Used 2012 Kia Optima Consumer Reviews
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Salvage title rebuilt
Royce, 08/31/2018
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 6 people found this review helpful
Bummber broke
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Blown engine issue and transmission
Victor vega, 10/02/2015
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 7 people found this review helpful
The 2012 Kia Optima ex GDI is a sexy looking car comfortable luxury but when I was driving on the free way at 70 mph in the fast lane the engine unexpectally turned off I thought I was going to get in a accident or die on that free way the dealership told me your engine is hurting bad and your entire engine needs to be replaced I just got a fresh good synthetic motor oil change it was fine driving but till this happens I miss work I was stuck with my car for 10 hours till I found the number to call the free Kia towing road side assistance by my warranty my Kia has 47,000 miles when it died and I just received it from car max I thought this was a very reliable car I guess not and how can I maintain the transmission since it's not serviceable ? If this new engine seizes again I'm sueing Kia no exceptions and I have my laywer waiting for me to say the word also Kia has poor engines and transmissions only good things are good body and luxury confort that's it.
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2012 Kia Optima for sale near you
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Not all That....
torch1342, 05/13/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
5 of 36 people found this review helpful
Seriously, you all need to get over yourselves with this car. The interior is cramped and the interior is one giant piece of hard plastic. The headroom up front is not good if your over 6ft. The 2.4l engine makes a loud buzzing noise when you hit the gas. Overall I am pretty dissapointed with my purchase. If you read the reviews you would think that the Optima is a Mercedes, well sir it is not....
2012 Kia Optima Amazing Value for the Money
botoboto, 06/16/2013
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 8 people found this review helpful
I purchased a 2012 Optima last year. I love this car! There is no need, I feel, for spending $$$ on a luxury sedan. The car is very comfortable, sporty, fun to drive, and the Gas Mileage is what the sticker says. Actually I can get 37 on highway trips. I even used the Progressive drive module for a month and had a poor rating because of my acceleration habits. Now there are some things I do not like. The side mirrors are NOT connected to the seat memory. If I had known this, I wouldn't have purchased the car. My last 3 cars had this feature and I am very used to it. Also the passenger seat will not raise and my wife says its like sitting in a hole. Road noise is louder than I like.
2012 kia optima SX Turbo Very, Very bad gas mileage
jiebew, 02/12/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
11 of 102 people found this review helpful
Poor gas mileage. only getting about 21 MPG I drive mostly freeway and can't get any more than that. took it to the dealer and they did nothing about it. Seriously thinking about a lawsuit. will be soon getting some legal advise from and attorney. If other are already in this mode i would love to hear from you. Yesterday and today I couldn't get the car to go above 40 MPH. I had to pull off the road and turn the car off and restar it. It did better but something is wrong. will be taking it back to the dealer in the morning.
Stay Away from Kia Optima unless you like noise
2012kia, 06/09/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 11 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car May 9, 2012. After a few days, I noticed a creaking noise every time I turn left or right. Took the car into the dealership and was told the clock spring needed to be replaced. I've only had this car 7 days, and something already has to be replaced. Also, the engine or transmission is really loud when accelerating from 0-40. After I reach 40mph or higher, this noise goes away (not sure if that's a normal noise or not, my 2005 Honda Accord was never this loud!). Engine makes a pinging noise when engine is turned off. Looking to trade this car in really soon. This dealership, Crain Kia in Sherwood, Arkansas is not very customer friendly after the sell.
Nice car, Good dealership experience
roop07, 08/01/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the Optima 2 weeks ago. Very nice car with lots of luxury features for the price. Good power and handles well on the road. Had a wonderful experience at Hollwood Kia in Broward County. No hassle.
The Shadow knows...
emeraldsky, 07/16/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just bought this Blk Cherry 2012 Optima-and I'm feelin' fine on a dime with purple all mine. An extremely good value. This is a sweet dream. Seriously rides like velvet. Lovin the extras-Bluetooth, etc, ETC. Seats extremely comfortable in soft leather with plenty room for this 5'10' frame of mine. I feel like I'm riding a La-z-boy down the road! But there's nothing lazy about this boy! Even w/o the turbo this car has quick, smooth response. You won't be left pounding the wheel for anything...save gas milage...I give high marks for it, but it has yet to break the 30 mph mark and KIA has to advertise truer data here. Oh well, my car is new and not on the Hwy much-maybe get there.
Another satisfied customer
hopleaf, 02/15/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm coming from an Infiniti G35x and I couldn't be happier with the overall package the Optima offers. The features, style, performance, and value is unbeatable.
No issues after 3.5 years and 74k miles
Tracy Payne, 09/07/2015
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This has been an excellent car. There have been no repairs required and fuel economy is 32-34 mpg for highway. OEM tires were poor, but replaced with Michelins and car drives and handles well.
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great car
Tim, 09/17/2015
updated 09/26/2022
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I now have 61,000 miles (3.8yrs) on my LX. I'm 6'3' and I love the driver seat comfort. My wife on the other hand is 5'3" and the front passenger seat is way too low for her. We have had to buy a cushion so she feels comfortable seeing out. Tires wore out in 30K miles and were terrible in the snow. I now have Generals on it and they are great. I had the right front ball joint replaced under warranty at 55K miles. I'm a little concerned about the left front now. It gets great gas mileage! Trips to Pittsburgh net me 37MPG (660 miles 72 MPH, cruise on, ECO on) and I consistently get 29-30 mpg in my every day driving. Has a nice large trunk that is great for trips, enough for the luggage and all the thing my wife buys. Over all a great car and would buy one again. 9/15/16 - still a great car. Had to have the left front wheel bearing replace at 71467 miles. It was covered under warranty!
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2012 Optima EX purchased new
Michiganrunner, 09/17/2015
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my car....except...from the time I bought it just over 3 yrs ago, I've had battery issues. Now I'm thinking it's an electronic issue. I can sit in my car not running, and listen to the radio for 15 mins and the battery will die. Can't count the number of times I've had it jumped. KIA replaced the battery last year...and the problem continues. I only have 32,300 miles on my car in over 3 yrs- with a newer battery, and it's died twice within 3 weeks. Thankfully my local Kia dealer is going to pick it up from my work tomorrow morning, evaluate it, and bring it back to me before I leave work. My electronics freaked out today when I attempted to restart. I prepared to call Kia's free roadside assistance again and needed my VIN# to do so. I'd waited approx an hr and a half before calling. I went to my car to get the VIN...and it magically started! Wth? All electronic features had to be reset, but it actually started right up. Hence I do not believe it to be a battery issue, but an electronic one
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Never thought
Scott Oaks, 07/01/2016
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this Kia for a year and a half. I've never had a issue with it. It is the most comfortable car I've ever owned. A few years back I never would of purchased a Kia, but since the design change in 2012 they have made a remarkable convergence from one moment a disposable car and now it's a car I want to keep until the wheels fall off. The options offer are technically sound and most are offered only by luxury cars at a much higher cost. As a personal note I normally do upgrades wheels, performance enhancing, eco and power. But this car has not needed one, great fuel mileage, excellent handling and power with more to spare. It's a well rounded car.
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Awsome Car!
Derik, 10/09/2017
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am 6'6 and I still have plenty of room. I admit I have to tilt the seat back a bit. But in this car it feels right to tilt it back anyway. The get up and go is great! I have never had an issue with this car. I bought it new. It now has.99,000 miles. I do take good care of it and service every 5k. The only minor problem I had was when the floor was getting wet and found out it was a plugged hose from the a/c system. Was a 10 minute fix. I can't say I've ever had better luck with any other vehicle. Great gas mileage!
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Smooth Sailing!
Kool, 02/19/2018
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned nothing but two vehicles since I entered adulthood after owning a 2004 Chrysler Sebring sedan (2.7L) that had mediocre reliability with the exception of consistently oil leaks, ignition coil number 6, and air conditioning issues, as well as ball joint noises, and squealing brakes -- oh! the driver side window motor was blown, so I had gotten fed up and I saw a Kia Optima EX Turbo on my dealership's lot dressed in Snow White Pearl, with a panoramic glass roof with the black gloss inserts that looked stunning! Ever since a family member rented a Kia Optima LX, I knew from the start I wanted an Optima. And I was blessed enough to purchase that Optima EX Turbo and fell in love with the creature comforts of having climate control seats for either season of the year - summer or winter - as well as rear heated seats for my rear occupants. How lovely! I also enjoyed the heated steering wheel and the Infinity high-definition audio sound system. Among other things, the power folding mirrors are a huge help, turning into a tight parking spot, or entering an automated car wash. The 2.0T moves the sedan like a six-cylinder engine while delivering 4-cylinder fuel economy, but it could be a bit better with an ounce of turbo lag, as well. With all things, there are some ups and downs, and they are the steering wheel persistent issues with the coupling that caused the steering to make a "clicking noise when maneuvering left or right" that was fixed under warranty from Kia Motor Corporation; moreover, I had my clock spring replaced (out of warranty), that ceased my horn, and caused my airbag light to illuminate, and I had to replace my car battery at 60k miles because it had a dead cell; and I had to replace my multi-functional fog lamp switch to regain function to reoperate my fog lamps. Also, the Infinity sound system sounds phenomenal, but it also causes excessive vibration and noise from the cheap panels in doors and headliner that will make it unpleasant at times. The leatherette on the steering wheel is peeling excessively, even at the time of purchase, and the leather seats are easy to rip and cut. All and all, I think this Kia has been reliable, but I don't want to speak too fast because I always go back on my word or at least sometimes.
