2019 Kia Optima electrical system problems
23 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the electrical system on the 2019 Kia Optima — 11% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“While driving, my vehicle suddenly began shuddering and shaking. The vehicle lost power and would not accelerate properly. I had to press the brake pedal unusually hard. After parking, the vehicle would not move properly in reverse or drive. I turned the vehicle off and restarted it, and it moved…”
filed Sep 8, 2026
“Drove roughly an hour from Roseville MI to Temperance MI. Car was fine. No issues on the drive. Gauges were all fine. Got to my friend’s house and took my stuff inside. Came back out immediately and saw dark smoke now coming from the hood. Attempted to open, but couldn't unlatch the hood after it…”
filed May 1, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related service bulletins
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: THETA II 2.4L GDI EMISSION SECM LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (SC340 REV 4) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections…
SC340_TSB_R4 · Emissions · issued Mar 6, 2026
Electrical System problems in other Optima years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Optima | 13 | 9% |
| 2018 Optima | 33 | 14% |
| 2017 Optima | 25 | 10% |
| 2016 Optima | 102 | 14% |
| 2015 Optima | 135 | 13% |
| 2014 Optima | 60 | 10% |
| 2013 Optima | 146 | 11% |
| 2012 Optima | 122 | 13% |
| 2011 Optima | 63 | 11% |
| 2010 Optima | 13 | 17% |
| 2009 Optima | 16 | 14% |
| 2008 Optima | 15 | 10% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2019 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.