2003 Kia OptimaKia Optima 2003

Vehicle Details: Recalls, Fuel Economy, Emissions, Consumer Complaints, Decoded VIN Details, Service Bulletins

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Below you will find all available information on the 2003 Kia Optima, manufacturered by Hyundai-kia America Technical Center Inc (hatci).
The vehicle is described as a Front-Wheel Drive Midsize Cars 4-door sedan, hardtop.

ManufacturerKnown WMI(s)Fuel Type
Kia5XX KNA KND 5XX KND KNA Regular
City MPGHighway MPGCO2 emissions
18 - 20 MPG25 - 27 MPG386.39 - 423.19 g/mile
Kia VIN Decoder

Use the box here to look up VINs from Kia as well as other manufacturers

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Frequently Asked Questions
  • What is the MPG of a 2003 Kia Optima?
     - The 2003 Kia Optima has an EPA estimated city efficiency of 18 - 20 MPG and an estimated highway efficiency of 25 - 27 MPG.
  • What is the fuse box diagram for the 2003 Kia Optima?
     - Fuse box diagrams for the 2003 Kia Optima can be found here
  • What is the annual fuel cost for the 2003 Kia Optima?
     - EPA estimated annual fuel cost for the 2003 Kia Optima is $2450.
  • Where is the 2003 Kia Optima produced?
     - The 2003 Kia Optima is produced in Whasung Mi, South Korea.
  • Are there recalls for the 2003 Kia Optima?
     - There are 2 recall(s) for the 2003 Kia Optima, additional information is below.
NHTSA Mandated Recalls
  • Recall 84058 [USA]: Corrosion of the front subframe could lead to separation, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash.

  • Recall 35060 [USA]: Fuel spillage in the presence of an ignition source could result in a fire.

To ensure accuracy and for your safety, it is recommended to do a free VIN recall check here or here [USA] - UK - Canada.

NHTSA Submitted Mechanical & Emissions Details
  • Automatic 4-spd Front-Wheel Drive Optima

    Description Data
    Engine cylinders4
    Engine displacement in liters2.4
    TransmissionAutomatic 4-spd
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-2500
    Transmission descriptor; for information see the fueleconomy.gov details2MODE CLKUP
    Description Data
    Annual petroleum consumption in barrels for fuel type 113.5232
    City mpg for fuel type 1,19
    Combined mpg for fuel type 1,22
    Engine cylinders4
    Engine displacement in liters2.4
    Drive axle typeFront-Wheel Drive
    Annual fuel cost for fuel type 1 ($)2450
    Fuel type with fuel type 1 and fuel type 2 (if applicable)Regular
    Fuel type 1. for single fuel vehicles, this will be the only fuel. for dual fuel vehicles, this will be the conventional fuel.Regular Gasoline
    Highway mpg for fuel type 1,27
    Vehicle record id18671
    4 door luggage volume (cubic feet)13
    Model name (carline)Optima
    Has my mpg data; see yourmpgvehicle and yourmpgdrivervehicleY
    If true, this vehicle operates on a blend of gasoline and electricity in charge depleting modefalse
    4-door passenger volume (cubic feet)100
    TransmissionAutomatic 4-spd
    Unadjusted city mpg for fuel type 123.9474
    Unadjusted highway mpg for fuel type 138.4499
    EPA vehicle size classMidsize Cars
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-2500
    Transmission descriptor; for information see the fueleconomy.gov details2MODE CLKUP
    Date the vehicle record was created (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
    Date the vehicle record was last modified (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
  • Manual 5-spd Front-Wheel Drive Optima

    Description Data
    Engine cylinders4
    Engine displacement in liters2.4
    TransmissionManual 5-spd
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-2000
    Description Data
    Annual petroleum consumption in barrels for fuel type 112.9352
    City mpg for fuel type 1,20
    Combined mpg for fuel type 1,23
    Engine cylinders4
    Engine displacement in liters2.4
    Drive axle typeFront-Wheel Drive
    Annual fuel cost for fuel type 1 ($)2350
    Fuel type with fuel type 1 and fuel type 2 (if applicable)Regular
    Fuel type 1. for single fuel vehicles, this will be the only fuel. for dual fuel vehicles, this will be the conventional fuel.Regular Gasoline
    Highway mpg for fuel type 1,27
    Vehicle record id18672
    4 door luggage volume (cubic feet)13
    Model name (carline)Optima
    Has my mpg data; see yourmpgvehicle and yourmpgdrivervehicleN
    If true, this vehicle operates on a blend of gasoline and electricity in charge depleting modefalse
    4-door passenger volume (cubic feet)100
    TransmissionManual 5-spd
    Unadjusted city mpg for fuel type 125.1
    Unadjusted highway mpg for fuel type 138.4
    EPA vehicle size classMidsize Cars
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-2000
    Date the vehicle record was created (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
    Date the vehicle record was last modified (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
  • Automatic 4-spd Front-Wheel Drive Optima

