Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact car, B-segment
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious buyers, first-time car owners, urban commuters
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Sonic
Powertrain Efficiency:
Emphasis on fuel economy with the 1.6L GDI engine
Value Proposition:
Affordable pricing, good feature set for the segment, and Kia's improving reliability reputation
Manual Advantage:
Provides technician-level detail for DIY repairs and advanced diagnostics, crucial for cost savings
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (1.6L GDI), engine control system, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (M/T), Automatic transmission (A/T) - including operation, diagnosis, repair, and overhaul
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic and parking), wheel alignment
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting systems, power windows, power locks, infotainment, instrument cluster, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, body repair, corrosion prevention
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, transmission), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, diagnostic procedures for all major systems, symptom-based diagnosis, fault code interpretation
Repair:
Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly procedures, torque specifications, seal and gasket replacement
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs and diagnostics
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics including sensor data interpretation, actuator testing, and ECU reprogramming procedures
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed rebuild instructions for engine, transmission, and other major components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format) - enabling searchability and ease of access
Downloadable Quality:
High-resolution, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images
Digital Access:
Instant access via download, no physical binding
Digital Content:
Digital content optimized for screen viewing and printing
Engine Layout:
Inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1591 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
77.0 mm x 85.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.0:1
Horsepower Peak:
138 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque Peak:
123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum recommended)
Engine Control Unit:
ECU/ECM (refer to manual for specific part numbers and diagnosis)
Emission System:
Catalytic converter, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)
Standard Transmission:
6-speed Manual Transmission (M/T)
Optional Transmission:
6-speed Automatic Transmission (A/T) with Shiftronic capability
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, lock-up torque converter
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 (refer to manual for specific Kia part number)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV (or equivalent meeting Kia specification - refer to manual for part number)
Clutch Type:
Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring (for M/T models)
Overall Length:
Approximately 160.6 inches (4079 mm)
Overall Width:
Approximately 66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Overall Height:
Approximately 57.3 inches (1455 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 97.6 inches (2479 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
2,500 - 2,650 lbs (1134 - 1202 kg), varies by trim and transmission
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Refer to vehicle's compliance label
Cargo Volume:
Approximately 14.7 cubic feet (hatchback model)
NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:
Refer to NHTSA reports for 2012 Kia Rio (typically 4 or 5 stars)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely received IIHS Top Safety Pick status in its class (verify with IIHS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard across all trims
Traction Control System:
Standard across all trims
Anti-Lock Braking System:
Standard across all trims
Electronic Brake-Force Distribution:
Standard across all trims
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Infotainment System:
Base models feature a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with USB and auxiliary input. Higher trims offer upgraded audio and available navigation.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming available on higher trims.
Backup Camera:
Optional on some trims
Keyless Entry Start:
Available on SX trim
Instrument Cluster:
Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, and multi-function trip computer. Manual details diagnostic indicators and their meanings.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for severe driving conditions)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At each engine oil change
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (inspect more frequently)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (GDI specific)
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 105,000 miles or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles or 24 months thereafter
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (refer to manual for exact Kia specification)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.1 US quarts (3.9 liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Blue) - a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 (verify with manual for DOT 4 compatibility if applicable)
Engine Noise Lambda:
Occasional reports of lifter tick or piston slap, often related to oil viscosity or wear. Manual provides diagnostic steps.
Transmission Hesitation:
Some automatic transmission models may exhibit occasional hesitation or hard shifts; manual covers control module updates and fluid checks.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many modern vehicles, intermittent electrical issues can occur. The comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are essential for diagnosis.
Standard Tire Size:
185/65R15 (LX, EX), 195/55R16 (SX - check manual for specific OE specs)
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Lug Nut Torque:
78-94 lb-ft (105-127 Nm) - Verify in manual
Kia Motors Corporation:
South Korean automotive manufacturer, founded in 1944, known for its value-oriented vehicles.
Kia Rio Generation:
This 2012 model represents the third generation (UB) of the Kia Rio, launched globally in late 2011.
Design Philosophy:
Characterized by a more mature design language, improved aerodynamics, and a focus on interior refinement compared to previous generations.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Gwangmyeong) and Mexico.