🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

KIA

Model:

Rondo

Year:

2008

Engine Variant:

2.7L V6

Chassis Code:

EX

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Crossover Utility Vehicle

Target Audience:

Families seeking versatile, practical, and affordable transportation with a car-like driving experience.

Key Competitors:

Mazda5, Chevrolet HHR, Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Matrix, Ford Focus Wagon

Versatility:

3-row seating option (in some configurations), flexible cargo space, elevated driving position.

Value Proposition:

Affordable pricing, good fuel economy for its class, and a reputation for reliability.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Specific Systems:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical System, Body & Chassis, Interior Components

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, ignition system, emission controls

Transmission Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (4-speed FWD), torque converter, differential, axle shafts, CV joints, wheel bearings

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake, ABS system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, brake booster

Suspension Steering:

Front MacPherson struts, rear multi-link independent suspension, shock absorbers, coil springs, control arms, bushings, power steering system, steering column, tie rods

Electrical Electronics:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, wipers, horn, fuses, relays, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, keyless entry, interior lighting, ECU diagnostics, CAN bus communication

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (compressor, refrigerant, evaporator, condenser), heating system, blower motor, climate controls

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, chassis frame, structural components

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid replacement, transmission fluid change, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., gaskets, sensors, starter, alternator), brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack replacement, HVAC component repair

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts, electrical circuit diagrams, component testing procedures

Special Procedures:

Timing belt inspection/replacement (if applicable), fuel system bleeding, airbag system precautions, diagnostic scan tool usage

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagrams, specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval

Print Readability:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G6CU (2.7L V6)

Engine Type:

60-degree V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam)

Displacement:

2656 cc (162.1 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

86.7 mm x 75.0 mm (3.41 in x 2.95 in)

Compression Ratio:

9.0:1

Horsepower:

182 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

182 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

15.1 gal (57 L)

Oil Capacity W Filter:

4.5 US quarts (4.3 L)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30

Coolant Capacity:

7.0 US quarts (6.6 L)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based (Asian Red/Pink)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle (FWD)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

7.7 US quarts (7.3 L)

Transmission Fluid Type:

KIA Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent

Shift Modes:

P, R, N, D, 3, 2, 1 (manual mode or selectable gear positions)

Torque Converter:

Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Width:

68.9 inches (1750 mm)

Height:

63.0 inches (1600 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Ground Clearance:

6.1 inches (155 mm)

Curb Weight:

3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg) - Varies by trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4500 lbs (2041 kg) approx.

Towing Capacity:

1000 lbs (454 kg) (typically unbraked trailer)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

10.7 cu ft (303 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

38.2 cu ft (1082 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

66.1 cu ft (1871 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test Rating:

5-Star (Front and Rear Passengers)

IIHS Frontal Offset Score:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Score:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Optional Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (optional)

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions, LATCH child seat anchors

Child Safety Features:

Rear door child safety locks, LATCH system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio system, optional satellite radio and auxiliary input jack.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trims.

Rear Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Keyless Entry:

Standard or optional keyless entry with remote controls.

Bluetooth:

Not typically available as a standard factory feature on the 2008 model. Aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals.

Tire Rotation:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) using iridium-tipped plugs

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or if towing or driving in severe conditions

Coolant Flush Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to owner's manual; typically ATF Dexron III or equivalent

Common Wear Items:

Brake pads and rotors, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, exhaust components

Engine Specific Notes:

The 2.7L V6 generally considered reliable, but occasional issues with alternator, starter, and coolant leaks can occur.

Transmission Specific Notes:

The 4-speed automatic is generally robust, but proper fluid maintenance is crucial. Early models might exhibit minor harsh shifting if fluid is neglected.

Electrical Issues:

Occasional reports of power window motor failures, minor electrical gremlins related to sensors or switches.

HVAC Issues:

Blend door actuator failures and refrigerant leaks are not uncommon in vehicles of this age.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Kia, a South Korean manufacturer, gained a reputation for offering affordable and feature-rich vehicles.

First Generation:

The Kia Rondo (known as Kia Carens in many markets outside North America) was introduced in its second generation for the 2007 model year, replacing the original Carens. This generation saw a redesign to better fit the North American market as a compact MPV.

Model Year Changes 2008:

Minor updates for 2008 included revised trim levels and features, but no significant mechanical changes from the 2007 model.

Manufacturing Plant:

Hwasung, South Korea

Production Years:

2007-2012 (North American Market for Rondo)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

The Rondo received 'Good' ratings in IIHS crash tests, indicating strong safety performance for its class.

Consumer Ratings:

Often cited for its practicality, spaciousness (for its class), and value by consumer publications.