# 2015 KIA OPTIMA — ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
> NHTSA complaint `2068447` · 2025-02-24 · Kia America, Inc.
## Severity
- **Deaths:** 0
- **Injured:** 0
- **Fire:** Yes
- **Crash:** No
- **Police report:** Yes
- **Medical attention:** No
- **Vehicle towed:** No
## Vehicle
- **Make:** KIA
- **Model:** OPTIMA
- **Year:** 2015
- **Manufacturer:** Kia America, Inc.
- **Component:** ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- **Speed:** 35 mph
## Narrative
On October 10th 2024, my 2015 Kia Optima caught fire while I was driving. The fire originated from the engine compartment, completely engulfing the vehicle in flames within minutes.  Component/System Failure: The exact cause of the fire is unknown, but Kia had previously issued a recall for this model due to an engine defect that posed a fire risk. The vehicle is no longer available for inspection as it was completely destroyed in the fire. However, I have multiple videos documenting the incident, including footage of the fire and the aftermath.  Safety Risk: My safety and the safety of others were severely compromised. The fire started suddenly while I was driving, forcing me to evacuate the vehicle immediately. If I hadn’t reacted quickly, I could have suffered serious injuries or worse. Additionally, the fire posed a danger to other drivers and pedestrians nearby.  Reproduction/Confirmation: The issue has not been reproduced, but it aligns with the recall Kia issued for this model. Prior to the fire, I attempted to schedule an appointment with Kia to address the recall, but I never received confirmation, and no inspection was performed.  Inspections: After the incident, I contacted Kia, and they sent an investigator to inspect the remains of the vehicle. No police or insurance representatives conducted an independent inspection.  Warning Signs: There were no warning lights, messages, or obvious signs of a problem immediately before the fire. However, I had previously not
---
*Source: [NHTSA ODI](https://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/downloads/) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*