One of the breakthrough platforms for the South Korean automaker, to say that the Kia Optima struck a chord would be an understatement. Still, that doesn’t stop people from installing aftermarket stereos and upgrading their Optima sound system. When you need the right radio wiring help, our Kia Optima stereo wiring diagram can help.
Whether you are an experienced car stereo installer, or you just want a little more out of your Optima stereo this guide is for you. You can use this Optima wiring diagram to help you diagnose what isn’t working, and what Kia wires do what.
2000–2005 First generation Kia Optima stereo wiring guide
As one of the flagship sedans in the market segment, there’s lots of love for the Optima. Because it’s so popular there are many Optima aftermarket stereo options from you to choose from. Depending on the year of your Kia, you can choose between multiple Optima head units that can transform your ride.
When using this Optima stereo diagram, use extreme care and caution to avoid injury as well as damaging any of your Kia interior panels. Using this Kia Optima stereo wiring guide you can save a lot of money. Without having to buy a plug and play Optima stereo loom, you can do the work yourself.
Today we’ll be covering all generation Optima models. The first-generation Kia vehicle from the 2000 production year. Check below for the Optima stereo wiring schematics so that you can upgrade your Kia speakers or radio.
This wiring guide helps you quickly identify what wires do what. You won’t have to waste time by trying to track down speaker wire. Save money by using this Impala stereo wiring guide to wire up your aftermarket radio. This saves you from buying a stereo wiring harness for a true plug and play installation.
You can also use this Impala stereo wiring schematic to wire up a factory Impala stereo if need be. Perfect to bring your Chevy back to factory or OEM form, it’s easy to use once you identify what wire does what in your Impala stereo wiring.
Car Radio Battery Constant 12v+ Wire: Blue/Red
Car Radio Accessory Switched 12v+ Wire: Blue/Black
Car Radio Ground Wire: Black
Car Radio Illumination Wire: Red/Black
Car Stereo Dimmer Wire: Gray
Car Stereo Antenna Trigger Wire: Gray
When installing your new or even your factory stereo, you can always opt to tee into the ignition column for your switched power. Remember when wiring for power, to always use the right automotive relay. This will prevent the possibility of a fire, so make sure to do your homework beforehand.
Car Stereo Amp Trigger Wire: Light Green
Left Front Speaker Positive Wire (+): Black/Yellow
Left Front Speaker Negative Wire (-): Blue/Orange
Right Front Speaker Positive Wire (+): Blue/Green
Right Front Speaker Negative Wire (-): Red
Left Rear Speaker Positive Wire (+): Green/Red
Left Rear Speaker Negative Wire (-): Green/Black
Right Rear Speaker Positive Wire (+): Blue/White
Right Rear Speaker Negative Wire (-): Red/Blue
2005–2010 Second generation Kia Optima stereo wiring guide
There were many upgrades to the Optima coming out of 2004, and one of the biggest happened to be the stereo system. With the inclusion of a double-DIN head unit, an Optima stereo upgrade project became much easier. Depending on the style of your new Kia stereo, you may or may not need an Optima stereo install kit.
You will need a Chevy Impala stereo install kit. Usually this kit includes the hardware and brackets that adapt an aftermarket radio. Want to install a Chevy Impala stereo with a single DIN unit? You’ll need a factory install kit to replace the open gap in your dashboard.
Car Radio Battery Constant 12v+ Wire: Pink
Car Radio Ground Wire: Black
Car Radio Illumination Wire: Red
Car Stereo Dimmer Wire: Black
The second gen Optima does not have an easy solution for switched power here. If you are looking for the Kia Optima switched power wire, it doesn’t exist in this year range.
For this reason, you will need to tee into your steering column for switched power. As previously stated, make sure to get an automotive relay. Your car catching on fire is bad.
Car Stereo Power Antenna Trigger Wire: Green/Black
Car Stereo Amp Turn-On Trigger Wire: Yellow/Orange
When installing an Optima amplifier, you can reference our Kia Optima stereo wiring DIY guide.
Left Front Speaker Positive Wire (+): Brown
Left Front Speaker Negative Wire (-): White
Right Front Speaker Positive Wire (+): Orange
Right Front Speaker Negative Wire (-): Green
Left Rear Speaker Positive Wire (+): Black
Left Rear Speaker Negative Wire (-): Yellow
Right Rear Speaker Positive Wire (+): Blue
Right Rear Speaker Negative Wire (-): Red
2010–2015 Third generation Kia Optima stereo wiring guide
Along with steering mounted controls, the Optima stereo got a major overhaul. For those with the lower trims, the Optima double-DIN opening makes stereo upgrades far simpler.
The challenge with this particular generation of Optima is the dash. Depending on the model, you may require a Kia stereo wiring loom to help you bridge the gap. Without one, you may find yourself frustrated from the lack of control with your steering wheel or other components.
