Used 2004 Kia Optima Consumer Reviews
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beware of 04 optima
mike fletchinger, 04/14/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this optima in 2006 with about 22,000 miles. A friend, a kia service tech, said I would love this car. When used, the warranty only goes to 60,000 miles. After about 61,000 the air bag light came on, the cruise control and speedometer sometimes don't work and the transmission has gotten really rough especially in cold weather and on these cold spring mornings. It will have to be replaced. What started out to be a pleasure has started to become a nightmare.
Good Value
Al2, 12/31/2003
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We have about 7500 miles on the 2003 which was purchased in October. There were a few things needing attention after delivery but the Dealer has been good about servicing. Its a six, fully loaded with the exception of ABS. We bought because of the warranty and low pricing.
Lovin' this car so far!
JAG14004, 06/30/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I found this to be the best new car deal in it's class at the present time. This car rides smooth, and is roomy enough for 4 people to ride in comfortably. The shifting is smooth, as is the braking. Handles curves really well. Minor vibration felt while ideling. Good sound system.
Heating/air conditioning
lvargo, 07/06/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Disappointed at the heating/ac system. The auto temp control works well, however, you cannot utilize the lower and upper temp feature together with air or heat. If the a/c is on in the dual mode, the lower vent will blow the temp of the hot air outside and not cool air. Conversely, if heat is on, the top vents will blow the temp of the outside air while the bottom is heat. Sad part is no one can fix it and main hq of Kia has not responded to my inquiries since the problem started in Dec 04! Dealership acknowledges the problem but can't get an answer from Kia on how to fix it either!
Get it a try!
Mark1016, 01/01/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have been toying with the idea of buying Korean. I like the tweeks made in the exterior design for the '04 Optima. The 6 cylinder moves out plenty fast enough for me to collect some pricey tickets. I am 6'1" and my only complaint is that my head is very close to the headliner in the car. The steering wheel needs to be telescoping for long legged people.
Forget Naysayers
groovemac, 07/17/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Kia Optima after doing months of research. I looked at Camrys, Hondas, and Hyundais. When I settled on my Kia I had doubts based on comments I had heard from others about Korean reliability. This by far has been the best car I have owned. The enginer runs so quiet at times I think it's not running. The car has all the features I wanted i.e. Infinity Sound totally adjustable driver and passenger seats. Automatic headlights, suroof etc. Great warranty and I payed less than $20,000.
love my kia
lizzy, 07/19/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I JUST GOT MY KIA A MONTH AGO. I GOT NEW TIRES AND RIMS AND LOVE THE LOOK. THE CAR HANDLES VERY GOOD AND I HAVE TWO KIDS SO I LOOKED AT THE SAFETY FEATURES. THE SIDE AIRBAGS GOT ME HOOKED.I AM GETTING GOOD GAS MILEAGE AND FOR ALL U NEW BUYERS----WAX UR CAR AFTER U GET IT HOME AND ITLL CLEAN UP REAL GOOD
Great Little Car
Leila, 04/13/2010
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new in 2004. Aside from a CV axle issue starting around 50K miles, I have had no problems. I have bought tires, replaced the front brakes and done routine maintenance and that's it! She just rolled over 140,000 miles this past weekend and we're still rocking along. I'm looking forward to my next purchase: the 2011 Sorento.
best car for the money
mack11, 01/03/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For the money, it is the best car I ever owned. Underated by the media. Ready to buy their new, best model now. KIA is gaining momentum very quickly.
AWESOM CAR
SRatl3, 07/26/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is the most awesom car for the price. The power the optima v6 has is so fast, you will have no problem in taking off or passing. This car will definately put you back in your seats. It is hard to believe all the extras that come standard on my car. I cannot speak highly enough about this car except try it you will like it.
2004 KIA OPTIMA EX ,V6,4DR SEDAN
clsdee, 01/05/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
THIS IS MY FIRST KIA AND I AM REALLY IMPRESSED WITH THE QUALITY AND PREFORMANCE. IT IS A PLEASURE TO DRIVE AND VERY ECONOMICAL ON GAS. I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO MANY YEARS OF KIA PLEASURE.
Incredible Pearl White Finish
Ben B, 07/27/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great value. We love this car. Handles well, comfortable ride, nice touches, like auto dimming mirror, 4-wheel disc brakes, and four airbags standard on the EX. Feels like a luxury car!
