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2014 Kia Optima

What 2014 Kia Optima owners report most

Engine complaints dominate owner reports for this model, with many describing unusual noises and, in some cases, fires. Steering and electrical system issues also appear frequently, with owners noting erratic vehicle behavior and dashboard anomalies. Structural complaints round out the picture, including reports of sudden loud sounds and apparent sunroof integrity failures while driving.

Most reported areas

Engine safety 48%
Owners report an audible clapping or knocking noise originating near the engine, sometimes dismissed by dealers as normal but persistent enough to prompt multiple service visits. · 28 fire · 7 crash · 8 injured
Steering safety 16%
Owners describe the vehicle wandering or drifting from side to side at highway speeds, requiring constant left-to-right correction to hold a lane, with the condition present from new. · 1 crash · 1 injured
Electrical System safety 10%
Owners report warning symbols illuminating on the dashboard and fuse cover components found loose or missing, sometimes occurring shortly after a dealer service visit. · 7 fire · 1 crash · 4 injured
Structure safety 8%
Owners describe a sudden loud explosion-like sound while driving, followed by the sensation of air rushing in from above and debris vibrating against the interior sunroof screen. · 3 fire · 1 crash
Service Brakes safety 7%
41 reports (7%) · 4 fire · 8 crash · 6 injured

Source: NHTSA owner complaints · 575 complaints

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General information compiled from public NHTSA complaint data, for reference only — not professional advice and not reviewed by automotive experts. Verify before acting; Team AM is not responsible for decisions made from it.