Used Guide: 2016-2020 Kia Optima

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The third-generation Kia Optima arrived for model-year 2016 with a clean-sheet redesign that advanced the previous-generation car on all fronts. With distinctive and modern looks, new features, and more safety equipment than ever, the fourth-generation Optima sought to attract shoppers with a compelling blend of style, value, and content.

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All units are four-door, four-cylinder powered, and front-wheel drive.

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Repeat owners say this generation Optima’s interior marks a significant upgrade, with high-end feature content including a Harman Kardon stereo, panoramic sunroof, radar cruise control, wireless smartphone charging, a 360-degree parking camera system, and plenty more.

Competing with the likes of the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion and Mazda 6, some second-hand Kia Optima models will come powered by an available 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder on top-line models, good for 245 horsepower.

A 185 hp 2.4 litre four-cylinder engine was standard, and select models ran a 1.6 litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 178 horsepower. A gas-electric hybrid engine was also available.

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The fourth-generation Optima is longer and wider than the third-generation car, helping deliver more cargo space, cabin volume, and rear-seat room. The newly-developed body structure with improved strength and rigidity helped enhance safety, ride quality, and overall refinement, too.

Follow the related links for more information, specs, pricing, news and reviews on the Kia Optima over the years, and read on for 5 tips to help you find the best used Kia Optima you can for your dollar.

Tip #1: Engine Recalls

Some Kia Optima models from this generation, as well as other Kia and Hyundai models using the same family of engines, have been recalled for serious engine trouble. Others have not.

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Dealers perform recall work, free of charge, to correct latent safety defects with their vehicles. The safety issue here relates, in part, to a loss of power or stalling situation that could be caused by engine failure. Here’s some more information .

Dealers will inspect and repair or replace affected engines free of charge. To see which (if any) recalls apply to the specific Kia Optima you’re considering, check here.

Remember that the used Kia Optima you’re considering may have already had these repairs performed by its previous owner, or may be unaffected by recalls.

For maximum confidence and to maintain remaining warranty coverage in good standing, obtain all service records which prove the vehicle has been continually cared for during its life, and carry on with regular maintenance, inspections, and servicing as outlined in the owner’s manual.

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Remember that your remaining warranty coverage doesn’t cover damage or wear by caused by a failure to properly maintain the vehicle.

Tip #2: Safety Systems Check

Some owners have reported trouble with the Kia Optima’s safety systems as the vehicle ages. Most have not.

Test-driving shoppers should be on the lookout for cracked camera displays, especially on models with the 360-degree parking camera system. Engage the system on your test drive and carefully check the image from each camera for signs of a cracked lens, moisture or water intrusion, or other damage.

Triple-check the back-up camera for quick and clear engagement in reverse gear.

Note that damage to the Optima’s bumpers or windscreen can cause problems with certain safety systems that can cost you money, too. Taking care to check for unwanted body and windscreen damage, and to carefully check out the Optima’s camera system, could save you money and headaches.

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Tip #3: Electronics Care

Keeping the electronics that run your modern car happy is a great way to prevent frustration and hassle for the long term. In your used Kia Optima, you can do this in two ways.

First: have the battery inspected professionally, and replace the vehicle’s battery without hesitation if required. Modern cars are harder than ever on their batteries, often wearing them down within just a few years. A weak or dying battery is a leading cause of irritating electronics trouble. Running a fresh new battery in your second-hand Optima can avert plenty of trouble.

Second: software updates. Released to improve or optimize the operation of various in-car systems, software updates are usually applied during routine servicing, or when a customer reports a specific problem. Ensuring the used Optima you’re considering is running the latest software updates can make for a better driving experience. Your dealer service advisor has the scoop.

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Tip #4: Sunroof

Is the Optima you’re considering equipped with a panoramic sunroof? Some owners have reported sunroof-related trouble with their cars, but the vast majority have not.

On your test drive, do two tests if the Optima you’re considering has a sunroof.

First, open and close both the sunroof and sunshade several times, and at several points during your test drive. Confirm a satisfactory response each time. Binding, straining, or a sudden stop or reversal in direction of the sunroof or sunshade can be a sign of costly trouble. Ditto a non-responsive sunroof switch.

Further, remove all floor mats and carefully inspect the vehicle’s carpeting for signs of dampness or moisture, which could be caused by a sunroof leak. Front footwell carpeting, near the firewall, is most suspect. If you notice unwanted dampness in this area (or beneath the spare tire provisions in the Optima’s trunk), a leaky sunroof may be to blame—and you’re likely best to move to another vehicle.

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Tip #5: Lot Rot

In recent years, a lot of cars have spent a lot of time being parked for extended periods. This can lead to damage in the form of ‘lot rot’, which refers to things like body damage, tire flat spotting, braking system corrosion, dead batteries, and other issues common when vehicles sit around in parking lots or driveways for extended periods.

For maximum peace of mind, pay close attention to the way the car ‘feels’ on your test drive, noting that unpleasant or unwanted noises or vibrations can all be signs of trouble caused by lot rot.

If something sounds or feels wrong, it probably is. Have the vehicle seen by a professional before you buy.

Final Thought

These tips are designed to help test-driving shoppers more easily identify possible trouble areas reported by some owners. An attentive test-drive and shopping process that focuses on the areas above can help you find a first-class example of a second-hand Kia Optima.