2011 Kia Optima steering problems
Owners reported steering problems in 100 complaints for the 2011 Kia Optima, 13% of the complaints on file. It is the 2nd most reported problem area for this model year.
At a glance
- Complaints
- 100 13% of this year's complaints
- Typical mileage
- 72,000 miles 82 complaints with mileage
- Crashes and fires
- 0 and 0
- Injuries and deaths
- 0 and 0
Source: NHTSA owner complaints
When steering problems show up
View the numbers
| Mileage | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 0k to 20k miles | 22 |
| 20k to 40k miles | 2 |
| 40k to 60k miles | 8 |
| 60k to 80k miles | 17 |
| 80k to 100k miles | 15 |
| 100k to 120k miles | 7 |
| 120k to 140k miles | 6 |
| 140k to 160k miles | 1 |
| 160k to 180k miles | 1 |
| 180k to 200k miles | 0 |
| 200k+ miles | 3 |
What the data shows
Of the 82 steering complaints that report mileage, the median is about 72,000 miles, and 39% were reported before 60,000 miles.
None of the steering complaints mention a crash, fire, injury or death.
What owners wrote
Purchased a new 2011 kia optima sx with premium touring package. The car has pulled to the left since I bought it. Seems to be more noticeable the faster you go. At highway speeds on a straight road I will be in the next lane in a second or two upon letting go of the steering regardless of which side of the road crown I am on. I also noticed the steering wheel does shift left during this and is off center.
Tl* the contact owns a 2011 kia optima. While driving 55 MPH, the steering column became difficult to turn when changing lanes. In addition, a loud knocking noise disrupted the contact's steering capability. It was diagnosed that the steering column coupler in the steering linkage malfunctioned. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 119,000.
Other problems reported for the 2011 Kia Optima
- Engine 264 complaints
- Lighting 89 complaints
- Electrical system 63 complaints
- Brakes 47 complaints
- Air bags 31 complaints
- Fuel system 26 complaints
- Drivetrain & axles 24 complaints
- Body & structure 21 complaints