2004 Kia Optima problems
The Kia K5, formerly known as the Kia Optima (Korean: 기아 옵티마), is a mid-size car manufactured by Kia since 2000 and marketed globally through various nameplates. First generation cars were mostly marketed as the Optima, although the Kia Magentis name was used in Europe and Canada when sales began there in 2002. For the second-generation models, Kia used the Kia Lotze and Kia K5 name for the South Korean market, and the Magentis name globally, except in the United States, Canada, Malaysia and the Middle East, where the Optima name was retained until the 2021 model year. The K5 name is used for all markets since the introduction of the fifth generation in 2019.
First generation (MS; 2000)
From 2000–2005, Optimas were a rebadged variant of the Hyundai Sonata, differing from the Sonata only in minor exterior styling details and equipment content. It was first shown in South Korea in July 2000 and was the first product of the Kia-Hyundai platform integration plan.
In Australia, the Optima was introduced in May 2001, offered only with a 2.5 L V6 engine, and choice of manual or automatic transmission. The updated Optima was offered with a new 2.7 L engine, 4-speed automatic (the manual was dropped), and features such as full leather interior and alloy wheels were made standard. Thanks in part to better marketing, sales increased to 41,289 units in 2005, an all-time high. The Optima was sold until 2006, when it was replaced by the Magentis.
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Common 2004 Kia Optima problems
The 2004 Kia Optima has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to electrical issues, suspension, and engine performance.
Electrical Issues:
- Alternator/Generator/Regulator: Some owners have reported issues with the alternator, generator, or regulator in their 2004 Kia Optimas.
- Instrument Cluster/Panel: A single complaint was filed regarding the instrument cluster or panel in a 2004 Kia Optima.
- Wiring: One owner reported an issue with wiring in their 2004 Kia Optima.
Suspension Issues:
- Front Suspension: In 2009, Kia issued a recall for 36,538 2001-2004 Optimas due to progressive, internal corrosion of the front subframe caused by road salt in certain states.
Engine Performance Issues:
- Engine Hesitation: A service alert was issued for 2004 Kia Optimas experiencing hesitation for a short period of time after an initial cold start, requiring ECM reprogramming/upgrade.
- Timing Belts: An improved timing belt was introduced for the Kia Rio and Optima in 2005 due to potential issues with the original timing belts.
- Engine Mil On with No Fault Code Stored: A manufacturer communication was issued in 2010 regarding an intermittent short to ground in a circuit only intended for testing purposes, which could cause the engine mil to illuminate without a fault code stored.
Additional Issues:
- Parking Brake Indicator Light: A manufacturer communication was issued in 2008 regarding improved durability of bulb life for rear combination bulbs, rear stop lamp/tail lamp bulbs, and brake lights used in multiple Kia models, including the Optima.
- Supplement Restraint System (SRS) Warning Lamp Illumination: A manufacturer communication was issued in 2007 regarding SRS warning lamp illumination for B1378 and B1382 in 2004 Kia Optimas.
- Fuel System: An enhanced diagnosis and repair for P0446 was issued for the 2004 Kia Optima.
It is important to note that these issues may not affect all 2004 Kia Optimas, and the frequency of these problems may vary. For a more comprehensive understanding of the reliability of the 2004 Kia Optima, it is recommended to consult resources such as Consumer Reports, which combines extensive survey data and expert technical knowledge to provide reliability information for various vehicles.
Is Kia Optima 2004 a good car?
The Optima provides a lot of features for a competitive price. We liked its comfortable ride as well as its quiet and refined cabin. The Kia also has very good fit and finish. The engine is smooth, though it isn't very fuel efficient, despite being fairly small.
What is the main problem with Kia Optima?
Kia Optima Engine Problems
Over the years, the Kia Optima has been reported to have severe engine manufacturing and failure issues that may be causing its bearings to wear prematurely. In some cases, premature bearing wear and tear can trigger uncontrollable engine seizing, increasing the risk of causing an accident.
What years did Kia Optima have engine problems?
Kia Optima engine problems are well known. The 2011-2014 Kia Optima is reported to have a severe engine manufacturing issue, which may cause its bearings to wear prematurely. This may trigger uncontrollable engine seizing, which may increase the risk of crashes or collisions.