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Love My 2012 Optima SX Turbo
Dan Carazo, 12/14/2018
updated 06/24/2020
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have clocked over 50K miles driving my spicy red 2012 SX Turbo. And I am still very pleased with my choice. Love the quick acceleration which surprises some of those BMW drivers. When I purchased my Kia it was relatively rare to see many on the road. But the number of Optima owners has grown into a sizable club. Kia gave me some very nice features for a modest price, and thankfully, my unit has stayed out of the shop. Great comfortable fully adjustable driver's seat, push/start/push-button doors and trunk and dual temp A/C are now must-haves. Turbo has provided a solid overall driving experience. Except for a couple manufacturer warranty-covered recalls (easily and quickly handled by local dealers), my car has been on the road for over 58K miles without any maintenance headaches, which is number 1 in my book. My only complaints since July 2012: 1) standard performance tires provide zip traction in snow--I had to purchase set of all-weather tires for cold weather; 2) harsh ride on our terrible New York potholed roads; and 3) passenger seat sits too low for my wife who is petite, and seat has no power adjust. But for under $28K I got a vehicle that has been fun to drive--even between New York and North Carolina--and has been headache free.
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2012 Optima SX
Pablo Y, 01/25/2019
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car in 2013. I loved the technology and thought the body design was very appealing. Still driving it without issues. Around town, I get 23 mpg and on the highway about 31 mpg. Like the advanced tech for a 2012 - heated/cooled seats, heated rear seats, and the touchscreen is easier to use than most CURRENT systems I have been exposed to. The ride could be a bit softer for these old bones though.
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It’s an ok car
Jess, 02/02/2019
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is ok.. I like the look of it (I have it in red). But if you live anywhere where it snows forget it . The car is awful In the snow. Even with brand new tires.
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Oil Consumption
indiaj0nes, 05/26/2019
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had 25000 miles on the car when the car started consuming oil. at my 25k oil change, the oil was all gone. Then i started monitoring the consumption of oil and it was losing 1qt every 1k miles. For a car this new its unacceptable. However, for the value proposition , it gives you all the bells and whistles at a good price.
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Glad I had the base and extended warranty!
cski, 07/04/2019
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Well, if this year is more reliable than the first year of the new model...I feel sorry for the 2011 owners. However, Kia DID ITS BEST to address all issues, and never left me stranded. I have the Spicy red EX with leather interior, and it stickered for 24,260. During most of the time, it performed as advertised, and even the Senior Pastor bought one due to driving mine. I live outside DC, so it is hard on cars. I have 68,260 miles, and at 67k my engine failed due to a recall. It was replaced under warranty and I was provided a rental for 4 months due to parts on backorder. It is the same frame and engine as the Hyundai Sonata and they had the same recall. A total of 193,000 engines were replaced. WOW. I was given an Altima....and I was glad to have mine back. I just bought my 3rd set of tires, as the first set were...you guessed it..recalled. Then I replaced my brakes and rotors, front struts due to aggravating noise over broken pavement and potholes. The struts (under extended warranty) were replaced. It did not fix the problem. Fortunately I have a 500 watt stereo with subs and tinted windows, so I just turn up the music. Their techs are not up to date on what noises are so I am like...hmmm. I mentioned struts, so that's what they replaced....but my diagnosis should not be accepted 100% of the time. I am not a mechanic. So..lower control arm bushings???? ARRGG. They put $1400 worth of struts on my car, plus the new engine, plus other bobbles and gaskets and high pressure A/C hoses. Just stay away and get a Honda used.Now that everything is new..I HAVE to fix that damn noise when I go over rough pavement, speed bumps, etc. WHAT IS IT????
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Black Kia
S jennings , 03/14/2023
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Kia I bought it used. I never had any problems with my car.