    Description Data
    Engine cylinders6
    Engine displacement in liters2.7
    TransmissionAutomatic 4-spd
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-3000
    Transmission descriptor; for information see the fueleconomy.gov details2MODE CLKUP
    Description Data
    Annual petroleum consumption in barrels for fuel type 114.1671
    City mpg for fuel type 1,18
    Combined mpg for fuel type 1,21
    Engine cylinders6
    Engine displacement in liters2.7
    Drive axle typeFront-Wheel Drive
    Annual fuel cost for fuel type 1 ($)2550
    Fuel type with fuel type 1 and fuel type 2 (if applicable)Regular
    Fuel type 1. for single fuel vehicles, this will be the only fuel. for dual fuel vehicles, this will be the conventional fuel.Regular Gasoline
    Highway mpg for fuel type 1,25
    Vehicle record id18673
    4 door luggage volume (cubic feet)13
    Model name (carline)Optima
    Has my mpg data; see yourmpgvehicle and yourmpgdrivervehicleY
    If true, this vehicle operates on a blend of gasoline and electricity in charge depleting modefalse
    4-door passenger volume (cubic feet)100
    TransmissionAutomatic 4-spd
    Unadjusted city mpg for fuel type 122.449
    Unadjusted highway mpg for fuel type 134.9997
    EPA vehicle size classMidsize Cars
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-3000
    Transmission descriptor; for information see the fueleconomy.gov details2MODE CLKUP
    Date the vehicle record was created (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
    Date the vehicle record was last modified (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
  • Manual 5-spd Front-Wheel Drive Optima

    Description Data
    Engine cylinders6
    Engine displacement in liters2.7
    TransmissionManual 5-spd
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-3000
    Description Data
    Annual petroleum consumption in barrels for fuel type 114.1671
    City mpg for fuel type 1,18
    Combined mpg for fuel type 1,21
    Engine cylinders6
    Engine displacement in liters2.7
    Drive axle typeFront-Wheel Drive
    Annual fuel cost for fuel type 1 ($)2550
    Fuel type with fuel type 1 and fuel type 2 (if applicable)Regular
    Fuel type 1. for single fuel vehicles, this will be the only fuel. for dual fuel vehicles, this will be the conventional fuel.Regular Gasoline
    Highway mpg for fuel type 1,26
    Vehicle record id18674
    4 door luggage volume (cubic feet)13
    Model name (carline)Optima
    Has my mpg data; see yourmpgvehicle and yourmpgdrivervehicleN
    If true, this vehicle operates on a blend of gasoline and electricity in charge depleting modefalse
    4-door passenger volume (cubic feet)100
    TransmissionManual 5-spd
    Unadjusted city mpg for fuel type 122.6
    Unadjusted highway mpg for fuel type 135.6
    EPA vehicle size classMidsize Cars
    You save/spend over 5 years compared to an average car ($). savings are positive; a greater amount spent yields a negative number. for dual fuel vehicles, this is the cost savings for gasoline-3000
    Date the vehicle record was created (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
    Date the vehicle record was last modified (iso 8601 format)Tue Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 2013
Bulletins

Bulletins are notices put out by manufacturers in conjunction with the NHTSA to notify the public of manufacturing issues or changes.

