2013 Kia Optima engine and engine cooling problems
42 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine and engine cooling on the 2013 Kia Optima — 3% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2013 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH with the cruise control activated, there was smoke coming from underneath the passenger’s side of the hood before the vehicle decelerated. The contact stated that moments later there were flames coming…”
filed Aug 13, 2026
“The contact stated that while driving the vehicle began to unexpectedly slow and then stalled. The vehicle was unable to restart. No warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The approximate…”
filed May 22, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear…Campaign 17V224000 · Mar 31, 2017
Engine and Engine Cooling problems in other Optima years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Optima | 8 | 6% |
| 2019 Optima | 3 | 1% |
| 2018 Optima | 14 | 6% |
| 2017 Optima | 7 | 3% |
| 2016 Optima | 24 | 3% |
| 2015 Optima | 31 | 3% |
| 2014 Optima | 14 | 2% |
| 2012 Optima | 19 | 2% |
| 2011 Optima | 7 | 1% |
| 2010 Optima | 2 | 3% |
| 2009 Optima | 2 | 2% |
| 2008 Optima | 5 | 3% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2013 Kia Optima
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.