Under the radar, Kia is slowly playing catch-up to the big boy economy sedans on the market, combining comfort, convenience, and roominess at a much lower price point. The 2004 Kia Optima is a mid-size family sedan, based on the Sonata platform, that packs in a lot of standard features while remaining affordable for those on a budget. For 2004, the Optima gets a new grille design to distinguish it from the Sonata, and the V6 models get larger 16-inch tires for better road performance.
There are two trim levels for the 2004 Optima, each offered with either a 2.4-liter, 138-hp DOHC I4 or a 2.7-liter, 170-hp DOHC V6. The 4-cylinder comes with either a standard 5-speed or a 4-speed automatic with manual mode. The 4-speed is the sole transmission for the V6 models. The base LX carries full power features, 15-inch wheels, dual-front side airbags, cruise control, and a CD player. The more decked-out EX, which replaces last year's SE, ups the ante with a power driver's seat, a sunroof, keyless entry, wood and chrome accents, an auto-dimming mirror, and a remote garage opener. Only on the EX can you opt for heated leather seats and wood interior trim.
The Kia fares average to poor in some crash tests, but does well in side-impact ratings. Dual front-side airbags are standard across the line, while ABS brakes are only optional on the V6 models. Traction control is not available. Though Kia has always focused on good value for the money (and the 2004 Optima does come with a lot of standard features for what you pay), drivers say the gas mileage, at 20/27 mpg, is disappointing. Other complaints mention the labored acceleration with the I4 engine, the need for more rear legroom, and no ABS option on the I4. But most owners say the ride is comfortable, with incredibly smooth handling and little engine noise. They also like the exterior styling. The biggest draw is Kia's outstanding warranty.
my kia has a front right axle making noise and the boot is seperated partially from its metal/runner connection. should i replace the bearing as well as the cv axle? i hear a whirring sound like a bad bearing. my studs are a little uneven but not alot. it pulls right when driving. should i be worried about the intermediate shaft as well? the steering wheel shudders heavily. 150000 km on it.
I'm borrowing a 2004 Kia Optima. Last week it cranked up fine. I drove about 4 miles stopped got of the car for less than 5 minutes. Upon return, turned the key, and nothing. After getting a jump I stopped at Advance Auto and was advised the battery was only functioning at 46%. After researching the battery I found it was still under warranty. After having to keep my ground with the sales clerk he replaced the battery with a new Advance 124F Gold. Today I went to.pick up a client and had to attempt to turn over the engine 4 times before it started. Because he lives 25 miles (one way) deep in the country I opted nit to take him out in fear of getting stranded. I'm not sure if these issues might relate to the "starter" or the "alternator" and would certainly appreciate your advice. Lady Who Knows Her Way Around Under the Hood
2004 Kia Optima V6 EX Recreantly there was no power and no start. The battery worked, so I thought starter. Changed it. problem remains. Father n law squeezes the starter relay, starts right up. This was Sunday. The car was driving just fine. Monday cold start seemed weaker then Sunday. Tuesday cold start for sure slow start. Wednesday cold start slow. While driving Wednesday out of nowhere the car stalled for 2 sec then kept driving. 10 feet later I loose RPMs the MPH was 40 goes slightly up hill with the foot on the gas. Died at the top of the hill. NO start but cranks over. Double checked fuses (all good). The fuel pump can be heard charging up with every cycling of the key. Now I am lost. How can it be loss of fuel pressure if the fuel pump charges up. Fuel pump would charge if the relay was bad. Maybe spark plugs Maybe wires. I don't know.
I have a 2004 Kia Optima EX 2.7 My speedometer is erratic. once the car warms up and you are driving any speed above 35 and take your foot of the gas, this is when the needle goes up an down and then not moving until the car is restarted. I changed the transmission speed sensors. What next? Does this car have a speedometer sensor or do I have to replace the cluster?
Hello all, the other day I had a real dumb moment and accidently dropped my driver's liscense in the little space where the hand brake is....how do I go about removing the center console or at least getting into the little cranny where the hand brake is housed? I am driving an 04 Optima, thanks!
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheels: steel
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Infinity · AM/FM radio
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather and wood
Convenience Features
Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: cloth
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · Premium Brand: Infinity · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather and wood
Convenience Features
Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt-adjustable
Exterior Features
Paint: special factory paint
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent