Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2017 Kia Optima Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A stylish sedan that demands meticulous pre-purchase inspection to navigate its significant powertrain Achilles' heel.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2017 Kia Optima

  • Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittings.
  • Scores 5 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Kia Optima earns a 83.
  • The system most likely to surface first: engine (2.4l gdi & 2.0t gdi) (critical severity).

Should You Buy the 2017 Kia Optima?

The 2017 Kia Optima offers appealing style and features for the money, but its reliability is a mixed bag, largely due to significant engine concerns with specific powertrains. While many components are robust, potential buyers must exercise extreme caution and diligent inspection to avoid costly powertrain failures.

Biggest Strengths

  • Modern interior features and design for its class
  • Generally solid build quality outside of key powertrain components
  • Good value proposition on the used market

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2017 Kia Optima. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

1
Engine (2.4L GDI & 2.0T GDI)critical
2
Transmission (1.6T DCT)moderate
3
Electrical/Infotainmentminor
Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.

HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Kia Optima hybrid vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with a Voltage Protection Device (VPD), designed to protect the high voltage battery module, that may activate inadvertently.

What breaks on the 2017 Kia Optima?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Kia Optima by Year

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Kia Optima. Click any year for its full report.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Full Report

2017 Kia Optima

7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair cost projections, buyer checklist, and expert verdict.

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Complete Owner's Guide

Already own one? Get the 13-chapter owner's guide with specs, service schedules, and fluid capacities.

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Final Step

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