🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

SsangYong

Model:

Korando

Generation:

First Generation (Korando Family)

Production Years Covered:

1997-2000

Chassis Codes:

K9C

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-roader.

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, SsangYong Korando owners seeking in-depth technical knowledge.

Competitors 1997-2000:

Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Toyota 4Runner, Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero, Land Rover Discovery, Suzuki Vitara/Grand Vitara.

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust body-on-frame construction, capable off-road performance, often equipped with powerful diesel engines (depending on market).

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides dealer-level repair information at a fraction of the cost, empowering owners and independent mechanics.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 1997-2000 SsangYong Korando.

Engine Coverage:

Engine overhaul, diagnostics, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control.

Transmission Coverage:

Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch service, driveline components.

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped).

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power accessories, charging system, starting system.

Body And Frame Coverage:

Body panel repair, interior trim, glass replacement, door mechanisms.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (specific count not provided, but described as covering 'every service and repair imaginable').

Type:

Factory Service Workshop Manual

Language:

English (assumed from typical dealer technician usage).

File Format:

PDF

Operating Systems:

Windows (95/98/ME/XP/Vista/7), Linux, MAC

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, drivetrain (driveshafts, axles, differentials).

Chassis:

Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, brake assemblies, wheel alignment.

Electrical:

Starting system, charging system, lighting, power windows, locks, wipers, HVAC controls, instrument panel.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, tailgate, glass, bumpers.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on specific model configuration), symptom-based troubleshooting.

Repair:

Engine component overhaul (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission rebuilds, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension arm and bushing replacement, electrical component repair.

Installation:

Component replacement procedures (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), accessory installations (if documented).

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, diagnostic values, clearances, fluid capacities, and types.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, mirroring dealer technician resources.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution PDF for clear viewing and printing.

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick access to information.

Print Readability:

Designed for clear printing, enabling users to create physical copies for workshop use.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital PDF).

Paper Type:

Not applicable (Digital PDF).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

Likely offered with various gasoline and diesel engines. Common engines for this era include: 2.3L gasoline (Mercruiser/GM derived), 3.2L gasoline (Mercedes-Benz M104 derived), 2.8L diesel (including turbodiesel).

Horsepower Range:

Varies by engine: Approx. 120-150 hp for 2.3L gasoline, 200-220 hp for 3.2L gasoline, 90-120 hp for diesel variants.

Torque Range:

Varies by engine: Approx. 190-220 Nm for 2.3L gasoline, 280-330 Nm for 3.2L gasoline, 200-250 Nm for diesel variants.

Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) for gasoline engines, direct injection or indirect injection for diesel engines.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically requiring a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

Oil Type:

Varies by engine. Gasoline engines might use 10W-30 or 10W-40. Diesel engines might use 15W-40. Manual will specify API service classification and viscosity.

Example Engine Codes:

M104 (for 3.2L Mercedes-Benz engine), G23D (possible for 2.3L), D28T (possible for 2.8L Turbodiesel).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

Likely a 5-speed manual transmission was standard on many variants.

Transmission Type Optional:

A 4-speed automatic transmission was typically available as an option.

Drivetrain:

Part-time 4WD system (selectable 2WD/4WD High/4WD Low) with a transfer case.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Likely DEXRON-III or equivalent for automatic transmissions. Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Likely GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, with specific viscosity (e.g., 75W-90). Manual will specify exact type and capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Soft Top, 2-door Hard Top, 4-door Station Wagon.

Wheelbase Approximate:

Approx. 2400 mm (for 2-door) to 2480 mm (for 4-door).

Ground Clearance Approximate:

Typically around 200-220 mm, dependent on tire size and suspension setup.

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1700 kg to 1950 kg depending on body style and equipment.

Towing Capacity:

Varies by market and engine, typically around 1500-2500 kg. Manual will detail specific ratings.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

Limited publicly available official crash test data for this specific generation and market. Refer to manual for structural integrity information.

Brake System:

Front: Ventilated discs. Rear: Drums or discs depending on trim. ABS may be optional or standard on higher trims.

Airbags:

Driver airbag typically standard. Passenger airbag may be optional or standard on higher trims.

Seat Belts:

Front 3-point seat belts with pretensioners. Rear seat belts provided.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically a factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player or CD player. Speaker count varies by trim.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level. Heater, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) components covered.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may have been available as an option or standard on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Available on some models, controlled via steering column stalk or dashboard buttons.

Connectivity Options:

Limited by era; primarily basic connectivity like power outlets. No advanced Bluetooth or smartphone integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Manual will provide definitive schedule.

Engine Coolant Change Interval:

Typically every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km). Manual will specify.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic: 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km). Manual: 50,000 - 75,000 miles (80,000 - 120,000 km). Manual will provide precise intervals and procedure.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Typically every 2-3 years to prevent moisture absorption. Manual will confirm.

Power Steering Fluid:

Likely ATF (Dexron-III) or a dedicated power steering fluid. Manual will specify.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Manual will specify.

Common Wear Items:

Suspension bushings, shock absorbers, clutch wear (manual transmission), fuel injectors (diesel), glow plugs (diesel).

Electrical Gremlins:

Wiring harness degradation in older vehicles, sensor failures (e.g., crankshaft position sensor, MAF sensor).

Cooling System Concerns:

Radiator leaks, thermostat failures, heater core issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Ssangyong Origins:

SsangYong Motor Company is a South Korean manufacturer, known for its SUVs and trucks. Founded as Ha Dong-hwan Motor Company, it has had various ownerships throughout its history, including a period with Mercedes-Benz technology sharing.

Korando Lineage:

The Korando nameplate has a long history, originally dating back to the licensed production of the Jeep CJ-7 in the 1980s. The 1997-2000 model represents a significant redesign and modernization.

Manufacturing Location:

South Korea.

Design Influence:

The design for this generation reportedly featured input or technology from Mercedes-Benz, particularly in powertrain options.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Awards:

SsangYong vehicles have historically been recognized for their robust construction and off-road capability rather than luxury or advanced technology awards.

Consumer Reports Historical:

Consumer reliability ratings for SsangYong vehicles of this era were often mixed, with some models performing better than others. Specific ratings for the Korando would vary by year and market.

Certification Standards:

Manual adheres to industry standards for technical documentation clarity and accuracy, ensuring it's a reliable resource for repair professionals.