Kia Optima: Maintenance / Fuses

A vehicle’s electrical system is protected from electrical overload damage by fuses.

This vehicle has 2 (or 3) fuse panels, one located in the driver’s side panel bolster, the other in the engine compartment near the battery.

If any of your vehicle’s lights, accessories, or controls do not work, check the appropriate circuit fuse. If a fuse has blown, the element inside the fuse will melt.

If the electrical system does not work, first check the driver’s side fuse panel.

If the replacement fuse blows, this indicates an electrical problem. Avoid using the system involved and immediately consult an authorized Kia dealer.

Three kinds of fuses are used: blade type for lower amperage rating, cartridge type, and multi fuse for higher amperage ratings.

WARNING - Fuse replacement

• Never replace a fuse with anything but another fuse of the same rating.
• A higher capacity fuse could cause damage and possibly a fire.
• Never install a wire or aluminum foil instead of the proper fuse - even as a temporary repair. It may cause extensive wiring damage and a possible fire.
• Do not arbitrarily modify or add-on electric wiring to the vehicle.

CAUTION

Do not use a screwdriver or any other metal object to remove fuses because it may cause a short circuit and damage the system.

✽ NOTICE

• When replacing a fuse, turn the ignition “OFF” and turn off switches of all electrical devices then remove battery (-) terminal.
• The actual fuse/relay panel label may differ from equipped items.

WARNING - Electrical Fire

Always ensure replacements fuses and relays are securely fastened when installed. Failure to do so can result in a vehicle fire.

CAUTION

• When replacing a blown fuse or relay, make sure the new fuse or relay fits tightly into the clips. Failure to tightly install the fuse or relay may cause damage to the wiring and electric systems.
• Do not remove fuses, relays and terminals fastened with bolts or nuts.The fuses, relays and terminals may not be fastened correctly which may cause vehicle damage.

CAUTION

• Do not input any other objects except fuses or relays into fuse/relay terminals such as a screwdriver or wiring. It may cause contact failure and system malfunction.
• Do not plug in screwdrivers or aftermarket wiring into the terminal originally designed for fuse and relays only. The electrical system and wiring of the vehicle interior may be damaged or burned due to contact failure.
• If you directly connect the wire on the taillight or replace the bulb which is over the regulated capacity to install trailers etc., the inner junction block can get burned.

CAUTION

Visually inspect the battery cap to ensure it is securely closed. If the battery cap is not securely closed, moisture may enter the system and damage the electrical components.

WARNING - Electrical wiring repairs

All electrical repairs should be performed by authorized Kia dealerships using approved Kia parts. Using other wiring components, especially when retrofitting AVN or theft alarm system, remote engine control, car phone or radio may cause vehicle damage and increase the risk of a vehicle fire.

✽ NOTICE - Remodeling Prohibited

Do not rewire your vehicle in any way as doing so may affect the performance of several safety features in your vehicle. Rewiring your vehicle may also void your warranty and cause you to be responsible for any subsequent vehicle damage which may result.

✽ NOTICE - Window tinting precaution

Window tint (especially metallic film) might cause communication errors or poor radio reception, and malfunctioning automatic lighting system due to reflections from the mirror tint inside the vehicle. The solution used might also leak into the electronic components, causing malfunctions or damage.

• Inner panel fuse replacement
• Engine compartment fuse replacement
• Fuse/relay panel description