2001 Kia Optima Reviews

I haven't seen my car in over two months. It is now at its third mechanic, and they still can't figure out why it won't start. They have run all the tests.

The timing belt, crank sensor, coils, plugs have all been replaced. Fuel pump has been checked.

Mechanic said the car is possessed because the antenna goes up and the radio comes on by itself, with no one around it.

This car looks nice and rides very well (when it runs).

It is very comfortable to drive.

* Three months after I drove off the lot the transmission failed -- been replaced.

* Replaced modules in the transmission.

* Three window motors/regulators have been replaced.

* Engine builds up an ample amount of sludge -- enough to blow a cam plug.

* Does not shift correctly (even after repairs).

* Door locks do not work correctly.

* Leather interior is turning black.

* Paint is chipping away.

* Check engine light is always on (until it went to the dealership and the returned home with the same problems... funny..)

* Leaks oil because of sludge (which I am told is my fault from not changing oil -- after I produced oil change receipts)

The car is a beautiful car and fun to drive... when it wants to RUN!

Kia dealership will not be honest with you or honor their warranty. I am in a warranty fight because of engine problems. I was told to produce oil change receipts; when I asked "How many?" I was told "as many as I could", so I produced two years worth. When I arrived the next time I was told by the District Manager that I needed to provide oil change receipts for the life of the car! Seven years! I asked why, and how long the sludge had been building in the engine? The DISTRICT MANAGER told me he didn't know. What a great answer.

At another local KIA dealership, I simply asked for receipts from past work. The manager there told me the receipts were down the street in a basement in a box in a file in a folder, and it would take days to get them. Later in the week, I was told that I would not be able to have a copy of them at all.

Another time I was told that I needed new rear tire struts. I had them tested and they were 100% okay. It was a lie to obtain money.

Kia has made my life miserable and car-less. I would never buy a Kia again or even recommend one to anyone else. Buy a bike.

At 59,000 miles, the timing belt went out on the car. Luckily, that was covered by the warranty which would have expired on the timing belt at 60K. I have had both windows, drivers and passenger's replaced due to a malfunctioning window motor. Ball bearing went out at 60K, and yesterday, driving along, the car just stopped. Suspect the fuel pump. No, I wouldn't buy another KIA.

Opinion is very low on this car.