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Been great so far
Mike O, 04/01/2023
updated 04/07/2025
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I got my 2012 Optima new, and it's been a great vehicle. I had to replace the overhead light module but with regular oil and oil filter changes it's been a very reliable ride. Status quo as of this updated. I've now had this vehicle for 12 years and have had no issues with it at all. I now have 76,000 miles on it. Updated 10/4/3024
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Everyday bunny
Monkey wrench , 01/20/2024
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
140ķ mi. Replaced struts and brakes. Survived several deer hits very r eliable vehicle !
Sale
Disappointed grandma, 10/01/2024
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love the car it's beautiful. But I'm having problems with it now. Has it looked at and I was told to sale asap or I would be stranded some where. Getting gas in my oil and I know that's not a good sign. It doesn't show no code on it. But it started missing real bad so I had oil changed and new plugs. Then got to noticing when I checked oil it started showing over full and I was smelling gas. So I was told the gas going in the oil was a bad indication that I will end up replacing the motor. I was hoping this car would last me the rest of my life. I'm older and can't fork out the money to have a new engine installed. I had a Toyota before I got this car and my Toyota lasted me around 20 years. It finally layed down on me so I went looking for me a car and found this one and I feel in love with it. I've only had it 3 years. I'm soo disappointed. A grandma who doesn't know what to do.
Beautiful, great performance, awesome value BUT poor "actual" fuel econmomy
travelingwave, 03/23/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have a black on black fully loaded 2012 SX. I paid $30k. I have had about 3 months with 3500 miles on it( I don't drive it when there is snow, sand, etc. on the road) Great: Awesome exterior look, a real eye turner. It looks like Audi BMW, but $20k less. Performance-unbelievable - corners on rails, and there is no turbo lag. Bad Horrible actual( total miles/ gallons use) fuel economy compared what is advertise 24/34. I actual get about 24MPG ALL highway driving like a grandma. Fuel economy computer is not accurate. Narrow bucket seats, slightly tight on my shoulders Poor wheel well insulation. When driving on snow, gravel, sand, it very loud inside
A little disappointed
pinkcar, 07/29/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 4 people found this review helpful
Bought my 2012 Kia in Feb of this year. I was surprized I never had a follow up contact from the dealer - like "how are things". Have been, for the most part very happy with the Kia other than the wind shield wiper. Not enough power and have found my self twice in pooring rain, on a three lane highway at 70 mph and cannot see a thing. I have had 5 maybe 6 new cars -- I have never once in my driving life had to pull over because the wipers didn't keep up with the rain. I would let Kia know, but when I tried to locate how to contact customer service corporate-wise, found this is non-existant for the customer. Another example of how they are all over you during the sale and drop you after
Just OK
soadokdls, 07/25/2012
2012 Kia Optima SX 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I really like the way the car looks and some of the great features you would never get with a similar car but there are definitely things that I am not impressed with. The UVO system they have works well intermittantly and they claim the issues I have with the phone is bc I'm using my iPhone cable instead of their $40 cable which is total BS. Also, I had a 2010 Toyota Camry V6 prior to this so the HP is the same, but since the Kia is a 4 cylinder the power just isn't as good. Oh, and my insurance also doubled!!!! My insurance company claims the Kia's ISO rating is 30 and my Camry, which was $2k more, was a 16. How is that freakin possible?? Has anyone else experienced that?
Great car bad steering.
James, 03/18/2018
updated 09/21/2020
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Took two years to fix a bad steering module that is still like having no power steering at all.
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What else did KIA decide to go cheap on??
robs777, 09/11/2014
2012 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 13 people found this review helpful
We leased this car in 2012 and as of 2014 we find out that KIA decided to make OE tires that are only 30k tires! So now we have a leased car that we are having to replace the tires on before we return the lease. What are your thoughts America? Would you buy a car from a company that has no more concern for their customers than that? Also I am wondering what else KIA decided to cut corners on??
I would buy if it wasn't front wheel drive
atx4life, 02/07/2012
2012 Kia Optima EX Turbo 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
0 of 18 people found this review helpful
Kia has done an exceptional job with the 2012 Optima. I had a chance to test drive one and it was very surprising. I did enjoy driving it, however, all that horsepower is wasted b/c it's no fun driving a front wheel drive car. You cant drift and there is under-steer if you get on the gas too hard. Being front wheel drive is a major deal breaker for me. If they get smart and make a rear wheel drive or even an all-wheel drive model, I will buy one.