Used 2012 Kia Optima EX; Used 2012 Kia Optima LX; Used 2012 Kia Optima SX For Sale; Related Articles. When you press the gas you better be ready to go. I think I qualify to be covered but not fun when I owe 16,000! type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to As soon as the engine starts, idle the engine in drive for two and a half minutes with the A/C and rear defrost on. Our if they are, they can now properly minimize the emissions released into the atmosphere from the vehicle's operation. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. Both of the regular four-cylinder engines are impressive. Some of this information sharing may be subject to the California Consumer Privacy Act. Normally over the course of a week or two and after having driven a few hundred miles, the monitors should complete automatically. This year, Kia's Uvo (pronounced "yoo-voh") electronics interface system is now available on all but the base LX trims. . Rather than pulling random numbers out of the air or off some meaningless checklist, KBBs editors rank a vehicle to where it belongs in its class. He is always professional, courteous and honest. 2012 Kia Optima : Latest Prices, Reviews, Specs, Photos and - Autoblog I have a 2012 kia optima hybrid. In documents filed with [], Handsome midsize sedans that offer plenty of rear legroom are not a dime a dozen. Similar to Ford's Sync system (both are powered by Microsoft), Uvo provides voice control of cell phones and MP3 players as well as other services such as turn-by-turn navigation. you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find It was covered under a recall. To find out if the 2012 Optima is the right car for you, check out the pros and cons, trims, specs and options at Kelley Blue Book. Tinashe has worked on every car I have had. The SX also dials back the steering wheels power assist, which some will find too generous in LX and EX models. Knowledgeable and helpful in discussing the repair and fulfilling the needs of the car! Not bad, given both drivetrains run fine on regular gas. Kia has found a corporate face worth sticking to, and it doesnt matter so much that its derivative almost everything is these days. Quiet and smooth ride. It requires many starts and stops, and at best, difficult to complete even for an experienced auto repair technician. Suspension [Sport]: Composes a mode for dynamic driving NO DRIVE MODE The regular mode gets you the gas mileage that the car is designed to reach. How to resolve fuel system not ready on 2012 kia optima - RepairPal.com The EX Turbo gets a more powerful engine, bigger brakes and a different grille design. Any responsible mechanic understands that the best resource for locating the exact drive cycle instructions for the vehicle they are servicing is the service and repair manual or software program. Affiliate Partner: I'm may receive a fee from some of my affiliate partners for my first-hand recommendations.Kia Drive Cycle for Emission Test Smog Kia EGR Monitor Kia Cat Monitor Kia EVAP Monitor Kia Sorento EGR MonitorKia Rio Evap monitorKia Catalyst monitor for Sportage smog in urdu pakistan smog in pakistan complete drive cycle smog test california smog drive cycles for emissions Our test cars leather felt high-quality, but Kia could stand to crank up the padding. Always looking for a reason to break the bank. What is a Powertrain Warranty and Why Does it Matter? Engine and suspension are good. Building on the already well-equipped EX trim, consumers can opt for the Premium Package to add several new-for-2012 features, including UVO voice-activated infotainment system, HD Radio, eight-speaker Infinity audio system and power folding outside mirrors. Once you have identified a used vehicle They produce best-in-class power and are paired with responsive and smooth-shifting transmissions. Assertive StylingThe Optima and its platform sibling, the Hyundai Sonata, are both sharp-looking cars, but the Optima looks better to my eye. The Kia Optima Hybrid is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with an electric motor and a six-speed automatic transmission. Made with in Silicon Valley. Nissan Xterra - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Stone Mountain, Georgia. And on my trip From Texas to Va. Click here for a complete list of safety features. Packaging, performance, style, funtion, and safety rating (NHTSA/IIHS), My 2012 Kia Optima SX, is by far the best car I've ever Owned. Is it better to lease or buy a car? Optima's roofline connects with its pronounced shoulder line that leads to its sculpted flanks and extended wheelbase. Duralast Gold Front Driver Side CV Axle B16380N. do not use the foot brake and do not shift gears until the very end of this "coast down" phase. Kia may, from time to time, update its press releases, issue new releases, or publish other information to reflect new information. The second step involves a short highway test. The Premium package for the EX and SX adds a panoramic sunroof, a four-way power passenger seat, driver memory functions, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and an eight-speaker Infinity sound system with HD radio and the Uvo voice-activated electronics interface. The 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid gets . OWNER REPORTED MPG. Upon the sixth acceleration to 50 mph, and holding for 5 seconds, you will decelerate to 0 mph and keep the vehicle in Drive and idle for one minute. Coasted to stop. Chevrolet Cruze - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Rancho Cucamonga, California. Both engines are offered with a 6-speed automatic, while the base trim (LX) offers a 6-speed manual. Hold a steady speed of 88km/hr (55mph) for five minutes. D.Accelerate to 55 mph within 15 seconds and hold that speed for 1 minute, then decelerate back to a stop and allow engine to idle, while in Drive, for 1 minute. Powering the front-wheel-drive 2012 Kia Optima LX and EX models is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 200 hp and 186 pound-feet of torque. The 2020 Kia Optima receives several newly standard and optional features as well as a new S model. some systems, especially the evap system, need to have a specific level of fuel in order for the tests to be trusted. stunning looks, good interior materials, Bluetooth, USB, 10/10 drive train, 60/60 bumper to bumper (lifetime drive train from the dealer). Once the road test has been completed, pull into a parking spot, let the engine idle for a few minutes, and then shut off the engine. The Optima Hybrid uses the 2.4-liter engine mated to a 40-horsepower electric motor for a combined output of 206 horsepower. Our tester exhibited body roll similar to the EX some but not too much and outstanding handling balance. The Optima has a fairly spacious cabin with comfortable seats and a solid amount of legroom front and rear. the keys must be out of the ignition and all of the doors must be closed while the vehicle sits over night because many of the onboard computers "boot up" when the keys are in the ignition. The Optima Hybrid is equipped similarly to the EX, though it has unique 16-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera and cloth upholstery. What are my options? Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty. I haven't even had mine a year and with kept up maintenance and it died while I was on the freeway!! again, don't roll through the stop and make sure to accelerate normally. Kelley Blue Book users rate the 2012 Kia Optima reliability 5 out of 5 stars, which is far above average for a vehicle of its class. We ask all the right questions about the interior, the exterior, the engine and powertrain, the ride and handling, the features, the comfort, and of course, about the price. when you have accelerated up to around 60 mph and have safely merged into the flow of traffic, stay in the slow lane and maintain a steady speed of 55 to 60 mph for a minimum of five miles. SmogTips, Inc. All Rights Reserved. so a word to the wise car shopper, Don't be fooled by the Badge. Sitting upright, my head mashed into the ceiling. It's cable. One oversight: The rear center seat the safest position for backseat passengers lacks a head restraint. In Edmunds brake testing, an Optima EX came to a stop from 60 mph in a class-average distance of 121 feet. I paid $29,200 out the door for a white 2012 Kia Optima with Touring and Premium Package (no nav), I talked them down by using email, it helped a lot rather than on the phone or in person, allowed me time to choose words carefully. Fuel-economy fans will likely flock to the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid sedan that earns an estimated 35 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. LX models equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission add 16-inch alloy wheels. OBDII checks oxygen sensor heater circuits, air pump and EVAP purge. Check out Kia lease specialsCheck out Kia Optima lease specials. At the top end, the equipment list reads like that of a big luxury sedan: heated and cooled front seats, xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights, heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. And itll love you. The 2012 Kia Optima sedan receives a number of improvements and feature upgrades. It is similarly unpredictable under braking. Press Release Information Accuracy Disclaimer. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 745 dealers throughout the United States and serves as the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." Posted by Anonymous on Mar 21, 2013. DRIVE CYCLE PROCEDURE TO RESET EVAP AND EGR. Kias midsize sedan used to be a forgettable car with an obscure name. Kia Spectra L4-2.0L - Evaporative Emission Control Canister Replacement - Dover, Florida. Where most other family sedans in this segment fall somewhere between sedate and bland, the Optima has a distinct European flair. We later evaluated an Optima SX at Cars.coms Chicago offices. While the Kia's interior isn't as sumptuous as an Audi's, there's an abundance of soft-touch materials, and any hard plastics are at least well textured. Have questions about warranties or CPO programs? Always drive safely and use caution when backing up. Maybe its a 2013 model year issue, but I will never buy another Kia again. The Hybrid's Premium Technology package effectively combines those two packages and also includes 17-inch wheels, xenon headlights, leather upholstery and the auto-dimming rearview mirror. Doors, body, and interior materials feel delicate and prone to discoloration and have rattle sounds sometimes. The 2012 Kia Optima is one of our top picks for a midsize sedan. Turn the A/C and rear defrost off, and accelerate to 55 mph at half throttle. Only the Sonata, Ford Fusion and Mazda6 have appreciably more. A cracked tail light lens will progressively get worse until the tail lights won't work, so make sure to routinely check them before they fail. If you drive in inclement weather, consider swapping them out. Its a capable pairing: The engine lacks the low-end oomph to come out of a corner in a high gear and accelerate uphill, but the transmission kicks down soon enough to get you back up to speed. Free In-Store or Curbside Pick Up. while the drive cycle test is going, the engine computer runs a series of tests or "readiness monitors" to see if the emissions system is working properly. The Optimas slice is poised to get bigger, and deservedly so. One negative, I would have hoped it would have gotten more than 32/4 highway mpg. SKU # 452654. ALL OTHER Ask an Expert Car Questions Kia Troubleshooting Kia Optima LX: DRIVE CYCLE PROCEDURE TO RESET EVAP AND EGR Related Kia Questions I have a 2015 Kia Optima that is shaking when At a stop. You take out your wallet to put gas in the tank and get A radiator valve allows coolant into the radiator in order to cool off the engine once the coolant has reached a certain temperature. This is theoretically outstanding for a car with this much power, but as we've discovered in our long-term test of an Optima Turbo, your numbers won't come close to those if you frequently utilize that power. Little of substance has changed with this years model. To see whats new for 2012, click here, or check out a side-by-side comparison of the two model years. Kia Optima LX: DRIVE CYCLE PROCEDURE TO RESET EVAP AND EGR - JustAnswer To learn more about our collection and use of personal information, and your right to opt-out of certain ways we share your personal information, please see our, Kia's popular midsize sedan is one of the brand's strongest performers and is now produced alongside the best-selling Sorento at Kia's manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia, Optima's superior combination of performance, style, technology and long list of convenience features has earned praise from consumers and industry observers. We now have 1600 miles on the car and like it more all the time. It might be a pain to be with, but youll love it. Turbocharged 2.0-liter engineWho needs a V6 anyway? But it felt like it always wanted to start something with me. What an improvement: The new Optima sports a clean, assertive profile. Optima SXDont be fooled by the lack of two cylinders; Kias turbocharged four-cylinder gives the Optima SX the acceleration of a V-6 family car torque steer and all, noted one editor. Kia Optima owner reviews OBDII Drive Cycle Test Cost Estimates The average cost for an OBDII Drive Cycle Test is between $44 and $56 but can vary from car to car. .css-1k9s640{font-family:"Montserrat",sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:600;letter-spacing:0.5px;color:#000000;line-height:16px;line-height:18px;margin-right:8px;}Showing 6 of 460 reviews. You may use an OBD II scan tool which can be purchased at most local automotive parts stores to check the progress of the emission monitors. The Optima's 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space is about average for its class, but the hybrid's drops to a paltry 9.9 cubic feet because of its battery pack placement. Provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2020 Kia Optima vs. 2020 Volkswagen Passat Comparison. Ask most people and they'll probably tell you New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by, 258,000 Kia Optima Sedans Recalled for Interior Roof Defect, Hyundai, Kia Fires Spark Calls for Probe of Turbo Engines at Large, Manual transmission not offered with turbo four-cylinder, Folding backseat leaves small pass-through, Choice of two four-cylinders, including a 274-hp turbo engine, Available heated and cooled seats, heated steering wheel. But in this 2020 Kia Optima vs. Volkswagen Passat comparison, the roominess is a virtue in both. step five: have your readiness monitors checked and verified. Headroom (particularly in back) is a bit tight due to the car's rakish, coupelike roof line. Comfortable riding and great for travel. Youd be surprised what you can learn by hauling a dirt bike, hunting for a wayward sippy cup, or just packing the trunk full of groceries. Mike great experience will use him again! Used 2012 Kia Optima SX Sedan Review & Ratings | Edmunds Several available packages add higher levels of refinement and the latest technology to 2012 Optima models. Whether it was passing slow-moving traffic or climbing steep grades, the 2012 Kia Optimas 4-cylinder engine never failed to impress us. My only complaint lies with the electronic stability system. Lets Lets face it - cars arent an investment. Last fall, Kia had a collection of EX models on hand for the media to preview. When you buy a car, it costs you money. In performance testing, a loaded Optima EX in SULEV form went from zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds -- the ULEV Optima will be a bit quicker, but either way, the car is on par with other vehicles in the class. accelerate from each stop in a normal fashionnot overly conservative, but not like you are competing in a drag race either. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety. We collect personal information on consumers who engage with us, and we may share certain personal information with affiliates, service providers and third parties. I sat in a car without the moonroof, and the difference is as great as a couple of inches. 2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan : Trim Details, Reviews, Prices - Autoblog 3. 2012 Kia Optima Overview Its belt line rises simply, with no swooping curves or sudden kinks; the furrowed expression recalls many mid-decade Acuras. Anonymous, NY (2012 Kia Optima Hybrid 2.4-L 4 Cyl hybrid) "Backup camera was . No, not at all. I got 33 true MPG, at speeds somewhat above those posted. Cabin comfort is further complemented by an impressive list of standard technology features including AM/FM/CD/MP3/Satellite audio system with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service3, Bluetooth4 wireless connectivity, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. All automatics feature Sportmatic clutchless shifting. A six-speed manual is standard on the LX, while a . I have now had my SX for a little over a month, its a big step up from my '96 Camry. Very professional and attentive to meas the customer, making sure I was satisfied with the work performed . Setting the emission monitors by driving your Kia Sorento through a drive cycle might be a bit of a challenge. Optional equipment highlights include a panoramic sunroof, heated/cooled front seats, heated rear seats, Infinity sound system, touch-screen navigation system, UVO infotainment voice-active system and rearview camera. This is the Throttle Control/Powertrain Light. Im fine with that, but the wheel doesnt firm up enough at higher speeds: Cruising down the highway at 80 mph, it still felt loose. I got leather, fun, outstanding warranty, great design, all the fancy features I wanted, none of the add ons I didn't want. All acceleration and deceleration must be made within 15 seconds, and throttle (gas pedal) application should be smooth at all times. Kia makes reasonable efforts to ensure that information contained in its press releases is accurate at the time of posting. By .css-x0x854{font-family:"Montserrat",sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-weight:600;letter-spacing:0.5px;color:#000000;line-height:16px;line-height:24px;}KBB Editors. The recall affects every Optima built in the U.S. between August 12, 2011, and September 27, 2013. Built on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Optima utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. The EX comes standard with the Convenience package as well as 17-inch alloy wheels, LED taillights, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents, wood interior trim and leather upholstery. Actual mileage may vary. If youre ready to deal with issues, go ahead. Design-Led Transformation and Product Line Kia Motors has undergone a dramatic, design-led transformation, which has been delivering dynamically styled vehicles in several important segments at exactly the right time, contributing to the brand's continued gains in U.S. market share. Find aused certified pre-owned Kia Optimafor sale. The Premium package, available on the EX, EX Turbo and SX, gains an 8-speaker Infinity audio system, Kias UVO voice-activated infotainment system, and power-folding mirrors. This is something that will verify that the drive cycle test has been completed successfully. Anytime you stop the vehicle for stop signs, traffic, or other reasons come to a complete stop before