One problem related to side/window air bag has been reported for the 2004 Kia Motor Optima. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 Kia Motor Optima based on all problems reported for the 2004 Optima.
Dashboard airbag indicator lit. Code b1378 pulled by the dealership - driverside side airbag resistance high. $1,020 to fix (replace seatback) . This car has 26,400 miles on it. Was told none of the 4 airbags will work because this one bag has failed. I understand devices fail but to design an entire safety system to deactivate because one part of it goes bad is negligent engineering. Also, factory warranties covering emission systems longer than systems responsible for bodily safety is bad policy.