2016 Kia Optima used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Excessive oil consumption140 owner complaints, usually around 91,176 miles, owners paid about $4,000

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Check engine light135 owner complaints, usually around 98,000 miles, owners paid about $8,000

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Engine failure134 owner complaints, usually around 91,176 miles, owners paid about $6,000

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 23V594000, Aug 24, 2023
• EngineRecall number 18V907000, Dec 19, 2018
• Air bagsRecall number 17V007000, Jan 6, 2017
• Power trainRecall number 16V705000, Oct 3, 2016
• Air bagsRecall number 16V231000, Apr 21, 2016

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Voluntary emissions service campaign: theta II 2.4L GDI emissions: ECM logic improvement (SC340 revision 5)Apr 4, 2026
• Voluntary emissions service campaign: owner notification (SC340 flight 104 )Mar 17, 2026
• Voluntary emissions service campaign: theta II 2.4L GDI emission secm logic improvement (SC340 rev 4)Mar 6, 2026
• Voluntary emissions service campaign: owner notification (SC340 flight 103 / jf)Dec 19, 2025
• Voluntary emissions service campaign: owner notification (SC340 flight 101 / jf)Nov 27, 2025
• Voluntary emissions service campaign: theta II 2.4L GDI emissions ECM logic improvement (SC340)Nov 21, 2025

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.