Is The Kia Optima a reliable car?
The Kia Optima Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $471 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. The severity of repairs is average and the frequency of those issues is low, so major repairs are uncommon for the Optima.
2004 Kia Optima car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Optima problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Latches/locks/linkages problems
- Electrical system problems
- Structure problems
- Air bags problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Kia Optima vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Kia Optima
The NHTSA has received 224 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Kia Optima. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Kia Optima vehicles.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-08
- VIN: Knagd126845
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Door lock/unlock mechanism has failed. Unable to unlock and open door from outside or inside. This defect causes the door to stay locked and unable to open. This can trap people inside of the car if they are unable to crawl out a window or exit from another door. There are many reports of this on Kia forums and general Google search. There was no warning that this part was wearing out until it became impossible to open the door.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-01
- VIN: KNAGD128545
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Kia Optima. The contact stated that after refueling, the vehicle would not start. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer. Upon investigation, the contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 04V180000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed that the vehicle was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.
SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-29
- VIN: KNAGD128X45
- Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: I WAS REPAIRING BRAKELINES, WHILE OBSERVING UNDER CARRIAGE I NOTICED SUSPENSION RUST, FRAME. LOOKED UP RECALLS AND THIS IS ONE. I INCLUDED SCREENSHOT OF PROOG
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-25
- VIN: KNAGD128645
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY WITH CRUISE CONTROL ACTIVE, I WAS UNABLE TO TURN OFF THE CRUISE CONTROL WITH THE STEERING WHEEL CONTROL BUTTONS. THE CANCEL AND SET BUTTONS HAD NO EFFECT WHEN PRESSED. THE CAR REMAINED TRAVELING AT THE SET SPEED. TAPPING ON THE BRAKE PEDAL DID CANCEL THE CRUISE CONTROL.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-23
- VIN: KNAGD126845
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE STATIONARY - DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE WITH KEY, MANUAL LOCK OR ELECTRONIC LOCK CONTROLS (STUCK CLOSED). UNABLE TO EVACUATE CAR FROM DRIVER'S SIDE. SAFETY CONCERN - LACK OF EGRESS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-02
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE FROM THE FRONT. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED STOMACH AND CHEST INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 57,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-12
- VIN: KNAGD126945
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: UNABLE TO OPEN PASSENGER DOOR DUE TO DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR STOPPED WORKING. UNSAFE TO DRIVE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-01
- VIN: KNAGD126945
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO BILL DORATY KIA (2925 MEDINA RD, MEDINA, OH 44256, (330) 721-9500) FOR ROUTINE BRAKE SERVICE, THE TECHNICIAN FOUND A CRACK IN THE FRONT FRAME. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SAFE TO DRIVE AT THAT TIME. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FRAME WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED, BUT NO REPAIRS WERE MADE. SINCE WINTER WAS APPROACHING, THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE FRAME WOULD COMPLETELY CRACK DUE TO THE WEATHER AND SALTED ROADWAYS IN HER STATE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A MANUFACTURER RECALL AND EXTENDED WARRANTY NOTICES IN 2009. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT NO ISSUES WERE FOUND. THE DEALER SENT PICTURES OF THE CRACKED FRAME TO THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND ISSUED CASE NUMBER: 2560103. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WOULD CONTACT THE LOCAL DEALER. THE CONTACT WAS AWAITING A CALL BACK FROM THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 48,000.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-29
- VIN: KNAGD126645
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVER DOOR DOES NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE NOR FROM OUTSIDE. WHEN UNLOCKING THE DOORS, ALL DOORS WILL OPEN EXCEPT THE DRIVER'S DOOR. CENTER LOCK MECHANISM OR MANUAL USE OF KEYS DOES NOT HELP. THIS IS WITHOUT A DOUBT A SAFETY PROBLEM WHERE DRIVER CAN BE TRAPPED IN THE CAR IN CASE OF EMERGENCY. THIS IS VERY COMMON IN KIA OPTIMA MODELS.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-08
