Warning lights interpretation, basic diagnostics for common issues
Emergency:
Jump starting, changing a flat tire, emergency equipment location
Technical Depth
Depth:
Consumer-level understanding, focusing on safe and proper operation and routine maintenance
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Text-searchable for quick information retrieval
Print Quality
Print Capability:
Printable on demand, allowing users to print specific sections
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
G6CU (2.5L V6)
Engine Type:
DOHC V6
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2493 cc)
Performance
Horsepower:
170 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
175 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Optional
Transmission Type:
N/A (5-speed Manual was available in some markets, but not standard for 2002 US models)
Features
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with driver-selectable modes (e.g., Power/Normal)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
187.9 inches (4773 mm)
Width:
70.3 inches (1786 mm)
Height:
57.3 inches (1455 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.7 inches (2710 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3300-3500 lbs (approx.)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4 Stars (Front), 4 Stars (Rear)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard
Traction Control:
Optional (Varies by trim)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (Driver and Passenger)
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
AM/FM Stereo with CD Player, optional Cassette Player, typically 4-6 speakers
Climate Control:
Manual Air Conditioning with Recirculation, optional Automatic Climate Control
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
N/A (No factory auxiliary input or USB)
Keyless Entry:
Optional
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend recommended)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (platinum-tipped)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles or 48 months (depending on driving conditions)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, SJ or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3; SAE 5W-30
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Asian Red/Pink type recommended)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Known Issues
Common Complaints:
Occasional reports of premature brake wear, minor electrical gremlins, and potential for catalytic converter issues over time. Some owners experienced transmission shift quality issues, often addressable with fluid changes or software updates.
Interior Wear:
Some wear on interior plastics and seat fabric over extended use.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, is South Korea's second-largest automobile manufacturer. It has grown significantly, particularly since its acquisition by Hyundai Motor Group in 1998, becoming a global player.
Model Evolution
Magenis Gen1 Introduction:
The Kia Magentis (also known as Kia Optima in some markets, including North America for later generations) was introduced as a replacement for the Kia Clarus in 2000. This 2002 model represents the first generation (MS platform).
Platform Sharing:
Shared its platform with the Hyundai Sonata (EF platform).
Production
Production Years:
2000-2006 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (primarily)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings varied. Initial models were sometimes rated as average for reliability, improving in later years of the generation.
Ratings
Jd Power Dependability:
J.D. Power initial quality and dependability ratings for Kia in the early 2000s were generally below the segment average, but showed steady improvement.