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Kia Optima TF (3rd Generation)

2011–2015 · TF · sedan

Third-gen Optima was Peter Schreyer's reputation-maker for Kia design in America. Shared the YF Sonata platform and Theta II family powertrains. US lineup: 2.4L Theta II GDI (192 hp), 2.0L Theta II turbo (274 hp), and the Optima Hybrid with the 2.4L plus a 30 kW motor. Built at Kia's West Point, Georgia plant. SX trim with the 2.0T was the enthusiast pick.

Watch out: REAL ISSUE: The 2.4L and 2.0T Theta II GDI engines are at the center of Kia-Hyundai's catastrophic rod-bearing failure recalls (NHTSA campaigns 17V-224 for Kia, and follow-on engine compartment fire recalls). Multiple class-action settlements apply. VIN-check against active NHTSA campaigns is mandatory before purchase.

What your Optima takes

The parts and fluids that fit this generation. Specs we publish are confirmed against two independent sources; the rest fill in as we verify them.

  • Wiper blades24" driver · 18" passenger✓ VerifiedView
  • CoolantHyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (phosphate-based ethylene-glycol)From owner's manualShop
  • Cabin air filterParts in catalogShop
  • BatteryNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Tire sizeNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Engine oilNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Oil filterNot catalogued yetFind yours
  • Engine air filterNot catalogued yetFind yours
  • Spark plugsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Headlight bulbsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Transmission fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Tire pressureNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Key fob batteryNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Power steering fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Differential fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Serpentine beltNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake padsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Wheel fitmentNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Brake rotorsNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • ThermostatNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • A/C refrigerantNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
  • Fuel filterNot catalogued yetFind yours soon

Full clubhouse — owner Garage Lineage, common problems, year-by-year notes, and product picks — is on the build list.

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