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Used 2004 Kia Optima Consumer Reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
162 reviews

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3.38 out of 5 stars

Bad Car to purchase

fireman33, 08/08/2011
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
18 of 19 people found this review helpful

I have read alot of reviews on this car and some are good and some are bad. The ones that are good i hope it keeps going good for you. Well i have an 04 kia optima and I thought it was going to be a good car. I thought wrong , I have had nothing but problems with it since i got it. I have had it for a year and a half and bought it with 78k on it and now it has 99k on it. I have had the timing belt replaced along with the crank sensor, the cluthch has been replaced in it , 4 new tires put on it and thats because the control are was bent and it had to be replaced, it had had the fuel pump replace twice and the fuel pump assembly replace twice and its in the shop right now getting that done.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great reliable car, awesome gas mileage, low maint

Carrie, 09/08/2015
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
17 of 18 people found this review helpful

I bought a 2004 used Kia Optima LX 4cy, front wheel drive, back in 2006 or 2007. It had 47k miles on it. This car was bought from a reputable dealership, one owner, and the cost was about $10,000 dollars. It had air conditioning, powered windows and locks, cd player and radio, powered mirrors, and rear folding seats, with a console to pull down in the back for 2 cup holders. And 2 cup holders in the front. It was awesome on gas. Very reliable (if you take good care of it). Change your belts and pulleys when needed or at 60,000 miles! You have 2 belts. One for power steering and ac and the other is something else. Since it is the sister car to Hyundai, the parts between the 2 are interchangeable. Only issue I had was electrical problems when I hit over 100,000 miles. But it was 10 or 11 years old when I got rid of it. Also, if there are heavy rains or big puddles, your belts will squeal, no harm though. Brakes are good. When it breaks down, might be a little more expensive to repair because it's not american, but you don't have to take it to a special dealership or anything to fix it. Plenty of places will fix them. CONS: During the winter it handles about as well as any front wheel drive, but it sits a little lower to the ground. Electrical issues I had at 100k miles was the horn blaring at random times, and radio being funny. My LX 4 cyl, didn't have heated or cooled seats, sunroof, gps, or blue tooth. But had cigarette outlet and outlet for gps or whatever. Not good for very tall people. My 6ft 7 ex husband had a hard time getting in and out, and leg room problems. It's a good car for short or shorter people. According to my husband at the time, he said it had a 15 or 20 gallon tank. I got about 25-32 mpg. Take good care of it and it will take good care of you. Only cars I will drive are chevy and Kia's.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.25 out of 5 stars

Overall Good Car

Anthony J., 10/26/2010
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

Purchased car in 2005 when we had addition to our family. Looked at Altima, Malibu, Impala & Accord but they were more than we were willing to pay. Some how ended up on Kia lot and that's where the story begins. Took car for test drive:nice interior, sunroof, good power, auto-stick. I was really surprised. I haven't had a single problem with it since I've owned the car besides getting a new battery and routine maintanence. The paint job, however, isn't to good. Car doesn't hold its value.

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5 out of 5 stars

My best decision

Suhail Sood, 08/26/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I bought it used with 67,948 miles on it. Replaced transmission fluid and stock Infinity stereo with pioneer DEH- 2200UB and boom it sounds great with stock speakers and tweeters. Engine goes silent after 5 minutes of drive. I get about 23-27 mpg on regular commute. My Optima has California state emissions and don't have to worry about timing belt change until 105,000 miles Last time it averaged 30 mpg on my way to philadelphia from pittsburgh, 356 miles on a v6 and 30 mpg, what more do you want?

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4.25 out of 5 stars

3 years with this car

illnino, 09/14/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful

When i first got it, i wasn't sure at first on getting a KIA, it wasn't my dream car. I had it for 3 years now and ive seen some of the reviews. It CAN be true when it comes to breaking down..but the fact is, its only for some people that could just get to point A to Point B. I only had trouble TWICE within 3 years of having it. I'm very patient when it comes to driving, slowing down, and i always do my oil/transmission/ and tune ups on time. I recommend ONLY for slow patient drivers, its a long lasting vehicle

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4.63 out of 5 stars

My first car

ameagle177, 09/27/2011
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful

I bought this car two years ago as my first car, i got it for 400 bucks all smashed up. i fixed it at 75k miles and ive had no problems at all except crank sensor and belt squeak. I drive it pretty rough, but i perform all needed routine maintenance. it now has 86k miles and has served me well.

