Used 2018 KIA Optima
- Price: $7,895
- Mileage: 123,574 miles
- Location: Boardman, OH
- VIN: 5XXGT4L38JG260049
Used 2018 KIA Optima for sale in Boardman, OH — $7,895, 123,574 miles. The Optima gave buyers sharp styling and lots of equipment for the money. Buy Here Pay Here financing available. See photos and details, and get pre-approved online.
About the 2018 KIA Optima
2018 KIA Optima at a glance
The 2018 Optima is largely unchanged, with an S trim joining the lineup. Choices remain the 185-hp 2.4L (about 24/34 mpg), the 178-hp 1.6L turbo with a 7-speed dual-clutch (about 28/37 mpg), the 245-hp 2.0L turbo (about 22/31 mpg), the Hybrid (about 39/46 mpg) and the Plug-in Hybrid (about 29 miles electric range). It is the last year before the 2019 refresh.
- Engines: 2.4 liter gdi I4 185 hp 178 lb ft; 1.6 liter turbo I4 178 hp 195 lb ft; 2.0 liter turbo I4 245 hp 260 lb ft; 2.0 liter hybrid I4 154 hp engine plus electric motor; 2.0 liter plug in hybrid 9 8 kWh battery
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic 2.4 liter and 2.0 liter turbo; 7 speed dual clutch 1.6 liter turbo; 6 speed automatic hybrid and plug in
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive
- Body style: 4 door sedan
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Optima s trim listed
- Last year before the 2019 refresh
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Exact engine resolution by VIN; Anti theft software upgrade if turn key ignition; Theta ii engine recall and ksds campaign status; Engine knock or ticking noise; Oil level and oil change records; Check engine light and stored codes; Hybrid battery and system warnings if hybrid; Dual clutch low speed behavior if 1.6 liter turbo; Suspension and tires; Brakes; Electronics and infotainment; Maintenance history.
Known issues to check on a 2018 KIA Optima
- Knock Sensor Detection System Campaign and Extended Engine Coverage (2011–2019)
Kia added Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software to many Theta II-equipped Optimas. It watches for the vibration of early bearing wear and puts the car into a reduced-power mode so the problem is caught before the engine fails. Kia also extended engine warranty coverage for eligible vehicles, including through a U.S. class-action settlement. Eligibility depends on engine, year and VIN, so confirm with Kia.
What to do: Ask a Kia dealer to confirm the KSDS update and any extended engine coverage for the VIN; keep oil-change records. - Anti-Theft Software Upgrade (Turn-Key Ignition Models) (2011–2020)
Kia offered a free anti-theft software upgrade for 2011-2020 Optima models with a traditional turn-key ignition (no push-button start) after a wave of thefts targeting cars without an engine immobilizer. The update extends the alarm and requires the key fob to unlock the car before it can be started. Eligibility depends on the vehicle's ignition type and VIN.
What to do: If the car has a turn-key ignition, confirm the free anti-theft software upgrade was done (a Kia dealer can install it) and check your insurer's requirements. - 1.6L Turbo 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Behavior (2016–2020)
2016-2020 Optimas with the 178-hp 1.6L turbo use a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. It is efficient but can feel hesitant or jerky at very low speeds compared with a conventional automatic.
What to do: Test the 1.6T in stop-and-go driving; choose a 2.4L if you prefer a conventional automatic. - Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid System Check (2011–2020)
Optima Hybrids (2011-2020) and Plug-in Hybrids (2017-2020) have high-voltage batteries and hybrid drive systems that should be checked separately from gas models. A healthy plug-in should charge normally and show a reasonable electric range.
What to do: Have a Kia dealer or hybrid-capable shop scan the hybrid system and confirm any remaining hybrid warranty. - Optima Generation, Engine and K5 Disambiguation (2011–2020)
The Optima changed generations for 2016 and was renamed K5 for 2021. Engines vary by year: 2.4L and 2.0L turbo (2011-2020, with lower ratings from 2016), a 1.6L turbo (2016-2020), a 2.4L hybrid (2011-2016), and a 2.0L hybrid and plug-in (2017-2020). The 2016 Optima Hybrid is still the previous-generation design.
What to do: Confirm the exact year, engine and trim before comparing prices or specs.
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, engine, transmission, equipment, and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls, service campaigns, and completed remedies. For Theta II-equipped Optimas, also confirm knock-sensor (KSDS) software and extended engine coverage with Kia; for turn-key cars, confirm the anti-theft software upgrade.