The 2016 Kia Optima only lasts around 150,000 miles with some serious engine and transmission issues. At $13,325 to $17,075, it’s cheaper than many other midsize sedans, but not worth it when one mechanical failure can total it out.
Is the 2016 Kia Optima a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 6/10 – 2016 is a bad year for the Optima since there are still some engine problems, giving it a low overall score. Owner reviews complain about sudden breakdowns, computer issues, as well as some stereo problems.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior quality is better than other sedans in the Optima, the seats are comfortable with soft-touch materials, cargo space is also good.
- Reliability 6/10 – There are still some engine problems found on the 2016 Kia Optima. Buyers should avoid models from 2011–2016. Optima models from 2017–2020 are more reliable.
- Performance 6/10 – Performance is worse than other midsize sedans from all three of the 4-cylinder engine choices available.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2016 Optima is a safe sedan, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard safety technology includes a rear view camera. Optional upgrades available include a 360 degree camera, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, as well as forward collision warning with automatic braking.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 32 MPG giving 592 miles of range from the 18.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $54 cheaper than average, at $166 per month.
- Value 6/10 – Expensive repair costs paired with fast depreciation make the 2016 Optima a bad value on the used market.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Kia Optima?
- Consumer Reports says the Kia Optima offers some good new features, but has low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Optima at 4.2/5, praising the quiet cabin, but doesn’t like the numb steering feel.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Optima a 4.3/5, enjoying the roomy interior, although owners don’t like the lower reliability ratings.
What Common Problems Does the 2016 Kia Optima Have?
Common problems found on the 2016 Kia Optima include engine failures, worn-out window regulators, as well as hesitation while shifting between gears. Overall, these problems are more severe than other midsize sedans, leading to higher repair bills as well if they fail outside the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty.
Engine failures are still an issue reported on the 2016 Kia Optima at around 90,000 miles, although they’re not as widespread as in earlier years. There are problems with the internal engine bearings which lead to total engine failures. Replacing the engine costs around $7,500, depending on local labor rates if it’s out of warranty.
Worn-out window regulators are another problem mentioned by owners at nearly 75,000 miles. The regulator has components which snap with a lot of use, leading to the power windows not going up or down. Replacing the regulator fixes the problem, costing around $500 per window.
Hesitation while shifting between gears, also shows up on some 2016 Optima models at roughly 70,000 miles. Usually the problem is caused by a transmission software issue which can be fixed for around $100. Internal transmission problems can cost over $1,000 to fix.
There are 4 recalls on the 2016 Kia Optima, some of which are worse than other midsize cars. The most serious recall covers the high pressure fuel pipe, which can leak, causing a fire. Kia will replace the fuel pipe on the affected models. Another serious recall is for the front axle shaft, which can cause a rollover. The final two recalls cover air bags which are common on all cars.
How Long Will the 2016 Kia Optima Last?
A well maintained 2016 Kia Optima should last around 150,000 miles, which is only half as long as the top-rated Toyota Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other midsize cars, according to data from Repair Pal, at $355 per year. Maintenance costs are average, however, if there are any expensive problems it can cost a lot more.
Since many 2016 Kia Optima models for sale have over 100,000 miles buyers should be prepared to replace the brake booster for $700, transmission shift cable costing $630, as well as the power steering pump, which costs $800.
It is very reliable. However with my turbo engine, there is rattling on the dashboard above the glove compartment. My old Hyundai with the same dct engine exhibited the same sound. No one has been able to identify or fix it.
Yes, very reliable. Never had one problem. I never need anything at inspection time. This is a great car and I would highly recommend it.
The Kia optima lx is very reliable. In the entire time that I have had this car, it did not have any serious issues.
I haven't had any problems with my Kia, the only thing is just a couple of recalls. The recalls were very minimum.
Yes very reliable no issues as of yet for me this vehicle is very reliable spacious quiet comfortable no maintenance issues that I have had to deal with.
Yes the 2016 Kia optima lx is reliable. I have not had any problems in the two and a half years that I have had it.
I have had a few problems including my trunk latch that recently broke and had to buy a part and replace it.
I have not experienced any issues and I have been driving it for the past 3 years. The engine and drivetrain are surprisingly problem free.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is great in the 2016 Kia Optima compared to other midsize cars with a standard 5-inch touchscreen, or an optional larger 8-inch screen. Safety technology is good with a standard rear view camera. Optional upgrades include a 360 degree camera, lane departure warning, frontal collision warning, as well as automatic braking.