- VIN: KNAGD126245
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: CANNOT ADD FUEL BECAUSE THE PUMP STOPS FROM FILLING UP THE TANK. IT TOOK ME ABOUT 7 TIMES TO GET IN $7 WORTH OF GAS. EVEN THOUGH THIS CAR ONLY HAS 25,830 MILES ON IT. IT HAS HARDLY BEEN USED. WE PUT GAS IN ABOUT EVERY 3 OR 4 WEEKS - NOT THAT OFTEN.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-21
- VIN: KNAGD126745
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED INSPECTION DUE TO SEVERE CORROSION OF THE SUBFRAME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V183000 (SUSPENSION) AS A POSSIBLE SOLUTION TO THE FAILURE; HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 57,000. ..UPDATED 05/05/17 *BF *CN
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-08
- VIN: KNAGD126045
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND SEVERAL INDICATORS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN AND WAS PUSHED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH THE HELP OF THE STATE HIGHWAY PATROL. THE VEHICLE WAS LATER TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIMING BELT FRACTURED AND THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE, BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 163,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-08
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: KNAGD128945
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIR BAG WENT OFF WHILE MY WIFE WAS REACHING FOR HER SEAT BELT AND SCRAPPED AND BURNED HER ARM. IT SOUNDED LIKE A GUN GOING OFF. I RUSHED HER HOME AND TOOK CARE OF HER WOUNDS
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-02
- VIN: KNAGD128345
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT HEARD AN ABNORMAL LOUD SOUND FROM THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRAME FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER AN UNKNOWN RECALL; HOWEVER, THE REMEDY FAILED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 178,000.
STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-09
- VIN: KNAGD128245
- Components: STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR FAILED TO UNLOCK. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO GAIN ACCESS AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 101,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-30
- VIN: KNAGD128245
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DRIVER'S DOOR LOCKING SYSTEM WILL NOT UNLOCK, ALL OTHERS DO. THE DOOR LOCKS ITSELF IMMEDIATELY AS YOU TRY TO UNLOCK EITHER WITH THE KEY (OUTSIDE) OR PRESSING THE CENTRAL LOCK BUTTON (WHEN INSIDE). THIS WOULD BE A SERIOUS PROBLEM IF THE CAR WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT AND/OR FIRE WAS AN ISSUE. RIGHT NOW IT IS INCONVENIENT TO CLIMB OVER THE CENTER CONSOLE. I SEE THIS IS NOT THE FIRST COMPLAINT ON THIS SUBJECT AND THE PROBLEM SEEMS ENDEMIC TO THIS CAR. THE PROBLEM STARTED INTERMITTENTLY FROM SEPTEMBER 2016 AND NOW IS PERMANENT AS OF NOVEMBER 30.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-27
- VIN: KNAGD126345
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT ON DASHBOARD STAYS ON, STARTED TWO DAYS A GO.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-01
- VIN: KNAGD128145
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: PASSENGER AND DRIVER DOOR LOCKS WILL NOT UNLOCK 85% OF THE TIME, PREVENTING NORMAL ENTRY TO / EXIT FROM THE VEHICLE. MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS USING THE KEY IN THE DOOR LATCH ARE REQUIRED TO GAIN ENTRY THE OTHER 15% OF THE TIME. THIS IS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE IN CASE OF CRASH, FIRE, OR CARJACKING. INTERNET RESEARCH SHOWS THIS TO BE A COMMON ISSUE AROUND 100K MILES. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL EVENT...
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-01
- VIN: KNAGD128745
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: MY AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON THERE'S NO WIRES DISCONNECTED UNDER THE SEAT AND MY SEAT BELTS DO NOT RETRACT WELL ALSO MY DOOR LOCKS ARE GETTING STUCK IN LOCK MODE AND MY ENGINE COMES ON AND THEN GOES OFF.AFTER AWHILE.WHEN IN PARK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-05-06
- VIN: KNAGD128645
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, WHEN MANUALLY UNLOCKING THE POWER DOOR LOCKS, THEY WILL IMMEDIATELY LOCK AGAIN AND WILL GO INTO A LOOP OF UNLOCK-RELOCK, WHETHER USING THE MANUAL DOOR LOCK OR THE POWER LOCK SWITCH (THE RELAY CLICKS BUT NOTHING HAPPENS WHEN USING THE SWITCH). THIS HAPPENS ABOUT 10% OF THE TIME.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-01
- VIN: KNAGD126845
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DRIVERS DOOR LOCK WILL NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE AT ALL & ONLY 10%OF THE TIME FROM OUTSIDE WITH KEY. PULLED FUSE ON ACTUATORS & LOCK CONTINUES TO MALFUNCTION. CAN NOT EFFICIENTLY GET IN OR OUT OF THE CAR. HAVE TO SLIDE OVER CENTER TO REACH PASSENGER DOOR TO GET OUT. I AM 6'4" SO THIS IS A REAL SAFETY HAZARD.
STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-08
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNAGD128245
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, AN ABNORMAL CLICKING NOISE EMITTED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE POWER STEERING FAILED AND THE WHEELS SHOOK VIOLENTLY. THE BRAKES FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND IT CRASHED INTO A WALL. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND AN UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE EMITTED INTO THE CONTACTS EYES. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED BURNS TO THE BODY AND LACERATIONS TO BOTH EYES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN AND FAILURE MILEAGE WERE UNKNOWN. UPDATED 09/23/16*LJ *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-15
- VIN: KNAGD128045
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 KIA OPTIMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE LOCKED AND UNLOCKED WITHOUT USING THE KEYS, AND THE ALARM ACTIVATED ON ITS OWN. THE FAILURE PREVENTED THE DRIVER FROM ENTERING OR EXITING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-04
- VIN: KNAGD126145
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVER DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN FROM INSIDE OR OUT. POWER DOOR LOCK WOULD AUTOMATICALLY RE-LOCK ALL DOORS WHEN ATTEMPTING TO OPEN OR UNLOCK WITH KEY OR INSIDE LOCK LEVER. HAD TO CRAWL OVER CONSOLE TO GET IN OR OUT WHEN FINALLY ABLE TO GET PASSENGER FRONT DOOR TO OPEN. FINALLY ABLE TO GET DOOR OPEN BY HOLDING KEY CYLINDER IN UNLOCK POSITION AND FORCING HANDLE TO OPEN. UNHOOKED DOOR LOCK ACTUATOR. AS LONG AS LOCKED OR UNLOCKED DOOR WITH KEY ONLY, DOOR WOULD OPEN. IF LOCKED DOOR WITH INSIDE LOCK LEVER, DOOR WOULD NOT OPEN AGAIN. MECHANIC REPLACING THE DRIVER FRONT DOOR LATCH ASSEMBLY REPAIRED VEHICLE. VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION IF IN ACCIDENT OR VEHICLE FIRE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-23
- VIN: KNAGD126X45
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BOTH DRIVER AND PASSENGER DOORS WON'T OPEN, EVEN THOUGH THEY ARE UNLOCKED. THE CAR COULD BE ON OR OFF WITH THIS PROBLEM.
2004 Kia Optima recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2004 Kia Optima.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT
- Summary: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION (KMC) IS RECALLING 36,538 MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 OPTIMA VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ROAD SALT APPLIED IN THESE STATES DURING THE WINTER MONTHS MAY RESULT IN PROGRESSIVE, INTERNAL CORROSION OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME. OVER TIME, SUCH SUBFRAME CORROSION NEAR THE CONNECTION TO THE LOWER CONTROL ARM CAN LEAD TO WHEEL MISALIGNMENT AND/OR OTHER NOTICEABLE STRESS IN STEERING, OR ACCELERATED ABNORMAL TIRE WEAR.
- Consequence: CORROSION OF THE FRONT SUBFRAME COULD LEAD TO SEPARATION, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: KMC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 15, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA'S CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-333-4542.
Negative 2004 Kia Optima car reviews
Positive 2004 Kia Optima car reviews
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I hope this message finds you well! I noticed that you mentioned needing a vehicle with good gas mileage. I wanted to share that I have been getting 425 miles on a tank with my current car, mostly driving on back roads with some highway. Let me know if you have any questions or if there's anything else I can help with!
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Overall, this is a great car that offers good value for your money. I did experience some minor issues, but the dealer took care of them and I didn't have to pay a thing. The car has been very reliable, although I do notice a jerk from the transmission once in a while if I don't change the transmission oil every year. It can be expensive to maintain due to the cost of parts and labour, but the ride quality is excellent and comfortable. The V6 engine is outstanding when accelerating, and the handling is decent, although the tires could have been bigger. The interior build quality could be more durable, but I'm not complaining as I have 125K miles and the car is still going strong.
