🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Model Generations Covered:

First Generation (JA)

Covered Years:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

Chassis Codes:

JA

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Key Competitors Era:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Jeep Cherokee (XJ).

Body Styles:

Primarily 5-door SUV. Some markets may have had a 3-door variant.

Platform Shared With:

Shared its platform with the Kia Sephia and Kia Spectra.

Initial Market Perception:

Offered a more rugged and capable alternative to car-based crossovers, often with available 4WD.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (Likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling system, fuel delivery, emission controls.

Engine Performance:

Engine tuning, performance diagnostics, power output specifications, emissions testing procedures.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair of manual transmissions, clutch system, gear shifting mechanisms, lubrication.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair of automatic transmissions, torque converter, valve body, transmission control module (if applicable), fluid diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive system service, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case (if applicable).

Brakes:

Disc brake systems (front and rear), hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, parking brake system.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, alignment adjustments.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, ignition system, wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories.

Body And Interior:

Exterior panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat adjustments, roof systems, body sealing.

Climate Control:

Air conditioning system service and repair, heater core, ventilation, refrigerant handling, cabin filters.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, hangers, emissions control components.

Preventive Maintenance:

Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, spark plug replacement, and other routine services.

Troubleshooting Diagnostics:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults across all vehicle systems, including symptom analysis and fault code interpretation.

Repair Procedures:

Comprehensive, illustrated instructions for the disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components and systems.

Component Replacement:

Detailed guides for replacing specific parts such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, brake pads, suspension components, and more.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle circuits, enabling accurate diagnosis and repair of electrical issues.

Tightening Specifications:

Crucial torque specifications for all fasteners to ensure correct assembly and prevent damage.

Fluid Capacities And Types:

Exact fluid capacities and recommended types for engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and differential fluid.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on recommended diagnostic tools and equipment for specific repair tasks.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including component specifications and clearances.

Calibration And Adjustment:

Procedures for calibrating sensors, adjusting systems, and setting specifications for optimal performance.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text, enabling quick access to specific information.

Printability:

Printable, allowing for physical copies of sections or the entire manual.

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

FE-DOHC (2.0L)

Engine Displacement 1:

1998 cc (2.0 Liters)

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16 Valves

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 122-130 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)

Torque 1:

Approx. 136-140 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (depending on market and specific tune)

Available Engine 2:

RVS (2.5L V6)

Engine Displacement 2:

2497 cc (2.5 Liters)

Engine Configuration 2:

V6, DOHC, 24 Valves

Horsepower 2:

Approx. 150-158 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm

Torque 2:

Approx. 160-165 lb-ft @ 3500-4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Drive Options:

Available in 2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4360 mm (171.7 in)

Width:

Approx. 1790 mm (70.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1670 mm (65.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2640 mm (103.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1500-1650 kg (3300-3630 lbs), depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Data for early 2000s models can be inconsistent; later models likely improved. Consult specific year's safety reports for detailed ratings.

ABS:

Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on most later models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard on most later models. Side airbags were rare or unavailable for this generation.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional CD player. Speaker configurations vary by trim level.

Display:

Minimal dashboard display for radio and climate controls. No central infotainment screen in the modern sense.

Cruise Control:

Available as an option on higher trim levels.

ABS:

As mentioned in safety, ABS was an available driver assistance feature for improved braking control.

Bluetooth Or Usb:

Not available on models from this era.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first) under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes (e.g., 5,000 miles or 3 months).

Engine Coolant Replacement Interval:

Initial replacement at 30,000 miles or 2 years, then every 30,000 miles or 2 years thereafter. Specific coolant type is critical.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on the spark plug type specified (copper vs. platinum/iridium).

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Automatic: Every 30,000-60,000 miles or 2-4 years. Manual: Every 60,000 miles or 4 years. Dependent on driving conditions.

Engine Oil Specification 1:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 API SG or higher. Refer to manual for exact viscosity based on temperature.

Engine Oil Capacity 1:

Approx. 4.4 US quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter for 2.0L engine.

Engine Coolant Specification:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (green color typical) mixed 50/50 with deionized water.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Specification:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF.

Manual Transmission Fluid Specification:

SAE 75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (check manual for precise GL rating).

Power Steering Fluid Specification:

ATF Dexron II/III or specified power steering fluid.

Engine Reliability:

The 2.0L engine is generally reliable but can be prone to oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and rear main seals. Overheating can be an issue if the cooling system is not maintained.

Transmission Issues:

Manual transmissions can develop clutch wear or synchronizer issues. Automatic transmissions can be prone to wear and fluid leaks, especially if maintenance is neglected.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings in control arms and sway bars can wear out, leading to clunking noises and poor handling. Ball joints and tie rod ends are also wear items.

Rust And Corrosion:

As with many vehicles of this era, particularly those in rust-prone climates, frame rails, rocker panels, and wheel wells can be susceptible to corrosion.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring harnesses and connectors can degrade, leading to intermittent issues with lights, power windows, and other electrical components. Corrosion on grounds is common.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Origins:

Kia Motors Corporation, South Korean manufacturer with a history dating back to 1944, initially in steel tubing and bicycles, entering the automotive market in the 1970s.

First Generation Launch:

The first-generation Sportage (JA) was introduced in 1993 (in Korea) and went on global sale in 1995. It was designed to compete in the emerging compact SUV market.

Design Inspiration:

Utilized a body-on-frame construction (like traditional SUVs) initially, later switching to unibody construction for improved ride comfort and handling for some markets, although this manual covers the body-on-frame era predominantly.

Facelift Updates:

Received minor styling updates and feature enhancements throughout its production run.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea. Some assembly may have occurred in other regions.