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4 out of 5 stars

2004 KIA Optima V6 Owned for almost 7 years

brandvegn, 07/02/2017
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Originally purchased from auction in 2010 for 2,500 USD with 125K. I did a CarFax check and it was a former rental, which can be a problem, and was owned by a private owner for less than a year after it was part of a fleet. Belt squeak and no air conditioning when I bought it, I knew it was a gamble. That gamble paid off. V6 is the preferred version of the Optima. The 4 cylinder had numerous problems. Bought a cheap can of R134A. Air conditioning done. Belt squeak stopped mid-trip home from the auction. Spark plugs replaced and fluid change in 2010. Spark plugs and all hoses changed in 2014 as well by mechanic before driving to a new home in Florida from Alabama. Car drove like a dream until probably 2016. Mid-2015, the CV Boots finally leaked and there is creaking as I drive. I have purchased both axles and struts and shocks. Brake changes 3 times since purchased. Compressor leaked out refrigerant 3 weeks ago. From my receipts, I have paid about 2300 USD in parts and labor for the last 7 years including oil changes. All work except for the checkup before my move were done by me. 191K on the engine. Rear windows stopped rolling down in 2015. No need to fix. They roll up fine once down, but I use this primarily for commute. Interior issues, none. Seals still intact and no air leaks. No tears in cloth upholstery from wear or other issues. I keep the interior clean and do a deep clean about 1-2 times a year. Steering, Braking and Acceleration are great. Only issue is timing for low gear to high. There is a small amount of lag when shifting into low gears sometimes, but the pickup is great. Exterior looks good. Door handles and door trim are plastic and the paint has chipped off as time has gone by. This is not a big issue, but it effects the uniformity of the exterior, but it is a 13 year old car, so I can't complain. Overall, a great purchase. About 685 per year outside of gasoline for purchase and maintenance. I am satisfied and this is a good, solid used car for everyday commutes.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
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2.5 out of 5 stars

Should have got a honda

frankl1955, 08/09/2009
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

Well its been almost 5 yrs and only 34k mi. For the most part the car has been ok, but there is a troubling problem with rust. If you live in a salt state like Ohio, do not buy this car. The 2004 and earlier optima has a bad under body rust problem which includes the sub frame. Things like metal brake disc shields have already rusted off and most hardware like hose clamps and other hardware in the rear are about gone. None of this is covered under their warranty. The drive train may last 10 years, but much of the underneath won’t be there.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Paid for and loving it!

angron, 10/24/2003
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

We were going to buy a Kia Rio, but when we saw the Optima, my wife just had to have it. And we lucked out cause the 2004 Optima we bought arrived just the night before. What a bargain!!! For the price difference we definitely made a move up (in size, power and comfort) and we did it without having to fork out the extra 7,000 for a comparable Toyota or Nissan.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Stylish but electrical night mare

Happy but nervous.., 02/23/2010
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

I bought this car at a reasonable price. The Interior and Exterior are both in great condition and I love the way it rides and all the bells and whistles. BUT, the power locks LOCKED ME IN MY CAR!!!! I can't lock the doors with the switch inside I must ride with the car unlocked. Not a good selling point. Otherwise I love it but who wants to climb out of the passanger side????? This is a major issue that I'm hoping won't cost very much to fix.! KIA please note this problem so future owners won't go through this not to mention how dangerous being locked in your car COULD BE!

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3.25 out of 5 stars

Meh...just a basic car

shannonm1, 06/05/2012
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful

This car is very reliable, but no fun. The style is very bland inside and out, there is no power behind acceleration, the V6 guzzles gas like an SUV or truck would. I owned a little 4 cylinder Hyundai Elantra before this car, and I really miss it. I went from filling the gas tank every 2 weeks to filling it every week now. This car is like a tank, heavy, safe, reliable, I would take it anywhere, but have no fun getting there. I just don't like the way it handles. I got this car with 75,000 miles on it, so I'm probably stuck with it for awhile. It hasn't broken down on me yet.

