🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Optima

Generation:

First Generation (MS/QB)

Platform Code:

MS (internal designation)

Chassis Code Range:

Starting with VIN 'KNA'

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Mid-size sedan

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu

Design Philosophy:

Styling influenced by European design trends, aiming for a more sophisticated image than previous Kia models.

Value Proposition:

Offered a competitive package of features, space, and performance at an attractive price point.

Target Demographic:

Families, commuters, value-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and stylish sedan.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, (potentially 2006 depending on market release overlap)

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (typically 1500+ pages for a complete service manual)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system

Drivetrain:

Transmission (automatic and manual), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, disc/drum components), wheel alignment

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, audio system wiring

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, trim, HVAC system, interior components

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt replacements, spark plug replacement

Repair:

Engine component overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair

Adjustment And Calibration:

Throttle position sensor calibration, idle air control valve adjustment, headlight aiming

Component Replacement:

Detailed steps for replacing radiators, alternators, starters, fuel pumps, brake pads, CV joints, etc.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems

Depth:

Complete factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, designed for clear printing of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Searchability:

Typically includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gasoline 1:

G4JP (2.4L DOHC 16V Inline-4)

Engine Displacement Gasoline 1:

2351 cc (2.4 Liters)

Engine Bore X Stroke Gasoline 1:

86.5 mm x 101.4 mm

Engine Compression Ratio Gasoline 1:

9.5:1

Engine Horsepower Gasoline 1:

Approx. 140-149 hp @ 5500-5600 rpm (market dependent)

Engine Torque Gasoline 1:

Approx. 156-160 lb-ft @ 4000-4200 rpm (market dependent)

Engine Code Gasoline 2:

G4GC (2.7L SOHC 24V V6 - commonly referred to as the 'Delta' engine)

Engine Displacement Gasoline 2:

2656 cc (2.7 Liters)

Engine Bore X Stroke Gasoline 2:

86.7 mm x 75.0 mm

Engine Compression Ratio Gasoline 2:

9.6:1

Engine Horsepower Gasoline 2:

Approx. 170-175 hp @ 5500-5800 rpm (market dependent)

Engine Torque Gasoline 2:

Approx. 181-185 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (market dependent)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 14.5 gallons (55 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with Shiftronic (manual shifting capability)

Transmission Fluid Spec At:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon

Transmission Fluid Capacity At:

Approx. 7.6 quarts (7.2 Liters) for a complete drain and fill

Transmission Fluid Spec Mt:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil

Transmission Fluid Capacity Mt:

Approx. 2.0 quarts (1.9 Liters)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 188.0 inches (4775 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1791 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.5 inches (1435 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 106.1 inches (2695 mm)

Front Track:

Approx. 60.2 inches (1530 mm)

Rear Track:

Approx. 60.0 inches (1525 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 102.4 cubic feet (2899 Liters)

Front Headroom:

Approx. 39.4 inches (1001 mm)

Rear Headroom:

Approx. 37.5 inches (953 mm)

Front Legroom:

Approx. 42.2 inches (1072 mm)

Rear Legroom:

Approx. 36.4 inches (925 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 14.0 cubic feet (396 Liters)

Curb Weight Base Model:

Approx. 3150-3300 lbs (1430-1500 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4300 lbs (1950 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not recommended or specified for towing

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

Good (for models tested)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

Good (for models tested)

NHTSA Side Driver Impact:

Acceptable/Good (market and year dependent)

NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:

Acceptable/Good (market and year dependent)

IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:

Acceptable/Good (for models tested)

ABS:

Standard on most trims (Anti-lock Braking System)

Traction Control:

Available on some V6 models

Electronic Stability Control:

Not widely available or standard on this generation

Airbags Front:

Standard dual front airbags

Airbags Side:

Available optional front side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Not available on this generation

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, 4-6 speaker system.

Display:

Basic digital or analog displays for climate control and audio.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Anti Theft:

Keyless entry and immobilizer system

Auxiliary Input:

Not typically available; aftermarket solutions required for aux/USB input.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Engine Coolant Flush And Replace:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months. (Initial fill typically uses a long-life coolant).

Spark Plug Replacement 4-Cyl:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) - Use Platinum or Iridium tipped plugs.

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) - Use Platinum or Iridium tipped plugs.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Every 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years. (Interference engine design - failure can cause catastrophic engine damage).

Engine Oil Spec:

API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 (for most climates). Refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations.

Engine Oil Capacity 4-Cyl:

Approx. 4.3 quarts (4.1 Liters) with filter change.

Engine Oil Capacity V6:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon

Engine Issues:

Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), potential for head gasket leaks in high-mileage V6 engines, oil consumption in some 2.4L engines.

Transmission Issues:

Occasional rough shifting in automatic transmissions, potential for leaks from seals.

Suspension Issues:

Premature wear of front control arm bushings, worn sway bar links, and strut mounts.

Electrical Issues:

Faulty window regulators, AC evaporator leaks, intermittent dashboard warning lights.

Body Issues:

Rust formation, particularly around wheel wells and rocker panels in corrosive climates.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Origins:

Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea, founded in 1944, initially as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts.

Model Launch:

The Kia Optima (MS/QB) was introduced for the 2001 model year, replacing the Kia Clarus. It was developed as part of Kia's revitalization strategy under Hyundai's ownership, sharing its platform with the Hyundai Sonata.

Design And Engineering:

Designed and engineered with significant input from European design studios, aiming for a more contemporary and globally appealing aesthetic.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea. Some assembly may have occurred in other regions depending on the market.

Model Year Range:

2001-2006 (with this manual specifically covering the earlier years of this generation).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jd Power Ratings:

Generally received average to below-average ratings in initial quality and dependability studies during its run.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Often rated as average or below average for reliability compared to competitors, with specific notes on transmission and powertrain issues.

Epa Fuel Economy City 2.4L:

Approx. 21-23 MPG

Epa Fuel Economy Highway 2.4L:

Approx. 29-31 MPG

Epa Fuel Economy City 2.7L V6:

Approx. 18-20 MPG

Epa Fuel Economy Highway 2.7L V6:

Approx. 26-28 MPG