Kia Optima Bad Ignition Switch: Symptoms, Causes, + How to Fix

Your Kia Optima‘s ignition switch is one of the most vital items on the entire vehicle.  If it fails, the entire vehicle won’t be able to run.  We’ve compiled some of the most common symptoms of a bad ignition switch.  These include stalling issues, not starting, and no power to the radio or accessories. Function of an … Read more

Kia Optima Bad Throttle Body: Symptoms + Diagnosis

If your Kia Optima has a faulty throttle body, it can cause it to run terribly.  Common symptoms of a bad throttle body include dirt and grime, the check engine light, and an erratic idle. Your Optima’s throttle body controls the amount of air that enters the engine.  You control the throttle body position with … Read more

Kia Optima: Bad Thermostat → Symptoms & Diagnosis

The thermostat in your Kia Optima’s engine plays a crucial role in regulating its temperature. A malfunctioning thermostat may lead to various issues and should be dealt with immediately. Some of the most common symptoms of a bad thermostat are no heat, a spiked temp gauge, a blown head gasket, and more. A thermostat failure … Read more

Kia Optima:  Bad Serpentine Belt

One of the most common issues with a vehicle is a bad serpentine belt.  If you suspect that your Kia Optima has this problem, we’ll give you the common symptoms below, as well as how to replace it. The good news is that serpentine belts are cheap, and in the grand scheme of things, relatively … Read more

Kia Optima: Uneven Tire Wear → Causes

  Uneven tire wear can happen at any time in the life of a vehicle.  If your Kia Optima is experiencing this situation, taking corrective action when you first notice it is important.  Otherwise, you may end up needing a new set of tires.   Kia Optima Uneven Tire Wear Causes There are a few … Read more

Kia Optima Low Transmission Fluid: Symptoms and Diagnosis

There are several symptoms to watch for that suggest your Optima might have low transmission fluid. Some of these signs include irregular shifting, inability to shift, dashboard warning lights, slipping transmission, and strange noises coming from under the hood. If you suspect that your Optima has low transmission fluid, the first thing you should do … Read more

Kia Optima:  Engine Knock → Causes & Diagnosis

One of the most disconcerting sounds that you can hear coming from your Kia Optima is the engine knocking.  An engine knock can be a sign of major engine problems.  It is usually caused by, ignition issues, timing issues, worn lower engine parts, and more.  We’ll cover the most common causes below. By definition, an … Read more

Kia Optima Jerks When Accelerating: Causes + How to Fix

If your Kia Optima is jerking when you press the accelerator, a few common issues can cause this.  This guide is built to help you get a better idea as to why your car is jerking. The most common reason a vehicle jerks when accelerating is a misfire. Checking for trouble codes can make the … Read more

Kia Optima: Transmission Fluid Leak Causes

If you’ve found red fluid under your Kia Optima, you probably have a transmission leak. A transmission leak is a big deal.  If you let too much transmission fluid leak, the transmission will begin to slip, which can quickly cause long term damage. Unlike oil, transmission fluid is flammable, and will flash if it hits … Read more

Kia Optima:  Exhaust Leak → Symptoms & Diagnosis

  One of the most common automotive problems is an exhaust leak.  Leaking exhaust can be loud, smelly, and (depending on where the leak is coming from) dangerous.  If your Kia Optima has a leaking exhaust system, it should not be ignored.   Leaking Exhaust Symptoms:  Kia Optima A leaking exhaust system affects your Optima … Read more