Is the 2016 Kia Optima a Good Value?
No, the 2016 Kia Optima is not a good value since there are still some engine problems reported. Blue book prices range from $13,325 to $17,075, making it cheaper than a Honda Accord or Subaru Legacy. When new, the price range was $22,140 to $36,040. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 14% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Kia Optima?
There are four models of the Kia Optima offered in 2016 from the base LX all the way up to the luxurious SXL.
LX is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Power Windows & Locks
- Cruise Control
- Rear view Camera
- 5-Inch Touchscreen
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- 6-Speaker Stereo System
EX is a step up, adding:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- LED Running Lights
- 8-Inch Touchscreen Stereo System
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Optional 10-Speaker Harmon Kardon Stereo
SX is next in the lineup with:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Sport Tuned Suspension
- Adaptive Xenon Headlights
- Rear Spoiler
SXL is the flagship model which has:
- Premium Leather Seating
- Chrome Exterior Trim
- 360 Degree Parking Camera
- Automatic Braking System
- Forward Collision Warning
What Engines Come In the Kia Optima?
- The standard engine in the Kia Optima is an average 2.4L 4-cylinder which makes 185 horsepower while getting up to 28 MPG.
- An optional upgrade is the efficient 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder which generates 178 horsepower at up to 32 MPG.
- The most powerful engine is the stronger 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder which offers 245 horsepower and gets up to 25 MPG. Performance is okay, taking 6.7 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Kia Optima Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Kia Optima?
The 2016 Kia Optima is a very comfortable midsize sedan with seating for up to five people. Seats are extremely nice for the price, offering a more luxurious feel than a lot of other midsize sedans in the same price range.
Passenger room is very good in the front seats, while the back seats may feel cramped for taller passengers due to the sloping roof line which limits headroom.
How Much Storage Space Does the Kia Optima Have?
Cargo space is similar to other midsize sedans, offering enough space in the trunk for 3-4 full size suitcases.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The fourth generation of the Kia Optima was introduced in 2016 and was replaced by the fifth generation in 2021.
2014: Small exterior styling changes, improved front seats, blind spot monitoring added.
2015: Updated stereo system, SX Limited model renamed to SXL.
2016: Fully redesigned for the fourth generation with new engines, interior, and exterior styling.
2017: LED headlights added to the SX model.
2018: Apple CarPlay & Android Auto are now standard, high-performance S model added.
2019: Minor exterior styling changes, new headlights, standard driver assistance software.
2020: Standard forward collision mitigation, Premium package discontinued.
How Does the Kia Optima Compare to the Competition?
The Kia Optima ranked well when it was new, yet problems have developed as they’ve aged, which makes them a bad choice on the used market. Buying an Optima outside the 10 year/100,000 mile warranty is a bad idea since repair costs add up quickly.
The Hyundai Sonata is another midsize sedan which is available in the same price range. Both the Kia Optima and Hyundai Sonata are built on the same platform sharing the same engines, while the interior is more luxurious on the Hyundai Sonata. We recommend avoiding both vehicles for 2016 since they both have the same mechanical problems.
The Honda Accord is another competitor which costs around $3,000 more. Performance is better in the Honda Accord with the more powerful engines, while the Kia Optima has a more upscale interior for the money. We recommend the Honda Accord since it will last longer, with fewer mechanical problems.
Do Owners Recommend the Kia Optima?
Yes. It is a great car. Drives smooth, incredibly fuel efficient, comfortable and stylish. Would consider purchasing after my lease expires.
Yes, we love it. Never one problem, rides great and looks great. When we are ready to buy another car, we will definitely buy a Kia. Live the way it performs.
Yes, the Kia optima is a great vehicle. It is a great car to buy at a reasonable price. It is a better car than most other options.
Yes very good, one of the best I have owned. Very smooth ride, tones of power, with amazing features.
Yes this vehicle is very good drives smooth very good on gas compared to other cars of same style cheaper on gas very quiet smooth car to drive.
Yes the 2016 Kia optima lx is a good vehicle to drive. It is comfortable, great on gas, and stylish. It has plenty of room for family and friends.
Yes my 2016 Kia optima lx is a good and reliable vehicle. I love all the features it offers including the back up camera.
Yes it is a very dependable and comfortable vehicle. It has many safety features that make driving enjoyable and safe.