  • TSB_BOD055_R1 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Technical service bulletin: information for headlamp condensation and moisture - this bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
  • PS443 - EQUIPMENT: Tsb - use of aftermarket usb charging cables in usb/12v ports - this article provides information regarding the use of usb ports and 12v power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
  • PS539 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING: Pitstop - engine component re-use guidelines - in general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly cleaned and transferred to the new engine.
  • TSB-GEN085R1 - EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL: Tsb: mandatory replacement of locking/security hardware - by design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various kia models and are strictly intended for ?One time use.? Some example
  • TSB-GEN085 - LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES: Tsb: mandatory replacement of locking/security hardware - by design, certain fasteners utilized in various kia models are strictly intended for ?One time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
  • TSBTRA046 - POWER TRAIN: Tsb: automatic transmission fluid application guide - this bulletin provides information relating to the correct automatic transmission fluids that are required for each kia model. Refer to the shop manual on kgis for the specific kia model
  • TSB-068 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: Kia: intermittent mil on with no fault code stored; information about dtc P1330. Provides information relating to certain vehicles. In affected vehicles an intermittent short to ground in a circuit only intended for testing purposes may c
  • TSB-044 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE: Kia: ecm upgrade with tp sensor replacement-mil on with dtc P2135/P0638. Information related to ecm software and tp sensor upgrade on some vehicles with 2.7l engines which may experience a malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illuminated with
  • TSB-026 - STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS: Kia: during a service procedure that requires the subframe to be removed from a 2001-2005 optima (ms) (v-6 or i-4), an improved service procedure has been developed to enhance service efficiency. *pe
  • KT-2008082201 - EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS: Kia: all models. Article provides information relating to the improved durability of bulb life for rear combination bulb; rear stop lamp/tail lamp bulb utilized on multiple kia models. *pe
  • 038 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: This bulletin provides information relating to an engine hesitation or the illumination of the malfunction indicator lamp (mil) for P0123 (throttle position sensor / switch (a) circuit high input). *nj
  • 035 - AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE: Supplement restraint system (srs) warning lamp illumination for B1378 and B1382. *nj
  • 023 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING: Hesitation for a short period of time after an initial cold start. Ecm reprogramming/upgrade. *tt
  • 006 - FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER: Enhanced diagnosis and repair for P0446/P2422. *tt
  • 82 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS: Improved timing belts for the kia rio and optima. *tt
  • 016 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: O2 sensor engine control module upgrade. *tt
  • 56 - VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT: Air quality system. Kia tech times. *tt
  • SC033 - EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER: Service letters to dealers and owners and questionnaire regarding air conditioning receiver-drier replacement. *tt
  • 033 - EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER: This technical service bulletin provides information on a service campaign to replace the air conditioning system receiver-driver on 2003my optima models produced from 11/14/02 through 4/16/03. *tt
  • 012 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: Optima charging system - v6 engine. *tt
  • 011 - ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE: Charging system changes to improve alternator output in high ambient temperature severe operating conditions. *tt
  • 01055 - SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY: Srs indicator on with diagnostic trouble code (dtc) 9-3 or driver's seat belt buckle replacement. *tt
NHTSA decoded information from VIN

139 Results returned successfully. NOTE: Any missing decoded values should be interpreted as NHTSA does not have data on the specific variable. Missing value should NOT be interpreted as an indication that a feature or technology is unavailable for a vehicle.

Variable Value
Air Bag Loc Front1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Body ClassSedan/Saloon
DisplacementCC2400.0
DisplacementCI146.45698582735
DisplacementL2.4
Doors4
Engine Cylinders4
Error Text0 - VIN decoded clean. Check Digit (9th position) is correct
Fuel Type PrimaryGasoline
MakeKIA
MakeID499
ManufacturerHYUNDAI-KIA AMERICA TECHNICAL CENTER INC (HATCI)
Manufacturer Id1034
ModelOptima
ModelID2739
Model Year2003
NCSA Body Type4-door sedan, hardtop
NCSA MakeKIA
NCSA ModelOptima
Plant CityWHASUNG
Plant CountrySOUTH KOREA
Seat Belts AllManual
VINKNAGD126735193195
Valve Train DesignDual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR
Most Recent Consumer Complaints and Accidents
CrashFireTowedInjuredDeathsFailure
Date
NoNoN NoneNone20191006

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 kia optima. The contact noticed that the vehicle was out of alignment. The contact took the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that an alignment could not be performed because the subframe was fractured. The contact discovered nhtsa campaign number: 09v183000(suspension). The contact called bob rohrman kia (801 sagamore pkwy s, lafayette, in 47905, 765-746-7301) and was informed that the recall repair had already been performed on the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified and stated that they could not assist since the recall repair had been completed. The vehicle had not been repaired. The failure mileage was 168,531.

