🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Optima

Alternative Model Name:

Magentis

Generation Code:

GE (2nd Generation)

Model Years Covered:

2006, 2007, 2008

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Sedan

Manufacturer Positioning:

Kia aimed to offer a compelling blend of style, comfort, and value in the competitive mid-size sedan market.

Key Competitors:

Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Mazda6

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information, empowering DIY owners and independent shops with accurate procedures and specifications.

Vehicle Appeal:

The 2006-2008 Optima (GE) offered a more upscale design compared to its predecessor, improved safety features, and a wider range of engine options, targeting a broader customer base.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All systems and components of the 2006-2008 Kia Optima/Magentis

Listed Sections:

Antilock Brakes, Bumpers, Doors, Keyless Entry, Lighting System, Disc Brakes, Park Brake, Hydraulic Brake, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, HVAC, Engine Cooling, Engine Exhaust, Engine Electrical, Engine, Power Steering, Roof and Sunroof, SIR (Supplemental Inflatable Restraint/Airbags), Steering Wheel, Transmission, Wheel Drive Shaft, Washer and Wiper

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (likely over 2000 pages for a full factory service manual, though not explicitly stated)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine electrical, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (automatic/manual), drivetrain (axles, drive shafts)

Chassis:

Braking system (ABS, hydraulic, park), steering system (power steering), suspension system (front and rear), wheels and tires, wheel drive shafts

Body And Electrical:

Body exterior (bumpers, doors, exterior trim, sunroof), body interior (interior trim), lighting system, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), wipers and washers, keyless entry system, Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR/Airbag system), steering wheel components

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication, inspections

Diagnosis And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnosis, component testing

Repair And Overhaul:

Component removal and installation, detailed repair procedures for major systems (e.g., engine rebuild, transmission overhaul), body panel repair, electrical component repair

Component Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, adjustments, tolerances for all major components

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostics and electrical schematics)

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Type:

PDF

Compatibility:

Win95/98/ME/XP/vista/7/Linux/MAC

Searchable Text:

Typically, factory service manuals in PDF format have searchable text, enabling quick access to information.

Quality:

High (as it's a factory document, expect clear diagrams, schematics, and text)

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Typical:

G4KA (2.4L I4), G6CU (2.7L V6)

Displacement 2 4L:

2351 cc (143.5 cu. in.)

Configuration 2 4L:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves

Bore X Stroke 2 4L:

87.0 mm x 97.0 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio 2 4L:

9.5:1 (approx.)

Horsepower 2 4L:

144-160 hp @ 5800-6000 rpm (depending on year and specific engine tune)

Torque 2 4L:

155-177 lb-ft @ 4250-4500 rpm (depending on year and specific engine tune)

Displacement 2 7L:

2656 cc (162.1 cu. in.)

Configuration 2 7L:

V6, DOHC, 24 valves

Bore X Stroke 2 7L:

86.7 mm x 75.0 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio 2 7L:

9.6:1 (approx.)

Horsepower 2 7L:

185-190 hp @ 6000-6200 rpm (depending on year and specific engine tune)

Torque 2 7L:

177-180 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (depending on year and specific engine tune)

Acceleration 0 60 Mph 2 4L:

Approx. 9.5-10.5 seconds

Acceleration 0 60 Mph 2 7L:

Approx. 8.0-8.5 seconds

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)

Fuel Type Recommended:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)

ECU Type:

Kia Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission 2 4L:

5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

Standard Transmission 2 7L:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)

Optional Transmission 2 4L:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)

Optional Transmission 2 7L:

N/A (V6 models were typically automatic only)

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, with overdrive; some models may feature Sportmatic manual shifting mode

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0-7.5 liters (for complete drain and fill)

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4800 mm (189.0 in.)

Width:

Approx. 1800 mm (70.9 in.)

Height:

Approx. 1460 mm (57.5 in.)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2720 mm (107.1 in.)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 100.6 cu. ft.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.1 cu. ft.

