Looking for a used automatic car in the $10-15k range and came across a 2012 Kia Optima with about 130k miles on it. Does anyone here have experience with this car?
I’ve read mixed reviews about its engine reliability and was hoping for some advice.
I’ve been mainly considering Mazda 3s and Accord Euros in this price range, but I’m curious if the Kia can hold up in terms of long-term reliability. Thanks!
I know someone who has had an Optima Platinum from new. No major issues so far, except the sunroof needed some maintenance because they rarely use it. If you can drive manual, I’d recommend the Accord Euro instead.
@Alix
Thanks for the input! Unfortunately, I can’t drive manual, but I’ve heard good things about the Euro even in automatic.
Blakeley said:
@Alix
Thanks for the input! Unfortunately, I can’t drive manual, but I’ve heard good things about the Euro even in automatic.
The Euro is a fantastic car, especially in manual. I know a few people whose manual Euros have passed 310k miles with proper care. If you ever learn manual, it’s a car worth considering!
The Accord Euro is a much better choice. The Kia isn’t terrible, but it doesn’t compare to the Honda.
Andi said:
The Accord Euro is a much better choice. The Kia isn’t terrible, but it doesn’t compare to the Honda.
Thanks! Have you driven both? I’ve heard Kia has improved over the years, but I don’t know many people who own one.
@Blakeley
I’ve driven an Accord Euro, and it’s fantastic. Kias are decent, but back in 2012, Honda’s engineering was far ahead. The Euro was made in Japan, has great suspension, and the engine is one of the best four-cylinder engines out there. The Kia is okay, but Honda’s reliability is hard to beat.
@Andi
Totally agree. People often focus on fancy interiors, but the engine and driving experience matter more. If this was a newer Kia, maybe, but the 2012 models just don’t measure up.
My first proper car was a 2013 Kia Optima Platinum. Bought it used with 20k miles and now it’s at 140k. It’s been solid overall. A few small issues like peeling chrome inside and a faulty door lock, but it’s been reliable and comfortable. Still one of my favorite car designs.
I’d avoid any Kia or Hyundai models from 2007 to 2015.
I had a 2006 Accord Euro, and it was amazing. Got it used, never had issues, and only sold it because I bought a new CR-V. Honestly wish I’d kept it.
I got a 2020 Kia Cerato, and it’s great, but a Kia from 2012 isn’t as refined. Kia used to focus on adding more features to stand out, but their reliability wasn’t at the level of brands like Toyota back then. If you want something reliable, I’d stick with a Honda or Toyota.
I had a 2013 Optima for about two years. Bought it used with 50k miles and loved it. Only sold it because I got a company car.
I owned a 2013 Optima Platinum and loved it. Only replaced it with a Kia Stinger. They feel similar inside, but the Optima is much slower.
Fenn said:
I owned a 2013 Optima Platinum and loved it. Only replaced it with a Kia Stinger. They feel similar inside, but the Optima is much slower.
What do you think about one with 173k miles on it?
@Emory
It depends on how well it’s been maintained. If there’s no clear maintenance history, I’d be cautious.
Check if the Optima you’re looking at has had its engine replaced—that’s a common issue. I’d lean towards the Accord Euro.
I know someone with a new Optima Platinum, and they’ve had no issues so far. It’s a comfortable car with lots of features. That said, if you’re going for an Accord Euro, manual is the way to go. Those cars last forever with proper care.