Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV
Target Audience:
Families, active individuals, general consumer seeking versatile utility vehicle
Key Competitors 2014:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Equinox
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordability, spacious interior, available AWD, comfortable ride, good warranty (at time of release)
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and mechanics with the same professional-grade information used by dealerships, enabling accurate diagnostics and efficient repairs, saving time and money.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (mechanical aspects), timing system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter system, charging system, fuel injection system, emission control systems, engine sensors and actuators
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., 6-speed), manual transmission (if applicable), transfer case (for AWD models), differential units, drive shafts, CV joints
Chassis Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear suspension (multi-link, coil springs, shock absorbers), wheel bearings, alignment specifications
Chassis Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering gear, tie rods, steering column
Chassis Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS system, EBD system, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system components (master cylinder, calipers, lines), parking brake
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors, seals, exterior trim
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, interior trim panels, headliner, carpet, seat belts, airbags, interior lighting
Electrical Harness:
Wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, fuse box locations and identification, relay functions, connector pinouts
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, ventilation, blower motor, control panel, refrigerant specifications
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seat belt pre-tensioners, ABS/ESC module, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
Powertrain Control:
ECM/PCM diagnostics, CAN bus communication, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and troubleshooting procedures
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step troubleshooting for common and complex issues, symptom-based diagnostics, DTC interpretation and resolution
Repair:
Component removal and installation (e.g., engine components, transmission, suspension parts, brake calipers), body panel repair and replacement, electrical component repair
Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls, including specifications for machining and assembly
Calibration:
Procedures for recalibrating electronic modules after replacement or repair (e.g., steering angle sensor, ABS module)
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring diagrams.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Likely 4 or 5 stars (typical for the segment, subject to specific testing)
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC) (AWD models)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (all rows), active front headrests, seatbelt pre-tensioners
Airbag Locations:
Driver, Passenger, Front Seat Side, Curtain (Front & Rear)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), using synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific grade/viscosity)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 3 years
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 1 year
Spark Plug Replacement 2 4L:
Every 105,000 miles (GDI)
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 105,000 miles (GDI)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (severe driving) or 100,000 miles (normal driving), check manual for specific recommendation.
Engine Oil Spec 2 4L:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic oil
Engine Oil Spec V6:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified synthetic oil
Coolant Spec:
Type A AF (Antifreeze) coolant (ethylene glycol-based, pink color), 50/50 mix with distilled water
Brake Fluid Spec:
FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Potential Issues:
Theta II engine (2.4L GDI) can be prone to carbon buildup on intake valves, potential for engine oil consumption (check for recalls or service campaigns).
Transmission Potential Issues:
Some reports of occasional rough shifting or hesitation in automatic transmissions, ensure regular fluid maintenance.
Suspension Potential Issues:
Wear of suspension bushings and control arms over time, leading to noise or handling issues.
Electrical Potential Issues:
Battery drain issues, issues with infotainment system or sensors can occasionally arise.