Why does the check engine light in my Optima turn on when I start my car?

It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is just your Optima testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Why is my Kia Optima making engine noise?

Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Kia Optima engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.

What could damage a Kia engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Kia Optima engine?

Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Is it okay to put water in my Kia Optima radiator?

Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What could cause my Optima engine to suddenly stop?

Your Optima car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.

Who fixes Kia Optima engines?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers Kia Optima engine repair. Schedule an appointment today at one of our thousands of locations nationwide!

Reliable Repairs for 2012 Kia Optima Engines

Learn about

2012 Kia Optima Trim Options

Select your Kia Optima trim level to learn more about Kia-recommended engine repair. Even Kia Optima parts will get older and change.

L4/2.0L

L4/2.4L

Repairs for Your 2012 Kia Optima

Stuff wears out. Even your Kia Optima’s engine parts and components will change. We’re here to help when something stops working. Select a repair or category to learn more about 2012 Kia Optima services.

We’re Trained to Care for Kia Optima Engines

Kia Optima drivers trust that their Optima will take them near and far. You probably thought about that when you got it. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Sometimes plans go sideways. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 2012 Kia service center — quick! That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know Kia Optima engines. Schedule an appointment if you're experiencing problems that could require engine repair. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

Illuminated Check Engine Light on 2012 Kia Optima

If your Optima check engine light is on, it’s time to get it looked at. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your or emission system, and it won’t go away by ignoring it. Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, worn spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or a leak in the engine vacuum, to name a few possible causes. Bring your Optima in for an on-board diagnostic check and we’ll figure out why that check engine light is giving you grief. rattling sounds, burning smells, or misfiring.

Engine Repairs for Your 2012 Optima

If your 2012 Kia Optima needs engine repair, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We make recommendations, but you make the final decision. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. If it's necessary for your safety, we'll make sure you understand that, too. We want to give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for Kia Optima engine repairs and you can drive easy knowing that we use Kia-approved parts and fluids — timing chain or belt, motor oil seal, sensors, or another part.

2012 Kia Optima Engine Q&A

Why does the check engine light in my Optima turn on when I start my car? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is just your Optima testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Why is my Kia Optima making engine noise? Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your Kia Optima engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
What could damage a Kia engine? [ordered-list-1-item-3-1]Are you unknowingly damaging your Kia Optima engine? Certain driving habits can hurt your engine. These habits include driving on an empty fuel tank, flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or slamming the gas pedal while the engine is still cold. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.
Is it okay to put water in my Kia Optima radiator? Only in emergencies. A 50/50 mix of coolant and water (or a pre-mixed) coolant is recommended. However, if you must keep driving when you're out of coolant, it's better to drive with water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What could cause my Optima engine to suddenly stop? Your Optima car engine could stop suddenly due to low fuel, electrical issues, overheating, a faulty ignition system, mechanical troubles, or sensor problems.
Who fixes Kia Optima engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers Kia Optima engine repair. Schedule an appointment today at one of our thousands of locations nationwide!