CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Kia›
  4. Optima›
  5. 2017

2017 Kia Optima Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ryan Davis·2 Critical Recalls
2017 Kia Optima Report

Overall Score

7.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2017 Optima earned a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including frontal, side, and rollover crash tests.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 25 MPG.
  • Significant recalls, especially those concerning the engine and fuel system, require thorough inspection and confirmation of completion.
  • A high count of Technical Service Bulletins (74) suggests potential for minor but frequent issues or diagnostic challenges.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Kia Optima

The 2017 Kia Optima presents a compelling package for used car shoppers, blending a comfortable ride with commendable fuel efficiency and top-tier safety ratings. However, its 'Average' reliability verdict, underscored by a notable number of recalls and technical service bulletins, warrants a cautious approach. Critical recalls related to the engine and fuel system, alongside numerous trunk latch campaigns, highlight potential areas for scrutiny. While consumer complaints are minimal, the sheer volume of recalls and TSBs suggests underlying complexities or systemic issues that buyers must investigate thoroughly.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate potential issues with the high-pressure fuel pipe, particularly after engine replacement procedures. This can lead to fuel leaks.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls7
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
25
MPG
City
22
MPG
Highway
31
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.6/ 10

Practicality

5.3/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing safety and fuel efficiency.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a completely trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Kia Optima Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Kia Optima.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
25

CarFocal account required

See the full 2017 Kia Optima buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Fuel System Leaks

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Trunk Latch Malfunction

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection

Est. shop cost: $75 - $120

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
7 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Kia Optima reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Kia Optima is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2017 Kia Optima for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.3/10. EPA combined economy is 25 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Kia Optima?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Kia Optima is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Kia Optima?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel System (High-Pressure Fuel Pipe) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $800).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Kia Optima?▾

Base MSRP is $25,995.

What engine is in the 2017 Kia Optima?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2017 Kia Optima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Optima, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Kia Optima?▾

EPA combined estimate is 25 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Kia Optima?▾

9 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Kia Optima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Optima, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2017 Kia Optima?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Optima, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Kia Optima use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Optima, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Kia Optima?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 5/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Kia Optima?▾

This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.