Target Audience:
Owner-operators, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts
Competitors 2001:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Ford Mondeo, Mazda 626
Value Proposition:
Affordable, reliable transportation with European styling influences
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, intake system
Transmission:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch system, driveline, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic and mechanical components)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, charging system, starting system, instrument cluster, body electronics, power accessories, audio system
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC system, airbags, safety restraints
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, common fault diagnosis, intermittent problem resolution
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component repair
Installation:
Component replacement, accessory installation guidance (where applicable)
Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, component-level repair instructions, torque specifications, assembly/disassembly sequences
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation, sensor testing procedures
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 93.5 mm
Horsepower Net:
134 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Net:
133 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
ECU Type:
Kia EGI System (Specific ECU part number varies)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Automatic Shift Modes:
Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Overdrive, Low gears
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Check manual for exact Kia specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia ATF-SP III (or equivalent)
Length:
184.5 inches (4685 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1790 mm)
Height:
56.7 inches (1440 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Front Track:
60.2 inches (1530 mm)
Rear Track:
60.0 inches (1525 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3150 - 3300 lbs (1429 - 1497 kg), depending on trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated, consult owner's manual or VIN plate
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 14.2 cubic feet (402 liters)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not available for this model year in all regions; refer to specific region's testing
IIHS Ratings:
Not available for this model year in all regions; refer to specific region's testing
ABS:
Standard on most trims
Traction Control:
Optional on some trims
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard
Side Impact Airbags:
Optional on some trims
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player, upgraded speaker systems on higher trims
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC system, optional automatic climate control on top trims
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard on this model; aftermarket solutions may be available
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped spark plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable for the 2.0L engine, which uses a timing chain.
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG, SH, SJ, SL or ILSAC GF-II, GF-III, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, a 50/50 mixture with distilled water (Kia genuine coolant recommended).
Common Problems:
Check engine light due to O2 sensors, minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket, potential for radiator issues (flushing recommended), ABS sensor failures
Transmission Quirks:
Some automatic transmission models may exhibit slight harshness on shifts; regular fluid changes are crucial.
Kia History Context:
Kia, a South Korean automaker, was established in 1944 and has grown into a global manufacturer of quality vehicles.
Optima Introduction:
The Kia Optima (first generation, codenamed MS) was introduced for the 2001 model year, replacing the Kia Clarus. It was designed with significant input from Kia's European design studio and was built on the Hyundai Sonata's platform.
Production Location:
Hwasung, South Korea
Initial Reviews:
Received mixed reviews at launch, praised for its value and European styling, but criticized for some interior materials and refinement compared to established Japanese competitors.
Consumer Reports Historical Reliability:
Generally rated average to below average for reliability in its early years, improving in later model years. This manual is crucial for maintaining a well-running vehicle.
