid propulsion system
Electrical system
8 of 23 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
The plug that is attached to the charging cable for my electric charger caught fire while plugged into a dedicated wall outlet in my garage. Fortunately, no major structural damage nor bodily harm received .
NHTSA ODI report, 2020-09-14
While driving my Kia hybrid a notice came up on the dash board to immediately pull over and shut off my engine and I was on a major highway going about 75 when I lost total power and my vehicle began to loose power.
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-01-22
Power train
2 of 23 total reports mention: power train.
Hybrid propulsion system
2 of 23 total reports mention: hybrid propulsion system.
Fuel/propulsion system
2 of 23 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 3 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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R
2021-11-29Engine21V844000 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.
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I
2021-12-22Engineering analysisClosed 2024-02-05 Engine Fires
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2022-09-12Defect petitionClosed 2023-12-12 Loss of Motive Power
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I
2023-01-27Defect petitionClosed 2023-08-07 Pedestrian alert sounds
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2023-10-19Latches/locks/linkages23V594000 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.
Buy-smart checklist
2017 Kia Optima Phev — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 11 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 8 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 21V844000 · Engine
- Recall 23V594000 · Latches/locks/linkages
FAQ
- Is the 2017 Kia Optima Phev 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 Phev?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 48% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2017 Kia Optima Phev have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.