2003 Kia Optima recalls and problems
The 2003 Kia Optima has 2 safety recalls and 141 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2003 Kia Optima vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2003 Kia Optima recalls
Recall 09V-183: Suspension
Problem: Kia motors corporation (Kmc) is recalling 36,538 model year 2001-2004 optima vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, and the district of columbia. Road salt applied in these states during the winter months may result in progressive, internal corrosion of the front subframe. Over time, such subframe corrosion near the connection to the lower control arm can lead to wheel misalignment and/or other noticeable stress in steering, or accelerated abnormal tire wear.
Risk: Corrosion of the front subframe could lead to separation, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.
Fix: Kmc will notify owners and dealers will repair the vehicles free of charge. The safety recall began on june 15, 2009. Owners may contact kia's consumer assistance center at 1-800-333-4542.
Recall 04V-180: Fuel System, Gasoline
Problem: Some passenger vehicles may contain a fuel tank assembly valve that may not close properly. If a vehicle with a fuel tank assembly valve that is not properly closed were to roll over, fuel spillage may occur.
Risk: Fuel spillage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.
Fix: Dealers will install an additional fuel tank assembly valve. Owner notification began june 25, 2004. Owners should contact kia at 1-800-333-4542.
2003 Kia Optima problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Latches/Locks/Linkages | 53 | |
| Structure | 26 | |
| Electrical System | 25 | |
| Air Bags | 19 | |
| Suspension | 9 | |
| Power Train | 8 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 7 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 7 | |
| Unknown or Other | 7 | |
| Visibility | 5 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 3 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 3 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 13
- Structure › Body › Door — 10
- Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch — 4
- Air Bags › Frontal — 4
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 3
- Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module — 3
- Power Train › Driveline › Constant Velocity Joint — 2
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 2
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 84,200 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 2003 Kia Optima complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kia Optima years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Kia Optima have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 Kia Optima: 09V-183 (suspension), 04V-180 (fuel system, gasoline). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Kia Optima?
Owners report latches/locks/linkages problems most often (53 reports), followed by structure (26). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 84,200 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.