Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, owner enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge.
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Suzuki Vitara, Ford EcoSport (early models)
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordability, rugged styling, available 4WD, relatively simple mechanicals.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides a complete resource for maintaining and repairing the first-generation Sportage, essential for its longevity and optimal performance.
Covered Years:
1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Covered Models:
All Sportage trims and variants
Covered Engines:
1.8L I4 (B3), 2.0L I4 (FE/FE-DOHC), 2.0L Turbo Diesel I4 (RF)
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions), Transmission (manual & automatic), Drivetrain (transfer case, differentials, drive shafts, axles)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, starter, alternator, battery, ignition system, sensors, ECUs, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, climate control, body hardware, trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system troubleshooting, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnosis, DTC interpretation, component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks and adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.
Engine 1 8L:
Kia B3, 1.8L SOHC Inline-4, Approx. 96 hp @ 5000 rpm, 119 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm. Carbureted or early fuel injection.
Engine 2 0L Petrol:
Kia FE, 2.0L SOHC/DOHC Inline-4, Approx. 118-130 hp @ 5000-5500 rpm, 135-139 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm. Multi-point fuel injection.
Engine 2 0L Diesel:
Kia RF, 2.0L SOHC Turbocharged Inline-4 Diesel, Approx. 81-85 hp @ 4000 rpm, 135-140 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm. Indirect injection, turbocharging.
Acceleration 0 60 Petrol:
Approx. 10-13 seconds (depending on engine and drivetrain)
Top Speed:
Approx. 95-105 mph
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (early 1.8L), Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI) for 2.0L petrol, Indirect Injection with Turbocharger for diesel.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane 87 minimum), Diesel Fuel
Gearbox Options:
5-speed manual transmission
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission
Drivetrain Options:
Part-time 4WD with selectable high/low range, 2WD rear-wheel drive
Transfer Case:
DANA 231 (common for 4WD models)
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Not rated or below average (historical data for early SUVs)
IIHS Crash Test Ratings:
Likely 'Acceptable' or 'Marginal' in frontal impacts; limited side impact data.
ABS:
Optional on some models/trims
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags (standard on later models)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seat belts
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Limited speaker configurations.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls (fan speed, temperature, mode selection). Optional air conditioning.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trims.
Power Windows Locks:
Available on higher trims, manual windows/locks on base models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe service) / 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal service) - Consult manual for specific engine type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles for automatic, Every 60,000 miles for manual (check manual for specific fluid type and intervals).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (standard plugs) or 60,000-100,000 miles (if equipped with iridium plugs - check specific engine).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on ambient temperature). Check manual for precise recommendation. Capacity: Approx. 4.2-4.5 quarts.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 7.4-8.1 quarts.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF DEXRON III or equivalent
Diesel Engine Reliability:
Potential for injector pump issues, glow plug failures, turbocharger problems (RF engine).
Automatic Transmission Longevity:
Some models may experience premature wear in the automatic transmission, especially if not maintained. Overheating can be a factor.
Rust And Corrosion:
As with many vehicles of this era, especially those in rust-prone climates, chassis and body rust can be a significant issue.
Electrical Gremlins:
Minor electrical issues such as faulty window regulators, door lock actuators, or sensor failures can occur.
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings in the suspension can wear out over time, leading to clunks and alignment issues.
Kia Introduction To Us Market:
Kia entered the US market in 1994 with the Sephia sedan and the Sportage SUV, aiming for value-oriented consumers.
First Generation Launch:
The first-generation Sportage (index NF) debuted in late 1993 (as a 1995 model in the US), based on a modified Mazda Bongo platform. It was offered in short-wheelbase (3-door) and long-wheelbase (5-door) configurations.
Mid Cycle Refresh:
A minor facelift occurred around 2000, introducing updated styling and some interior refinements, along with the introduction of the more powerful DOHC 2.0L engine.
Production Period Us:
1995-2003 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea
