2020 Kia Optima power train problems
25 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2020 Kia Optima — 18% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Engine replacement needed at 99,782 miles. P1326 code continuously popping up. Also has excessive oil consumption and electrical problems concerning the forward collision system. Kia refuses to replace engine although the P1326 code is covered by lifetime warranty. The cause of the incident was…”
filed Jun 13, 2026
“Car is consuming oil every three weeks. Engine is going to burn if it does not stop. It’s not in a class action but probably should be. It’s been 4 months and over 1,000 spent.”
filed May 11, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Power Train problems in other Optima years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 Optima | 16 | 8% |
| 2018 Optima | 18 | 8% |
| 2017 Optima | 20 | 8% |
| 2016 Optima | 72 | 10% |
| 2015 Optima | 49 | 5% |
| 2014 Optima | 20 | 3% |
| 2013 Optima | 64 | 5% |
| 2012 Optima | 54 | 6% |
| 2011 Optima | 25 | 4% |
| 2010 Optima | 24 | 32% |
| 2009 Optima | 33 | 28% |
| 2008 Optima | 18 | 13% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2020 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.