proceeding. Of course, there is a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine for those who crave more power. The automaker hasnt published a figure for those models, but most adults will have to lower their seat to compensate. that car buying is the way to go. The Optimas 2.4-liter engine boasts more power and better fuel economy than other 4-cylinder cars in the category, too. SKU # 1167847. The nose pushes a bit, and on curvy roads the steering reveals a degree of slop that doesnt plague the Mazda6 or Suzuki Kizashi. By the numbers, the Optima has lost 2 cubic feet of passenger volume in its redesign, but its cabin volume is still comparable to the Camry. Boldly flared wheel arches and a raked cabin create a sedan with a graceful muscular stance. Stylishly appointed cloth seats provide comfortable seating while a 60/40 split-folding rear seat offers multiple seating and cargo arrangements based on driver and passenger needs. The standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder is nearly as powerful as some V6 engines and gets far better fuel economy. Optima LX models with automatic transmission also feature cruise control and an Active Eco System that allows drivers to optimize fuel efficiency while driving. 2012 Kia Optima Review, Ratings, Specs, Prices, and Photos if all of your monitors are "ready" and there are no present or pending codes, then your vehicle has been properly repaired and is ready for an emissions inspection and for normal driving. He was professional and courteous. Used Chevrolet Silverado 1500HD Classic 2002, Best Acura TLX Lease Deals in Cincinnati, OH, Mercedes Benz Maybach 2023 Consumer Reviews, New BMW Alpina Xb7 for Sale in Plainview, NY, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. The front seats have ample adjustment range, but after a few hours driving I could feel harder pieces of the seat underneath the cushioning. Thanks. Part # 881162. From the drivers seat, the cockpit seems a bit smaller; thats due mostly to the wraparound design, which enhances the impression of driver-centric sportiness at the expense of overall space. if the fuel tank is near empty or completely full, many of the basic tests will not run at all. The next step is to prepare the vehicle for an efficient drive cycle test. 3 Sirius services require subscriptions, sold separately after 3-month trial included with vehicle purchase/lease. I suggest having a technician test the sensor by the use of a multimeter. We take each vehicle we test through the mundane parking, lane-changing, backing up, cargo space and loading as well as the essential acceleration, braking, handling, interior quiet and comfort, build quality, materials quality, reliability. Still, the turbocharged Optima ranks among the quickest family cars; the V-6 Camry and Altima are perhaps a smidge stronger, but the V-6-powered Honda Accord and Dodge Avenger feel more modest. Made the turn, and the car died while driving. Great gas mileage, the speed is awesome. Find Used Kia Optima 2012 For Sale By Trim. After completing any emissions-related service, you need to clear all OBD-II diagnosis fault codes by using a professional digital scanner. Materials are good, with padded surfaces where they count namely, along the door panels and armrests. It felt like I had a BMW with a N54!!! We must mention again, the drive cycle requires many starts and stops and will be difficult and unsafe to perform on public roadways. Optima222 on October 12, 2019 Thanks I got it resolved. The brakes are marvelous, too, with a strong, linear pedal sensation and little suspension dive on hard stops. the vehicle must also have a good alternator and a strong battery. There are currently 14 Optima uses front-wheel drive and a four-wheel independent suspension that is athletic and . If youre a newer mechanic or becoming more educated about diagnosing emissions systems via the OBD-II diagnosis system, you may have heard of the phrase drive cycle. A drive cycle is used to test whether repairs to emissions-related components were successfully recognized by the powertrain control module or PCM. Kia has designed their drive cycle a bit too complex for the average vehicle owner to perform. Kia Owners - Learn About Drive Modes On Your Kia Model - Lawrence Kia Optima's low, aerodynamic and powerful stance is assisted through its overall length of 190.7 inches an increase of 1.7 inches over the previous generation model overall width of 72.1 inches, wheelbase of 110 inches and low ground clearance of 5.3 inches. These Optima Turbo models returned a quick 0-60-mph time of 6.5 seconds, along with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22/34/26. Less impressive is the Optima Hybrid. let the idle speed settle down to near the normal speed. If you own one, and you think youve already had this repair done, keep reading. While these volume-selling cars occupied a large chunk of sales, they likely weren't the object of desire. Leave it on and it cuts in with all the subtlety of a 24 plot twist. I need to do the smog check but the O2 monitor and catalyst monitor won't set. do not drive. Lexus LS430 - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Alpharetta, Georgia. 