The 2012 Kia Optima is a midsize sedan with a price range of $8,861 to $14,458. Serious mechanical problems coupled with a high cost of ownership are reasons buyers should avoid the Optima.
2012 Kia Optima: Quick Overview
- Changes are minor for the 2012 model year and include a new wheel design, and chrome exterior accents.
- Reliability ratings are average, according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the older 2011 model.
- Two engines are available. Both are 4-cylinders, but the turbo version has excellent power for a midsize sedan.
- Fuel economy is good and ties for 3rd place out of 15 midsize cars with a combined rating of up to 27 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are great, getting a perfect 5-star score in government crash tests and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2012 Kia Optima comes in 6th place out of 15 midsize cars based on owner reviews. Mechanical issues, including engine failures, are just too common to recommend the Optima over other midsize cars.
Expert Ratings
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Kia Optima Have?
The 2012 Kia Optima has an average number of problems for a midsize sedan, but they are more serious than the competition. There are a fewer number of complaints than the 2013 model.
Engine failures are the most common, and most serious problem. The engine frequently dies around 100,000 miles, and replacements cost about $5,200. In some cases the failure is covered by the 100,000 mile powertrain warranty and the engine bearing recall.
Loose steering is another frequent complaint from owners. Usually there’s damage to the steering rack. Replacing the components solves the problem, costing about $230 on average.
The sunroof falling out is another issue, but is rarer than the other complaints. Owners report the sunroof breaking while driving at highway speeds, and there’s no definitive reason. Replacing the sunroof costs about $660, depending on local labor rates.
There are 3 recalls affecting the car, which is better than other cars from 2012. The recalls include bearing wear in the engine, air bags, and the high pressure fuel pipe. Both the bearing wear and high pressure fuel pipe recalls are important since they can lead to engine failures or fires.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Kia Optima is more expensive than other midsize sedans, with a price range of $8,861 to $14,458, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $19,500 to $26,500. Depreciation is average for the class, dropping about 45% in value over the first 5 years.
- LX is the entry-level model with 16-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, power windows and locks, air conditioning, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system with Bluetooth, AUX, and USB connectivity.
- EX falls in the middle of the lineup and has 17-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, wood trim, keyless ignition, dual-zone climate control, LED tail lights, and the turbocharged 4-cylinder is optional.
- SX is the flagship and sport-focused choice with the turbo engine standard, 18-inch alloy wheels, paddle shifters, xenon headlights, and a sportier suspension.
How Long Will the 2012 Kia Optima Last?
A properly maintained 2012 Kia Optima will last about 150,000 miles, which is shorter than other midsize sedans. Frequent engine failures around 100,000 miles are costly, and mechanically total some vehicles. Standard annual maintenance costs are average for the class and Repair Pal estimates them to be $537 per year.
Nothing except routine maintenance. The body and paint are holding up very well in the hot Florida sun.
Yes to an extent. I believe that Japanese cars are better in my opinion. For example, Honda, Acura, Toyota or any other care is more reliable. Kia is very good but I believe that it could be better and more reliable.
No problems, has low miles and is good on gas. Has been good with engine. It never breaks down and has good gas mileage.
No problems. Drives great. Transmission slipping a bit but other than that it is very good to me. Great on gas once it is on half a tank or more.
It is reliable most of the time. But, I have had some trouble with it and it does have problems. With the engine and the radio for example.
This car is super reliable. I have never had an ounce of issue with it. I have had this since 2014.
Mine has been very reliable. No problems have occurred so far, even though my car has a lot of miles on it.
The Optima is very reliable. I've put nearly 200,000 miles on it since I purchased it new, and have never had any problems with it.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology features are better than some competitors in the entry-level models, and the optional navigation system is very good for the price.
- Base technology includes an AM/FM/CD stereo system with USB, Bluetooth, and AUX connectivity, satellite radio, and 6 speakers.
- Upgrades include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and an 8-speaker Infinity stereo.
- Standard safety technology includes antilock disc brakes, air bags, as well as traction and stability control. A rearview camera is an optional upgrade included with the navigation system.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2012 Optima is good for a midsize sedan. The upgraded turbocharged engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.5 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 200 horsepower.
- An upgraded 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder is optional on the EX, and is standard on the SX with 274 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Optima?
The 2012 Kia Optima is a midsize sedan and is similar in size to the competitors. Passenger space is good in both the front and back seats with plenty of legroom. Headroom is a bit limited in the back seats though due to the sloping roof line. There’s 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space, which is average for the class. There’s enough room to fit 3 to 4 suitcases.
How Does the 2012 Kia Optima Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 6th out of 15 midsize cars based on owner reviews, the 2012 Kia Optima is in the middle of the class.
A higher-rated option is the more expensive Toyota Camry. The Camry has a much better reliability rating with fewer owner complaints, and a more spacious interior. Where the Optima stands out is with better technology, and more luxurious interior materials. Overall, the Camry wins easily because they last longer, and have lower ownership costs.
A close competitor is the Mazda6, which is in the same price range. The Mazda has better reliability ratings, and is more engaging to drive. Where the Optima comes out ahead is with better passenger room, and more luxurious interior materials for the money. The Mazda is a more affordable sedan to own with less mechanical problems, and wins in our comparison.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Kia Optima a Good Car?
No, the 2012 Kia Optima is not a good car based on information from 345 verified owner reviews and 17 government and automotive websites. The positives include an upscale interior for the price, and a comfortable suspension. Where the Optima falls short is with serious mechanical problems, and a noisier interior than the competition. Overall, the 2012 Optima is a used car buyers should avoid since engine failures are expensive to replace.