🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

KIA

Model:

Sportage

Generation Code:

JA (First Generation)

Generation Years:

1995-2007

Vin Code:

9SK

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Target Audience:

Value-conscious buyers seeking a rugged and capable compact SUV.

Primary Competitors Era:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

Key Vehicle Features:

Body-on-frame construction (early models), available 4WD, practical interior, affordable pricing, robust chassis.

Manual Value:

Comprehensive diagnostic and repair information, saving significant costs on dealership servicing or independent mechanic fees. 'Best bang for the buck everywhere' implies it covers essential maintenance to major repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

Global Regions Covered:

All regions (North America, Europe, Asia, etc.) where the first-generation Sportage was sold.

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul procedures, disassembly, assembly, component inspection, timing belt/chain, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts.

Engine Management And Emissions:

EFI system, ignition system, sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, Crankshaft, Camshaft), actuators (injectors, coils), EGR, evaporative emissions control.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel rail, pressure regulator, fuel tank, lines.

Transmission Manual Coverage:

Disassembly, assembly, clutch system, gear selection, overhaul, maintenance.

Transmission Automatic Coverage:

Operation, torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, hydraulic control, overhaul, maintenance.

Drivetrain Axles Coverage:

Front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, transfer case (4WD models), hub bearings.

Suspension Steering Coverage:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, springs, ball joints), power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion.

Brakes Coverage:

Front and rear disc/drum brakes, hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), brake lines, calipers, master cylinder, parking brake.

Electrical System Coverage:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Body Electrical:

Power windows, power locks, mirrors, interior lighting, horn, wipers, washers, HVAC controls, instrument cluster.

Body Chassis Coverage:

Body construction, panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, bumpers, frame straightening (if applicable).

HVAC Coverage:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, refrigerant system, controls, diagnostics.

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic charts for common and uncommon symptoms, DTC code interpretation, electrical system troubleshooting.

Repair And Replacement:

Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners in engine, chassis, and drivetrain components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive, component-level wiring diagrams for all electrical systems, including harness routing.

Technical Depth:

Extremely high. Covers complete vehicle teardown, diagnosis, repair, and reassembly. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

PDF Features:

Searchable text, bookmark navigation, printable pages.

Print Quality:

Digital reproduction of original factory manuals, generally clear text and diagrams. Quality may vary slightly depending on source scan.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Common:

FE (2.0L), B2 (2.0L), G4CP (2.0L), G6AT (2.5L V6)

Engine Displacement Gas:

2.0 L (1998 cc) / 2.5 L (2493 cc) V6

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder (I4) / V-type 6-cylinder (V6)

Engine Valvetrain:

SOHC 16-valve (2.0L) / DOHC 24-valve (2.5L V6)

Horsepower 2.0L:

Approx. 128-130 hp @ 5600 rpm (varies by year/market)

Torque 2.0L:

Approx. 135-137 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (varies by year/market)

Horsepower 2.5L V6:

Approx. 160-166 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (varies by year/market)

Torque 2.5L V6:

Approx. 163-174 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (varies by year/market)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain Options:

2WD (Rear Wheel Drive) / 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) with selectable low-range gearing.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III/Mercon compatible automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 166.1 inches (4219 mm) - varies slightly by model year.

Width:

Approx. 69.3 inches (1760 mm)

Height:

Approx. 65.2 inches (1656 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.5 inches (2630 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.7 inches (195 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 3200 lbs (1450 kg) - 2WD I4

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 3800 lbs (1725 kg) - 4WD V6

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 24.3 cubic feet (688 liters)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 67.2 cubic feet (1903 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Varies by model year and testing protocols; generally mixed reviews for this era of compact SUVs. Manual likely covers any available recall or safety system updates.

Active Safety Features Common:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - optional on many trims.

Passive Safety Features Common:

Dual front airbags, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, side-impact door beams, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player or optional CD player. Aftermarket upgrades are common.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by era. ABS was an option. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.

Connectivity Options:

None from the factory. Aftermarket Bluetooth or AUX input adapters are available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. (Check manual for specific engine variants).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement I4:

Approx. 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km) depending on plug type.

Timing Belt Replacement I4:

Recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) for 2.0L engines with timing belts. Critical replacement interval.

Engine Oil Type I4:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. (Check manual for climate-specific recommendations).

Engine Oil Type V6:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. (Check manual for climate-specific recommendations).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant (e.g., a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Wear Items:

CV joints/axles, wheel bearings, exhaust system corrosion, radiator and hoses, heater core leaks, minor oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets.

Electrical Gremlins:

Intermittent issues with power windows, central locking, or instrument cluster lighting can occur over time. Manual provides diagnostic paths.

Engine Reliability:

The 2.0L engines are generally robust if maintained. The 2.5L V6 can be smooth but may be more prone to oil leaks or timing chain wear if neglected. Timing belt replacement on the 2.0L is critical to avoid catastrophic failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Motors History:

Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Known for offering reliable and value-oriented vehicles.

Sportage Generation 1 Development:

The first-generation Sportage (JA) was developed in conjunction with Mazda, utilizing a shortened Mazda Bongo platform. It aimed to compete in the growing compact SUV market with a focus on affordability and off-road capability (especially 4WD models).

Production Locations:

South Korea (primarily), assembled in various international locations for specific markets.

Production Timeline:

1993-2002 (global, with some markets extending longer, hence the 1995-2007 coverage for this manual).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Recognition:

While specific awards for the first-generation Sportage are scarce, it was recognized in its time for its affordability and utility as a compact SUV, often being lauded as a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers and families.