I have a 2013 Kia Optima 2.4L standard, I guess since it isn’t an EX or anything, with around 89k miles. What issues should I watch out for in the long run
I’m not sure about the 2013 model, but I have a 2019 LX with the same 2.4 4-cylinder engine and 100k miles and no problems at all, just regular maintenance
Fielder said:
I’m not sure about the 2013 model, but I have a 2019 LX with the same 2.4 4-cylinder engine and 100k miles and no problems at all, just regular maintenance
This is actually the question I was hoping to ask too. I have a 2019 Optima S that I bought about 3 weeks ago. It was slightly used and I know I missed some things even with my research since I’m not a mechanic. The 2013-2019 models with the 2.4L Theta engine are what has me a bit nervous now that I’ve got it. The more I read, the more I get worried, but so far it’s in excellent shape with one owner who got regular service every 3-5k miles. It’s good to hear you’ve had no issues and that the person who posted this has a 2013 with almost 100k miles without major problems.
@Dara
I’m honestly a little worried too. I wish I had known more about this beforehand, but that’s on me. I’m looking into it more too and feeling the same way. It’s just stressing me out, but I really want this car to last as long as possible while also keeping up with basic maintenance.
@Aris
Did you buy it used? Mine had roughly 45k miles on it, so seeing a 2013 with less than 100k is honestly great news. I’m right there with you. I looked up recalls and other details, but this big engine recall isn’t listed on Carfax or the main titles unless you check certain third-party sites that share this information. I somehow missed this one after weeks of research, and the overall consensus on social media seems to be mixed. Some mechanics are saying good things about Hyundai-Kia, but others are negative. In real life, everyone I’ve spoken to has only good things to say about these brands. It’s hard to know whom to believe since many mechanics giving advice seem to work at Hyundai and Kia dealerships, so they might have biased perspectives if they work on these issues daily. I haven’t seen anything definitive; it’s either someone has a Kia that lasts to 200k miles or they end up replacing the engine. I’m not trying to scare anyone, but I’m just very paranoid, and that makes this feel heavy on my mind. I plan on having this car reviewed as best as I can, so if I learn anything new, I’ll let you know!
@Dara
YES! I did get this car used and it had 43k miles when I bought it. I’m happy to see someone else in the same situation. I also saw information about other recalls but nothing about the engine until I went to third-party sites. Most people I’ve talked to about Kia-Hyundai have positive things to share about their cars with minimal issues. I’m trying to keep all the online advice balanced. I don’t want to get too wrapped up in what someone online says and worry myself for no reason. I have to remain open-minded since it’s my means of transportation. Even when I visited Kia last year for a system update, they didn’t mention any issues. I still plan on contacting them to see what options I might have for help if needed. If you hear anything else, please send it my way. I will do the same!
@Aris
Have you been using an engine cleaning solution to reduce carbon buildup and oil loss for your Kia? It seems like many are not aware of this, but carbon buildup is a major reason for engine failures in these models.
@Alston
Honestly, I have not done this yet. But I want to try it. Any good brands you recommend? I didn’t know this and would love to do whatever I can to make my engine last.
Aris said:
@Alston
Honestly, I have not done this yet. But I want to try it. Any good brands you recommend? I didn’t know this and would love to do whatever I can to make my engine last.
You can search YouTube for Kia piston soak or fuel injection cleaner. Those videos often share materials you might need in their description. Kia and Hyundai are among the cheaper brands on the market, so I hope the engine lasts longer for everyone driving these cars.
@Alston
Thanks so much! I’ll check that out now. I want to see these engines last as long as possible. I plan to buy a new car in the next year or so, and I think I’ll be looking at either Honda or Nissan since they are more reliable.
@Aris
Honda is a great pick. Nissan has issues with their CVT transmission failing after around 60k miles. They even have a 60k mile warranty for that reason. I’d also suggest Toyota.
Alston said:
@Aris
Honda is a great pick. Nissan has issues with their CVT transmission failing after around 60k miles. They even have a 60k mile warranty for that reason. I’d also suggest Toyota.
This comment is empty, admin should fix
@Alston
Quick question, I might be mixing up the motors, but I’m not entirely sure what the major issue is for American-made Kias and Hyundais. I thought it was the 2.4L Theta, but maybe it’s the Theta II? Is the maintenance you mentioned related to these engine problems? I really appreciate your comment for the person who posted this and for everyone else’s benefit because I’ve been diving headfirst into this ever since I got my car, thinking it was a good deal for reliability. In my area, the most affordable Toyotas and Hondas in my budget have been those with about 100k miles. While those might still run fine, I wanted something newer with fewer owners and a cleaner title. I’ll definitely be looking into regular maintenance for carbon buildup now. Thank you.
@Dara
I don’t think carbon buildup issues will be much different for this engine. This problem has been present since Kia and Hyundai started building their engines; they used to use Mitsubishi engines before. They developed a new engine with better fuel efficiency, but unfortunately, carbon buildup has been a problem since.
@Aris
Just keep changing the oil, don’t go over 3,000 miles, and don’t drive hard. Take it easy and it should last a long time.
@Aris
I will absolutely do that! I hadn’t seen a good suggestion like this one before, so this post has been really helpful. I’m meeting with a close friend soon who works at a Hyundai dealership, so if I get any useful info or tips, I’ll pass it along.
@Aris
Just make sure to follow their maintenance schedule, but don’t go to a Kia dealership. Choose a local and trustworthy shop, and keep all your receipts and records. I always go to the same local shop; they are quick, professional, and way cheaper than the dealership. Plus, most local shops have experienced mechanics who really care about your car. Not to say that dealership mechanics don’t care, but often they have such heavy loads that they don’t have time to give much attention.
Engine problems are a big concern. Your car has the Theta II engine known for various issues, especially engine failure. But just because you own one doesn’t automatically mean you’ll face issues. Other factors like maintenance (oil change habits, repairs) and driving styles matter too. If your car happens to be white, there’s a higher chance that the paint might peel, which is a known issue with white cars across many brands.
@Alex
This is really interesting. I’ll definitely look into it. I try hard to keep up with the maintenance and not drive it too roughly. The only strange thing I’ve had happen, which is rare, is that if I brake suddenly, the car loses RPMs and I have no acceleration control. I have to pull off and restart the car to fix it. Aside from that, it’s been a good car. As for the possibility of theft, I have a physical key but thankfully have not faced any issues yet. Still, I’d like to explore getting a fob or a different key if I can.
@Alex
I own a 2019 Theta II 2.4 Optima and haven’t faced any issues. The only people who have issues are those who don’t keep up with their car maintenance. If you do your maintenance, your engine should last a long time.