CARFOCAL

2019 Kia Optima Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026Ethan Miller
2019 Kia Optima Report

Overall Score

Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Excellent safety ratings: 5-star overall, frontal, side, and rollover crash test scores.
  • Solid fuel economy with 24 MPG combined from its 2.0L engine.
  • Front-wheel drive provides confident handling in most conditions.
  • One recall identified for the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system; confirm remedy completion.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
Overview

2019 Kia Optima

The 2019 Kia Optima offers a compelling package for used car shoppers, blending a comfortable ride with a suite of modern features. This front-wheel-drive sedan boasts excellent NHTSA safety ratings across all crash tests, achieving a perfect 5-star overall score. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, delivers an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined, making it a reasonably economical choice for daily commuting. While the public reliability verdict is excellent, a single recall related to the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist system warrants attention during inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

A recall (19V539000) addressed a software error where the automatic emergency braking function might fail to engage when detecting a stationary vehicle. While a software update is the remedy, underlying system robustness remains a consideration.

Early detection can help you avoid a $150-$300 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking a comfortable and safe sedan with good fuel efficiency.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Performance enthusiasts; the Optima prioritizes comfort over sporty dynamics.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Kia Optima Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Kia Optima.

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
24

CarFocal account required

See the full 2019 Kia Optima buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) System Malfunction

Most reported

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 - Inspect Brakes

Est. shop cost: $75 - $125

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
1 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Kia Optima reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Kia Optima is 8.9/10. Reliability score is 8.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 Kia Optima for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Kia Optima?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Kia Optima is 7.8/10. Overall score is 7.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 Kia Optima?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) System (typical at 40,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $150 • Max: $300).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Kia Optima?

Base MSRP is $35,390.

What engine is in the 2019 Kia Optima?

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2019 Kia Optima use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Optima, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Kia Optima?

EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Kia Optima?

13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Kia Optima?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Optima, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Kia Optima?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Optima, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Kia Optima use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Optima, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Kia Optima?

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Kia Optima?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Kia Optima?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda Accord and 2019 Toyota Camry.