🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Clarus

Model Generation:

First Generation

Model Years Covered By Manual:

1997, 1998, 1999, 2000

Vehicle Platform:

Kia K-Platform (shared with Mazda Etude)

Chassis Code General:

GC

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact to Mid-size Sedan (depending on market classification)

Historical Context:

Kia's entry into international markets during a period of rapid expansion for the company.

Key Competitors Segment:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Escort, Nissan Sentra

Content Quality:

Identical to dealership/mechanic resources, ensuring accuracy and comprehensiveness.

Accessibility:

Instant download eliminates shipping delays and costs, providing immediate access.

Practicality:

Empowers owners to perform maintenance, service, diagnosis, and repairs themselves.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Focus:

Body Service/Repair/Workshop

Primary Coverage Scope:

Body Structure, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnosis, and Modification

Estimated Page Count:

Likely over 500 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Manual / Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Body Structure:

Detailed analysis and repair of chassis, frame, and unibody construction

Exterior Panels:

Front fenders, hood, doors, quarter panels, roof panel, trunk lid

Glass And Seals:

Windshield, side glass, rear glass, sunroof, seals, and weatherstripping replacement and repair

Interior Trim:

Dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, seating removal and installation procedures

Bumpers And Fascias:

Front and rear bumper covers, grilles, and related components

Plastic Components:

Repair and replacement of various plastic body parts

Panel Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing damaged body panels (welding, bonding, alignment)

Body Alignment:

Procedures for measuring and correcting body alignment after repairs

Waterproofing:

Sealing procedures for preventing water leaks

Rustproofing:

Methods and materials for rust prevention and treatment

Body Modification:

Information on tools and techniques for body modifications

Diagnosis:

Troubleshooting common body-related issues

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostics for body structure integrity and panel fitment

Repair Detail Level:

Highly detailed with exploded pictures and diagrams for precise execution

Target User Expertise:

Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics/dealers

📊 Manual Specifications

Print Quality:

Printable pages, allowing for hard copy reference

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval

Binding Type Digital:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type Digital:

N/A (Digital Download)

Operating System Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Typical:

T8D (2.0L SOHC)

Engine Displacement Liter:

2.0 L

Engine Configuration:

Inline-4 Cylinder

Engine Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated

Engine Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Horsepower Approx:

114-116 hp @ 5500-5600 rpm

Torque Approx:

170-175 Nm (125-129 lb-ft) @ 3000-3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Cooling System:

Liquid-cooled

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual

Optional Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic

Automatic Transmission Control:

Electronic Control (ECT)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm Approx:

4530 mm

Width Mm Approx:

1730 mm

Height Mm Approx:

1420 mm

Wheelbase Mm Approx:

2610 mm

Track Width Front Mm Approx:

1470 mm

Track Width Rear Mm Approx:

1460 mm

Curb Weight Kg Approx:

1250-1350 kg (varies by transmission and trim)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating General:

Not comprehensively rated by modern standards (due to era)

Braking System:

Front: Ventilated Disc; Rear: Drum (standard)

Optional Brakes:

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

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags likely standard or optional.

Seatbelts:

Front: 3-point pretensioner seatbelts; Rear: 3-point or lap belts.

Body Reinforcement:

Side impact beams, reinforced pillars and roof structure.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4-6 speakers.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily power windows, power locks, and central locking system on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Typically 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs.

Engine Oil Type Approx:

API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation)

Engine Oil Capacity Liter:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (with filter)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Asian vehicle specific)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron III or equivalent

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Common Issues Body:

Rust perforation in wheel wells, rocker panels, and lower door edges. Door hinge wear leading to sagging. Water leaks around window and door seals. Plastic trim degradation from UV exposure.

Common Issues Mechanical Related To Body:

Door lock actuator failure, window regulator issues, potential for frame damage due to inadequate repair of structural components.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History Context:

Kia Corporation, founded in 1944, began as a manufacturer of bicycle parts and steel tubing before moving into motorcycles and eventually automobiles.

Clarus Development:

Developed in partnership with Mazda, sharing the Mazda Etude platform. This collaboration provided Kia with a more refined and competitive product for global markets.

Manufacturing Location:

South Korea

Production Period:

1995 - 2001 (Clarus generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Recognition:

Kia established a reputation for offering value-oriented vehicles.

Safety Ratings Era Context:

Vehicles from this period often had lower safety ratings compared to modern standards. Specific ratings for the Clarus are not widely documented by current bodies like IIHS or NHTSA in their contemporary format.