Friday, August 7, 2026
RecallGazette

Vehicle problems, recalls & safety intelligence

2012 Chrysler 200 vs 2012 Kia Optima

Complaints, recalls, TSBs, investigations and safety ratings side by side, from official federal data. Last verified Aug 7, 2026. Raw complaint counts are not adjusted for sales volume.

Metric2012 Chrysler 2002012 Kia Optima
NHTSA complaints638919
Recall campaigns45
Service bulletins (TSBs)171241
Investigations17
Crash reports2925
Fire reports477
NCAP overall rating4/55/5
EPA MPG (combined)22–2426–36
Median reported mileage60,000 mi82,120 mi

Reported problems side by side

ComponentChrysler 200Kia Optima
Engine146398
Electrical System140122
Steering45188
Air Bags13648
Power Train5454
Service Brakes4052
Seat Belts715
Visibility/wiper5613

Symptoms owners describe

Stalling93110
Airbag warning light3019
Check engine light2873
Loss of power1949
Clunking / rattling1474
Hesitation / surging1322
Steering problems120
Overheating110

Compare all Chrysler 200 vs Kia Optima years →

Method. Complaints are unique NHTSA reports. A vehicle that sold more units will naturally accumulate more complaints — use shares and read the underlying reports before drawing conclusions.