Segment:
Subcompact car, aimed at budget-conscious consumers and urban dwellers.
Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic, Toyota Yaris.
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, good fuel economy, decent feature set for its class.
Target Audience:
First-time car buyers, young professionals, small families, city commuters.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, including disassembly, assembly, timing, and component testing.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, fuel tank, fuel lines, and evaporative emission control.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, cooling fans, hoses, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, and emission control components.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, fluid specifications, and clutch system.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, CV joints, axles, and differential service.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, and alignment.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, power steering pump, fluid, and steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, including discs, calipers, pads, master cylinder, ABS system, and brake fluid.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, and lighting.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior trim, doors, hinges, latches, and chassis components.
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant, and cabin filter.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelt mechanisms, and related sensors.
Preventive Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults and system malfunctions with symptom-based guides.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair.
Component Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding major components such as engines and transmissions.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing, and diagnostic codes (DTCs).
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and engine components.
Depth:
From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 Stars (for 2011 model year in general, specific tests may vary by configuration)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Brake Assist:
Optional Brake Assist System (BAS)
Airbags:
Front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point active front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters; 3-point rear seat belts.
Child Anchors:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) (Iridium type)
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years; then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W (Manual Transmission Gear Oil used in some PS systems)
Common Problems:
Potential for minor oil leaks from valve cover gasket, occasional issues with climate control blower motor, and some reports of early suspension component wear.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Tpms:
TPMS sensor battery lifespan can vary; recalibration may be needed after tire rotation.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea
Generation:
Third Generation (2011-2017) - codenamed UB
Redesign Notes:
Significant redesign from previous generation, featuring a more modern exterior and interior design, improved handling, and updated powertrains. First Kia model designed under Peter Schreyer's design leadership.
Production Plants:
Hwaseong, South Korea; Pesquería, Nuevo León, Mexico (for North American market).