2005 Kia Optima Exterior lighting Problems
- Complaints
- 4about this part
- Share
- 3%of 144 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 40,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 4 complaints about the exterior lighting of the 2005 Kia Optima, 3% of the 144 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 40,000 miles. 1 a fire, according to the filers.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Both low beam headlights blow out simultaneously. When this happened, high beams (separate bulbs and switch) would only work sporadically (switched 'on', nothing. Switched again, may come 'on', turned 'off' then 'on' may or may not come on). Dealer states 'it happens, they burn out', yet said the battery needed to be replaced.(?) non warranty, so you pay. Another complaint on the same car year/make/model, same issue, has already been filed with you. In addition, 'google' search shows many entries for this same problem on Kia and hyundai vehicles (same manufacturer) over many models/years. …”
NHTSA complaint #10281591, filed 2009-08, 40,000 miles“The contact owns a 2005 Kia Optima. While driving 35 MPH, the contact noticed smoke coming from under the dashboard while the air conditioner was running. The smoke was so thick that he could not see through the smoke. The dealer was notified and stated that the cigarette lighter could be the possible cause of the failure. They stated that nothing could be done because the vehicle was out of warranty. Upon further investigation, the contact noticed a black box on the driver's side underneath the dashboard covered in electrical tape. …”
NHTSA complaint #10241829, filed 2008-09, 77,000 miles“The contact owns a 2005 Kia Optima. Ever since the vehicle was purchased, the low beam bulbs constantly blow out. The dealer stated that the cluster connectors failed and they cleaned the connector and replaced the bulbs. This did not correct the failure and the dealer stated that they could not provide a remedy. A report was filed with the manufacturer and they stated that the vehicle was not purchased with an original warranty; therefore, they would not assist. They further stated that if the contact were to take the vehicle in for a diagnostic, they would consider assisting with the repair. …”
NHTSA complaint #10256317, filed 2009-01, 40,000 milesRelated service bulletins
- 10201529Sep 13, 2021TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this…
- 10026726Aug 28, 2008Kia: all models. Article provides information relating to the improved durability of bulb life for rear combination bulb; rear stop lamp/tail lamp bulb utilized on multiple kia…
Exterior lighting: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2 | 1% |
| 2019 | 2 | 1% |
| 2018 | 14 | 6% |
| 2017 | 15 | 6% |
| 2016 | 47 | 6% |
| 2015 | 23 | 2% |
| 2014 | 18 | 3% |
| 2013 | 40 | 3% |
| 2012 | 31 | 3% |
| 2011 | 88 | 15% |
| 2010 | 2 | 3% |
| 2009 | 9 | 8% |
| 2008 | 8 | 6% |
| 2007 | 27 | 16% |
| 2006 | 16 | 10% |
| 2005 | 4 | 3% |
| 2004 | 5 | 2% |
| 2003 | 3 | 2% |
| 2002 | 2 | 2% |
| 2001 | 3 | 2% |
Other parts of the 2005 Kia Optima
66 complaintsElectrical system
29 complaintsAir bags
22 complaintsBody and structure
22 complaintsFuel system
10 complaintsEngine cooling
6 complaintsOther or unknown
6 complaintsSeat belts
3 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
3 complaintsBrakes
2 complaintsEquipment
2 complaintsSteering
2 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2005 Kia Optima
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology