How common are engine problems in the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid?

NHTSA lists 17 engine complaints for this model year, making up 65% of the 26 total complaints filed for the 2017 Optima Hybrid.

Is there a recall for the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid engine?

Yes. Recall 21V844000 covers 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles for connecting rod bearings that may wear prematurely and cause engine damage. Kia inspects the engine and replaces it if bearing damage is found.

At what mileage do engine problems typically show up?

NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 35,000 miles for engine-related complaints on this model year.

Did the 2017 Optima Hybrid engine issues cause crashes or fires?

NHTSA records show 0 crashes and 0 fires and 0 injuries associated with these engine complaints.

2017 Kia Optima Hybrid Engine Problems

NHTSA lists 17 engine complaints for the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid, 65% of all 26 complaints filed for this model year. A related recall (21V844000) covers connecting rod bearings that can wear prematurely and damage the engine, with median mileage at failure of 35,000.

Engine complaints: 17; 65% of 26
Crashes reported: 0
Fires reported: 0
Injuries reported: 0
Median mileage: 35,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Sudden loss of power or stalling while driving at highway speeds, with the system telling the driver to pull over and shut off the vehicle.
Failure to switch smoothly between electric and gas power, sometimes with a transmission or hybrid system error message.
Engine running low on or completely out of oil despite no dashboard warning light, in some cases traced to the oil drain plug or bolt coming loose.
Hybrid warning light repeatedly triggering with dealers unable to permanently diagnose or fix the cause, sometimes pointing to wiring harness or air box parts.
Deceleration or power loss on the freeway tied to hybrid battery drain and 'check hybrid system' alerts.
Delays getting recall parts for the connecting rod bearing repair even after owners were notified of the recall.

When 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid engine complaints were filed

First complaint Feb 11, 2018, latest Sep 8, 2026.

17 complaints filed with NHTSA from Feb 2018 to Sep 2026; peak Jul 2018 (2).

Engine recalls for the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid

NHTSA 21V844000Oct 29, 2021Engine10,731 vehicles
Engine
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles. The connecting rod bearings inside the engine may wear prematurely, which can result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine can increase the risk of a fire or it can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine. If bearing damage is found, the engine will be replaced. Dealers will also install a software update containing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS). Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 29, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC218.

Engine complaints by Optima Hybrid model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

201122 (65%)
201276 (70%)
201318 (33%)
201417 (55%)
20155 (42%)
20162 (50%)
201717 (65%)
20183 (100%)
20201 (100%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems in the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid?: NHTSA lists 17 engine complaints for this model year, making up 65% of the 26 total complaints filed for the 2017 Optima Hybrid.
Is there a recall for the 2017 Kia Optima Hybrid engine?: Yes. Recall 21V844000 covers 2017-2018 Optima Hybrid and Optima Plug-In Hybrid vehicles for connecting rod bearings that may wear prematurely and cause engine damage. Kia inspects the engine and replaces it if bearing damage is found.
At what mileage do engine problems typically show up?: NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 35,000 miles for engine-related complaints on this model year.
Did the 2017 Optima Hybrid engine issues cause crashes or fires?: NHTSA records show 0 crashes and 0 fires and 0 injuries associated with these engine complaints.