| Issue ID | 771542 |
| Internal NHTSA # | 10315256 |
| Manufacurer | HYUNDAI-KIA AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER INC |
| Brand | KIA |
| Model | OPTIMA |
| Model Year | 2004 |
| File date | 15/12/09 |
| Component | LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES |
| Product type code | VEHICLE |
| Description of the problem | In july 2008 the left front door latch mechanism malfunctioned on my 2004 kia optima. This malfunction made it unable to be unlocked. As the locking function of this mechanism works by moving the latch opening lever out of position, this malfunction makes it impossible for the occupant to open the door from inside. This presents a hazard to the occupant in case of crash or fire. The latch was replaced with a replacement unit. In dec 2009, the replacement latch malfunctioned and has exhibited the same characteristic problems. I have not had the $ to replace it again. A quick internet search has revealed that this problem is shared by many kia and hyundai owners. I hope my wife and kids are never in a crash and cannot exit the car. |
| Vehicle Mileage at Failure | |
| Number of Occurences | 1 |
| Source of the issue | NHTSA WEB SITE |
| City and State | WALHALLA, SC |
| VIN pattern | KNAGD128745XXXXXX |
| Was vehicle invloved in a crash? | N |
| Was vehicle involved in a fire? | N |
| Was incedent reported to police? | N |
| Was medical attention required? | |
| Was part original equipment? | |
| No. of injured persons | |
| No. of fatalities | |
| Date of purchase | 07/08/26 |
| Was original owner? | N |
| Anti-lock brakes | N |
| Cruise control | N |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Drive train type | |
| Transmission type | |
| Vehicle speed | |
| DoT tire identifier | |
| Tire size | |
| Location of tire code | |
| Type of tire failure code | |
| Was defective tire repaired? | |
| Date of manufacture | |
| Type of child seat code | |
| Type of restraint | |
| Dealer's name | |
| Dealer's telephone number | |
| Dealer's city | |
| Dealer's state code | |
| Dealer's ZIP code |