Kia Optima Hybrid 2016 Dashboard Instrument Cluster Guide
The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid’s instrument cluster functions as a key information hub, with a variety of dashboard indicators intended to communicate important information about the vehicle’s state and performance. This cluster gives the driver real-time information on anything from common indicators like the speedometer, fuel gauge, and engine temperature to specialized symbols for hybrid-specific operations. The 2016 Kia Optima Hybrid’s straightforward design makes sure that drivers can quickly understand data on energy flow, battery life, and other parameters unique to hybrid vehicles, which enhances the driving experience. In keeping with the Optima model’s hybrid characteristics, the instrument cluster is a crucial tool for keeping an eye on the car’s effectiveness and performance.
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INSTRUMENT CLUSTER
- ECO guide
- Fuel gauge
- Speedometer
- Warning and indicator lights
- LCD display
- Engine coolant temperature gauge
- State of charge gauge
❈ The actual cluster in the vehicle may differ from the illustration. For more details refer to the “Gauges” in the next pages.
Instrument Cluster Control
Adjusting Instrument Cluster Illumination
The instrument panel illumination intensity can be adjusted by pressing the control switch with the headlight switch in any position when the ignition switch is in the ON position. The illumination intensity is shown on the instrument cluster LCD display.
- 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.
- MODE button for changing modes
- OK : SELECT/RESET button for setting or resetting the selected item
- MOVE button for changing items
❈ For the LCD modes, refer to “LCD Display” in this chapter.
Gauges
Speedometer
The speedometer indicates the forward speed of the vehicle. The speedometer is calibrated in miles per hour and/or kilometres per hour.
Engine coolant temperature gauge
This gauge shows the temperature of the engine coolant when the ignition switch is ON. Do not continue driving with an overheated engine. If your vehicle overheats, refer to “If the engine overheats” in chapter 6. If the gauge pointer moves beyond the normal range area toward the “H” position, it indicates overheating that may damage the engine.
Fuel gauge
The fuel gauge indicates the approximate amount of fuel remaining in the fuel tank. The fuel tank capacity is given in chapter 8. 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 stop 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 extremely low fuel level. Running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, damaging the catalytic converter.
State of charge (SOC)
The state of charge (SOC) gauge indicates the hybrid battery’s charge level. If the SOC is near L level, the vehicle automatically operates the engine to charge the battery. However, if the service indicator and MIL(Malfunction indicator lamp) turn on when the State of Charge(SOC) is near L(Low), have your vehicle checked by an authorized Kia dealer immediately.
CAUTION
Never try to start the vehicle if the fuel tank is empty. It is impossible to charge the high-voltage battery of a hybrid system while cranking an engine without fuel. If you try to start the vehicle when the fuel tank is empty, the high-voltage battery will be discharged and could be damaged.
ECO GUIDE gauge
This is a gauge to let drivers know how efficient the current driving conditions are. The fuel efficiency is high in the green zone but is low in the red zone.
- Green zone: Good driving condition
- White zone: Average driving condition
- Red zone: Poor driving condition
Odometer
The odometer indicates the total distance the vehicle has been driven. You will also find the odometer useful to determine when periodic maintenance should be performed.
Outside temperature display
This display 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 Hg thermometer to prevent the driver from being inattentive. The temperature unit (from °C to °F or from °F to °C) can be changed by using the “User Settings” mode of the LCD display or While pressing the OFF button, press the AUTO button for 3 seconds or more. (for automatic climate control system)
❈ 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
FAQs
The instrument cluster features essential components like the speedometer, fuel gauge, engine temperature, and hybrid-specific indicators.
The energy flow indicator visually represents how power is distributed between the engine, electric motor, and battery during driving.
Yes, warning symbols may alert drivers to potential issues with the hybrid system, battery, or other components.
Depending on the model and trim, there may be limited customization options for the display settings in the instrument cluster.
Regularly glance at the instrument cluster, especially during startup, for maintenance-related information such as service reminders or alerts for routine check-ups.
The battery charge indicator displays the current charge level of the hybrid battery, allowing drivers to monitor and optimize their driving for efficiency.
The instrument cluster provides real-time information on energy flow, allowing drivers to adjust their driving habits for optimal fuel efficiency in hybrid mode.
For minor issues, for troubleshooting tips. If problems persist, seek professional assistance for a comprehensive diagnosis.
The regenerative braking indicator shows when the vehicle is using regenerative braking to capture and convert kinetic energy into electrical energy for the battery.
Depending on the model, there may be an indicator showing when the vehicle is operating in electric mode, indicating minimal or no use of the gasoline engine.
Yes, some online forums, Kia Optima Hybrid communities, and the official Kia website may provide additional insights and tips for understanding and addressing instrument cluster symbols.
Always follow safety guidelines outlined in the vehicle’s manual, and use caution when interacting with electronic components to ensure a safe process.
Depending on the model and trim, the instrument cluster may provide real-time updates about the hybrid system, including battery status and energy flow.