Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Suzuki Vitara.
Features:
Body-on-frame construction (early models), available 4WD, relatively affordable pricing, practical utility.
Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emission controls, cooling system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission, clutch, drive shafts, axles, differentials (front and rear).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, audio system, HVAC controls.
Body:
Body structure, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, seats, glass, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts).
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system components, operation, diagnosis, and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, lubrication.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, electronic diagnostic procedures.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly.
Rebuilding:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, alignment specifications, clearances, and other critical measurements.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Code Gasoline:
G4CP (2.0L DOHC)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 122-130 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (varies slightly by market and configuration)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 135-139 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (varies slightly by market and configuration)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Kia Super Long Life Coolant)
Oil Viscosity:
API SG or higher; SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (refer to manual for specific climate conditions)
Oil Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 Quarts (with filter)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drive Options:
Part-time 4WD (4x4) with Hi-Range and Lo-Range, or 2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive).
Fluid Specifications Manual
Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90)
Fluid Specifications Automatic
Fluid Type:
Dexron III-H / Mercon ATF
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this year; generally considered average for its class at the time.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated by IIHS for this year; generally considered average for its class at the time.
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Not commonly available for this model year.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system may be present, check vehicle specifications.
Oil Change Miles:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for specific conditions).
Engine Air Filter Replace Miles:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs Replace Miles:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles for iridium or platinum plugs, check manual.
Timing Belt Replace Miles:
This generation typically uses a timing chain, not a belt. However, always verify with the manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for exact specification)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron II or III ATF, or specific power steering fluid (consult manual).
Coolant Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 7.0 Quarts
Engine:
Occasional oil leaks (valve cover gasket), potential for cooling system issues (radiator, hoses) if not maintained. Head gasket issues are not exceptionally common but can occur.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission shifting issues, potential for leaks. Manual transmission clutch wear.
Suspension:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings leading to clunking noises and alignment issues. Strut/shock absorber wear.
Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, intermittent issues with sensors (e.g., crankshaft position sensor).
Body:
Rust on the body panels, particularly in areas prone to salt exposure. Door seals and weatherstripping can degrade over time.
