🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Year:

2000

Generation:

First Generation (JA)

Chassis Code:

JA

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Kia Sportage of this era was positioned as an affordable and practical compact SUV, often competing with models like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. It offered a blend of utility, off-road capability (especially with 4WD options), and passenger comfort.

Competitive Analysis:

The 2000 Sportage aimed to provide a value proposition against more established Japanese and American rivals. Its body-on-frame construction offered a more traditional SUV feel compared to the unibody designs of some competitors, potentially appealing to those seeking greater durability or towing capacity.

Key Features:

Body-on-frame construction, available 4WD, versatile interior space, straightforward mechanicals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Full vehicle service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance.

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era).

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital Format (Likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU/ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (if applicable), Driveshafts, Axles, Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS included), Body Electrical, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System/Airbags), Wiring Diagrams.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, repair specifications, electrical system diagnostics, wiring harness repair, torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, component testing, component replacement, body repair, emission control systems repair.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter changes to in-depth engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, and advanced electrical system diagnosis. Designed for professional technicians and advanced DIY mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital (PDF). Searchable text is likely, enabling quick access to specific information.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

2.0L DOHC I4 (FE DOHC)

Horsepower:

Approximately 128-130 hp @ 5500-5600 rpm

Torque:

Approximately 135-138 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Codes:

FE DOHC

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 90.0 mm (approximate)

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1 (approximate)

Oil Capacity:

4.5 Liters (4.8 US Quarts) with filter change (check manual for exact capacity).

Recommended Oil:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for specific climate recommendations).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Features:

Available with part-time 4WD system with a 2-speed transfer case.

Automatic Fluid Type:

Kia ATF-SP II or equivalent (check manual for exact specification).

Manual Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact specification).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,315 mm (169.9 inches)

Width:

1,785 mm (70.3 inches)

Height:

1,660 mm (65.4 inches)

Wheelbase:

2,600 mm (102.4 inches)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 195 mm (7.7 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,500-1,650 kg (3,300-3,640 lbs) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Check local regulations and manual for specific towing limits.

Cargo Volume:

Varies with rear seats up/down, typically around 650-700 liters behind rear seats.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

Not rated or available for this model year.

IIHS Small Overlap Frontal Rating:

Not applicable/tested for this model year.

Active Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - often optional or standard on higher trims.

Passive Features:

Front airbags for driver and passenger. Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

Front Brakes:

Ventilated Disc

Rear Brakes:

Drum or Disc (depending on trim/options)

Tire Size:

Commonly 215/70R15 or 235/70R15 (check vehicle placard).

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic factory-installed AM/FM radio with cassette player. CD player may be optional on higher trims or aftermarket. Speaker count typically 4-6.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited to standard safety features for the era. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning.

Connectivity Options:

Primarily through power outlets for accessories. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity on factory systems.

Climate Control System:

Manual HVAC system with A/C, heater, and fan controls. Automatic climate control was not common for this model.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles/6 months for synthetic oil if specified).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on spark plug type (copper vs. platinum).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical: Every 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years due to interference engine design. Refer to manual for specific interval.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification).

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or III or equivalent (check manual for exact specification).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Known Issues:

Timing belt failure (critical due to interference engine), potential for coolant leaks from hoses or radiator, early signs of rust on body panels, occasional issues with window regulators, and wear on suspension components (bushings, ball joints) due to age.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Kia, a South Korean manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944. Initially producing steel tubing and bicycle parts, Kia entered the automotive market in the 1960s. By the late 20th century, Kia was establishing itself as a global automotive player, often focusing on value-oriented and increasingly stylish vehicles.

Model Evolution:

The first-generation Sportage (JA) debuted in 1993, marking Kia's entry into the compact SUV segment. It was developed in conjunction with Mazda, sharing its platform with the Mazda Bongo Friendee minivan and the Mazda Proceed Marvie SUV. The 2000 model year falls within the latter half of this generation, which received minor updates over its production run.

Production Years:

1993-2004 (First Generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

South Korea (primarily), also assembled in other locations under license.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific awards for the 2000 model year are not widely documented, the first-generation Sportage was recognized for its affordability and utility in the compact SUV market at its introduction. It helped Kia establish a foothold in North America.