Kia v-6 loaded ex model Silver,yeah baby
Paula C, 07/22/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is great. I take to Harrisburg Pa, adleast 2 times a month, getting better gas each time. Preformace wise it rides like a dream driving on clouds, pa road are bad but htis car makes them feel great. looking at his car is so beuitful, plese go test drive one you will fall in love.. I did. I test drove alot of car before i got his one. under 19,000. fully loaded with a great warrenty where did i go wrong, LOL go see a kia dealer today, youwill not be sorry.. Paula
Very Reliable, Fun to Drive Car
sdanie18, 04/22/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I was hesitant about buying a Kia, I had originally wanted an Accord but I needed a more affordable car. I have to say this car has changed my opinion of Kia - it's been very reliable in the nearly 2 years I have owned it. I purchased the car with 56K and now have nearly 78K on the odometer. I consider this car a lot of fun to drive because my previous car was a 1994 Buick Century! I think if you keep up to date with maintenance (and don't get stuck with a lemon like some people on here must have) then you will have a great car on your hands.
The continuing evolution of Kia
Mike, 10/22/2005
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded my 2000 Kia Sephia, the worst car ever made in the history of the world, for the '04 Optima. Had decided to give Kia another shot at showing me they knew what they were doing. Excellent move - I now drive a car with styling that makes BMW and Mercedes owners turn their heads, performance is excellent, and the build quality (unlike the '00 Sephia) is exceptional. Other than having to replace the factory-original Kumho tires at 18,000 miles (Kumho - these things disintegrate early and often), I've had to do oil changes and that's it. Fantastic reliability.
Most Car For The Buck
tigerokie, 08/01/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After driving Nissans for 20 years I decided to test drive many different models. I enned up buying the Kia for several reasons. It was great looking, different and rode as good as my Father's 2004 Mercury. But even with leather and every thing I could get it was only $19000. It has the best warranty, just hope it is like my past Nissan's, never have to see the dealer again. The gas milage started off at 24mpg but has been getting better with miles. I bought a K&N filter and no it has jumped to 30 mpg. It is nice to be able to buy a nice car for under $20000. My Dad wished he had bought one and not the big Mercury.
My Car
HuntinChic79, 08/01/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only owned my Kia for about 6 months, but I love it. I have never had so much fun with a car. I'm usually a truck person, so for me to like a car is a huge compliment.
still new
RIchris, 01/13/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I only just bought my Optima a bit over a week ago but having 26 years of driving experience i think I can rate it so far. It drives very well especially on the highway. Though the 4 cylinder isn't the peppiest i've driven it's sufficient for getting up to speed in a timely manner. The interior is comfortable and easy to manage. The styling I think is what stands out most, it looks better in my opinion that most Accords and Camrys. So far so good for a comfortable new car under 20 grand.
my review
grannyRae, 08/01/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've only had this car 2 weeks, but it has been most pleasurable to drive. it has all the cajones and good looks to go with it. it feels very solid to drive. comparable to my ford, which i truly loved. With this car i don't miss her as much as i thought i would.
Decent Cheap Car
2004 Kia Optima LX, 08/11/2009
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 40k miles on it. It now has almost 105k and I haven't had any major problems with it. I have kept up on my maintenance so that probably helps. I just had to have my alignment fixed because my tires kept popping, but that was only $50. If you keep up with the maintenance this car should last you!
I'm a believer
Frank, 11/07/2005
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The steering power assist is over compensated and the steering feels almost artificial, but I will never complain about it again. I had a near miss on the freeway yesterday and my Optima maneuvered excellently. If it wasnt for its excellent maneuverability and the power of the V6, I may not have been here to write this. Most people do not believe I paid $20k for the car (with $3K cash back); most say I must have must have paid at least $25K (it's loaded, leather, abs, and power everything). Its longevity remains to be seen, but for now, Im a believer.
excellent
aorzo, 08/23/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Alot of car for the money
Best value for comfort and performance
glim, 10/03/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bid most 2-litre non-NA cars on the road
Great Car
southernmsboy , 02/18/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought a 2003 Optima. I was Newvous about buying a Kia, but not anymore. The car has been great. People are always asking me what type of car it is. When I tell that is is a Kia they are shocked. Kia has come along way since the Sephia and it shows.
good as any other car i had!