Curb Weight 2 4L:

Approx. 3200-3300 lbs (1450-1500 kg)

Curb Weight 2 7L:

Approx. 3350-3500 lbs (1520-1590 kg)

Standard Wheel Size:

16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels

Standard Tire Size:

P205/60R16 or P215/55R17 (refer to manual for specific trims)

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Center Bore:

67.1 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

5-Star (for 2006 models)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

5-Star (for 2006 models)

NHTSA Side Driver:

5-Star (for 2006 models)

NHTSA Side Rear Passenger:

4-Star (for 2006 models)

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good (for models tested)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for models tested)

Anti Lock Brakes ABS:

Standard on all models

Electronic Brake Force Distribution Ebfd:

Standard on all models

Traction Control System TCS:

Optional or standard on higher trims (check specific model)

Electronic Stability Control Esc:

Optional or standard on higher trims (check specific model)

Airbags Front:

Dual front advanced airbags (standard)

Airbags Side:

Front side-impact airbags (standard)

Airbags Curtain:

Full-length side curtain airbags (optional or standard on higher trims)

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters in all seating positions

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player with 6 speakers. Optional premium Infinity audio system with subwoofer. Aux input jack available on some models.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard on all models.

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry with remote. Optional keyless ignition and proximity entry on select higher trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Available on select models for connecting external audio devices.

Power Windows Locks:

Standard power windows and door locks.

Automatic Headlights:

Optional on some trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil); 3,750 miles or 3 months if using conventional oil or under severe driving conditions (refer to manual for exact guidance).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement 2 4L:

Approx. 100,000 miles (if using iridium spark plugs, check manual for exact type and interval).

Spark Plug Replacement 2 7L:

Approx. 100,000 miles (if using iridium spark plugs, check manual for exact type and interval).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (using specified coolant).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles for automatic transmission, or as indicated by severe service conditions. Manual transmission fluid inspection at 60,000 miles, replacement as needed.

Engine Oil Type Recommended:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API SM/SN or ILSAC GF-4/GF-5 certified - consult manual for exact spec)

Engine Oil Capacity 2 4L:

Approx. 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change

Engine Oil Capacity 2 7L:

Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change

Engine Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, long-life (typically pink or orange color) - Hyundai/Kia Blue Long Life Coolant or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for exact requirement)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III ATF or Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid (consult manual)

Common Complaints:

Some owners reported issues with ABS sensor failures, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, and occasional engine accessory belt noise. Early models of the GE generation also had some reports of premature tire wear.

Diagnostic Tips ABS:

ABS warning light on; diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to wheel speed sensors or ABS module. Inspection of sensor wiring and wheel hub assemblies is crucial.

Diagnostic Tips HVAC:

HVAC system blowing only at highest speed or not blowing at all; often points to a faulty blower motor resistor, typically located near the blower motor in the dashboard.

Diagnostic Tips Engine:

Check Engine Light may illuminate for various reasons; use OBD-II scanner to retrieve codes. Potential for O2 sensor issues, catalytic converter problems, or vacuum leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origin:

South Korea

Brand Strategy:

Kia evolved from a manufacturer of trucks and basic passenger cars to a global player known for stylish design and improving quality, often under the influence of Hyundai Motor Group.

First Generation Optima:

The first generation Optima (2001-2006) was a significant step, but the second generation (GE, 2006-2008) represented a major redesign with more European-inspired styling and improved dynamics, closely related to the Hyundai Sonata.

Second Generation Optima:

The GE Optima (2006-2008) shared its platform with the Hyundai Sonata (NF). This generation featured a completely new exterior and interior design, a revised engine lineup, and enhanced safety features, aiming to compete more effectively in the premium end of the mid-size sedan market.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea by Kia Motors Corporation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumer Ratings:

While specific awards for the 2006-2008 model year are not widely publicized, the Optima generally received favorable reviews for its styling, value, and improved interior quality compared to previous generations.

Safety Awards:

Achieved good ratings in NHTSA and IIHS crash tests for its model years, indicating a strong safety performance for the era.