2016 Kia Optima Dashboard | Instrument Cluster Guide
The extensive array of warning symbols and indicators on the 2016 Kia Optima is intended to notify drivers of the status of the car. These symbols, which are tucked away inside the instrument cluster, act as visual indicators for a number of performance, safety, and maintenance-related topics. The cluster serves as an essential interface between the driver and the vehicle’s diagnostics, providing anything from warnings concerning problems with the engine to tire pressure, battery health, and indicators for airbag and traction control. It’s crucial to comprehend these warning signs in order to keep your 2016 Kia Optima operating at peak efficiency and react to possible problems quickly. This will make driving safer and more informed.
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INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
- Type A
- Type B
- Tachometer
- Speedometer
- Engine coolant temperature gauge
- Fuel gauge
- Warning and indicator lights
- LCD display
❈ The actual cluster in the vehicle may differ from the illustration. For more details, refer to the “Gauges” in this chapter.
Instrument Cluster Control
Adjusting Instrument Cluster Illumination
The brightness of the instrument panel illumination is changed by pressing the illumination control button (“+” or “-“) when the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop button is ON, or the taillights are turned on.
- If you hold the illumination control button (“+” or “-“), the brightness will be changed continuously.
- If the brightness reaches to the maximum or minimum level, an alarm will sound.
LCD Display Control
The LCD display modes can be changed by using the control buttons on the steering wheel.
[Type A]
MODE button for changing modes
OK: SELECT scroll switch for setting the selected item and RESET scroll switch for resetting items
[Type B]
- MODE button for changing modes
- OK: SELECT scroll switch for setting the selected item and RESET scroll switch for resetting items
RETURN button for moving the previous mode or item (if equipped)
❈ For the LCD modes, refer to “LCD Display” in this chapter.
Gauges
Speedometer
The speedometer indicates the speed of the vehicle and is calibrated in miles per hour (mph) and/or kilometres per hour (km/h).
Tachometer
The tachometer indicates the approximate number of engine revolutions per minute (rpm). Use the tachometer to select the correct shift points and to prevent lugging and/or over-revving the engine.
CAUTION – Red zone
Do not operate the engine within the tachometer’s RED ZONE. This may cause severe engine damage.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge
This gauge indicates the temperature of the engine coolant when the ignition switch or Engine Start/Stop button is ON. If the gauge pointer moves beyond the normal range area toward the “H” position, it indicates overheating that may damage the engine. Do not continue driving with an overheated engine. If your vehicle overheats, refer to “If the Engine Overheats” in chapter 7.
WARNING – Hot radiator
Never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The engine coolant is under pressure and could cause severe burns. Wait until the engine is cool before adding coolant to the reservoir
Fuel Gauge
This gauge indicates the approximate amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank.
✽ NOTICE
- The fuel tank capacity is given in chapter 9.
- The fuel gauge is supplemented by a low fuel warning light which will illuminate when the fuel tank is nearly empty.
- On inclines or curves, the fuel gauge pointer may fluctuate or the low fuel warning light may come on earlier than usual due to the movement of fuel in the tank.
✽ NOTICE – Fuel gauge
Running out of fuel can expose vehicle occupants to danger. You must top and obtain additional fuel as soon as possible after the warning light comes on or when the gauge indicator comes close to the “E (Empty)” level.
CAUTION – Low fuel
Avoid driving with an extremely low fuel level. Running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire damaging the catalytic converter.
✽ NOTICE
Fuel display may not be accurate if you are filling in sloping places.
Odometer
The odometer Indicates the total distance that the vehicle has been driven and should be used to determine when periodic maintenance should be performed.
- Odometer range : 0 ~ 999999 miles or kilometers.
Outside Temperature Gauge
This gauge indicates the current outside air temperatures by 1°F (1°C).
- Temperature range : -40°F ~ 140°F (-40°C ~ 60°C)
The outside temperature on the display may not change immediately like a general thermometer to prevent the driver from being distracted. To change the temperature unit (from °C to °F or from °F to °C) The temperature unit can be changed by using the “User Settings” mode of the LCD display.
❈ For more details, refer to “LCD Display” in this chapter.
Transaxle Shift Indicator
Automatic Transaxle Shift Indicator
This indicator displays which automatic transaxle shift lever is selected.
- Park: P
- Reverse: R
- Neutral: N
- Drive: D
- Sports Mode: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Dual clutch transmission shift indicator (if equipped)
This indicator displays which shift lever is selected.
- Park: P
- Reverse: R
- Neutral: N
- Drive: D
- Sports Mode: D1, D2, D3, D4, D5, D6, D7
FAQs
Warning symbols in the cluster convey important information about various aspects of the car’s performance, safety, and maintenance.
Warning symbols typically represent critical issues, while indicator lights provide information about the status of specific features like turn signals or high beams.
While some symbols are universal, specific designs and meanings can vary. Familiarize yourself with the Kia Optima’s manual to understand its unique symbols.
It’s not advisable. Warning symbols often indicate potential issues that may worsen over time. Ignoring them could lead to more significant problems or safety concerns.
Yes, warning symbols can be grouped into categories like engine issues, tire pressure, battery status, safety systems, and more.
Critical warnings are usually in red and may be accompanied by audible alerts. Minor issues are often in yellow or orange, indicating caution.
Some warnings can be reset by the driver after resolving the issue, but others may require professional diagnostics. Consult the manual for specific instructions.
Common symbols include those for engine problems, low fuel, tire pressure, ABS, airbag, and seatbelt reminders.
Yes, red symbols generally indicate critical issues requiring immediate attention, while yellow or orange symbols suggest caution.
Warning symbols typically appear in response to specific conditions, such as low fluid levels, high engine temperature, or malfunctioning safety systems.
Extreme conditions, such as very low temperatures, may trigger certain warnings related to the battery or engine. Regular maintenance helps prevent weather-related issues.
Check with your dealership for any available updates. Manufacturers may release software updates to improve system performance and accuracy.
Make it a habit to glance at the cluster regularly while driving. Some warnings may not trigger until the ignition is on, providing an opportunity for pre-driving checks.