Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Pricing Strategy:
Value-oriented, budget-friendly competitor in its class.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cobalt, Mazda3.
Body Styles:
Available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback (Spectra5).
Value Proposition:
Offers a good balance of features, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of engine functions and indicators.
Dashboard Indicators:
Explanation of all warning lights and system status indicators.
Infotainment System:
Operation of audio system, climate control, and other interior electronics.
Lighting Systems:
Operation of headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and hazard lights.
Wiper And Washer Systems:
Operation and maintenance of front and rear wipers and washers.
Power Windows And Locks:
Operation and safety features of power window and door lock systems.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
Information on TPMS operation and warning indicators.
Brake System:
Basic information on brake system functions.
Steering System:
Basic information on steering system functions.
Airbag System:
Explanation of airbag system operation and safety precautions.
Seat Belt System:
Proper use and adjustment of seat belts.
Child Restraint Systems:
Guidelines for installing and using child seats (LATCH system).
Fuel System:
Information on fuel types and proper fueling procedures.
Cooling System:
Basic information on the engine cooling system.
Exhaust System:
Basic information on the exhaust system.
Normal Operation:
Guidance on starting, driving, and shutting down the vehicle.
Fluid Level Checks:
Instructions for checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid.
Tire Pressure Adjustment:
Procedure for checking and inflating tires to the correct pressure.
Wiper Blade Replacement:
Instructions for replacing front and rear wiper blades.
Light Bulb Replacement:
Guidance on replacing common exterior and interior light bulbs.
Jump Starting:
Detailed steps for safely jump-starting the vehicle's battery.
Tire Changing:
Instructions for safely changing a flat tire using the spare.
Emergency Procedures:
Guidance on actions to take in various emergency situations.
Towing Preparation:
Steps for preparing the vehicle for towing.
Diagnostic Level:
Basic troubleshooting and self-diagnosis indicators.
Maintenance Depth:
Routine maintenance procedures and schedules.
Repair Depth:
Limited DIY repair guidance for common tasks.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder (I4)
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1975 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 93.5 mm
Horsepower:
138 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
133 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition with Distributorless Ignition System (DIS)
Emissions Control:
Three-way Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Automatic Features:
Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (check manual for exact spec)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent
Wheelbase:
102.4 inches (2600 mm)
Length Sedan:
173.4 inches (4405 mm)
Length Hatchback:
165.7 inches (4209 mm)
Width:
67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height Sedan:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Height Hatchback:
56.7 inches (1440 mm)
Trunk Capacity Sedan:
Approximately 12.9 cubic feet
Cargo Capacity Hatchback:
Approximately 19.7 cubic feet (with rear seats up)
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 2750 - 2850 lbs (1247 - 1293 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 2850 - 2950 lbs (1293 - 1338 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's compliance plate
Standard Tire Size:
195/60R15
Optional Tire Size:
205/50R16 (on higher trims/Spectra5)
Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely 4-star for driver and passenger (based on similar models/years).
IIHS Side Impact:
Likely Acceptable or Marginal (based on similar models/years).
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on most trims)
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) (often paired with ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional, depending on trim level.
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags, and optional side curtain airbags (especially on higher trims/Spectra5).
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio with amplifier and subwoofer on higher trims.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning with recirculation mode.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims, operated via steering wheel mounted controls.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions may be available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic blend oil recommended).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable; the 2.0L G4E engine uses a maintenance-free timing chain.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, protected to -34°F (-37°C). Kia recommends their specific coolant or a comparable universal coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent (check manual for specific)
Common Problems:
Early models may experience issues with ABS sensor failures, minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, and occasional power window regulator problems. Some reports of premature catalytic converter failure. Clutch wear in manual transmission models can be faster with aggressive driving.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automaker, has a history dating back to 1944, evolving from manufacturing parts to producing vehicles.
Spectra Generations:
The 2005 model is part of the second generation Spectra (RD/LD), which ran from 2004-2009. This generation saw a significant redesign with more modern styling.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea at Kia's Hwaseong plant.
Market Introduction Year:
Spectra nameplate introduced globally in 2000, replacing the Sephia. The 2005 model is a facelifted version of the second generation.