TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced, and the transmission oil cooler is transferred to the new transmission.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2019 Kia Optima powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2019 Kia Optima have filed 16 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Complaints
16
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2015 Optima | 48 |
| 2016 Optima | 66 |
| 2017 Optima | 17 |
| 2018 Optima | 18 |
| 2019 Optima (this page) | 16 |
| 2020 Optima | 24 |
When does it fail?
Of the 16 powertrain complaints filed for the 2019 Kia Optima, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
No new NHTSA powertrain complaint has been filed on this vehicle in over 6 years — the issue may be aging out of the active population.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmission is replaced, refer to applicable vehicles in the chart starting on page 2.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: 7-SPEED DCT JUDDER INSPECTION AND DUAL CLUTCH ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides the procedure to replace Dual Clutch Assembly and upgrade the TCU on some 2016-2020MY Kia vehicles listed in the table below, equipped with the 7 Speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which might exhibit clutch judder when accelerating from a stop.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: 7-SPEED DUAL CLUTCH TRANSMISSION (DCT) ANTI-JUDDER LOGIC IMPROVEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the software logic of the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) system on some 2016-2020MY Optima (JFa) vehicles produced from August 28, 2015 through June 1, 2020, equipped with Gamma 1.6L T-GDI engine and 7-speed DCT, which might exhibit clutch judder when accelerating from a stop.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Fifteen 2019 Kia Optima owners report overlapping powertrain failures. The most frequent complaint is excessive oil consumption—multiple owners burning 5 quarts per 2,000 miles or needing top-offs every 1–2 weeks—at mileages between 65K and 107K, sometimes earlier. White smoke and dark tarry oil coating spark plugs and coil packs accompany the consumption. No visible leaks are present in most cases.
Engine knock and misfire are reported alongside oil issues. One owner had a dealer "clean the knocker" and reset the system; the check engine light returned within days. Another owner has been without a car since May 2025 while waiting for a diagnosis.
Engine stalling is documented in multiple narratives. One owner took the vehicle to a Kia dealer six times between November 2025 and March 2026 for stalling issues; the failure was reproduced during a Subaru test drive but not repaired. Metal shavings in engine oil were found after a service campaign, indicating internal mechanical failure. One case involved sudden engine failure one day after an emissions service campaign.
Transmission issues include double-clutch failures requiring replacement—in one case, replaced twice in three years with continued shuddering. After an ECM software upgrade (Recall SC340), one owner reported jolty downshifting that dealers could not replicate or fix.
Hesitation during acceleration, sputtering on hills, and poor takeoff from stops are described but not diagnosed. Dealers consistently report finding no codes or mechanical cause.
Same Kia Optima powertrain reports on nearby years: 2016 · 2017 · 2018 · 2020
Failure modes owners describe
Excessive Oil Consumption
Engine burning or consuming oil faster than normal, requiring frequent top-offs between service intervals. Owners report consuming 5 quarts in 2,000 miles, or needing oil top-offs every 1–2 weeks. Often accompanied by visible white/blue smoke, burning oil smell, and dark tarry oil coating engine components.
When: Occurs at various mileages: 65K–107K miles; some cases early in ownership (1,600 miles)
Symptoms owners cite: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs; White/blue smoke from exhaust; Burning oil smell; Dark, tarry oil on spark plugs and coil packs; No visible external leaks despite consumption
Codes mentioned: Check engine light (various conditions)
Repairs/costs cited: One owner: replaced all 4 coil packs and 4 spark plugs due to tarry oil buildup. Repairman stated engine at risk of failure and repairs would not last without new engine. Other owners advised to continue refilling oil and wait for engine failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia service centers inspected but found no visible leaks; no recalls or TSBs cited for this specific issue by complaint narratives
Engine Knock and Misfire
Loud knocking noise from engine and misfires, indicating internal mechanical issues. Often paired with power loss, hesitation, and check engine light. Multiple owners report knocking without clear cause despite routine maintenance.
When: Reported at 65K, 81K, 103K, 107K miles; one case reported February–March 2020
Symptoms owners cite: Loud knocking noise from engine; Engine misfires; Check engine light illumination; Performance loss
Codes mentioned: Check engine light (multiple codes reported in one case)
Repairs/costs cited: One dealer 'cleaned the knocker' and reset system; check engine light returned within days. One owner without repair documentation since May 2025. Another owner cited spark plug fouling from oil buildup.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall SC340 (Theta II 2.4L GDI ECM S/W Upgrade) performed in at least one case, but did not resolve knock complaints; one owner noted owner suspects connection to prior Hyundai/Kia engine recalls
Engine Stalling and Loss of Power
Intermittent or sudden loss of engine power, causing stalling while driving. Occurs without consistent warning signs and has been reproduced multiple times at dealer service centers. Creates significant safety hazard on highways and city streets.
When: Before November 2025 (one case); December 2019 (another case); varies among complaints with mileage 65K–107K
Symptoms owners cite: Intermittent engine stalling while driving; Sudden loss of power in traffic; Violent shaking and power loss uphill; Vehicle unresponsive to accelerator input; No consistent warning lights prior to failure
Codes mentioned:
Repairs/costs cited: One case: Kia dealer attempted repair six times (November 2025 through March 2026) without success; stalling confirmed during Subaru test drive. Another case: coil packs and spark plugs replaced due to oil fouling. One case: metal shavings found in engine oil after emission service campaign, indicating internal engine damage.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia service centers inspected component(s) but made no effective repairs despite multiple visits; one case involved emissions/service campaign (SC340 or similar) immediately preceding sudden engine failure
Engine Hesitation and Poor Acceleration
Delayed or sluggish throttle response during acceleration, particularly during highway merging or overtaking. Described as 'extreme' hesitation that occurs sporadically and affects drivability and safety.
