There are no safety recalls for the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid, but owners have filed 4 complaints with NHTSA.
2016 Kia Optima Hybrid problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Power Train | 2 | |
| Engine | 2 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 38,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Electrical System · reported Oct 21, 2025
Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally report a serious safety incident involving my 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid, which caught fire and was completely destroyed on October 5, 2025. Incident Summary: While driving on a highway at approximately 65 mph, I noticed that the vehicle was not entering Hybrid Mode, which is abnormal for its typical operation. I reduced my speed to 45 mph, then down to 35 mph as I began to observe smoke coming from the vehicle. At no point did the vehicle show signs of overheating, and there was no Check Engine Light until shortly before I was able to safely pull over. Within…
Exterior Lighting · at 61,000 miles · reported May 23, 2019
The right passenger headlight won't work I changed the light bulb and it's completely off. At first when I attempted to change the bulb the light flickered and I thought that it might've not been put on all the way or it might've became loose. But then it went completely out causing a road hazard and unsafe to drive as lights are very important. It also has caused me to be pulled over by many police when I shouldn't be going through this or anyone's one else that is going through the same problem with kia. This first occurred when I was driving on the highway could've been a bad situation. It…
Engine · at 38,000 miles · reported Mar 4, 2019
For the 2nd year, my kia would not start in 32 degree weather in big bear, ca. This is an annual trip & took my kia.the lights, radio all turn on but the engine will not start. I have to wait until noon for the sun to warm up the car & then it's back to normal. I have taken the car back to the dealership & have been told they cannot find any malfunction & never heard of anyone experience what I have. There are many forums with kia owners complaining of the same, but cannot get a fix or acknowledgement that the problem exists. It's beyond frustrating when the car has less than 40k miles.
Power Train · at 10,000 miles · reported Dec 5, 2017
The contact owns a 2016 kia optima hybrid. While driving 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled and lost power. The vehicle was towed to kia downtown los angeles (1945 s figueroa st, los angeles, ca 90007) where it was determined that there was an issue with the hybrid system. The dealer replaced the transmission, but the failure recurred and the vehicle was towed back to kia downtown los angeles. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Additionally, upon starting the vehicle, the check engine indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to kia downtown los angeles where the dealer stated that…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid?
Owners report power train problems most often (2 reports), followed by engine (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 38,000 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.