Used Kia Optima for Sale by Owner on Craigslist
Looking for a used Kia Optima? CraigsCars searches every Craigslist city at once, so you can compare Kia Optima listings from private sellers nationwide instead of browsing city by city. Below you will find live listings, the known weak points of the Optima, and a checklist for your test drive.
Used Kia Optima listings on Craigslist
Live results from Craigslist listings nationwide. Click a listing to open the original ad.
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What to check before buying a used Kia Optima
- Check the transmission for smooth, prompt shifts both cold and warm.
- Look for uneven panel gaps or paint mismatch that point to accident repairs.
- Check tire wear and alignment — pulling to one side can mean suspension damage.
- Ask for oil change and timing belt/chain service records.
- Run a VIN history report and compare the mileage with the odometer and the condition of the pedals, steering wheel and seats.
- Make sure the title is in the seller's name, is not salvage/rebuilt (unless priced accordingly), and has no lien.
Kia reliability: what owners should know
The same Theta II engine recalls affect many 2011–2019 Optima, Sorento and Sportage models — confirm recall work. Some older models lack immobilizers, making them theft targets. Check for oil consumption and knocking noises.
How to get a good price on a used Optima
Compare several Kia Optima listings with similar year and mileage before contacting sellers — searching all Craigslist cities at once gives you a realistic picture of the market. Private sellers usually leave 5–10% room to negotiate. Point to concrete issues (tires, brakes, upcoming services) found during inspection to justify your offer. See our full negotiation guide.
Other used Kia models
Find a used Optima in your city
- Los Angeles, CA
- New York City, NY
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
- Dallas, TX
- Phoenix, AZ
- San Antonio, TX
- San Diego, CA
- Philadelphia, PA
- Austin, TX
- Miami, FL
- Atlanta, GA
- Seattle, WA
- Denver, CO
- Sacramento, CA
- Portland, OR
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find a used Kia Optima for sale by owner?
This page searches Craigslist listings from every US city for the Kia Optima. Results include private sellers and dealers; look for "by owner" listings to avoid dealer fees.
What should I look out for on a used Kia Optima?
Stylish midsize sedan. Check engine recall status.
Is it safe to buy a Kia Optima on Craigslist?
Yes, if you meet in a public place, verify the title and the seller's ID, never wire money or use gift cards, and get a pre-purchase inspection. Read our guide on avoiding Craigslist car scams for details.