2009 Kia Optima Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

2009 Kia Optima recalls

Most common 2009 Kia Optima problems

Problem areas named in the 116 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem area	Reports
Power Train	33
Air Bags	28
Service Brakes	17
Electrical System	16
Engine	14
Vehicle Speed Control	11
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)	9
Exterior Lighting	9
Steering	7
Structure	4

What owners report

2024-11-07, Engine And Engine Cooling
The contact owns a 2009 Kia Optima. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle was making an abnormal knocking noise and then stalled. The contact stated that the battery and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The contact drove the vehicle to an independent mechanic and the vehicle stalled several times while driving to the mechanic. The mechanic had diagnosed the vehicle and determined that there were metal shavings in the oil pan and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 152,000.

2023-11-12, Steering
After 131,500 miles, struts, rotors and pads wore out. Lower ball joint and control arm also wore out, No injuries or accident.

2021-09-21, Air Bags
The airbags did not deploy while the car was being driven at 65 mph on Interstate 275 S and crashed into a wall barrier. Since the airbags did not deploy, the driver's head was thrown around because the rest of his body was held firm by the seat belt. The driver was transported by ambulance to the hospital. After several tests, it was determined that the driver suffered a broken neck and spinal damage and must wear as an Aspen neck brace for 6 weeks and then be examined by a Neurosurgeon to determine if there is any further damage or additional medical care is required. The driver is unable to work until released by a Neurosurgeon. The car was declared a total loss.

2021-03-28, Power Train
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR WHEN COLD THE CAR DOWNSHIFTS HARD INTO FIRST AT ABOUT 20 MPH. ALMOST AT SOMETIMES FEELING LIKE I HAVE BEEN HIT FROM THE BACK. MY NECK HAS STARTED HURTING FROM WHIPLASH. THIS IS A VERY HORRIBLE PROBLEM THAT NEEDS TO BE FIXED. IN STATES WHERE ROADS BECOME WET, ICY, AND COVERED WITH SNOW, THIS CAN CAUSE A LOT OF DAMAGE/ POSSIBLY DEATH.

2021-03-18, Power Train
TRANSMISSION DOWNSHIFT VERY HARD FROM 2ND TO 1ST. DEALER RESET MODULE 10 MONTHS AGO. SOLVED PROBLEM. PROBLEM RECURRED. DEALER RESET MODULE BUT PROBLEM CONTINUES. CHECKED INTERNET, PROBLEM SEEMS TO BE WIDESPREAD.

2009 Kia Optima questions

Does the 2009 Kia Optima have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 1 safety recall for the 2009 Kia Optima: Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2009 Kia Optima?

Based on 116 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Power Train (33), Air Bags (28), Service Brakes (17).

How do I check if a recall on my 2009 Kia Optima has been fixed?

Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.