When: Reported at 107K miles in one case; early ownership in another (March delivery, reported shortly after)
Symptoms owners cite: Extreme hesitation during acceleration; Sluggish response when speeding up after slowing down; Sputtering/puttering sensation while driving; Difficulty merging onto highways; Slow takeoff from stops
Codes mentioned:
Repairs/costs cited: Dealers inspected and found no mechanical cause; one owner stated 'nothing is wrong' per dealer, yet owner reports persistent sensation of mechanical problem
Double Clutch Transmission Failure
Dual-clutch transmission failing to engage properly, requiring replacement. One owner had transmission replaced twice in 3 years; another had transmission replaced with continued shuddering/shaking even after replacement. Pattern noted among multiple owners of same year/model.
When: One case: 3 years of ownership with two replacements; another case: 1,600 miles on vehicle with one replacement already completed
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission fails to engage from stopped position; Violent shaking and shuddering during engagement; Car lunges forward when parked downhill and attempting reverse; Continued shuddering and shaking after transmission replacement
Codes mentioned:
Repairs/costs cited: Double clutch replaced twice in one case; transmission replaced once with continued issues in another case. Owner notes son and friend both own same year/model with same double clutch failure.
Transmission Shift Quality Issues (Post-Recall)
After Recall SC340 Theta II 2.4L GDI ECM S/W Upgrade was performed, transmission downshifting became jolty and clunky, whereas prior to upgrade vehicle shifted flawlessly. Dealer claims upgrade could not cause the issue and could not replicate the problem.
When: Immediately after service campaign performed
Symptoms owners cite: Jolty and clunky downshifting after recall service; Departure from previously smooth shift quality
Codes mentioned:
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer unable to replicate or find cause; claimed recall upgrade would not cause the issue
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall SC340 (Theta II 2.4L GDI ECM S/W Upgrade) performed; Kia Corporate called and complaint filed but no resolution stated
Valve Cover and Turbo Gasket Leaks
Premature failure of valve cover and turbo gaskets, allowing oil to leak. Valve cover gasket leak reported as causing dangerous fumes in cabin; turbo gasket leak presents potential fire hazard if oil contacts hot engine components.
When: Early in vehicle life (not specified in detail)
Symptoms owners cite: Oil leaking from valve cover gasket; Dangerous fumes infiltrating cabin; Oil leaking from turbo gasket; Potential fire hazard from oil near hot components
Codes mentioned:
Axle and Suspension Issues
Premature failure of axle shafts and axle boots, compromising vehicle stability and handling. Described as critical safety issue affecting steering and control.
When: Not specified in detail
Symptoms owners cite: Axle shaft failure; Axle boot deterioration; Compromised stability and handling; Increased accident risk
Codes mentioned:
Injector Noise and Engine Tick
Engine producing ticking or clatter noise described as 'injector ticking.' One owner at 93K miles (purchased used) reports noise accompanied by white smoke and excessive oil burn.
When: At or shortly after purchase at 93K miles
Symptoms owners cite: Injector ticking/clatter noise; White smoke from exhaust; Excessive oil consumption (every 2–3 days); Burning oil smell
Codes mentioned:
Repairs/costs cited: Dealership listened to noise and identified it as injector ticking; no repair documented
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recall on VIN per owner report
Synthesized from 16 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 4 most recent
If I slow down then speed up it takes off slow. If I go up a hill it putts and when I drive it just feels like its puttering the whole time. Took it to dealership of course they didn't find anything but this is a new car I know something is wrong. I just got the car in march drove fine no accidents or anything and it's kind of disappointing that my car is like this but know one knows what's wrong.
Brought vehicle in for Recall-SC340 Theta II 2.4L GDI ECM S/W Upgrade. After service was performed I took my vehicle back home and noticed that my down shifting was different, jolty and clunky. Prior to the upgrade my vehicle shifted flawlessly. Took my vehicle back in to have them check it out and they told me that they couldn't feel it and that the upgrade wouldn't cause that. Called Kia…
Unknown needing help with new purchased car. Bought this car October/2025 with 93k on engine. Already been to dealership i Bought it from to have current issues im dealing with checked out and they only listen to it and said it was injector ticking clatter. Since then ive seen white smoke and the car burning excessive oil. I am adding oil to the car every 2-3 days. Still noticeable smoke and…
My vehicle is consuming oil excessively. I have to put a whole quart of oil in my vehicle every 2 weeks. I am adamant about getting regular maintenance oil changes as well. My car had to be towed to a local auto shop due to the engine stalling and accelerator not working. They had to replace all 4 coil packs and 4 spark plugs due to dark, tarry oil covering the parts. The repairman told me my…
Had powertrain trouble with your 2019 Kia Optima?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2019 Kia Optima?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 16 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Based on the 16 complaints filed, powertrain issues most often appear around 19,600 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2019/Kia/Optima.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.