MAURICE HAMEL, 10/30/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I HAVE NOTHING BAD TO SAY ABOUT THIS VEHICLE,IT HAS BEEN A GOOD RELIABLE AUTO , I BOUGHT IT IN JAN 2004 I HAVE 26500 MILES ON IT , ITS BEEN IN BELOW ZERO WEATHER, AND VERY HOT WEATHER, AND IT PERFORMED FLAULESSLY,I GET 31 MILE PG ON HIWAY AND I LOVE THIS CAR. I HAD CHEV,CORSICA,2 LUMINAS,BUICK REGAL,CHEV VENTURA VAN,ALL NEW AND THIS CAR IS AS GOOD AS ANY OF THEM!
We get our new engine next week.
cramer, 02/05/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We've had the car for three months, three weeks and 7800 miles. So far: Two 'check engine' light issues, one moulding around the windshield issue, and one 'check engine, overheat, and oil light' issue... resolution offered by dealer is new factory assembly line engine. Est. 10 days for installation. Needless to say, we are uneasy about the overall reliability.
I lOVE THIS CAR
rvingsuz, 09/27/2009
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was the first car I have ever picked out for myself and am I ever happy with it. It handles very smoothly and is sooooo comfortable for me....fits me well. I have followed the manufacturers 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. Very fun and inexpensive to own.
My Kia review
JaimeC, 08/30/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love this car! Fun to drive, has a very big 4 cylinder. Is very responsive, and drives incrediblly smooth. Very comfortable to drive and ride, and just the right amount of interior room. Very fuel effecient, and sporty. Nice size car that will help you to zip around town with the feeling of a small car, with big room, and looks!
Love my new car at a great price
Alexis, 01/01/2005
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have loved my new Kia so far. I traded in my Galant that I absolutely loved because the insurance was too costly for it. Got this car brand new, 8 miles on it when I took it off the lot, and have slowly fallen in love with it. Would have probably loved it quicker if I hadn't been in love with my Galant that I didn't really want to get rid of but had to. Great pick up and go for a 4 cylinder car, have read the reports about it being noisy when picking up but haven't found that to be the case. Great turn radius when I get lost and have to take the U to get back on track. Would reccommend this to anyone looking for a new nice car at great price.
my kia optima
judychitt, 02/28/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
the 2004 Kia Optima is an affordable luxury mid size car. Great visibility and handling. Sleek lines and comfortable seating. The manual transmission is smooth and easy to shift and fun to drive! the extra defrost vents on the front doors are just one example of creative and useful engineering. and you can't beat the Kia warranty and customer service that Kia provides.
Great Car!
Cheryl, 02/19/2005
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just recently traded in my 2003 Kia Spectra for a 2004 4 cylinder XL car. I'm impressed with the quality Kia makes. I like having the bigger car with the same gas mileage.
My New Kia Optima
DrFate, 01/25/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My new car is extremly comfortable and it drives like a dream. I have purchased the Optima ES with the V6 and Leather trim. The interior is absolutly beautiful and filled with the ammentities of a much more expensive vehicle. For the money I could not find a better car with any better usable power or warranty. My only concern is that as of yet the mileage that is quoted I have yet to see I am only getting about 17 on the highway. But the engine is real strong and pulls away from a dead stop with ease. Thanks for letting me speak.
a money saving car
jillianramos, 09/03/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love my kia optima, it is excellent on gas and the ride is as smooth as a cadillac. and the warranty program is outstanding.
So Far, So Good
Jim, 07/03/2005
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has been a pleasant surprise. I had to trade in my wife's Eddie Bauer Explorer to save money while I went back to school. Settled on the EX- V6 since we had gotten used to all the features on the EB. It has not let me down other than a few quirky issues mentioned below, the car has been a real pleasure to drive with great power, comfort and initial quality. Anyone looking for value should give this car consideration. I got mine with all the goodies for less than 17K. However, keep in mind the resale stinks so it is a real committment. If I can put 150-200K miles on the car with minimal service I will be exstatic. So far, it looks very promising.
Optima LX
ghicks50, 02/29/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Financing was great! Thru KIA. Car has excellent style & design. I was really surprised at the performance! Pretty fast for a sedan. Overall I was very pleased with the car. KIA's have a reputation for a cheap transportation car but this is a luxury car
Optima
KIA, 11/21/2008
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Optima with about 52000 miles. Overall, it is pretty reliable and fuel economy is good, however it could be better. So far the only things I had to replace are the power steering hose, batteries and the lightbulb in the headlight. At times when I start my car, the cars stalls and takes a couple of seconds to start going.
