2016 Kia Optima steering problems
24 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the steering on the 2016 Kia Optima — 3% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“I purchased a vehicle from Banter Auto here in Wichita, Kansas. I reviewed the Carfax beforehand and nothing stood out that scared me so I signed off and purchased the vehicle. I have had nothing but problems since buying which was 7 months ago and have spent $9000 on repairs. I’ve been told by…”
filed Mar 11, 2026
“MDPS failing when driving randomly. Steering locks up and vehicle is uncontrollable, while the vehicle is moving. This has occurred at varying speeds, while turning and while driving straight. Dealer has unsuccessfully got the issue to replicate, but independent service center was able to replicate…”
filed May 28, 2025
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Steering problems in other Optima years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Optima | 2 | 1% |
| 2019 Optima | 6 | 3% |
| 2018 Optima | 12 | 5% |
| 2017 Optima | 11 | 4% |
| 2015 Optima | 68 | 7% |
| 2014 Optima | 94 | 16% |
| 2013 Optima | 212 | 15% |
| 2012 Optima | 188 | 20% |
| 2011 Optima | 100 | 17% |
| 2010 Optima | 2 | 3% |
| 2009 Optima | 7 | 6% |
| 2008 Optima | 4 | 3% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2016 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.