Vehicle Segment:
Compact Car
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cobalt, Hyundai Elantra
Value Proposition:
The Kia Spectra (JS II) offered a compelling value proposition with a focus on affordability, practicality, and a decent feature set for its class, aiming to compete strongly against established Japanese and American compacts.
Design Era:
Second generation Spectra (JS) featured a more modern and appealing exterior design compared to its predecessor.
Engine Variant:
Focuses on the DOHC engine, indicating a specific variant that provided improved performance over SOHC alternatives.
Manual Utility:
This comprehensive workshop manual is an essential tool for Kia Spectra owners and independent repair shops, providing the necessary information for accurate diagnosis and repair.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Ignition System, Instrument Cluster, Audio System, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Glass
HVAC:
Air Conditioning System, Heater System, Ventilation
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, electrical circuit diagrams, component testing
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component repair
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, parking brake adjustment, clutch adjustment
Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, diagnostic values, alignment specifications, fluid capacities
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics.
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed troubleshooting trees, wiring diagrams, and component testing procedures enabling skilled technicians to diagnose complex issues.
Rebuild Information:
Includes procedures for complete engine and transmission rebuilding with detailed part measurements and tolerances.
Engine Code:
G4GC / G4GC II (2.0L Theta Engine)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Valve Train:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 Valves
Horsepower:
Approximately 138 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly by market/trim)
Torque:
Approximately 133 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (varies slightly by market/trim)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (minimum)
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, typically OAT or HOAT)
Oil Type:
API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with Overdrive)
Automatic Control:
Electronic control, adaptive shift logic.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 SAE 75W-90 (confirm specific Kia specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia SPIII ATF (or equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 174.0 inches (4420 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.3 inches (1430 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.2 inches (2595 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800 - 3000 lbs (1270 - 1360 kg), varies by trim and transmission
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 12.4 cubic feet (sedan)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Good (for driver and passenger in some configurations)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable/Good (depending on specific year and equipment)
ABS:
Standard on most trims
E Brake:
Mechanical handbrake
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, optional side airbags and curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system, optional premium sound system with subwoofer and steering wheel controls on higher trims.
Display:
Basic dashboard display with digital odometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trims, steering wheel mounted controls.
Aux Input:
Likely available on models with upgraded audio systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 to 50,000 miles (48,000 to 80,000 km) or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.6 US quarts (6.3 liters)
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts can lead to vibrations.
Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts are common as vehicles age.
Lighting:
Headlight bulb failures and interior lighting issues.
ABS Sensor:
ABS wheel speed sensor failures leading to ABS warning lights.
Brand Focus:
Kia, as a global automaker, has a history of providing value-oriented and increasingly well-engineered vehicles across various segments.
Generation Development:
The 2008 model represents the second generation (JS II) of the Kia Spectra, which was a significant update from the first generation, featuring improved styling, safety, and refinement.
Production Location:
Primarily South Korea (Donghee Plant)
Production Years Model:
2004-2009 (for the second generation Spectra, 2008 is within this range)
