2003 Kia Optima - Maintenance & Specs
The 2003 Kia Optima belongs to a Kia Optima lineup that Know Your Ride tracks across 4 model years, from 2001 to 2004. Engine options on record include the 2.4L, 2.7L, 2.4L I4 / 2.7L V6. It is configured as front-wheel drive with an automatic 4-spd. The 2003 sits mid-run, with both earlier (2001) and later (2004) Optima model years also documented.
It takes 5W-20 full synthetic oil, 5.1 qt with a new filter meeting API SP. Fluid specs on file include OAT Coolant coolant, DOT 3 brake fluid. Know Your Ride lists 14 scheduled maintenance items for this vehicle, the earliest interval falling at 7,500 miles. Documented torque values include oil drain plug 26 ft-lb, lug nut 80 ft-lb, spark plug 18 ft-lb.
NHTSA complaints for this vehicle cluster around latches/locks/linkages (34), structure (14), air bags (13). A representative report reads: "While driving on the roadway, I was almost to a four way intersection, as i was going to get into the left turn lane, I turned the steering wheel slightly to..." There are 2 safety recalls on record; one covers: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION (KMC) IS RECALLING 36,538 MODEL YEAR 2001-2004 OPTIMA VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE STATES OF....
EPA fuel economy is rated at 19 city / 27 highway MPG, 22 MPG combined. Estimated annual fuel cost is about $2,000.
Quick Specs
| Oil viscosity | 5W-20 |
| Oil type | Full Synthetic |
| Oil capacity (w/ filter) | 5.1 qt |
| OEM oil spec | API SP |
| EPA combined | 22 MPG |
| Coolant | OAT Coolant |
| Open recalls on record | 2 |
| Technical service bulletins | 16 |
Common Trouble Codes
- P0300 - Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
- P0420 - Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
- P0171 - System too Lean (Bank 1)
- P0128 - Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation
- P0442 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak)
- P0455 - Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (gross leak)
- P0700 - Transmission Control System Malfunction
- P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected
- U0100 - Lost Communication With ECM/PCM A
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Part of the free Know Your Ride vehicle maintenance reference. Figures are sourced from EPA, NHTSA and manufacturer data and are for general reference - always confirm with your owner's manual.