2002 Kia Optima suspension problems
21 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the suspension on the 2002 Kia Optima — 20% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2002 Kia Optima. The contact stated that after he replaced all four tires, the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for an alignment; however, the mechanic was unable to perform an alignment due to the subframe corrosion. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was…”
filed Nov 14, 2022
“Over a weeks time,I noticed my steering wheel was turned like maybe I needed an alignment and it started pulling to the left so bad that I had to force the steering wheel to the right so I wouldn't wreck into the median on the interstate. I could only go about 45 or 50 mph or it would start shaking…”
filed Oct 11, 2019
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- SuspensionCampaign 09V183000 · May 27, 2009
Suspension problems in other Optima years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 Optima | 1 | 0% |
| 2018 Optima | 1 | 0% |
| 2017 Optima | 3 | 1% |
| 2016 Optima | 3 | 0% |
| 2015 Optima | 6 | 1% |
| 2014 Optima | 10 | 2% |
| 2013 Optima | 26 | 2% |
| 2012 Optima | 18 | 2% |
| 2011 Optima | 18 | 3% |
| 2010 Optima | 1 | 1% |
| 2009 Optima | 4 | 3% |
| 2008 Optima | 3 | 2% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2002 Kia Optima
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.