2018 Kia Optima Phev
Only 8 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 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 8
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 3
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2018
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2018: 8 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2016 | 0 |
| 2017 | 23 |
| 2018 | 8 |
| 2019 | 1 |
| 2020 | 1 |
Known problem areas
Only 8 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
3 of 8 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
Error message "Check hybrid system.
NHTSA ODI report, 2019-06-12
Electrical system
3 of 8 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Optima PHEV. The contact's daughter stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the high systems temperature switching to hybrid mode message was displayed.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-07-21
Visibility/wiper
1 of 8 total reports mentions: visibility/wiper.
Show complaint excerpts
The car was park in the house and when I get back I saw a long crack on the windshield so I check the surrounding if there is something fell on it but there's no even an impact on it it's just crack from the top of the windshield up to the middle...
NHTSA ODI report, 2018-09-25
Steering
1 of 8 total reports mentions: steering.
Show complaint excerpts
The plastic coupling for the steering is broken in my 2018 Kia optima the same Issue that the 2011-2014 issue optimaâs have my car has this same issue.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-05-10
Power train
1 of 8 total reports mentions: power train.
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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I
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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R
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
2018 Kia Optima Phev — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Visibility/wiper: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 21V844000 · Engine
- Recall 23V594000 · Latches/locks/linkages
FAQ
- Is the 2018 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 2018 Kia Optima Phev?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2018 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.