Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and Kia enthusiasts seeking in-depth technical information.
Competitors:
Hyundai Sonata (LF), Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Mazda 6
Manual Advantage:
Factory-level detail, extensive coverage, and clear illustrations make it superior to generic online repair guides.
Vehicle Appeal:
Stylish design, comfortable ride, and value proposition contributed to its popularity.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Maintenance, Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Systems, Mechanical Systems, Bodywork, Specifications
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic, ABS, EBD)
Electrical:
Power Distribution, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System, Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Chassis Control Module (CCM)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Glass, Seats, Safety Restraints
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Flushes, Belt Inspections/Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad Replacement
Repair:
Engine Component Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper/Rotor Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis/Replacement, Body Panel Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures, Wiring Diagrams for Diagnosis
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic routines.
Engine Code 1:
G4KD (2.4L Theta II MPI)
Bore X Stroke 1:
88.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Compression Ratio 1:
10.5:1
Horsepower 1:
175-180 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies by market/trim)
Torque 1:
169-172 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies by market/trim)
Engine Code 2:
G4KK (2.0L Theta II MPI)
Horsepower 2:
165 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque 2:
147 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm
Engine Code 3:
2.4L GDI (Theta II GDI)
Horsepower 3:
200 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque 3:
186 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm
Engine Code 4:
2.0L Turbo GDI (Theta II T-GDI)
Horsepower 4:
274 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 4:
269 lb-ft @ 1750-4500 rpm
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) / Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 (for MPI engines), 91 recommended for GDI and Turbo variants for optimal performance
NHTSA Overall:
5-Star (for models tested, varies by year/configuration)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for many configurations within the generation)
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Esc:
Standard (Electronic Stability Control)
Traction Control:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, Side, Curtain Airbags (Standard), Knee Airbag (Driver, optional on some trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point with pretensioners and load limiters
Display:
Available touch screen displays (e.g., 4.3-inch, 7-inch, 8-inch depending on trim and year)
Audio Systems:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3, optional Infinity premium audio system
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB and Auxiliary input jacks
Camera:
Available rearview camera
Parking Sensors:
Available rear parking sensors
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system
Upholstery:
Cloth, Leather (optional on higher trims)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (severe driving may require shorter intervals).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Replace every 100,000 miles or 10 years initially, then every 50,000 miles or 5 years thereafter.
Spark Plug Replacement Mpi:
Replace every 105,000 miles
Spark Plug Replacement Gdi:
Replace every 60,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic blend or full synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 Liters (5.1 US Quarts) for 2.4L, 4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) for 2.0L
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, OAT type (Orange/Red color, e.g., Hyundai/Kia P/N 00232-19014 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Seizing Concern:
Some Theta II engines (particularly GDI) experienced issues with bearing failures leading to engine seizure. Kia issued recalls and extended warranties for affected vehicles. Early detection via oil analysis or unusual noises is critical.
Transmission Slipping:
Some owners reported occasional transmission slipping or harsh shifting, often addressed by software updates or fluid changes.
Infotainment System Glitches:
Occasional freezing or unresponsiveness of the infotainment screen reported.
Headlight Hazing:
Plastic headlight lenses can become hazy or yellowed over time due to UV exposure.
Manufacturer Focus:
Kia Motors Corporation is a South Korean automobile manufacturer known for producing reliable and value-oriented vehicles.
Generation Designation:
TF (This generation marked a significant design and engineering departure from its predecessor, the Optima MS).
Design Influence:
Penned by Peter Schreyer, the TF Optima adopted Kia's new design language, featuring the signature 'Tiger Nose' grille and a more European-influenced aesthetic.
Production Years:
2010-2015 (model years 2011-2015)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Hwaseong Plant), North America (West Point, Georgia - for North American market from 2012 MY)
IIHS Award 2011:
IIHS Top Safety Pick (2011 model year)
IIHS Award 2012:
IIHS Top Safety Pick (2012 model year)
IIHS Award 2013:
IIHS Top Safety Pick (2013 model year)
Auto Trader Awards:
Named as one of 'The 10 Best Cars for Families' by AutoTrader.com in 2011.
Kes:
KBB.com's (Kelley Blue Book) 'Coolest Cars Under $25,000' in 2011.
