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Kia Optima: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2020 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2020 (79/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2020 79 · 2017 74 · 2018 73 · 2019 72

Years to approach with caution

2013 36

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202079/100
Buybest year

136 complaints · 0 recalls

201972/100
Buy

202 complaints · 1 recalls

201873/100
Buy

228 complaints · 2 recalls

201774/100
Buy

252 complaints · 3 recalls

201656/100
Caution

748 complaints · 5 recalls

201549/100
Caution

1,000 complaints · 4 recalls · Park-it recall

201450/100
Caution

578 complaints · 7 recalls · Park-it recall

201336/100
Avoid

1,371 complaints · 9 recalls · Park-it recall

201256/100
Caution

916 complaints · 5 recalls · Park-it recall

201164/100
Caution

590 complaints · 5 recalls · Park-it recall

Zeroing in on the 2020?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2020 Kia Optima’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2020 Kia Optima head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Kia Optima as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.