🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Kia Model: Optima Year: 2004 Engine: 2.4L (146 cu in) DOHC I4 Generation Generation: Second Generation (MS/MG) Codes Chassis Code: MS 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Position: The 2004 Kia Optima was positioned as a mid-size sedan offering a balance of value, features, and European-inspired styling, aiming to compete with established Japanese and American marques in a competitive segment. Competitive Analysis Competitive Analysis: Key competitors in 2004 included the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Mondeo (in Europe), and Chevrolet Malibu. The Optima aimed to differentiate through its distinctive styling and competitive pricing. Key Features Key Features: The second-generation Optima (MS) featured a more refined exterior design, improved interior quality, and a focus on safety. It offered a choice of engines, including the 2.4L Theta I4 and a 2.7L V6 (though this manual focuses on the 2.4L). 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Areas: Engine, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Climate Control, Body & Chassis, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams. Page Count Page Count: Estimated 1500-2000 pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual) Manual Type Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Systems Covered: Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Intake System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (AT), Manual Transmission (MT), Clutch, Drive Shafts, Axles, Differential, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Power Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Parking Brake, Wheels & Tires, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays), Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Audio System, HVAC System, Air Conditioning, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), SRS Airbag System, Body Exterior, Body Interior, Frame and Bumpers. Procedures Included Procedures Included: Routine maintenance, Scheduled maintenance, Engine tune-up, Oil change, Filter replacement, Spark plug replacement, Timing belt/chain inspection and replacement, Cooling system flush and refill, Brake fluid replacement, Power steering fluid replacement, Transmission fluid change, Differential fluid change, Clutch adjustment, Brake pad and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement, Steering component replacement, Wheel alignment, Electrical troubleshooting, Sensor testing, Actuator testing, ECM diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and clearing, Component removal and installation, Reassembly, Torque specifications, Lubrication points, Wiring harness repair, Body panel repair, Interior trim removal and installation. Technical Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive. Covers detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair, overhaul instructions, specifications for all major systems, and troubleshooting guidance for a wide range of common and uncommon issues. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Portable Document Format (PDF) Print Quality Print Quality: High-resolution scans with clear, legible text and sharp diagrams. Optimized for digital viewing and printing. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Displacement: 2.4 Liters (2351 cc) Engine Type: Inline 4-cylinder (I4) Engine Code: G4BP (Theta) Valvetrain: DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves Bore X Stroke: 86.5 mm x 101.0 mm Compression Ratio: 9.5:1 Performance Horsepower Net: 138 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by market) Torque Net: 147 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by market) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection) Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane recommended) Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.5 gallons (approx.) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Optional: 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4-Speed SP with Electronically Controlled Overdrive) Features Transmission Fluid Type: ATF SP-III (for automatic transmission) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 186.1 inches (4727 mm) Width: 70.1 inches (1781 mm) Height: 57.3 inches (1455 mm) Wheelbase: 106.3 inches (2700 mm) Weights Curb Weight: 3230-3380 lbs (approx., depending on transmission and features) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4500-4700 lbs (approx.) Cargo Trunk Volume: 14.1 cubic feet (approx.) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Driver: Good NHTSA Front Impact Passenger: Good IIHS Front Offset Driver: Acceptable (for related model) Active Features Active Safety Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS) (optional on some trims) Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Front dual-stage airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Pretensioner seatbelts, Crumple zones, Side-impact door beams, LATCH child seat anchors. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Basic AM/FM/CD stereo system with optional premium audio. Cassette player may be present on early models. Auxiliary input and Bluetooth connectivity are generally not standard features on this model year. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Limited. Primarily relies on ABS and EBD for braking assistance. Cruise control is typically standard on most trims. Connectivity Connectivity Features: Basic. May include power windows, power locks, and remote keyless entry. Trip computer and external temperature display available on higher trims. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, or 7,500 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendation). Air Filter Replacement Interval: Every 15,000 miles...
The 2004 Kia Optima was positioned as a mid-size sedan offering a balance of value, features, and European-inspired styling, aiming to compete with established Japanese and American marques in a competitive segment.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors in 2004 included the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Mondeo (in Europe), and Chevrolet Malibu. The Optima aimed to differentiate through its distinctive styling and competitive pricing.
Key Features
Key Features:
The second-generation Optima (MS) featured a more refined exterior design, improved interior quality, and a focus on safety. It offered a choice of engines, including the 2.4L Theta I4 and a 2.7L V6 (though this manual focuses on the 2.4L).
