🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Year:

1997

Internal Model Code:

NQ5

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Off-road Utility Vehicle

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Explorer, Mitsubishi Montero Sport.

Unique Selling Points:

Body-on-frame construction, available 4WD, robust and practical design, affordability.

Era Context:

The 1997 model year represents the first generation of the Kia Sportage, a period when compact SUVs were gaining significant popularity. Kia aimed to offer a capable and value-oriented alternative in this growing segment.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1997 Kia Sportage Service Repair Manual

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000 (typical for a comprehensive service manual of this era)

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Scope:

Covers all aspects of vehicle service, repair, and maintenance, making it a complete workshop manual.

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, lubrication system, engine performance and diagnostics.

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic Transmission systems: operation, overhaul, diagnostics, and fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

4WD system (if applicable), transfer case, differentials, drive shafts, axles, CV joints.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheel alignment, brakes (disc and drum), ABS (if equipped).

Electrical:

Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting system, ignition system, instrument cluster, power windows, door locks, mirrors, audio system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt replacement, spark plug replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine control, ABS, and other systems.

Repair:

Component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment procedures for all major systems.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for fasteners, engine specifications, transmission specifications, suspension geometry, electrical component data.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including specifications for critical components.

Transmission Overhaul:

Comprehensive steps for removing, disassembling, repairing, and reinstalling both manual and automatic transmissions.

Body Repair:

Information on body panel alignment, rust repair, dent removal techniques, and glass replacement.

Electrical Diagnostics:

In-depth troubleshooting for electrical systems using provided wiring diagrams, circuit testing procedures, and component identification.

Depth:

Comprehensive coverage suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, including detailed step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and exploded views.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable (OCR'd) if a quality scan

Digital Rights:

Purchased PDF, typically licensed for personal use.

Print Readability:

High-quality digital reproduction for clear printing and on-screen viewing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

FE

Engine Type:

2.0L Inline 4-Cylinder

Displacement:

1998 cc (2.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

82.0 mm x 93.5 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

9.2:1 (approx.)

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves

Horsepower:

122 hp @ 5200 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

128 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 Quarts)

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 Liters (4.8 Quarts) with filter

Spark Plugs:

Refer to manual for specific part numbers and gap settings (e.g., NGK BP5FS, etc.)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transfer Case:

Two-speed transfer case with selectable 4WD and 2WD modes (typical for this model).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (verify with manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (verify with manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4036 mm (158.9 inches)

Width:

Approximately 1750 mm (68.9 inches)

Height:

Approximately 1650 mm (65.0 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2650 mm (104.3 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1400-1500 kg (3086-3307 lbs) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to VIN plate/manual

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 63 cubic feet with rear seats folded (estimate)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

N/A (Safety testing standards and public reporting were less standardized in 1997 for this segment).

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard.

Seat Belts:

Three-point front seat belts, two-point rear seat belts (or three-point depending on rear seat configuration).

Frame Type:

Body-on-frame construction for durability and off-road capability.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available on higher trims. Basic speaker setup.

Cruise Control:

Available on select trim levels.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard. May require aftermarket modification for auxiliary or USB input.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (typically).

Timing Belt Replacement:

N/A (This engine utilizes a timing chain).

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II/III or equivalent (verify with manual).

Common Wear Items:

Suspension components (bushings, ball joints), CV boots, exhaust system, cooling system hoses and radiators.

Engine Issues:

Some reports of oil consumption with higher mileage, potential for head gasket issues if overheated.

Transmission Issues:

Automatic transmission can be prone to wear if not properly maintained; manual transmissions are generally robust.

Electrical Issues:

Can experience issues with window regulators, door lock actuators, and dashboard warning lights.

Oil Filter:

Refer to manual for specific OE or aftermarket PNs (e.g., Wix 51515, Fram PH3569).

Air Filter:

Refer to manual for specific OE or aftermarket PNs (e.g., Wix 49157, Fram CA10347).

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Origins:

Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, has a history rooted in manufacturing bicycle parts, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles before entering the passenger car market.

First Generation:

The 1997 Sportage marked the debut of Kia's compact SUV, designed to compete in a rapidly growing global market. It was developed with input from Mazda and was known for its ruggedness and value.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea. Some assembly may have occurred in other regions for specific markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Segment Awards:

While not winning major "Car of the Year" awards, the Sportage was recognized for its value and capability in the compact SUV segment during its initial release. It was often praised for its affordability and off-road prowess relative to its price point.

Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports ratings from this era would need to be consulted for specific model year performance and reliability assessments. Early Kia models sometimes had mixed reliability reviews compared to established Japanese competitors.