2015 Kia Optima structure problems

“My 2015 white Kia Optima is having terrible paint peeling problems. It is peeling and chipping on the hood, along the sides of the windshield, above the wind shield, on my back bumper, above my back tires, and just about every place in between. PLEASE HELP!”

“Factory paint defect/delamination known to Kia causing excessive paint bubbling, peeling, flaking, large chunks of paint falling off, a widespread issue documented inherent to appear on the roof, front pillars both sides next to windshield, trunk, door panels and hood rapidly expanding. Notorious on model Optima 2013 - 2017 with Snow White Paint (SWP). This issue comes with an extreme safety hazard I am officially reporting to you; Windshield at Risk of Detachment - Paint defect has expanded inside the glass layers of the windshield up and down both sides causing the adhesive to bubble/weaken, potentially could detach causing serious injuries to myself, passengers and all other drivers. Citrus Kia Ontario, CA inspected my vehicle May and June 2025, confirmed damages are a result of a factory paint defect known to Kia and their body shop has repaired many of these Optimas with SWP. I was directed to file a report with Kia Customer Care, they will issue a claim number needed to schedule an appointment for repair. Kia denied my claim. Contact Dealer reporting paint defect; 11/7/2017 repair made for peeling paint Confirmation X03S999EM3, 6/11/24 officially reported…”

“The contact owns a 2015 Kia Optima. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the driver's side and passenger's side doors' exterior trims separated from the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the repair was not covered because the VIN was not included in an unknown related recall. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.”

“We have the Arctic Snow white color on our Kia. The paint began peeling shortly after our purchase in 2016. It has continued to peel throughout the entire time we have owned the vehicle.”

“Paint is failing due to improper preparation during production. The vehicle is available for inspection if requested. The paint was inspected by licensed and lifetime collision repair specialist. Paint can not simply be touched up. Entire car needs stripped to bare metal and repainted to fix issue. Other manufacturers have had recalls for this same issue. Why has Kia not been held accountable for this?”

“White paint on roof and around door is flaking off in large sections. No accident. Not covered under warranty. Appears to be a known issue with Snow White Pearl paint on Kia vehicle - widespread paint failure can affect visibility, resale value, and long-term corrosion.”