Federal safety data shows 1 recalls and 910 complaints for the 2012 Kia Optima, a elevated safety profile overall. Check the known issues section below for the most common problem areas.

Recalls

910

Complaints

Crashes

Fires

Recall Findings

22V5600002022-01-08

STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Optima vehicles. The right and left headliner plates may not be secured properly, which can result in the plates detaching in the event of a side curtain air bag deployment.

A plate that detaches during a crash may strike an occupant, increasing their risk of injury.

View at NHTSA

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Top Complaint Areas

Of 910 issues reported over 1 model years, engine problems are the most common for the 2012 Kia Optima. A pre-purchase inspection should focus here first.

01Engine269

02Steering146

03Unknown Or Other44

04Service Brakes, Hydraulic25

05Power Train22

910 total across 1 model years (2012–2012)Full data at NHTSA.gov

Kia Optima Fuel Economy

26–36mpg combined

22-34city

33-38hwy

$1,200-$1,700/yr

The 2012 Kia Optima delivers 26 to 36 MPG combined across 4 powertrain combinations. If fuel cost matters to you, pay attention to engine and drivetrain. The spread is significant.

By Trim

Optima Hybrid - Automatic 6-spd

36mpg

2.4L 4-cyl · Front-Wheel Drive

34 city38 hwy~$1,200/yr-1/10 Poor

Optima - Automatic 6-spd

27mpg

2.4L 4-cyl · Front-Wheel Drive

24 city34 hwy~$1,600/yr-1/10 Poor

Optima - Manual 6-spd

27mpg

2.4L 4-cyl · Front-Wheel Drive

24 city34 hwy~$1,600/yr-1/10 Poor

Optima - Automatic 6-spd

26mpg

2.0L 4-cyl Turbo · Front-Wheel Drive

22 city33 hwy~$1,700/yr-1/10 Poor

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Where to Find 2012 Kia Optima

37States

29%in top 3

Florida has the most inventory at 12%, with options spread across 37 states. Willing to ship? Your selection opens up significantly.

FLFlorida

17412%

TXTexas

1188%

CACalifornia

1078%

GAGeorgia

675%

NCNorth Carolina

665%

AZArizona

594%

PAPennsylvania

574%

OHOhio

534%

MOMissouri

504%

ILIllinois

483%

DCWashington DC

423%

NYNew York

353%

MIMichigan

353%

DEDelaware

332%

NJNew Jersey

332%

UTUtah

302%

INIndiana

282%

WAWashington

282%

MDMaryland

262%

OR26

TN24

MN22

OK22

VA20

CO15

ID14

RI14

NV14

AL13

SC12

KY12

NE11

NH11

KS11

NM9

MA8

Geographic distribution reflects all active listings for this model, not just 2012.

2012 Kia Optima: Questions Buyers Ask

Pricing, reliability, and ownership answers

Is the 2012 Kia Optima a good car to buy?

The 2012 Kia Optima has its strengths and its watch-outs. 1 recall has been issued, so verify completion with the dealer. Owners report engine as the area to watch most closely. Check the safety section for recall details and the pricing data to see if the numbers work for you.

Are there recalls on the 2012 Kia Optima?

Yes, 1 recall on record. The good news: recall repairs are always free at any authorized dealer. Check the safety report for specifics, and always run the VIN before buying.

What's the gas mileage of the 2012 Kia Optima?

Depending on configuration, the 2012 Kia Optima delivers 26–36 MPG combined. Choose wisely. The full comparison shows how engine choice affects your wallet.

What are common problems with the 2012 Kia Optima?

Out of 910 owner complaints, engine issues lead the pack. Get a pre-purchase inspection that specifically covers this area. The known issues breakdown has all the details.

How does the 2012 compare to other Kia Optima years?

Each Kia Optima model year has different pricing, recall counts, and owner satisfaction patterns. Compare all available years on the Kia Optima overview page.