Market Positioning:
The Kia Rondo (also known as Carens in many markets) was positioned as a versatile compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) or crossover, appealing to families seeking practicality and flexibility.
Key Competitors 2007:
Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Pacifica, Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Mazda5, Ford Focus Wagon
Vehicle Key Features:
Flexible seating configurations, comfortable ride, spacious interior for its class, available third-row seating (depending on market configuration), practical for families and cargo transport.
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Exhaust System, Intake System
Page Count:
Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive engine service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical Details:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system, engine diagnostics, rebuild procedures
Engine Control System Coverage:
Covers sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, O2, MAP, MAF, coolant temp), actuators (injectors, ignition coils, EVAP purge valve, throttle body), ECM data stream analysis, and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Emission Control System Coverage:
Details on the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative emission (EVAP) system, and positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system operation and service.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil and filter change, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, belt inspection and replacement, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, valve stem seal replacement, oil pump repair, water pump replacement, timing chain/belt replacement, fuel injector service, spark plug diagnosis
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common engine issues, DTC code interpretation, component testing procedures
Timing System Repair:
Comprehensive instructions for timing chain or belt inspection, tensioner replacement, and correct camshaft/crankshaft timing alignment.
Lubrication System Service:
Oil pump removal/installation, oil pressure testing, oil pan removal/installation, and oil cooler service (if applicable).
Cooling System Repair:
Radiator service, fan clutch/electric fan operation, thermostat replacement, water pump replacement, heater core service, and coolant leak diagnosis.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth engine overhaul and diagnostics.
Diagnostic Procedures Depth:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine performance, drivability issues, emissions faults, and starting/charging system problems, including wiring diagrams and component locations.
Engine Type:
2.7L V6 DOHC (Lambda)
Displacement:
2656 cc (2.7 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
86.7 mm x 75.1 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1 (approximate)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower Output:
Approximately 180-190 hp @ 6000 rpm (market dependent)
Torque Output:
Approximately 180-190 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (market dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating 87 recommended)
ECM Type Example:
Engine Control Module (ECM) controlling fuel, ignition, emissions, and other functions
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Optional:
None documented for this engine/year/model configuration.
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic, likely with manual mode ('Shiftronic' or similar)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact spec)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.0 Liters (total capacity, drain and fill will be less)
Length:
Approximately 4525 mm (178.1 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1780 mm (70.1 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1630 mm (64.2 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2720 mm (107.1 inches)
Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:
Approximately 330 Liters (11.6 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Maximum:
Approximately 1740 Liters (61.5 cu ft) with rear seats folded
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1550 - 1650 kg (3417 - 3638 lbs) depending on trim and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 2100 - 2200 kg (4630 - 4850 lbs)
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
4 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger) - Typical for the era, specific results vary by test year and configuration.
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test Rating:
Good or Acceptable (Good is highest) - Specific year and rating may vary, consult IIHS for precise data.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (may be optional or standard depending on market/trim), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), Side airbags (front), Curtain airbags (front and second row, optional), Seatbelt pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors
Infotainment Features Typical 2007:
AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary input, optional satellite radio, optional navigation system (market dependent).
Driver Assistance Features Typical 2007:
Cruise control, parking assist sensors (optional rear), ABS, ESC, TCS.
Connectivity Options Typical 2007:
Auxiliary audio input jack, Bluetooth hands-free system (optional on higher trims).
Engine Oil And Filter Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Engine Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or sooner if conditions are dusty.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for Iridium spark plugs (if equipped, otherwise check manual). OEM recommendation for this engine typically specifies Iridium plugs.
Coolant Replacement Interval:
First replacement at 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (refer to manual for specific Kia approval, e.g., Kia Genuine Oil).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.7 Liters (5.0 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Asian Red/Pink Long Life Coolant), ensuring freeze protection and corrosion resistance. Kia specified 'Long Life Coolant'.
Common Engine Issues 2 7 V6:
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system issues (oil leaks, actuator problems), occasional oil consumption, potential for intake manifold gasket leaks, ignition coil failures.
Common Transmission Issues:
Rough shifting, delayed engagement, torque converter shudder (may require fluid service or internal repair).
Kia Brand Heritage Summary:
Kia, a South Korean automaker, has a history dating back to 1944. It has evolved significantly, becoming a global player known for value, design, and improving reliability. The Rondo/Carens represents Kia's entry into the flexible MPV/crossover segment.
Rondo Carens Generation Covered:
This manual covers the second generation (UN) of the Kia Carens/Rondo, which was produced from 2006 to 2013.
Production Plant Locations:
Primary production located in South Korea. May have also been assembled in other Kia facilities globally.