7 Infinity is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Incorporated. Additionally, we reassess those ratings when a new-generation vehicle receives a mid-cycle refresh basically, sprucing up a car in the middle of its product cycle (typically, around the 2-3 years mark) with a minor facelift, often with updates to features and technology. go up to about 35 to 40 mph a few times and then maintain a city speed of 25 mph before slowing down to stop. I'm here to help. We've also found that the hybrid doesn't match its lofty EPA estimates and its advanced components do not operate as smoothly as competing hybrids. Ensure to begin the drive cycle only when engine coolant temperature is between 0F and 104F. Dynamic Platform The Optima's distinctive style and sporting demeanor is evident from its sheet metal down to its platform. On highways, our test car picked up the general rhythm of surfaces underneath it, but it didnt play them back staccato. Once a hardly noticed 4-door sedan, the 2012 Kia Optima now has customers lining up to get behind the wheel. Most manufacturers recommend simply removing your foot from the accelerator, without pressing the brake pedal, until you decelerate to at least 20 mph then you can slowly press the brake pedal. Its sitting in my lawn. Chevrolet Malibu L4-2.4L - Evaporative Emission Control Canister - Moreno Valley, California. I love my 2013 Kia Optima SX. I mean, it felt like repair after repair. Turns out it was a bad amplifier. I have never had any problems, no major work. The powertrain light is on for the transmission may be low on oil or there is an issue with the oil that is in the transmission. From its cross-hatch front grille and long sweptback headlight housing, to the weather-vane-style wheels on the SX trim, the Optima looks like its going fast even when its parked. The most popular service booked by readers of this article is Evaporative Emission Control Canister Replacement. Adding to the refinement of the EX trim, 2012 models add standard wood trim to door inserts and the center console as well as metal bezel trim. The 2015 Kia Optima sedan starts at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) around $22,500 and stretches past $38,000 when fully loaded. Join the community and post your questions. 2011 Redesign Year. On the highway, the car moves competently: Squeeze the accelerator two-thirds of the way down, give the automatic a beat to fetch 4th gear, and the Optima turns 60 mph into 80 mph with surprising vigor. Unique Collection of Efficient and Powerful Powertrains The 2012 Optima is available in two fuel-efficient and powerful Theta II powerplants featuring gasoline direct injection (GDI), including a 2.4-liter GDI four-cylinder or a 2.0-liter GDI turbo engine. Also make sure the fuel tank is only between 1/4 to 3/4 full. Available in three trims LX, EX, and SX the Optima builds on an already solid platform for 2012 and adds numerous packaging and technology enhancements and new consumer-friendly amenities to provide a more upscale feel. The ubiquity can be oppressive: At Cars.coms eight-car family-sedan Shootout last spring, our test-family parents, Jill and Ben Tiernan, remarked how similar everything was. Six Family Sedans of 2012-2013 Compared! - Car and Driver this process was designed to prevent a vehicle from slipping through an emissions test with a known problem. Flat rate pricing based on labor time and parts, Trusted mechanics, rated by thousands of happy car owners, Hand-picked, community-rated professionals, Over 25,000 topics, from beginner tips to technical guides, Check cars for recalls, common issues & maintenance costs, Optimize fleet uptime and compliance via mobile vehicle repairs, Partner with us to simplify and scale fleet maintenance. Kia states headroom as a decent 40 inches, but an optional panoramic moonroof knocks it down significantly. Copyrights 2023 - 2012 Kia Optima Values & Cars for Sale | Kelley Blue Book - KBB Kia has issued a recall order for most 2012-2013 Optima sedans because some headliner panels may come loose in an accident and become projectiles. Our 2012 Kia Optima trim comparison will help you decide. I wanted a fun, reliable car that was comfortable with. 1998 Kia Sportage Should I Get The Tailpipe Welded. Free In-Store or Curbside Pick Up. . In addition to being recognized in the press, Optima also has received prestigious safety accolades being named a 2011 "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) and receiving an overall five-star crash safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).