2016 Kia Optima body problems

Filed Oct 22, 2026 · Airbags, Body · TX

Component: Power Window / Door Description: All four power window regulators failed on my 2016 Kia Optima SXL within 16 months - from June 2025-Oct 2026. The failure mode is identical on all four doors: the plastic drum gear in the regulator separates or breaks, causing the window glass to drop into the door and become completely inoperable. The vehicle had 113,867 miles on it at the time of the first failure. This is a known design defect, not wear-and-tear. Kia issued Technical Service Bulletin BOD300 (March 2021) specifically addressing "Window Regulator Drum Gear Replacement" for 2016-2017MY Optima (JFa) vehicles produced September 1, 2015 through July 31, 2016. The bulletin confirms the drum gear separates or breaks. Despite this, Kia has not issued a safety recall. Safety risk: In a collision, intact side windows are an occupant ejection restraint. A window that has fallen into the door removes that protection and increases the risk of occupant ejection. Side curtain airbags deploy through the window frame (FMVSS 208). A window that is detached or lowered can interfere with proper airbag deployment, negating a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard protection. In an emergency (fire, submersion), the driver and passengers cannot lower a window to create an escape path. Evidence of systemic defect: All four regulators failed (not one or two), within a short timeframe, demonstrating a design-level failure rather than isolated component wear. Kia's own TSB BOD300 confirms the root cause (drum gear separation/breakage). This complaint is filed in connection with existing the federal safety agency investigations PE21004 and EA22002 regarding this exact defect. I paid $3,734.64 out of pocket to have all four regulators replaced. I opted out of the Le Beau v. Kia America class action settlement and retain my individual claims. I am requesting that the federal safety agency evaluate this as a safety defect warranting a recall.

Filed May 18, 2026 · Airbags, Body · CA · crash · 1 injury

Unknown the airbags didn't deploy when the car hit other driver from behind.

Filed Apr 22, 2026 · Body · CA

I am submitting a defect complaint regarding the paint on my vehicle, which has been progressively deteriorating. The issue begins as small bubbles in the paint, which eventually lead to peeling and complete paint loss in affected areas. This condition is currently present on the trunk, roof, and rear sides of the vehicle, and early signs are now appearing on the hood. This defect is more than cosmetic. As the paint peels, it exposes the underlying metal panels to environmental elements, increasing the risk of corrosion and rust. Over time, this can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle. Additionally, significant peeling—particularly on surfaces like the roof or hood—can create glare or release debris, posing a potential safety hazard and distraction to both myself and surrounding drivers. I initially brought this issue to a Kia dealership, where the manager advised me to contact Kia Customer Affairs. Upon doing so, I was informed that the issue falls outside the warranty timeframe. However, after speaking with other Kia owners experiencing similar problems—especially with the same paint color—it appears this may be a widespread manufacturing defect rather than normal wear and tear. Furthermore, a professional paint specialist evaluated the condition and indicated that the bubbling and peeling are consistent with poor paint adhesion or a defective clear coat/mid-coat application during manufacturing.

Filed Oct 22, 2025 · Body · LA

White paint is chipping away excessively

Filed Oct 17, 2025 · Body · TX

The body paint is cracking and falling down. Since five years ago this problem started.

Filed Aug 21, 2025 · Airbags, Body · FL

Dashboard shows a crack right where the passenger airbag is and Kia Motors wont change it, also the paint is flaking and noticed other Kia models with that same paint scheme that’s peeling off.

Filed Aug 4, 2025 · Airbags, Body · IN · crash · 2 injuries

I have pictures

Filed Jun 10, 2025 · Body · CA

My paint has begun bubbling up and feeling out of nowhere. I’ve always taken good care of my car yet spots are beginning to pop up along the passanger side. The paint continues to peel more as time goes on. I’ve found many complaints online of people saying they’ve had the same issue with their kia in the Snow White Pearl color I have, but there’s no recall and kia refuses to pay for it.

Filed Apr 5, 2025 · Body · FL

paint peeling, chipping, and bubbling.

Filed Apr 1, 2025 · Body · KS

The antenna fin flew off while I was driving on the highway.