🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Clarus / Credos

Generation:

First Generation

Product Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Model Codes:

KMA (Clarus), DA (Credos - some markets)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Kia owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.

Value Proposition:

Cost savings on repairs and maintenance by empowering users with comprehensive service information.

Manual Advantage:

Provides a singular, comprehensive resource for all service needs, eliminating the need for multiple specialized manuals.

Feature 1:

Instant download and email delivery for immediate access.

Feature 2:

User-friendly, step-by-step instructions with pictures.

Feature 3:

Lifetime ownership of the downloaded manual.

Feature 4:

Broad coverage of all models, engines, trims, and transmissions for the specified years.

Feature 5:

Customer satisfaction guarantee.

📋 Manual Details

Years Covered:

1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Models Covered:

All Clarus and Credos variants, including all engines, trim levels, and transmission types.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (specific number not provided, but stated as 'Complete' and 'A-Z')

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

Downloadable PDF

Accessibility:

Viewable on PC, MAC, tablets, smartphones

Software Requirement:

Adobe Reader (free download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling system, fuel injection.

Engine Performance:

Engine tuning, performance diagnostics, emission control systems.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, internal components, shift linkage.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, valve body, torque converter, electronic controls, fluid and filter service.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive system, drive shafts, CV joints, differential.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake lines, master cylinder, power booster, parking brake.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering rack, power steering system.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system, fuse box, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, interior trim, body repair, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnostics and repair, refrigerant handling.

Body Control Modules:

Power windows, central locking, remote keyless entry systems.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

System-wide troubleshooting guides, common faults, diagnostic flowcharts.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacements.

Repair Overhaul:

Complete disassembly and reassembly of major components, including engine, transmission, suspension, and brakes.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues.

Diagnostics:

Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting, ABS system diagnostics.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing specific parts like alternators, starters, radiators, fuel pumps, etc.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for wheel alignment.

Body Work:

Basic body repair and panel replacement procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Detail Level:

Step-by-step instructions with accompanying diagrams and illustrations.

Diagnostic Tools:

Mentions diagnostic procedures, implying the use of standard automotive diagnostic tools.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick access to information.

Printability:

High quality, designed for printing individual pages, chapters, or the entire manual.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital download)

Digital Paper:

N/A (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely includes 1.8L (T8D), 2.0L (FE, BF) inline-4 gasoline engines. May also cover diesel variants if applicable to the market.

Estimated Horsepower Range:

Approximately 110 hp to 130 hp depending on engine variant.

Estimated Torque Range:

Approximately 150 Nm to 175 Nm depending on engine variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI).

Configuration:

Inline-4 cylinder, transverse mounting.

Common Engine Codes:

T8D (1.8L), FE (2.0L), BF (2.0L DOHC)

Type:

Liquid-cooled

System:

Catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) depending on market regulations.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission

Automatic Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission

Drive Layout:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Dexron III or equivalent).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific gear oil specification (e.g., API GL-4).

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan, 5-door Station Wagon (Estate)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2660 mm (104.7 in)

Length:

Sedan: Approx. 4665 mm (183.7 in); Wagon: Approx. 4730 mm (186.2 in)

Width:

Approximately 1780 mm (70.1 in)

Height:

Approximately 1430 mm (56.3 in) for Sedan, 1470 mm (57.9 in) for Wagon

Curb Weight:

Varies by model/engine/trim, typically between 1300 kg - 1500 kg (2866 lbs - 3307 lbs).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Information for this era may be limited from independent bodies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP. The manual will detail the vehicle's safety features as designed by Kia.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) likely standard on higher trims or optional.

Traction Control:

Traction control may be available on select higher-trim models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags are standard. Side airbags may be optional on some variants.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners likely standard.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM cassette player or CD player with speaker system. Aftermarket options are common.

Display:

Basic digital clock, radio display. No advanced touchscreen or navigation systems typical of modern vehicles.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Parking Assistance:

Rear parking sensors were not common in this era. Manual will not cover advanced parking aids.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic audio input. No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for exact intervals.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for interference engines. Typically recommended every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km). Manual will specify exact interval for each engine.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Intervals vary based on plug type (copper, platinum, iridium), often between 30,000-100,000 miles. Manual will specify.

Engine Oil Type:

Viscosity grade typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 (API SJ or higher). Check manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., green or pink universal type). Capacity typically around 6-8 liters. Check manual for exact capacity and type.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific power steering fluid or ATF Dexron II/III type. Check manual.

Common Issue 1:

Timing belt failure (if not replaced at recommended intervals, can cause severe engine damage as it's an interference engine).

Common Issue 2:

Power window regulators can fail.

Common Issue 3:

CV joint wear and tear, especially on FWD vehicles.

Common Issue 4:

Suspension component wear (bushings, ball joints) due to age and mileage.

Common Issue 5:

Corrosion, especially in areas with harsh winters, can affect body panels and suspension components.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea.

Predecessor:

The Clarus (or Credos) was Kia's larger sedan and wagon offering, intended to compete in the mid-size segment. It replaced the Kia Concord/Capital and was itself succeeded by the Kia Optima/Magentis.

Platform:

Based on the Mazda Capella platform (GC/GD generation), sharing many underpinnings and design elements.

Production Years:

1995 - 2001

Manufacturing Locations:

South Korea (Kia's main production facilities).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Specific Awards:

Specific industry awards for the Kia Clarus/Credos from this period are not widely documented. Kia was still establishing its brand reputation in many markets.

Reliability Ratings:

Reliability ratings for this specific model from consumer reporting agencies are scarce for this time. The manual's comprehensive coverage aims to help owners maintain reliability.

Certification Standards:

The manual will adhere to standard automotive repair documentation practices and likely includes all necessary technical specifications for factory compliance.