Estimated 1500-2000 pages (typical for a comprehensive service manual)
Manual Type
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Intake System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (AT), Manual Transmission (MT), Clutch, Drive Shafts, Axles, Differential, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Power Steering, Brakes (ABS, EBD), Parking Brake, Wheels & Tires, Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays), Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Audio System, HVAC System, Air Conditioning, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats), SRS Airbag System, Body Exterior, Body Interior, Frame and Bumpers.
Procedures Included
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, Scheduled maintenance, Engine tune-up, Oil change, Filter replacement, Spark plug replacement, Timing belt/chain inspection and replacement, Cooling system flush and refill, Brake fluid replacement, Power steering fluid replacement, Transmission fluid change, Differential fluid change, Clutch adjustment, Brake pad and rotor replacement, Suspension component replacement, Steering component replacement, Wheel alignment, Electrical troubleshooting, Sensor testing, Actuator testing, ECM diagnostics, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and clearing, Component removal and installation, Reassembly, Torque specifications, Lubrication points, Wiring harness repair, Body panel repair, Interior trim removal and installation.
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair, overhaul instructions, specifications for all major systems, and troubleshooting guidance for a wide range of common and uncommon issues.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans with clear, legible text and sharp diagrams. Optimized for digital viewing and printing.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Displacement:
2.4 Liters (2351 cc)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder (I4)
Engine Code:
G4BP (Theta)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves
Bore X Stroke:
86.5 mm x 101.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1
Performance
Horsepower Net:
138 hp @ 5500 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by market)
Torque Net:
147 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by market)
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4-Speed SP with Electronically Controlled Overdrive)
Features
Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF SP-III (for automatic transmission)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
186.1 inches (4727 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1781 mm)
Height:
57.3 inches (1455 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3230-3380 lbs (approx., depending on transmission and features)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4500-4700 lbs (approx.)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
14.1 cubic feet (approx.)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
Good
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
Good
IIHS Front Offset Driver:
Acceptable (for related model)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS) (optional on some trims)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front dual-stage airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Pretensioner seatbelts, Crumple zones, Side-impact door beams, LATCH child seat anchors.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM/CD stereo system with optional premium audio. Cassette player may be present on early models. Auxiliary input and Bluetooth connectivity are generally not standard features on this model year.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited. Primarily relies on ABS and EBD for braking assistance. Cruise control is typically standard on most trims.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Basic. May include power windows, power locks, and remote keyless entry. Trip computer and external temperature display available on higher trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months, or 7,500 miles or 12 months with synthetic oil (refer to owner's manual for specific recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK Platinum or Iridium plugs recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
75,000 miles or 5 years (Critical maintenance item for the 2.4L Theta engine to prevent catastrophic failure).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, Kia Super Long Life Coolant (PS anticongelante G-11 or equivalent blue/green coolant)
Coolant Capacity:
7.4 US quarts (7.0 liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF SP-III or equivalent power steering fluid.
Known Issues
Known Issues:
Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket. Engine mounts can degrade over time. ABS sensor failures leading to ABS warning light illumination. Climate control blower motor resistor failure. Some reports of premature wear in certain suspension components like ball joints and control arm bushings. Timing belt failure can cause significant engine damage if not replaced at recommended intervals.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Kia Motors, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944. Initially producing motorcycle parts, Kia entered the automobile market in the 1970s and has grown significantly, focusing on value, reliability, and increasingly, distinctive design.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The Optima (known as the Magentis in some markets) debuted in 2000 as Kia's mid-size sedan offering, replacing the Kia Clarus. The 2004 model represents the second generation (MS/MG), which received significant styling and engineering updates compared to the first generation. This generation was also notable for its platform sharing with the Hyundai Sonata.
Production
Production Years:
2000-2006 (First Generation), 2005-2010 (Second Generation - though 2004 model belongs to the end of the first generation's market presence, this manual likely covers the full first generation and potentially early second gen overlap in production timing).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (Hwaseong Plant), with some assembly in other international locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
While not a segment leader in awards, the 2004 Optima was recognized for its value proposition and styling in various consumer reviews and automotive publications of its time.
Ratings
Ratings:
Often received mid-pack ratings in its class for driving dynamics and refinement, but typically scored well for price and features.
Certifications
Certifications:
Compliant with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) in the United States.
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