Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sedan / Hatchback
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, practical commuters
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, practical features, decent reliability
Manual Value:
Essential for DIY maintenance and repairs, maximizing vehicle lifespan and minimizing repair costs.
Engine Code:
G4GC (Beta II)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Horsepower Approx:
138 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Approx:
133 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Induction:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 93.5 mm (approx.)
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (approx.)
Timing Belt Interval Recommendation:
Refer to maintenance schedule, typically 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Critical component.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
4 Stars (Front Passenger)
ABS:
Optional or Standard depending on trim
Traction Control:
Not commonly equipped
Airbags Front:
Standard (Driver and Passenger)
Airbags Side Impact:
Optional or Not Available depending on trim
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear, with pretensioners
Audio System:
AM/FM CD player with optional MP3 capability, speaker configurations vary by trim.
Connectivity:
Auxiliary input (on some models), standard speaker setup.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trims
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trims
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or as needed based on conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles (19,000 - 24,000 km) or annually.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate/usage recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.3 US quarts (4.1 Liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent MERCON/Dexron III compatible fluid)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., HOAT type)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problem 1:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced at recommended intervals). Leads to severe engine damage.
Common Problem 2:
Catalytic converter inefficiency or failure.
Common Problem 3:
ABS system issues (wheel speed sensors, ABS module).
Common Problem 4:
Power steering pump leaks or noise.
Common Problem 5:
Rear suspension component wear (bushings, shocks).
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation
Generation Codes:
First Gen (SD, 2001-2004), Second Gen (LD, 2004-2009)
Spectras Positioning:
Spectra was Kia's entry-level compact, designed as a budget-friendly and practical option.
Production Years:
2004-2009 (LD Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (Donghee Plant)
