Kia Optima 2019 recalls, problems, complaints and safety
NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Kia Optima 2019 and 211 complaints filed by owners. It has 31% more complaints than the average Kia Optima from 2016–2025 (161 per year).
These are recalls issued for this model and year, not for your specific car. A car may already be repaired or may not be included. Confirm with your VIN on NHTSA.
Own or buying a Kia Optima 2019? Enter its VIN to see its exact trim and engine, and confirm on NHTSA whether its recalls were repaired.
Recalls issued for the Kia Optima 2019
Forward collision avoidance
NHTSA campaign 19V539000 · 2019-07-19
What happens
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Optima vehicles equipped with Gamma 1.6L Turbo-GDI or Theta II 2.0L Turbo-GDI engines. A software error in the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system may cause the braking assist function to not engage when a stationary vehicle is detected.
Consequence
Improper intervention of the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the FCA software, free of charge. The recall began August 27, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC179.
The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.
Complaints from other owners
211 complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of this model.
20 with a crash · 6 with a fire · 16 injuries
Most reported problems on the Kia Optima 2019
- Engine: 91 (43% of complaints)
- Forward collision avoidance: 36 (17% of complaints)
- Electrical system: 23 (11% of complaints)
- Brakes: 18 (9% of complaints)
- Fuel and propulsion: 17 (8% of complaints)
Complaints are written by owners and NHTSA doesn't verify each one. They're useful to spot trends.
What to check before buying a Kia Optima 2019
- Confirm by VIN on NHTSA that the recalls on this list were repaired.
- Start it cold, listen for noises, look for oil or coolant leaks and exhaust smoke.
- Ask whether the system braked on its own for no reason ("phantom braking") and whether software updates are pending.
- Test lights, windows, locks, the screen and dashboard warning lights; have trouble codes scanned.
- Get an inspection from an independent mechanic before paying.
Safety rating (NCAP)
| Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Kia Optima 4 DR FWD | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Kia Optima recalls by year
- 2016 : 5 recalls · 757 complaints
- 2017 : 3 recalls · 256 complaints
- 2018 : 2 recalls · 232 complaints
- 2019 : 1 recalls · 211 complaints
- 2020 : 0 recalls · 150 complaints
- 2021 : 0 recalls · 0 complaints
- 2022 : 0 recalls · 0 complaints
- 2023 : 0 recalls · 0 complaints
- 2024 : 0 recalls · 0 complaints
- 2025 : 0 recalls · 0 complaints
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Kia Optima 2019 have?
NHTSA lists 1 safety recall issued for the Kia Optima 2019. That doesn't mean every car has them open: confirm with the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The repair is free at the dealer.
What is the most common problem with the Kia Optima 2019?
In complaints filed with NHTSA, the most mentioned component is: engine (91 of 211 complaints). Complaints aren't verified one by one, but they show trends.
Model-level information from official NHTSA sources. Confirm by VIN on NHTSA. Not a substitute for a mechanical inspection.
Last updated: October 12, 2026. Sources: NHTSA vPIC (decoding), NHTSA Recalls, NHTSA Complaints and NHTSA NCAP (5-Star Safety Ratings).