Segment:
Subcompact car, known for affordability and practicality.
Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Aveo, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit.
Value Proposition:
Economical transportation with a focus on basic functionality and low running costs.
Design Philosophy:
Compact exterior dimensions for urban maneuverability, practical interior layout.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all gasoline engine variants.
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel injection system, emissions control systems, sensors, and actuators.
Transmission:
Service and repair for manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch, torque converter, and gear train.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, and differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, and steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic circuits, ABS (if equipped), and parking brake.
Electrical System:
Charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, and accessory circuits.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, interior trim, and chassis component repairs.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, and related components.
Preventive Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules, fluid changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, including symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Repair Procedures:
Complete repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including component removal, installation, and adjustment.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Codes:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretations.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and body repairs.
Engine Code Usdm:
G4HD (1.5L SOHC)
Displacement:
1.5 Liters (1493 cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Valve Mechanism:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves
Horsepower:
Approx. 90-100 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)
Torque:
Approx. 90-95 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Genuine Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Oil Type Specification:
SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (API SM or higher)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 3.7 quarts (3.5 liters) with filter change
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in manual for each gear (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, Reverse) - details in manual.
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency at highway speeds.
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (or as specified)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent (e.g., Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
Likely 4-star driver/4-star passenger (for its era, specific data for 2004 may vary by market).
IIHS Front Offset Rating:
May vary, often 'Acceptable' or 'Marginal' for vehicles in this class from this period.
ABS:
Optional on many trims, standard on some higher trims or later production models.
Airbags:
Front airbags standard for driver and passenger. Side airbags were generally optional or unavailable.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point for rear outboard, two-point for rear center.
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM/CD player, often with 4 speakers. Auxiliary input was not common in this era.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels, usually as an option.
Bluetooth:
Not available on this model year.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trim levels, often as an option.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement Interval Miles:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Miles:
Typically around 30,000 to 60,000 miles depending on plug type (standard vs. iridium).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval Miles:
Kia typically recommends replacement every 60,000 to 90,000 miles or 5-7 years for this engine generation, crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) Dexron III or equivalent, or specific power steering fluid as per manual.
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine and transmission mounts can lead to excessive vibration and noise.
Rear Wheel Bearings:
Rear wheel bearings can be prone to premature wear, leading to humming or grinding noises.
Evaporative Emissions System:
Check Engine Light (CEL) often triggered by EVAP system leaks (e.g., faulty purge valve, vent solenoid, or gas cap).
Automatic Transmission Shifting:
Some units may exhibit rough shifting or delayed engagement, especially as they age.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Known for a significant transformation in quality and design starting in the late 1990s.
Rio Generation:
This 2004 model is part of the first generation (DC) of the Kia Rio, introduced in 2000.
Facelift:
The 2003 model year saw a minor facelift for the DC generation, affecting front and rear styling, and interior refinements. The 2004 model falls into this updated phase.
Manufacturing Plant:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea at Kia's Sohari Plant, and also in other international locations through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) assembly.
