2018 Kia Optima fuel/propulsion system problems
13 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the fuel/propulsion system on the 2018 Kia Optima — 6% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and persistent mechanical issues with my vehicle since the time of purchase. The vehicle has repeatedly shut off unexpectedly, creating a serious safety concern. Initially, I suspected the issue might be related to the battery, and I have replaced…”
filed Mar 18, 2026
“On August 26, 2025, I brought my 2018 Kia Optima Plug-In Hybrid to an authorized dealer for recall SC218 (engine inspection and KSDS software update). The dealer verbally stated both SC218 and SC278 recalls were completed, and the repair order (RO #XXX) lists them as performed. In September 2025…”
filed Nov 5, 2025
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 | 9 | 7% |
| 2019 Optima | 15 | 7% |
| 2017 Optima | 20 | 8% |
| 2016 Optima | 53 | 7% |
| 2015 Optima | 44 | 4% |
| 2014 Optima | 41 | 7% |
| 2013 Optima | 91 | 7% |
| 2012 Optima | 42 | 5% |
| 2011 Optima | 21 | 4% |
| 2010 Optima | 1 | 1% |
| 2009 Optima | 1 | 1% |
| 2008 Optima | 3 | 2% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2018 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.