Target Audience:
Consumers seeking stylish, well-equipped, and performant sedans
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Chevrolet Malibu
Engine Highlight:
Powerful 2.0L turbocharged direct-injection engine
Design:
Sleek, sporty design with European influences
Interior Appointments:
Comfortable and well-appointed interior, often featuring premium materials
Value Proposition:
Strong emphasis on features and performance for the price point
Engine:
2.0L Theta II GDI Turbocharged Engine (G4KH)
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control
Transmission:
6-speed Automatic Transmission (A6LF2)
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson strut, Rear multi-link
Steering:
Electric Power Steering (EPS)
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, Rear solid discs, ABS, EBD, ESC
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, body electrical, multiplex communication
HVAC:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, roof
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, SRS system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, live data analysis
Repair:
Component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission component overhaul procedures
Electrical Repairs:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, repair of electrical faults
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Detailed, in-depth technical information for professional mechanics
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including use of scan tools
Rebuild Information:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild specifications
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 86.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 valves, Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT)
Horsepower:
274 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque:
269 lb-ft @ 1800-4500 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Delivery:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended for optimal performance)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
High-pressure fuel pump system
Type:
6-speed Automatic Transaxle
Optional Types:
Not available for this specific engine/trim combination in 2011
Gear Selection:
Driver-selectable manual mode (Sportmatic)
Fluid Type:
Kia ATF SP-IV or equivalent
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.8 Liters (check manual for specific drain/fill vs. total)
Length:
191.5 inches (4864 mm)
Width:
72.1 inches (1831 mm)
Height:
57.7 inches (1466 mm)
Wheelbase:
110.0 inches (2794 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 100.1 cubic feet (varies by configuration)
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 15.4 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3350-3500 lbs (varies by trim)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Standard Tire Size:
215/55R17 or 225/45R18 (depending on trim)
Optional Tire Size:
225/45R18
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Good (typically for 2011 model year, check specific test results)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2011 model year)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard
Electronic Brake Force Distribution:
Standard
Airbags:
Front, front-side, full-length side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system
Head Unit:
Available with optional navigation system, premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity), Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Aux inputs.
Display:
Touchscreen interface (on models with navigation/premium audio)
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors
Rearview Camera:
Optional rearview camera integrated with infotainment display
Bluetooth:
Hands-free calling and audio streaming
Usb Aux:
Ports for media device connection
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions; severe conditions may require shorter intervals)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (depending on driving environment)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (for iridium-tipped plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace typically around 60,000-100,000 miles (refer to manual for severe use recommendations)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (refer to manual for exact specifications and capacity)
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant, long-life type (typically Pink/Red color)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Use specified Kia power steering fluid or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent (EPS system, check manual for exact specification if applicable)
Engine Noise:
Potential for turbocharger noise or rattling, sometimes related to wastegate actuator. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Transmission Hesitation:
Occasional reports of hesitant shifting or delayed engagement. Manual covers TCM diagnostics and software updates.
Electrical Gremlins:
While generally reliable, some owners report minor electrical issues like sensor malfunctions or intermittent warning lights. Manual details wiring diagrams for troubleshooting.
Carbon Buildup:
Direct injection engines can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves. Manual may offer cleaning procedures or recommendations.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation
Founding:
Founded in 1944 as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts
First Generation Optima:
Launched in 2000 (as Optima/Magentis, depending on market)
Tf Generation:
Second generation Optima (TF) launched globally in late 2005. The QF designation refers to the North American market version.
2011 Update:
The 2011 model year marked a significant redesign and the introduction of the 'K5' nameplate in some markets. This manual covers the 2011 model which retained the Optima name in most key markets, featuring the new platform and styling.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea (Hwaseong Plant)
Production Years Tf Model:
2005-2010 (global), with 2011 being the first year of the redesigned model using the QF platform.
IIHS Award:
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick for 2011.
Kbb Best Family Sedan:
Often cited as a strong contender in mid-size sedan comparisons by publications like Kelley Blue Book.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varied reliability ratings across model years; manual provides insight into common issues and their resolution.
Emissions Standards:
Meets applicable US EPA and California ARB emissions standards for the 2011 model year.