2003 Kia Optima fuel system problems

Filed Oct 19, 2016 · Fuel system, Locks · NY

My main issue is the door lock on the drivers side. I can not open my drivers side door from inside or outside the vehicle. This is a major issue and the problem has been all over the internet for years. Everyone that I know that has a 2003 and 2004 kia optima has the same problem. I bet every vehicle kia sold for these years has this problem. My other issue is I am unable to fill my fuel tank as I normally could do. I have to trickle the fuel in the tank because if I pump it too fast the pump will cut off. I've even had the fuel spill out of the tank before the tank was even full (it was at about 3/4 full). Please demand that kia recall these problems. I can't believe it's taking this long for this recall to be issued. I just found out about this form and that is why I have taken so long to process this form. Thanks and I hope that you can help asap. [xxx] ps. As of today my vehicle has approximately 53,000 miles. I've driven it in one winter so far (last winter) and it started having the door lock problem at around 33,000. The fuel issue started around 2 years ago. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Filed Dec 26, 2013 · Electrical, Fuel system · 80,000 miles · CA

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 kia optima. The contact stated that the drivers side door locked and she was unable to unlock it manually or by using the key fob. She was forced to climb into the back seat in order to exit the vehicle. When the failure recently recurred all of the doors failed to unlock. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the technician replaced the locks; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 80,000 and the current mileage was 90,000. Updated 2/11/14*cn the consumer stated the trunk and ignition would not unlock. The ignition and trunk lock was replaced. Also, the alternator, fuel tank sensor and timing belt were replaced. The high beam lights would come on, when she made turns.

Filed Apr 3, 2013 · Fuel system · 108,000 miles · GA

Car will not start after adding fuel. After reviewing this issue online, I found that hundreds of other owners have the same problem. We have not found a fix to the problem. In order to start the vehicle, it is necessary to pump the gas numerous times then slam into gear while holding down the gas. This could easily cause harm to those around the vehicle. Please help us find a fix or better yet have kia recall the 2003 optima. Thank you

Filed Mar 11, 2013 · Fuel system · 63,200 miles · FL

For some time now we have had to very slowly pump gas in to tank, it keeps splashing back and shutting off the gas pump. It is at the repair shop now being repaired at quite an expense, which this should not happen to a car with this low mileage.

Filed Dec 23, 2012 · Fuel system · 110,000 miles · WV

As I fill the tank, gasoline forcefully spits back out onto the person filling the tank. This is getting worse. I have taken this to a kia dealer and he does not know what is happening. The last time it got all over my arm, causing severe irritation.

Filed Jun 27, 2010 · Fuel system, Locks · 84,226 miles · TX

Have 2003 kia optima. Car stops while running.looks into google. Is common problem. Camshaft position sensor. Also locks on the driver side not working ,locks self inside the car.

Filed Jul 16, 2009 · Fuel system · 122,234 miles · IL

Excessive check engine on.....all tests were done on fuel system and everything was diagnosed as functioning.

Filed Jun 5, 2008 · Electrical, Fuel system · 58,671 miles · CA

Tl*the contact owns a 2003 kia optima. The contact stated that the vehicle canister close valve failed, which caused the fuel gauge to display inaccurate readings. The check engine light illuminated and the dealer stated that a vapor hose attached to the fuel canister cracked. The dealer replaced the canister close valve and lever fender. The repair costs totaled $104; however, the repairs did not correct the failure. The dealer is now suggesting that the cluster panel will need to be replaced. The manufacturer stated that the VIN was not included in the federal safety agency campaign id number 04v180000 (fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assembly) and would not assist. The failure mileage was 58,671. Updated 07/29/08 *bf the consumer stated while filling the gas tank, the pump clicked, but that gas gauge only showed 1/2 tank of gas. Updated 08/05/08

Filed Sep 19, 2007 · Fuel system, Transmission · 82,002 miles · TX

Tl*the contact owns a 2003 kia optima. While driving 35 MPH, the vehicle decelerated when the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the gas mileage was poor as well. The dealer was unable to diagnose the cause of the failure. The air filter and oil were replaced, however, the failure remained. The current mileage was 82,591 and failure mileage was 82,002. Updated 12-12-07. *kb updated

Filed Aug 16, 2006 · Acceleration, Fuel system · 75,504 miles · IL

It took 3-4 attempts to get the consumer's 2003 kia optima to start and the consumer also had to pump the gas pedal. While driving 45 MPH the vehicle accelerated suddenly without warning. *kb while attempting to accelerate from a stop the vehicle would not move. The consumer had to pump the gas pedal in order to get the vehicle to accelerate. These problems have been present since the date of purchase.