🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Optima

Year Range:

2006-2010

Chassis Code:

MG

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Kia Optima (also known as Kia Magentis in some markets during this generation) was a mid-size sedan positioned to compete with established players like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Fusion. It offered a blend of value, distinctive styling, and a growing reputation for Kia's improving quality and features.

Competitors:

Key competitors for the 2006-2010 Kia Optima included the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Hyundai Sonata (sharing a platform), Nissan Altima, and Mazda 6.

Features:

For its generation, the Optima offered competitive interior space, available V6 engines, a stylish exterior, and a strong warranty, often making it a value-oriented choice in its segment.

Usefulness:

This parts list is invaluable for DIY enthusiasts and independent repair shops, enabling precise identification of needed components, facilitating ordering, and aiding in accurate cost estimation for repairs and maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Spare parts identification, component illustrations, part prices, labor information, DIY repair guidance.

Estimated Pages:

Varies based on specific model year and engine option, typically 300-600+ pages for a comprehensive parts catalog covering this range.

Type:

Parts Catalog / Parts List

Language:

English

Format:

Searchable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Powertrain:

Engine assembly, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine mounts.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission components, manual transmission components (if applicable), driveshafts, axles, differentials.

Suspension And Steering:

Front suspension, rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Brake system components (master cylinder, calipers, pads, rotors, lines, parking brake).

Electrical System:

Battery, starter, alternator, ignition system, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring harnesses (identification and diagrams not typically in parts lists but component identification is).

Body And Chassis:

Exterior panels (hood, doors, fenders, bumpers), interior trim, glass, seals, body hardware, chassis components, frame.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, heater core, ducting).

Interior:

Seats, upholstery, dashboard components, door panels, carpets, airbags (component identification).

Identification And Lookup:

Locating and verifying correct Kia Optima part numbers based on vehicle VIN and component illustrations.

Part Number Verification:

Cross-referencing part numbers with specific vehicle configurations and options.

Labor Information:

Estimates for labor hours associated with part replacement, useful for DIY budgeting or professional quotes.

Depth:

Detailed component breakdowns, exploded views, and part number identification. Focuses on part specificity rather than repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text, allowing quick retrieval of part numbers and descriptions.

Linking:

Linked bookmarks for easy navigation within the document.

Printability:

Printable pages for physical reference.

Quality:

Digital format, quality dependent on original source scanning and clarity of illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.4L Inline-4 (G4KC/Theta), 2.7L V6 (G6BA/Delta II), 3.3L V6 (G6DF/Lambda II - later models).

2.4L Hp:

Approx. 175-182 hp

2.4L Torque:

Approx. 165-169 lb-ft

2.7L V6 Hp:

Approx. 185-190 hp

2.7L V6 Torque:

Approx. 180-185 lb-ft

3.3L V6 Hp:

Approx. 234-240 hp (in later models of the generation)

3.3L V6 Torque:

Approx. 227-230 lb-ft (in later models of the generation)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended).

2.4L Theta Code:

G4KC (Theta I)

2.7L Delta Ii Code:

G6BA

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission (typically on base 4-cylinder models).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (common with 4-cylinder), 5-speed automatic transmission (common with V6 engines).

Automatic Features:

Tiptronic-style manual shifting capability (on some models).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Kia/Hyundai SPII ATF (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon compatible fluid, check specific manual for exact spec).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 187.4 inches (4760 mm)

Width:

Approximately 70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

Approximately 57.7 inches (1465 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 106.7 inches (2710 mm)

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 3,200 lbs (1450 kg) for 4-cylinder models to over 3,600 lbs (1630 kg) for V6 models.

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 14.7 cubic feet (416 liters).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

Five-star rating for driver and front passenger in frontal crash tests (for models tested).

NHTSA Side Crash Test:

Four-star rating for front and rear passengers in side crash tests (for models tested).

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good (for models tested).

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control System (TCS) became more widely available or standard during this generation.

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (available/standard depending on trim).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Available CD player with MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio readiness, auxiliary audio input jack. Higher trims might feature a premium audio system and a color infotainment display (especially post-facelift).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, optional steering wheel audio controls. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or blind-spot monitoring were not common in this segment during these years.

Connectivity Features:

Auxiliary audio input for connecting external music players.

Convenience Features:

Keyless entry, power windows and locks, climate control, optional power adjustable driver's seat.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals (e.g., 3,750 miles/6,000 km).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

Platinum or Iridium plugs typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Platinum or Iridium plugs typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific engine and climate recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L V6:

Approximately 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol-based coolant, usually a blue or green silicate-free formula (e.g., Hyundai/Kia P-Coolant or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issue Engine Noise:

Some reports of engine ticking or knocking noises, potentially related to lifters or oil pressure on the 2.4L Theta engine, often managed with proper oil maintenance.

Common Issue Transmission Shifting:

Occasional reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement in the automatic transmissions, often addressed by fluid changes and ensuring proper cooling.

Common Issue Suspension Noise:

Front suspension components like sway bar links or bushings can wear and develop noise over time, particularly in areas with poor road conditions.

Common Issue HVAC Blower Motor:

HVAC blower motor resistor failures leading to fan speed control issues can occur.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Positioning:

Kia, originating from South Korea, rapidly gained global recognition during the late 1990s and 2000s by offering increasingly well-designed, feature-rich, and competitively priced vehicles, often supported by industry-leading warranties.

Generation Introduction:

The second generation Kia Optima (MG platform) was introduced for the 2006 model year, replacing the first generation Optima (GD platform). This generation marked a significant design and engineering update, often developed in collaboration with Hyundai.

Mid Cycle Refresh:

A minor facelift occurred for the 2009 model year, introducing updated styling, improved interior materials, and powertrain enhancements, including the introduction of the 3.3L V6 engine in some markets and a 5-speed automatic transmission becoming more prevalent.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea at Kia's Hwaseong plant.

Sales Trend:

Sales were moderate, with the Optima carving out a niche as a value-oriented alternative in the competitive mid-size sedan segment.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Reputation:

While not a consistent award winner, the Optima of this era was often recognized for its strong value proposition, distinctive styling compared to some rivals, and Kia's comprehensive warranty, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Consumer Reports Rating:

Ratings varied by model year and specific engine/trim. Generally, it was positioned as average to above average for value but sometimes lagged behind segment leaders in reliability metrics or driving dynamics.

Safety Certifications:

Met all relevant federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS) for its production years.