Faults:

Timing chain replaced: 91,000.

A/C compressor failed: 91,500.

Front axle replaced: 100,000.

General Comments:

I got a repossessed 2005 Kia Optima in January of 2009. When I purchased it (for $5400), it had 48,000 miles on it. It is the 4cyl, 5 speed model.

In my experience, it has been a reliable vehicle. The A/C compressor was not a major problem; it still drove just fine.

I see that many of you are having problems with the automatic transmissions — simple, just get a 5-speed. It’s cheaper and more reliable in the long run, albeit being a bit annoying in stop-and-go traffic. I have not completely put my trust in the Kia name; I was hoping for a Honda Accord or Civic, because my parents both have Hondas that have had little problems, with over 140,000 miles on each.

However, from what I have experienced thus far, Kia deserves a bit of credit. I am a college student, and the decision to buy this car was ultimately my dad’s. Beggars can’t be choosers, and so far this has turned out to be a pretty wise decision.

Now, all this being said, I don’t know how much trust I will put in it once it hits 130,000+, but I have looked on Craigslist and seen them with mileages as high as 170,000.

So if properly maintained and all preventative maintenance is done, I see no reason that this car can’t compete with the big companies such as Toyota and Honda.

Faults:

Engine died at 65,000 miles.

Air bag light on from the time I drove the car off the lot.

After engine replacement, crank sensor went out on me while I was on the freeway during peak traffic.

When they did engine replacement, they did not put a new timing belt on, they put an old one on; it was missing teeth.

When I had it towed to the mechanic, they diagnosed the car, then said that they had to replace the timing belt because the timing belt was ready to snap.

Leaving work, the serpentine belt snapped.

I just did a tune up because the car has been sputtering. Of course it still is sputtering. I got a fuel injection cleaning, and the car is still sputtering off and on, and now cutting off.

General Comments:

I bought the car because I needed transportation, because my previous car was used, but it lasted me a long time, but eventually it died and it wasn't in my opinion cost effective to fix.

So I was excited, plus the dealer said they could get me a really good deal. They sold me the extended warranty, but when it came time to use it, they did not want to honor it; they told me regardless of my receipts, they had proof I did not maintain my car, and that if I wanted it fixed, that I better bring them 2000 dollars. I said that I will bring my receipts with my dad; they told me they don't have to deal with me and they would tow my car off the lot. I told them not to tow it off, then when my dad came with me, the same guy was so super nice to me.

They kept my car for a month, and it still wasn't fixed; my car died on the freeway. It died in the street. Now it is sputtering and stalling; that is not safe. Plus my airbag light is still on.