Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, automotive technicians, Sportage enthusiasts
Competitors 1996:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Pathfinder (early models), Ford Bronco II (discontinued but similar era), Jeep Cherokee (XJ)
Vehicle Selling Points:
Body-on-frame construction, available 4WD, compact size for urban maneuverability, utility focus
Value For Owner:
Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, diagnose issues, and tackle repairs, saving time and money.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Body, HVAC, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Emissions Control, Diagnostic Procedures, Wiring Diagrams
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, exhaust system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (M/T), automatic transmission (A/T), transfer case, drive shafts, differentials, CV joints
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (solid axle), steering linkage, power steering system
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or optional rear discs), parking brake, hydraulic system
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams for all circuits
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, frame, bumpers
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components and operation
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement
Repair:
Engine component overhaul, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, component clearances, diagnostic values
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic information and repair procedures.
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Opt:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain Options:
2WD (Rear Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four Wheel Drive - Part-time or Full-time depending on trim)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III or equivalent
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
Not extensively rated by NHTSA for this specific model year and region. Generally considered average for its class at the time.
ABS:
Optional (standard on some higher trims or later production runs)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for climate suitability)
Engine Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or III
Common Problems Engine:
Head gasket leaks, timing belt wear (critical replacement interval), occasional oil leaks from seals
Common Problems Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings due to age and off-road use
Common Problems Electrical:
Failing alternator, starter motor issues, corroded grounds, window regulator failures
Common Problems HVAC:
HVAC blower motor failure, AC compressor leaks, heater core leaks
Common Problems Drivetrain:
CV joint boot tears, differential leaks, transfer case wear (especially on 4WD models)
Kia Founding:
Founded in 1944, initially as a manufacturer of bicycle parts and steel tubing, later moving into motorcycles and commercial vehicles.
First Generation Introduction:
First generation Sportage (JA) introduced in 1993 in Korea, launched in North America for the 1995 model year.
Platform:
Built on a ladder-frame chassis, shared with the Mazda B-series pickup truck.
Production Locations:
South Korea (Asia), Ecuador (South America), possibly other locations under license.
Production Years First Gen:
1993-2002
