Market Position:
The Kia Sportage (JE/KM) represented Kia's entry into the compact SUV segment, aiming to offer a balance of capability, practicality, and value against established competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. This manual provides the essential information for owners and technicians to maintain and repair these vehicles effectively.
Manual Value:
This digital service manual is an indispensable resource for diagnosing and repairing the Kia Sportage (JE/KM). It empowers users to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, potentially saving significant costs associated with professional servicing and ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the vehicle.
Key Features:
Illustrated step-by-step instructions, detailed diagnostic procedures, comprehensive electrical schematics, specific torque values, fluid specifications, and maintenance schedules.
Applicable Model Years:
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
Coverage Areas:
All major mechanical, electrical, and bodywork systems for Kia Sportage (JE/KM) models within the specified years.
Manual Format:
Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)
Manual Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Manual Scope:
Complete factory-level service and repair information, not a condensed or generic guide.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, starting system, charging system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drivetrain, transfer case (if applicable), propeller shaft, axles, suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels and tires, HVAC system, body electrical systems, lighting, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), airbags, body and frame, interior trim, exterior trim, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, wiring diagrams.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, component removal and installation, diagnostic testing and troubleshooting, component repair and overhaul, system adjustments, wiring schematic interpretation, torque specifications, special tool requirements.
Technical Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with clear illustrations, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body panel repair.
Diagnostic Charts:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various system faults, covering engine, transmission, electrical, and HVAC issues.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive listing of critical torque values for engine components, chassis fasteners, brake assemblies, and suspension parts.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clearly laid out wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including engine control, lighting, power accessories, safety systems, and HVAC.
Body And Frame Repair:
Procedures for body panel removal and installation, door hardware adjustments, bumper repairs, and basic structural information relevant to collision repair assessment.
File Format Detail:
Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing, potentially searchable text for easy navigation.
Searchability:
High likelihood of searchable text within the PDF for quick access to specific information and keywords.
Print Quality:
Assumed high-quality digital reproduction of original manufacturer documentation, featuring clear diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Primary Engine Usdm:
2.7L V6 (G6BA/G6EA) Lambda MPI
Secondary Engine Usdm:
2.0L I4 (Beta II G4GC) MPI (early models, less common)
International Engine Options:
2.0L I4 Diesel (CRDi, D4EA), 2.7L V6 (G6BA)
Horsepower 2.7L V6:
Approximately 173 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.7L V6:
Approximately 178 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 2.0L I4:
Approximately 139 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 2.0L I4:
Approximately 135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic or similar ECU (specifics vary by market and engine)
Engine Layout:
V-engine (2.7L) and Inline-4 (2.0L)
Engine Displacement 2.7L:
2656 cc
Engine Displacement 2.0L:
1998 cc
Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L V6:
Approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change (verify with manual).
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Shiftronic on some models)
Automatic Transmission Features
Auto Transmission Type:
Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission
Drive Type:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with electronically controlled coupling
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for specific viscosity and fill level)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF or equivalent, SP-III specification (check manual for exact type and capacity)
Length:
Approximately 4,340 mm (170.9 in)
Width:
Approximately 1,800 mm (70.9 in)
Height:
Approximately 1,745 mm (68.7 in) with roof rails
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,630 mm (103.5 in)
Curb Weight Approx:
1,500 - 1,700 kg (3,300 - 3,750 lbs), depending on engine and drivetrain
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approximately 340 liters (12.0 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 1,880 liters (66.4 cu ft)
NHTSA Front Rollover Rating:
4/5 stars (Check specific model year and configuration for precise ratings)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS) (optional/market dependent), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (optional/market dependent)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side airbags (optional), side curtain airbags (optional), 3-point seat belts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchor points.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
Not standard on all models, check specific trim.
Infotainment System:
Base models typically featured a standard AM/FM/CD audio system. Higher trims could offer optional premium audio systems with more speakers, and potentially an auxiliary input.
Navigation System:
Optional factory-installed navigation systems were available on higher trim levels, particularly in later model years (e.g., 2008-2009).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, keyless entry, and rear parking sensors were available on select trims. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist were not prevalent in this generation.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input jack for connecting external music players. Bluetooth connectivity was not a standard feature on most models of this generation.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult manual for exact recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
For 2.7L V6, typically around 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs. For 2.0L I4, check manual.
Timing Belt Replacement:
The 2.7L V6 engine (G6BA/G6EA) uses a timing belt. Replacement is typically recommended every 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 144,000 km) or 5-7 years. **Crucial to verify.** The 2.0L I4 (G4GC) uses a timing chain, which generally does not require replacement.
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (verify for specific engine and climate conditions from manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type, typically P-HOAT or similar. Kia Genuine Long Life Coolant is recommended. Refer to manual for specific type and color.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, refer to manual for precise specification.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (check manual for precise type).
Common Issues 2.7L V6:
Occasional intake manifold gasket leaks, starter motor failures, and potential for timing belt component wear if not replaced preventatively.
Common Issues General:
CV joint wear, rear differential pinion seal leaks (on AWD models), interior trim rattles, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, potential for rust on undercarriage components in certain climates.
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, potential issues with power mirror motors, dashboard illumination problems.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Kia part numbers vary by year and specific filter manufacturer, but common aftermarket equivalents include PH2 or equivalent from brands like Wix, Mann-Filter, or Purolator. Manual will list OEM numbers.
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Similar to oil filters, aftermarket equivalents exist. Consult manual for OEM specific part number.
Brand Origins:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in South Korea in 1944, initially as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycles, later expanding into commercial vehicles and passenger cars.
First Generation Sportage:
Launched in 1993, based on a rugged body-on-frame chassis, positioning it as a more off-road capable compact SUV.
Second Generation Launch:
The JE/KM generation Sportage was introduced in 2004 for the 2005 model year. This generation marked a significant shift to a unibody construction, shared with the Hyundai Tucson, emphasizing on-road comfort and car-like driving dynamics rather than hardcore off-roading.
Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred for the 2008 model year, with updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements.
Assembly Plants:
Primary assembly in South Korea. Some models may have been assembled in other Kia facilities globally.
Safety Recognition Example:
While specific awards for the 2005-2009 Sportage are less prominent than newer models, it generally received respectable safety ratings for its class and time. The manual would detail how to maintain and inspect safety systems like airbags and ABS.
Competitive Landscape:
Competed directly with vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Nissan Xterra. Its unibody construction placed it more in line with the car-based compact SUVs.