2013 Kia Optima fuel/propulsion system problems
92 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the fuel/propulsion system on the 2013 Kia Optima — 7% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“On July 14, 2026, the vehicle's engine was replaced by an authorized dealership under an official Kia recall. On August 16, 2026, while driving on the highway, heavy smoke suddenly began emitting from the engine compartment. When attempting to slow down, the braking system suffered a total loss of…”
filed Aug 19, 2026
“I own a 2013 Kia Optima and I am experiencing recurring fuel system-related symptoms. The fuel gauge fluctuates even when the vehicle has a full tank of fuel, causing an inaccurate fuel level reading. In addition, the vehicle has begun to hesitate during operation, which raises concern that there…”
filed Jul 21, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Fuel/propulsion System problems in other Optima years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Optima | 11 | 8% |
| 2019 Optima | 15 | 7% |
| 2018 Optima | 13 | 6% |
| 2017 Optima | 20 | 8% |
| 2016 Optima | 53 | 7% |
| 2015 Optima | 46 | 5% |
| 2014 Optima | 42 | 7% |
| 2012 Optima | 42 | 5% |
| 2011 Optima | 23 | 4% |
| 2010 Optima | 1 | 1% |
| 2009 Optima | 1 | 1% |
| 2008 Optima | 3 | 2% |
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.