Segment:
Compact car, known for affordability and value.
Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cavalier/Cobalt, Hyundai Elantra.
Selling Points:
Reliable powertrain, practical interior, fuel efficiency, accessible pricing.
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Kia Spectra owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (clutch, gearbox, shifting), Automatic transmission (valve body, torque converter, electronic controls)
Chassis:
Suspension (front struts, rear shocks, control arms), steering system (rack and pinion), braking system (ABS, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors)
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, ignition system, body control modules, instrument panel, power windows, locks, mirrors
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, HVAC system, airbags
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical circuit diagnostics
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component repair/replacement
Installation:
Component installation and removal (e.g., starter motor, alternator, fuel pump)
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1975 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Peak:
135 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque Peak:
132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with coil-on-plug technology
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostic capabilities
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (T4A)
Automatic Control:
Electronically controlled with lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Check manual for specific part number)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia ATF SP-III (Check manual for specific part number)
Length:
Sedan: approx. 4510 mm (177.6 in), Hatchback: approx. 4260 mm (167.7 in)
Width:
approx. 1720 mm (67.7 in)
Height:
Sedan: approx. 1425 mm (56.1 in), Hatchback: approx. 1445 mm (56.9 in)
Wheelbase:
approx. 2610 mm (102.8 in)
Curb Weight:
Varies by trim and transmission, typically 1200-1300 kg (2650-2870 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Consult specific vehicle VIN or door jamb sticker.
Tire Size:
Typically 195/60R15 or 205/50R16 (Check specific trim level)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x100 mm
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Good (for models tested)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard on most trims, with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Optional on higher trims.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.
Latch Anchors:
Standard in rear seats.
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD player with 4 or 6 speakers. Cassette player on some base models.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control options.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors available on most trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for Iridium/Platinum plugs. Consult manual for specific type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
The 2.0L G4GC engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval is critical, typically 90,000 miles (144,000 km) or 7 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) with filter (for 2.0L engine). Consult manual for precise capacity.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher). Check manual for specific recommendations.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.0 Liters (6.3 US Quarts) for 2.0L engine. Use a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol coolant and distilled water.
Common Problems:
CV joint wear, front strut issues, occasional electrical gremlins (e.g., window regulators), potential transmission solenoids (automatic), catalytic converter issues.
Engine Performance:
Carbon buildup on intake valves (especially if driven short distances often).
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea.
Generation:
Second generation Spectra (model code FD), introduced for the 2004 model year in North America, but this manual covers the final year of the first generation (model code SD).
Production Years:
2000-2009 (First Generation: SD, Second Generation: FD)
Assembly Plants:
South Korea (Kia Hwaseong Plant)
