Vehicle Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance
Key Competitors 2006:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables comprehensive self-repair and in-depth understanding of the vehicle's systems.
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordable and capable compact SUV offering practicality and decent off-road ability.
Engine:
Complete Engine Repair, Overhaul, and Diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel Injection, Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Filter Replacement
Ignition System:
Spark Plugs, Ignition Coils, Crankshaft Position Sensor
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Flush
Exhaust System:
Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Exhaust Manifold Repair
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (4-Speed), Fluid Change, Repair Procedures
Drivetrain:
Front Wheel Drive (FWD) / All Wheel Drive (AWD) Systems, CV Axles
Suspension:
Front Struts, Rear Shocks, Control Arms, Bushings, Alignment
Steering:
Power Steering Pump, Steering Rack, Tie Rod Ends
Brakes:
Front/Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System, Brake Fluid Flush
Electrical System:
Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Fuses, Relays
Lighting System:
Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lights, Bulb Replacement
HVAC:
Air Conditioning, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Cabin Air Filter
Body And Frame:
Body Panel Repair, Door Mechanisms, Glass Replacement
Interior Trim:
Dashboard Components, Seat Removal, Carpet Replacement
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Codes, Diagnostic Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Tire Rotation, Brake Inspection
Component Replacement:
Alternator, Starter, Water Pump, Brake Pads/Rotors, Shocks/Struts
Engine Rebuild:
Complete Engine Overhaul, Piston/Ring Replacement, Cylinder Head Service
Transmission Overhaul:
Internal Transmission Repair, Valve Body Service, Seal Replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Fault Finding
Suspension Repair:
Ball Joint Replacement, Control Arm Bushing Replacement, Strut Assembly Replacement
Brake System Repair:
Caliper Overhaul, Master Cylinder Replacement, ABS Sensor Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step guides for common and uncommon issues
Depth:
Expert-level diagnostic and repair information
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, and alignment data
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4 Stars (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
4 Stars (Front and Rear Passengers)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Electronic Traction Control System (available)
Airbags:
Dual Front Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (available)
Seatbelts:
3-Point Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months
Engine Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (Long-life Iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months
Engine Oil:
API SM / ILSAC GF-4 SAE 5W-20 (or SAE 5W-30 if temperatures consistently below -20°C)
Coolant:
Kia Genuine Long Life Antifreeze (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts leading to vibration.
Cv Joints:
Front CV joint boots can tear, leading to joint failure.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Some models may experience premature rear wheel bearing failure.
Climate Control Actuators:
Blend door actuator failure causing improper HVAC temperature control.
Kia Founding:
Established in 1944 as a manufacturer of bicycle parts and steel tubing.
Sportage First Generation:
Introduced in 1993 as one of the first compact SUVs built on a car-based platform (monocoque chassis).
Second Generation Start:
The 2006 model represents the second generation of the Sportage, which debuted globally in 2004.
Platform Sharing:
Second-generation Sportage shares its platform (Hyundai Elantra-based) with the first-generation Hyundai Tucson.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily South Korea, also assembled in Malaysia and Russia during this generation.