2019 Kia Optima recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2019 Kia Optima and 213 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (93), unknown or other (43), forward collision avoidance (36). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 24–31 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The 2019 ranks #2 of 9 Optima model years for fewest complaints (2012–2020), with fewer complaints than the average year (644). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 4.4 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2019 Kia Optima. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Forward collision avoidance · automatic emergency braking
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Optima vehicles equipped with Gamma 1.6L Turbo-GDI or Theta II 2.0L Turbo-GDI engines. A software error in the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system may cause the braking assist function to not engage when a stationary vehicle is detected.
Risk: Improper intervention of the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the FCA software, free of charge. The recall began August 27, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC179.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
Car smelled of what seemed like motor oil while driving. Parked, saw white smoke, and confirmed an engine fire. I was clearly in life threatening danger, especially with a full tank of gas. Fire developed rapidly into a roaring blaze. Entire front of car melted. Car is currently being investigated by manufacturer and cause is unknown. No warning lamps illuminated.
Vehicle shut off while driving at 40mph, engine seized ,will not crank .suspected conecting rod bearing failure under safety recall sc200, i call kia 18003334542 denied recall repair and bearing clearance test stating vehicle is rebuilt title. Federal safety recall cannot be denied due to rebuilt title per nhtsa .requesting recall remedy.
On XXX, Towbin Kia Service (Henderson, NV) officially diagnosed my 2019 Kia Optima (VIN: [XXX], Mileage: 118,325) with a critical component failure: "LOW PRESSURE FUEL PUMP IS LEAKING FROM TOP HAT" (Invoice #XXX). Despite documenting a severe, volatile raw fuel leak that presents an immediate fire and explosion hazard, the dealership refused to keep the vehicle. They explicitly…
Safety ratings
2019 Kia Optima 4 DR FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2019 Kia Optima.
Optima
Auto (AM7) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo
Regular
Optima
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L · Turbo
Regular
Optima FE
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2019 Kia Optima have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2019 Kia Optima, most recently for forward collision avoidance · automatic emergency braking (07/19/2019). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Kia Optima?
Based on 213 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (93), unknown or other (43), forward collision avoidance (36).
Is the 2019 Kia Optima safe?
The 2019 Kia Optima earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2019 a good year for the Kia Optima?
The 2019 ranks #2 of 9 Optima model years for fewest complaints (2012–2020), with fewer complaints than the average year (644). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 4.4 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2019 Kia Optima get?
EPA ratings for the 2019 Kia Optima range from 24 to 31 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
Own a 2019 Kia Optima in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: OPTIMA, OPTIMA PHEV, OPTIMA HYBRID, OPTIMA PLUG-IN HYBRID, Optima.