2013 Kia Optima steering problems

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

1. Filed Aug 11, 2026139,000 miCATowedSteering

   The contact owns a 2013 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the steering wheel was difficult to turn. There was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the vehicle and the vehicle was uncontrollable. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the coupling in the steering wheel needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there was no coverage under the…

   NHTSA complaint #11756253 · source
2. Filed Jul 19, 2026PAEngineSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain

   the engine revs high and transmission wont shift and when you turn the steering wheel ya get a loud click and the steering wheels jumps

   NHTSA complaint #11751411 · source
3. Filed Apr 23, 2026PAOther / UnknownSteeringSuspension

   While driving my KIA Optima on the interstate the rear subframe suffered catastrophic structural failure, resulting in the steering wheel going out of alignment, the rear passenger side wheel tilting with the bottom of the tire being far out compared to the top. This resulted in the rear of the vehicle swaying side to side and being difficult to maintain in a straight path. This vehicle was previously serviced under KIA Campaign SC141 (internal subframe corrosion) at Griffin…

   NHTSA complaint #11733232 · source
4. Filed Mar 20, 2026ILBrakesSteeringTransmission & Drivetrain

   Vehicle: 2013 Kia Optima SXL VIN: [XXX] While driving on a highway at approximately 55–58 mph, the rear driver-side electronic parking brake (EPB) motor housing failed with a loud bang. Immediately after, there was heavy smoke and a strong burning smell. The vehicle became very difficult to drive, and the wheel began screeching and dragging as if the brake had locked. The failure appears to have caused the rear brake caliper to seize while the vehicle was in motion. This…

   NHTSA complaint #11725980 · source
5. Filed Jan 1, 2026MASteering

   Steering flexible coupler worn in the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) syste causing clicking noise and jittery steering

   NHTSA complaint #11708169 · source
6. Filed Dec 20, 2025VASteering

   Bushing related to steering wheel was a safety issue that causes steering wheel play and possible loss of control. I was never informed of the issue and Kia said it would not repair it since the warranty expired.

   NHTSA complaint #11706264 · source
7. Filed Oct 14, 2025TNSteering

   There is an issue with our 2013 Kia optima steering coupler system. There is currently a TSB, but no recall and repair not covered. It seems to be a very common problem and I feel it should be recalled so repairs will be covered.

   NHTSA complaint #11693339 · source
8. Filed Sep 10, 2025MISteering

   I had the car inspected by an independent service center because of extreme shaking from the steering wheel and steering wheel being unstable when going over bumps and making clanking noises all while driving. The steering wheel began to feel very loose and dangerous to drive so I took it in and they had to replace the steering coupling Assembly.

   NHTSA complaint #11686317 · source
9. Filed Aug 18, 2025MASteering

   The steering wheel has a noise when turn, actually the noise is so loud now that it shakes while I'm driving. I have a video of it. I also brought to the mechanic and he told me that this is from the manufacturer problem. The videos are not support to download here. Let me know if I can send it through another way. Thank you, I'm going to kia dealer on Sep. 2nd to fix another recall, if please, send me a recall for the steering wheel as well. Thank you, appreciate it.

   NHTSA complaint #11681371 · source
10. Filed Jul 24, 2025OHSteering

    I called Kia Consumer Assistance in reference the MDPS flexible coupling. I spoke with a Kia representative named Gina. I specifically asked if this item is covered under my vehicles warranty (i gave the vin number of the vehicle to her. She stated if it was diagnosed as the MDPS flexible coupling, it would be covered. I made an appointment (it took two weeks) with Spitzer Kia at 3414 Brookpark Rd, Cleveland, Ohio 44134. The service advisor, Belinda Frost, stated, yes the…

    NHTSA complaint #11675942 · source
11. Filed Jul 8, 2025ORSteering

    Steering clunks left & right, feels like steering coupler or clock spring is broken or out of wack, steering column rattles on bumpy r thoughtoads

    NHTSA complaint #11672098 · source
12. Filed May 22, 2025NCSteering

    I believe the steering wheel coupler is bad on my 2013 Kia Optima. It is a known issue for this year/make/model. The steering wheel is slipping and makes a clicking noise occasionally when turning.

    NHTSA complaint #11662688 · source

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology