Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, Nissan Sentra
Vehicle Strengths:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, practical interior space, straightforward mechanicals.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECM), manual transmission, automatic transmission
Chassis:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, brake system (hydraulic and mechanical), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, interior and exterior electrical components, body control modules (BCM), infotainment system wiring, power accessories
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seating, HVAC system, body repair, paint codes
Emission Control:
EGR system, catalytic converter, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair and replacement
Installation:
Component replacement procedures, accessory installation guidance
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners (engine, suspension, brakes, wheels).
Wheel Alignment Specs:
Includes specifications for camber, caster, and toe for front and rear suspension.
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic maintenance and fluid specifications to complex diagnostics, component rebuilds, and wiring diagrams.
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes comprehensive electrical system wiring diagrams for all major components and circuits.
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Specifies use of OBD-II scanner for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and potential use of specific Kia diagnostic software/hardware for advanced troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Extensive troubleshooting flowcharts based on symptoms.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (F4A42)
Automatic Modes:
Lock-up torque converter for improved efficiency
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Automatic Fluid Type:
SP III ATF (DEXRON III compatible for older specs, but SP III preferred)
Wheelbase:
102.4 inches (2601 mm)
Length:
174.0 inches (4420 mm) (Sedan)
Width:
67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
55.1 inches (1400 mm) (Sedan)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 92-96 cubic feet
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 12-14 cubic feet (Sedan)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700-2850 lbs (1225-1293 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 3800-3900 lbs (1724-1769 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 stars (for some configurations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 stars (for some configurations)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good (depending on specific testing and equipment)
ABS:
Available, typically optional on lower trims
Traction Control:
Rarely equipped on this model year
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard; side airbags optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pretensioners for front seats
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional cassette player. Basic speaker setup (4-6 speakers).
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on higher trims.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims
Aux Input:
Not typically standard; aftermarket solutions may exist.
Feature:
Available on higher trims
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (iridium type recommended if applicable).
Timing Belt Replacement:
105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or SN, ILSAC GF-4 or GF-5, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 U.S. quarts (3.8 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, Asian vehicle specific (e.g., Asian pink or red HOAT) - capacity approx. 7.0 U.S. quarts (6.6 liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
CV joint wear, radiator leaks, transmission solenoid issues (automatic), door lock actuator failure, occasional ABS sensor faults, timing belt tensioner noise.
Typical Repairs:
Replacement of CV axles, radiator, alternator, starter motor, fuel pump. Due to age, rubber components (hoses, bushings) may require attention.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea
First Generation Launch:
Introduced as a 2001 model (globally as Kia Spectra, in some markets as Kia Sephia/Spectra).
Facelift Year:
The 2004 model year saw a significant facelift, this 2003 model represents the pre-facelift design.
Production Years:
2000-2009 (globally)
Assembly Locations:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea; Vsevolozhsk, Russia (for Russian market)
