Should I Buy This 2013 Kia Optima for $5.5k or Keep Looking?

Seeking Advice
1

Here’s the situation:
I wasn’t planning on buying a car right now, especially since prices are high and interest rates make things worse. But my old car, a 2001 clunker, is done for, and I need a replacement fast.

I met up with someone selling a 2013 Kia Optima LX. The car looks fantastic inside and out, and the interior feels like a huge upgrade compared to what I’ve been driving. No warning lights, no obvious mechanical issues (based on what I was told and the test drive), and the mileage is 140k, which fits my goal of staying under 150k. Plates are current, the title is clean, and everything checks out on the surface.

The problem is, I’ve heard about engine issues with these cars, specifically the Theta II recall. I didn’t know about this issue when I checked the car, so I didn’t get the VIN or inspect the engine closely.

Is this worth considering for the price? Should I be worried about the mileage or other risks with older Kias? From what I’ve read, the engine problems often happen before 100k miles, so if this car made it to 140k, does that mean it might already have had the engine replaced? Or should I steer clear entirely? Lastly, how do Kias compare to brands like Honda or Toyota when you hit 150k miles or more?

2

If you’re okay with older cars, it might be fine, but compared to Hondas or Toyotas, Kias don’t usually hold up as well after 150k miles.

3

Auden said:
If you’re okay with older cars, it might be fine, but compared to Hondas or Toyotas, Kias don’t usually hold up as well after 150k miles.

Thanks, that’s what I was wondering. I’ve driven cars past 200k miles before, so I’m used to doing my own maintenance. Just not sure if Kias can go the distance like Hondas or Toyotas.

4

@Clair
It’s a gamble. If the engine was replaced, it might be fine, but without proof, it’s risky. Hondas and Toyotas are just more reliable in the long run.

5

Auden said:
@Clair
It’s a gamble. If the engine was replaced, it might be fine, but without proof, it’s risky. Hondas and Toyotas are just more reliable in the long run.

Yeah, I might ask for the VIN to check the recall history. I just need something dependable, and this whole situation has me second-guessing Kias.

6

@Clair
Don’t count on it lasting as long as a Honda or Toyota. If it’s still running at 140k, it might have had the engine replaced or someone is masking issues.

7

I’d avoid it. These Kias are prone to engine fires and theft issues. Even if you get it fixed for free, the hassle might not be worth it.

Check this out for more info: Hyundai and Kia Recall More Vehicles for Fire Risk - Consumer Reports

8

@Brynn
Wow, I didn’t realize there were so many issues beyond the engine recall. Fires, theft problems—it’s starting to feel like too much risk.

9

Don’t do it. Kias are constantly being stolen, and the repairs are a nightmare. Insurance companies either charge a lot or won’t cover them at all.

10

Walk away from this one. The seller probably knows the engine isn’t going to last much longer.

11

Ariya said:
Walk away from this one. The seller probably knows the engine isn’t going to last much longer.

Good point. I’m thinking about asking for the VIN to check if the engine has already been replaced under the recall.

12

@Clair
Even if the engine was replaced, Kias have other major issues. For example, their anti-theft measures are so weak that thieves can start them with a USB cable.

13

Ariya said:
@Clair
Even if the engine was replaced, Kias have other major issues. For example, their anti-theft measures are so weak that thieves can start them with a USB cable.

I’ve heard a bit about that. So even with the engine issue fixed, the theft risk is still a big deal?

14

@Clair
Exactly. TikTok made it worse by showing how easy it is to steal Kias. Insurance companies are raising rates or refusing to cover them. It’s a huge headache, even with the so-called fixes.

15

Franz said:
I’d skip this one.

Fair enough. Is it mostly because of the engine problems or something else?

16

Clair said:

Franz said:
I’d skip this one.

Fair enough. Is it mostly because of the engine problems or something else?

Both. You’d likely end up paying a ton in repairs, and there are better options out there.