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5 out of 5 stars

Kia Optima Best Value

the cajun, 08/20/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful

After dealer discounts and Kia incentives I drove off in an automobile with power everything for under $15,000. The Pearl White paint alone is turning heads, not to mention the futuristically designed interior. I would have paid over $20,000 for this much car from another manufacturer. Thanks, Kia.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Great car for the price

a good one, 09/13/2010
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought this car new six years ago. The only thing I've had to replace are the tires and the battery. I think this car is an excellent value. Just had the 60,000 mile service. It's running great and I plan to keep it until the warranty expires in 37,000 miles.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Kia Girl

Angel Kia, 11/19/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Ok so this is my second kia and my second car my first one was 1998 Kia sportage. This was a huge upgrade for me. I haven't experienced any problems just yet other than car kinda sound like its having trouble starting, but once it does it runs beautiful. I love my car its so nice and shiny!

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4 out of 5 stars

Best car I've ever owned

1Canuck, 06/04/2009
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Bought this car in 2006 with 18K miles, now (2009) just went over 70K miles. Hands-down the best car I've ever owned. I track gas mileage every fill-up and have averaged 27mpg combined city/hwy driving. Car has been very reliable though I did make sure to preemptively change my timing belt at 50K miles just to be safe! Car is comfortable, handles great, very strong for a 4cyl and looks great. Would definitely buy another Optima without hesitation!

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3 out of 5 stars

It's No Honda Accord

Eric, 10/19/2018
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I got this car a couple weeks after a tree fell on my 2005 Honda Accord, crushing the roof and totaling the car. When I did purchase this Kia, it turned out to be a lemon, but I managed to get the problems fixed. The car did its best to show me it can be a dependable car, but it also showed me it was an old Kia. The Optima's Mitsubishi motor was loud, but slow, the suspension was responsive, but soft, and the doors love to lock themselves whenever I get out of the car and my hand is nowhere near the lock switch. Whoever replaced the left headlight did a terrible job at it, as the lens is cracked and the brackets are completely broken, so they drilled a carpenter screw on the rubber seal and into the bumper, so it would "stay" on the car - I didn't find this out until recently (and I had this car for over a year), when I was replacing the low-beam bulbs and removing the headlights is the best way to get to the bulbs' retainer springs (the bulbs don't twist off). I would only recommend getting this car if you're needing a budget car and you cannot find a Honda or Toyota in your area - just be aware you're likely to have problems sooner or later, if not present.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
2 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
3 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

One Great 2004 Optima

Tony Campos, USMC, 01/21/2023
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

There is nothing I dislike about my 2004 Optima. Bought the car new in 2004, and I am still driving it. She just turned 544K, same engine, and still going strong. Of course, you need to keep up with the normal maintenance. So far I have replaced the timing belt every 80K, changed the trans oil every 30K, change the engine oil every 3K. I have replaced the fuel pump once, 2 break jobs, 6 sets of tires, a few headlight bulbs, one trans axle and one transmission. Not bad for a Kia Optima. I love her to death!!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Nice family sedan

ol luke, 02/14/2006
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This car is a nice car for the money. It has the optional "sportamatic" auto- clutch transmission. I wish it wouldn't kick down automatically. The cloth seats are comfortable, and it rides like a Cadillac. Has as many features as our 1995 Maxima - minus the leather and climate control (Maxima bought used for $12,000, Kia bought new for $14,000.). Great Honda or Toyota alternative. Give Kia a try!

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5 out of 5 stars

Gave up Dodge for KIA

Slvrshark, 09/13/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Optima: Great price, package, and jaw drops our friends who have paid so much for their cars! It redefined the future path of KIA where it is an accepted name for a more mature owner tired of paying the big bucks for the same package Optima EX offers: We are a family that purchased new vehciles such as a loaded Chrystler Town N Country, loaded Dodge Durango, and Ford King Ranch.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

GAS MPG

analyzerlx, 10/02/2006
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The odometer reads 34,400 so far and going strong. I commute pretty often now and I've been going from Georgia to Maryland, VA or NC. I recently checked my MPGs and was pretty happy to see it is around 32.4 MPG. I think that's great since the EPA highway is only supposed to be 27. The car has a few mysterious dings. Other than that it has been a very comfortable ride. I believe it should reach 100,000 with no problem. I plan on fixing the timing chain at 60,000 and will see if I have a problem after that.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Kia owner for life

David Hatch, 06/03/2008
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This is the second Kia I've purchased - first was an '02 Sedona EX that has been so solid, my ex-wife fought for (and got it) in the divorce. I paid around 12K brand new as an '04 left over and have had very few problems. So far after 80K miles all I've done is oil changes, new brake pads, and two new tires (one a side wall puncture). Have not had to used the warranty on this one, but had to in the past on the Sedona (power window, rear wiper motor) and had no hassles in invoking the warranty. Great commuter car that also offers pleanty of interior room. My next car will also be a Kia, but by the way this one's going, that doesn't look like I'll be getting a new one for a while!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

New Car at a great price

BC Baker, 02/18/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

My wife and I have been looking for a new car for about 5 months. When I first went to the car lots to find a new car I had sticker shock. I couldn't see why cars should cost so much. One day we decided to take a drive to Pocatello Idaho and see what the new Kia's Looked like. They are a very stylish car. The front end kinda looks like a BMW . We test drove the car and I just fell in love with it. Yeah it don't have ABS brakes on it but you know ABS brakes wheren't always around. For the price of the Car we got a really good deal and they are going to stand behind it with a 100,000 thousand mile waranty.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

2004 Kia Optima Great Car

Cptterry, 03/29/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Bought this car new! Have had no major problems at all. Key to any car performing to your expectations..... Maintenance, follow the schedule. I have replaced tires once at 60 K along with timing belt with required maintenance. Oil and filter EVERY 3,000 miles. 2 head lamp builds an 1 set of brake pads ( Front ) I will buy another Kia again! I worked for a GM dealer for 21 years .. thought we built great cars..... NOT!

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Kia Optima

Darvin, 03/19/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

The KIA is an excellent Car for the money. The warranty is exceptional. I would recomend the KIA for the money, quiet comfortable interior with a smooth quiet ride. Excellent fit and finish with style on the exterior.

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5 out of 5 stars

I'm a KIA lover now!

Tess68, 05/31/2008
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

My car just hit 68,000, besides a few dings (by others!) I have had no problems, just the rotors replaced. This has been a dependable family car, I drive 20 miles to work everyday through snow, ice, rain, and nice days without a problem. I am a very nervous person on the road in the Winter and this car has been great to me! Starting to make some rattles, and steering shake, I am praying this won't be a problem. I hear after 40-50,000 KIA'S are having problems. Anybody out there have any as of yet with this year?

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4.13 out of 5 stars

Kia Magentis 2004 Model

alfybio, 09/02/2011
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I have found this car great value for my almost meagre spend on it. The car starts effortlessly, almost before the ignition is turned, it's silent, and just purrs when running. In motion it is very stable, and appears to bounce when it hits a bump.

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3.88 out of 5 stars

The headlamps

The Captain, 08/21/2008
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

The 2004 Optima has an issue with the headlamp lenses. It is sort of a cataract on the lens itself. After a while you will not pass an inspection As I found out and too late they refused to warranty this item since it is there problem, the dealer strung me along to come back and replaced light bulbs. SO that I would have to pay for new lamps Check your Kias and get it done before the warranty is out. I Like the Kia , but do to the poor quality of service networks I will trade for a better brand name next time.

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5 out of 5 stars

she's real pretty

jo beadling, 07/26/2004
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

i needed something that got good gas mileage.i now get 425 miles on a tank.that's mostly back roads and some highway.

