Front suspension (MacPherson strut), Rear suspension (Multi-link beam), Steering system (Hydraulic power steering), Brake system (Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs), ABS, Traction Control System (TCS)
Electrical Coverage:
Engine control systems, Body control modules, Powertrain control modules, Climate control systems, Audio systems, Lighting systems, SRS airbag systems, Anti-theft systems, Wiring diagrams
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Official Factory Service & Repair Manual Software
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary application)
File Format Details:
Searchable PDF, potentially requiring specific software for access and viewing
Print Quality
Print Quality Suitability:
Suitable for high-quality printing of individual sections or the entire manual
Binding Type
Binding Type If Printed:
Not applicable for software, but factory manuals are typically perfect-bound or spiral-bound
Paper Type
Paper Type If Printed:
Not applicable for software, but factory manuals use durable, high-gloss paper
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/Mercon equivalent, but SP-III preferred for longevity)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
187.6 inches (4765 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1790 mm)
Height:
57.1 inches (1450 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Front Track:
60.6 inches (1540 mm)
Rear Track:
60.4 inches (1535 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx:
3300 - 3500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg) depending on engine and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw Approx:
4500 - 4700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)
Towing Capacity:
Not recommended/available
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2004 Model Year)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2004 Model Year)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (for vehicles with similar structure)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS - optional on some trims), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags (optional), three-point seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, optional premium audio system with subwoofer
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary power outlet, cigarette lighter
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (NGK Iridium recommended for G4JS, Platimum for G6BA)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (engines utilize a timing chain)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change (SAE 5W-30 API SN or ILSAC GF-5 recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L:
5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change (SAE 5W-30 API SN or ILSAC GF-5 recommended)
Coolant:
50/50 mixture of Kia Genuine Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol-based, phosphate-free) and distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III ATF
Known Issues
Common Problem 1:
CV Axle boot failure leading to joint damage
Common Problem 2:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket
Common Problem 3:
Radiator leaks, especially at the plastic end tanks
Common Problem 4:
Automatic transmission shifting issues or 'harsh shifts'
Common Problem 5:
Front suspension noises (e.g., ball joints, sway bar links)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History Context:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, established in 1944, known for its value-oriented vehicles and growing global presence.
Model Evolution
Optima Generation 1 Years:
2001-2006 (First Generation - MS Platform)
Optima Generation 2 Years:
2007-2010 (Second Generation - MG Platform)
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Hwaseong, South Korea (Kia's main manufacturing plant)
Model Line Notes:
The 2004 Optima represents the later part of the first generation, receiving minor updates for the model year. It shared its platform with the Hyundai Sonata.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Award NHTSA:
NHTSA 5-Star frontal crash safety rating
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability Trends:
Generally average to slightly below average reliability in its early years, with improvements noted over the generation. This manual provides critical data to maintain and enhance reliability.
Certifications
Manual Certification:
Officially Licensed Service and Repair Manual Software
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.