NoNoN NoneNone20190723

The frame is rusted through causing the vehicle to be unsafe, though it had a recall for this exact problem and it was only inspected and not replaced. The car was initially taken to a local auto repair shop for an alignment as it pulled to the right, the shop said the frame was rusted so badly that an alignment could not be done. It was determined that a recall had been made for this vehicle. Recall #09v183000. Gurley leep kia in mishawaka, indiana was contacted and an appointment was made. The technician said the frame was rusted but kia would not repair the vehicle as the recall had already been made.

NoNoN NoneNone20171224

At 24,000 miles my vehicle started locking doors when temperatures reach 32 degrees or lower. Vehicle outside on city street or driveway. When temperatures get to 32 degrees, doors lock and do not unlock to allow access. If you are inside of car it locks you inside of car, as well as out of car. Locks unlock then lock instantly even when using key, not key fob to unlock car~ no access to enter vehicle until above 32 degrees. In case of emergency...You have no vehicle. This has happened every year when temperature gets below 32 degrees. I have reported this problem in past.Recall and fix it please!!!

NoNoN NoneNone20170615

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 kia optima. The contact stated the vehicle was taken to dulles motorcars located at 107 catoctin cir se, leesburg, va 20175, phone number: (703) 777-7077, for a routine oil change and safety inspection, there it was informed by the technician of severe corrosion and cracks in the sub frame and the vehicle was unsafe to be driven. The contact stated that the vehicle has been at the dealer for several weeks without repairs being completed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 09v183000 (suspension). The failure mileage was approximately 123,000.

NoNoN NoneNone20160828

Air bag light on dashboard is lite, for no reason! The car has less than 48k miles , never been in an accident nor hit anything . I am afraid to drive the vehicle nor have anyone in the car with me because , it's without an airbag there is no protection

NoNoN NoneNone20160428

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 kia optima. When utilizing the interior and exterior front passenger side door handles, they failed to operate properly. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 177,526.

NoNoN NoneNone20160412

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 kia optima. The contact stated that the passenger side door failed to unlock from either side of the vehicle. The failure was persistent. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact also mentioned that the same failure occurred on the driver side door prior to the failure. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was approximately 147,433.

NoNoN NoneNone20160410

Kia has issued a recall (09v183000) however it does not include the state in which i reside, but all bordering states to the east, west, and north. I'm in ky and states like oh, in, il, wv, are included. I'm having the exact issue listed in the recall however as they have selected to cover only specific states i'm left with a vehicle that is now inoperable. The sub-frame on the passenger side has rusted through and caused the tire and suspension to break free.

CrashNoN NoneNone20151121

Tl* the contact owns a 2003 kia optima. The contact stated that while driving at 20 mph, the vehicle began to swerve and drove into a ditch. A police report was not filed and no injuries were sustained. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vin was unknown. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Read and Submit Vehicle Complaints -- 59+ complaints filed
Common OBD-II Error Codes
  • P1330 [1] Incorrect function of changing the ignition advance angle - cylinder anti-knock system 5
  • P2135 [1] Throttle/Pedal Pos Sensor/Switch A / B Voltage Correlation
  • P0638 [1] Throttle Actuator Control Range/Performance (Bank 1)
  • P0123 [1] Throttle Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit High Input
  • B1378 [1] Oil Change Lamp Circuit Short To Ground
  • B1382 [1] Oil Change Reset Button Circuit Short To Battery
  • P0446 [1] Evaporative Emission Control System Vent Control Circuit Malfunction
  • P2422 [1] Evaporative Emission System Vent Valve Stuck Closed
Latest VINs Decoded for this Manufacturer
VIN Year Model Manufactured In
KNAGD1268351945032003OptimaWHASUNG , SOUTH KOREA
KNAGD1267351931952003OptimaWHASUNG , SOUTH KOREA
KNAGD1281352505732003OptimaWHASUNG , SOUTH KOREA
KNAGD126X351985702003OptimaWHASUNG , SOUTH KOREA
KNAGD1269352314622003OptimaWHASUNG , SOUTH KOREA
KNAGD128635192003OptimaWHASUNG , SOUTH KOREA
KNAGD1284352228022003OptimaWHASUNG , SOUTH KOREA

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