2018 Kia Optima Hybrid recalls and problems
The 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid has 2 safety recalls and 3 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2018 Kia Optima Hybrid recalls
Recall 23V-594: Latches/Locks/Linkages
Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Rio, 2016-2018 Optima, 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. The trunk latch base may crack, preventing the opening of the trunk from the inside. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 401, "Internal Trunk Release."
Risk: A person inside the trunk compartment may become trapped, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will replace the trunk latch base subassembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 19, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC278.
Recall 21V-844: Engine
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC218.
2018 Kia Optima Hybrid problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 100,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kia Optima Hybrid years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid: 23V-594 (latches/locks/linkages), 21V-844 (engine). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Kia Optima Hybrid?
Owners report engine problems most often (3 reports), followed by electrical system (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 100,000 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.