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2 out of 5 stars

Oops, I lost in the used car game

nbafreak2007, 06/24/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

I bought this car in the summer of 09 with 63k miles. I had i checked out and all was well. That was the only thing that has gone right with the car. It is a money pit, I have had to replace the Clutch, flywheel, pressure plate etc along with the timing belt and water pump, and now the driver's side door will not unlock itself. This may be the worst car I have ever purchased I have invested more than 2500 in a car worth only 3000. I will never by a Kia or a Hyundai again and would recommend that no one else buy one either.

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4 out of 5 stars

Kia Optima EX V6

Nauman, 04/13/2004
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful

Great driving car with alot of extras for the money. Would like to have a little better gas mileage.

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Kia Optima

jamesgw, 09/27/2003
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

Have had no problems..only service has been oil changes

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1 out of 5 stars

Worst car of my life

Richard, 08/29/2017
updated 06/14/2021
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 5 people found this review helpful

The 2004 Kia Optima is a very poorly constructed vehicle and buying this car was a very regrettable choice. It was my first Kia and definitely the last! Edmunds was listing this car as "excellent." Where these "raving" reviews come from are a mystery; whoever is providing the information making the 2004 Kia Optima look so good, in my opinion, is absolutely lying through their teeth with inaccurate information. Believe me, nothing is good about this car, except maybe it looks "pretty." My 2004 Kia Optima has given me nothing but problems from the day I purchased it and drove it home. I had it for almost one year and nine months. Maintaining it was constant 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 breaks consistently. When jacking up the car, the frame will actually bend. I put at too much of my hard earned money into keeping this lemon on the road. Finally, enough was enough & sold this poor excuse for a car for a huge loss. But the beauty of my sad story is this "nightmare" is finally out of my hair. I will never drive another Kia again, even if it is given to me for free. I feel sorry for those who invest a large amount of money into buying a new Kia. Do not buy a Kia! ***Update 6/12/2021:*** Still remember that lemon! The problem was I bought it from some shyster who picks up cheap junk at auctions and dolls them up to resell for a profit. This kia must have been on its last leg and run down to the ground with the previous owner. Unlucky for me to run into this pos letting it fall into my lap being an impulsive buyer. Because of this, I will never buy another Kia again!

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
1 out of 5 stars
Interior
2 out of 5 stars
Comfort
2 out of 5 stars
Reliability
1 out of 5 stars
Value
1 out of 5 stars
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4.88 out of 5 stars

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.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

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.

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1.75 out of 5 stars

Will never buy a Kia again

Carmen, 12/09/2009
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought this vehicle 3 years ago and I've had nothing but problems. Kia's 100,000 mile warranty only applies if you are the original owner which is dumb. I see why the warranty expires at 100,000 mile because that's when all the problems begin. I always keep up with the maintenance because this is my only transportation to work, so I make it a point to take good care of it; but even then it seems like everything is going wrong with it. I absolutely hate it!

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1.38 out of 5 stars

HORRIBLE piece of junk

David, 01/10/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Have had my Kia for about 2 years. Constant trouble. Timing belt, pully, power steering, and now the computer is out. Guess I will have to sell it on ebay for a few hundred bucks.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

The optima is a race machine

Jamie, 06/14/2008
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

It is a awesome car, but minor problems are going wrong. I commute 65 miles a day. great gas mileage nice and comfortable. The only problem is , is that my trunk latch broke the other day. Now today my front door on the drivers side wouldn't open from the inside and out. It is a fixable problem. The only thing is I look like a retard going in and out of my car just to drive. I now have a paranoia that the other door will go. Or that my key will break!!!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Try Anything Once!

E.D.B., 11/08/2003
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I find that the accutaments included in this vehicle as standard equipment are far more than what seems to be available in any other offering I have run across. I really cannot comment on the gas milage, except to say that I don't believe it will be as high as the published estimates of 32/33mpg city/highway. Overall, this vehicle seems to be an exceptional value.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

Reliable Kia Optima LX sedan 4cyl(1.8L)

1st Time Kia, 01/27/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

purchased in '05 w/approx. 11k mi. Driven to Den.,CO & back. Not alot of torque for hills,but nice speed. Man/Auto Trans(nice for accel). Pwr steering defective twice. just hit 97k mi. needed Timing belt. Doesn't brake good on quick stop;will slide. Quarter panel dents easy a little. Paint around doorkey fades & driver doorlock played out in the rain 3 days ago. No real complaints. Has good features(pwr lock,cd,compartment/storage,cruise, starter safety(kill)switch,trunk square (space). Takes about $60 to fill @$3 p/gal. OK mileage. Maintain w/svc every 3k mi. & no problem. Oh,it jus start shaking, maybe coil- pack/misfire. Jus fixed timing,hope shop did its job & check for underlying cause!

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4.38 out of 5 stars

'04 EX V6 Optima

Matt Tyndall, 04/30/2005
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I've had the car for 5 months and have thoroughly enjoyed it. Its only shortcomings are sup-par fuel mileage and raw acceleration. Everything else has exceeded my expectations. The car appears to be solidly built and hasn't burned a lick of oil for the first 10K miles.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

my car

shara, 11/09/2003
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I am a fan of economic dependability. I am very pleased with this car.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

optima reiview

kia opt, 02/05/2010
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

A good car overall and bang for you buck. I had some minor issues which the dealer took care and did not had to pay. The car has been very reliable however do notice a jurk from trans once in a while if I don't change the trans oil every year. Expensive to maintian the car because of parts and labour is costly. The handling is decent but the tires could have been bigger. Ride quality is excellent and comfy. The v6 engine is outstanding when exceling. Interior built quality could be more durable. But I am not complaining as I have 125K miles and the car is going strong.

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5 out of 5 stars

KIA OPTIMA EX

BILL SIMPSON, 11/13/2003
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I JUST BOUGHT THE CAR ,IT IS FUN TO DRIVE GOOD ON THE ROAD ,POWER SEEMS TO BE GOOD,THE PANEL IS GOOD EASY TO VIEW,GAS MILEAGE SEEMS OK .

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4.5 out of 5 stars

Good Value

Ant, 01/23/2008
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I didn't think that Kia would have a good car, but the Optima proved me wrong on the test drive. My 04 V6 has a good amount of power and the style of it makes it look like it might have cost a lot.

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5 out of 5 stars

AWESOME CAR

BUDMAN87, 05/16/2005
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I just love my car.If you buy the EX V- 6 leather interior you will hard pressed to tell it from a 30,000+ dollar luxury car.

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4.25 out of 5 stars

2004 optima

aqeelz, 11/23/2003
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

just got a 2004 optima after driving a 2000 sephia for three years it is qutie a improvement power,confornt,control,

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5 out of 5 stars

Katie Kia

la7bird, 12/02/2003
2004 Kia Optima LX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I love this car! I travel significantly in this comfortable, fuel efficient car. It looks professional and much more expense for an economy car.

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3.5 out of 5 stars

Be careful

Jaymarie, 08/04/2009
2004 Kia Optima LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I loved the car when I first got it, but I had so many little issues with it. First, I believe i replaced the head lights about 17 times, its OK on gas but now that the Car is 5 I have lots of rust the paint is going on it, the power steering has given me so many problems, and to get it replaced the cost is unreasonable for a vehicle that is suppose to be a good investment for your money... You pay for it in the end. I am looking for another car.

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4.63 out of 5 stars

kia works great

jjfromatlanta, 11/22/2003
2004 Kia Optima EX V6 4dr Sedan (2.7L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

i bought this car because i commute 250 miles a day and wanted something with a warranty that would last the longest. the car is very comfortable and and good highway cruiser. it's got the necessary power when i need it. i just wish it got a little better gas mileage. other than that i think its a very nice car. i've had the car for 6 months and have put over 26k miles so far with no problems!

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Great car BUT.........

Chris Bell, 07/26/2009
2004 Kia Optima EX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I bought an 04' Kia Optima EX 4 cyl. from a used car dealer in August of last year. This a GREAT car! I've been told it looks like from far away a Jag so I call it my Kia-Jag. Interior is great, power everything,leather, fog lights, wood grain, 6 speaker Infinity Sound system with a sunroof but I dont like the gas mileage. For a Kia I was thinking it was gonna be better but I should have done more research. 17/ city 23/highway was not what I was looking for, but hey you get what you pay for. Hope this was helpful

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