My Kiallac
L Leal, 06/09/2008
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car it still gets good mileage and as far as road trips even my over 6ft tall basketball players don't complain about the ride or the squeeze. They laugh cause I call it my KIA-LLAC. Ride is smooth as any caddy just not as expensive. I found if you keep up your service the car will be good to you......
Awesome Car
ddynamitedorothy, 09/04/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my car and the way it handles. It is sporty to me and handles well in curves. Maybe it's not as strong in curves as a sports car. But it's just as fun. Very reliable and a comfortable drive. The features inside are just what I need. The coverage they give you is excellent.The body style is sleek and wonderful. Wish they had more choices of color interiors. But it's all gravy. Very, very satisfied with my car and will trade it in for a newer model in a year or so.
love it
ryjake03, 01/15/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i love it. i feel beautiful in it.
Kia's the Best!!!
4esterbooks, 08/26/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Never thought I would buy a foreign car. The test drive and Kia's outstanding engineering and feel brought me around. I love my car!!!!
Nice Ride!!!!!
Greg Burton, 03/05/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned my KIA Optima EX less than a week. Love the car, and can't wait to get off work to drive it home. This is my second KIA, first one being a Sephia. I was quite pleased with that vehicle, and had no trouble selling it. I decided to move up. My Optima has excellent features, and I love to look of the car. Doors have a nice solid sound when you shut them. Ride is quiet, and very comfortable. The V-6 is smooth, and quiet. My Optima is very spacious, and easy to get in, and out of. Love the hydraulic lifts on the trunk, and hood. Don't have the old fashioned arms crushing things in the trunk.
Korea's Biggest kept Secret
NCCU EAGLE, 05/05/2006
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Kia with 30k miles on it. Since I have bought the car I have driven about 13k miles without one single problem with it.
New Kia Fan
kia4life, 09/06/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car two weeks ago, I never thought I would own a Kia, but now I may never own anything else. This car is great, it has looks and performance. It has been mistaked from anything from a Mercedes to a Lincoln. I am proud to tell people it is a Kia instead. You cant beat this car, I dont even miss my Pontiac Grand Am GT.
TOPS !!!!
bonrox, 02/07/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owner a jaguar in the past. I recently purchased this Kia. It it perfect in every way. It compares much the same to the jag in hugging the road and overall comfort.I not only would not trade it for anyother make or model; but I do intend on buying another when ready.!!! Two of my very close friends have also purchase the same car after riding in mine! Great Car !!
What A Surprise
riverider, 09/06/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had drove several other cars before deciding on my Kia. It was loaded and under $20000 with the best warranty. I like it a lot, use to drive Nissan's before they got to high. I like the V6 a lot, leather was nice to. So for that kind of stuff it would cost several $1000 more to buy a less loaded car.It is easy to park and see out of it.
Beautiful!
MEmeme, 09/11/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very NICE ride! Nicer than my SUV. I LOVE to pass the gas stations in my NEW CAR!
Solid Car for the $$$
grinder, 02/09/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car! For the money I paid, I felt like I was stealing this car from the dealer!! Great warranty. Lots of power. Decent milage. Solid and (so far) reliable.
Really like the car
JsM, 09/11/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I really like my car. I bought it because of the looks and price. Went with the intention of buying basic car but ended up with extras (leather, wood trim, better stereo and heat/air system). I'm used to a four cylinder so I'm sure that makes a difference. Optima drives great (smooth, great pick- up) and gets good mileage on the highway (drove to Penn from Mass and got about 30 miles/gal). Around town not so great (about 19 miles/gal), but I sit in traffic going/coming to work. Very comfortable and roomy. Rides smooth. Very happy....
it ok
Terri, 03/23/2008
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
seem to me I steering to the right a lot on this car. Maybe caused it have Low performances tires. Also the road noise is bad ain't a really big fan of that.
Kia Optima: Optimum Protection
Optima Queen, 02/13/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Kia Optima saved my life! An elderly lady that swore she hadn't been drinking ran a red light on a major state highway. I was hit in a 50 mile-an-hour side collision(driver's side) with her Taurus wagon. The side air bag deployed and cradled my head and torso. I managed to get out of the passenger side door. Not til later did I notice that the doors were peeled outward on the driver's side from the impact. I learned that Kia constructed the door pieces so that upon front or side impact, the doors would not intrude into the safety cage. Thanks Kia! I am know looking forward to another Optima or Amanti instead of a hospital bed.