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I've had the car for 5 months and I must say, I've thoroughly enjoyed it! While it's true that the fuel mileage and acceleration could be better, everything else has exceeded my expectations. The car appears to be solidly built and I'm happy to report that it hasn't burned a lick of oil for the first 10K miles.
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This is the first car I have ever picked out for myself and I am so happy with it! It handles very smoothly and is incredibly comfortable for me - it fits me perfectly. I have followed the manufacturer's suggestions on care and have not had any problems. It runs great and corners like an expensive sports car. I know, I drive on winding roads regularly. It's very fun and inexpensive to own.
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I purchased a 2004 Kia Optima EX 4 cylinder from a used car dealer in August of last year. It has been a fantastic car! Some people have even mistaken it for a Jaguar from a distance, so I affectionately refer to it as my Kia-Jag. The interior is wonderful, with power everything, leather seats, fog lights, wood grain accents, and a 6-speaker Infinity Sound system, as well as a sunroof. The only downside is the gas mileage, which I was hoping would be better for a Kia. However, with 17 miles per gallon in the city and 23 on the highway, I suppose you get what you pay for. I hope this information is helpful.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Kia Optima problems:
2004 Kia Optima Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues
Problem with your 2004 Kia Optima? Our list of 8 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Kia Optima.
2004 Kia Optima; Lots Of Problems : r/kia
Feb 5, 2023 ... Issues #1 and #2 are probably related. Your drivers door latching/locking mechanism (which includes the power lock actuator) is dead and ...
Common Kia Optima Engine Problems - Q&A for 2004 Kia Optima LX
Jun 5, 2011 ... You could have a bad mass air flow sensor. Or the snorkel from the mass air flow sensor to the throttle body could be ripped. Both are very ...
2004 Optima Door Lock Fault | Kia Forum
Sep 15, 2008 ... I have run across several stories of people having issues with their Kia door locks.
2004 Kia Optima Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2004 Kia Optima? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Kia Optima
Are you having problems with your 2004 Kia Optima?
Daron Predovic 2024-09-24
I have owned my Kia for approximately two years. Unfortunately, I have experienced a number of issues during this time, including problems with the timing belt, pulley, power steering, and most recently, the computer. Despite these challenges, I remain confident in the value of my vehicle and will explore all available options before considering selling it for a nominal amount on eBay.
Darren Beier 2024-06-26
Although I initially enjoyed my car, it has unfortunately presented me with numerous issues. The headlights have needed replacing on 17 occasions, and the car has developed rust and paint damage after only 5 years. Additionally, the power steering has been a persistent problem, and the cost of replacing it is unreasonably high for a vehicle that is supposed to be a sound investment. As a result, I am currently in the market for a new car.
Tomas Hagenes 2024-06-14
I had a really bad experience with the 2004 Kia Optima. Unfortunately, it was a regrettable choice and my first and last Kia. Despite Edmunds listing it as 'excellent', I found nothing good about it. It was a constant source of stress on my wallet with tire, mechanical, heating, transmission, and electrical issues. I was amazed at how everything was cheaply made and how easily everything broke consistently. However, I am glad to have moved on from this 'nightmare' and sold it for a huge loss. I feel sorry for those who invest a large amount of money into buying a new Kia. My experience has taught me to be more careful when buying a car.
Selmer Orn 2024-06-11
Hi there! I bought my Optima with about 52000 miles and I have to say, it's been pretty reliable overall. The fuel economy is good, although it could be better. So far, I've only had to replace the power steering hose, batteries, and the headlight bulb. One thing to note is that sometimes when I start my car, it stalls for a couple of seconds before going. But all in all, I'm happy with my purchase!
Edmond Ziemann 2024-06-02
I bought this vehicle 3 years ago and unfortunately, I've had a lot of problems with it. It's frustrating that Kia's 100,000 mile warranty only applies to the original owner, but I understand that's how it works. I always make sure to keep up with the maintenance because this is my only transportation to work, so I take good care of it. Despite my efforts, it seems like everything is going wrong with it. Overall, it's been a challenging experience.