A 2017 Kia Optima PHEV owner shares their experience with declining battery range and eventual replacement under warranty. This article details the diagnostic process, replacement procedure, and associated costs, highlighting the importance of understanding your vehicle’s battery health.
Diagnosing a Failing Kia Optima PHEV Battery
The owner initially noticed a gradual decline in the vehicle’s all-electric range, starting around 80,000 miles. The range dropped from the initial 35-40 miles per charge to around 21 miles, with actual driving range closer to 16-18 miles. The owner consulted online forums and learned about potential battery health indicators, such as a State of Health (SOH) drop exceeding 30%. However, the dealership service department initially dismissed these concerns, stating that all battery cells measured 4V or greater, their primary benchmark for battery health.
The issue escalated when the vehicle failed to charge at 99,500 miles. A subsequent service appointment revealed two battery cells registering 0V, confirming a significant battery failure.
Kia Optima PHEV Battery Replacement Process
Upon diagnosing the faulty battery, the dealership initiated the replacement process. Remarkably, despite reported part scarcity, a replacement battery was located and shipped within a week. The entire process, from initial diagnosis to vehicle pickup, took approximately two weeks.
- September 23, 2024: Initial service appointment and battery diagnosed as faulty.
- September 25, 2024: Replacement authorized by Kia; loaner vehicle provided.
- September 26, 2024: Replacement battery located and shipped.
- October 4, 2024: Battery received by the dealership.
- October 7, 2024: Battery replaced and vehicle ready for pickup.
The owner reports a significant improvement in range after the replacement, achieving the full 29 miles advertised.
Kia Optima PHEV Battery Replacement Cost
While the owner’s replacement was covered under warranty, the quoted cost for the repair was $16,443.94. This underscores the potential financial burden of out-of-warranty battery replacements for PHEV owners.
This owner’s experience highlights the importance of monitoring your Kia Optima PHEV’s battery performance and seeking professional diagnosis if you suspect issues. Early detection of battery degradation can potentially save significant time and expense in the long run. The surprisingly quick turnaround time for the replacement, despite limited part availability, offers encouragement for other Kia Optima PHEV owners facing similar challenges.
