🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Generation:

First Generation (JA/JE)

Chassis Codes:

JA (pre-2004 facelift), JE (post-2004 facelift - though this manual covers pre-facelift)

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact SUV / Sport Utility Vehicle

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts.

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Pathfinder (early models), Mitsubishi Montero Sport, Ford Explorer (early models), Jeep Cherokee XJ

Vehicle Appeal:

Affordable, rugged, capable off-road for its class, available with body-on-frame construction and selectable 4WD.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides in-depth technical guidance to maintain and repair the Kia Sportage, enabling cost savings and extending vehicle life.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002

Estimated Pages:

Varies by specific version, typically 800-1200 pages for a complete factory service manual

Type:

Repair Service Manual / Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging

Transmission:

Manual transmission (M5/M5HD), Automatic transmission (A5S310R/R)

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD), Four-wheel drive (4WD/AWD) system, transfer case, differentials, drive shafts, axles

Suspension:

Front suspension (independent, double wishbone), Rear suspension (solid axle, coil springs/leaf springs on some early models)

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (common), ABS system (if equipped)

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column

Electrical:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body electrical, power accessories

Body And Chassis:

Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, chassis frame

Climate Control:

HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, ventilation

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, brake pad/shoe replacement

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common issues, DTC interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on year)

Engine Repair:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head repair, piston/ring replacement, crankshaft/bearing service, timing belt/chain replacement

Transmission Repair:

Transmission disassembly/reassembly, clutch replacement, torque converter service, transmission fluid service

Brake System Service:

Brake fluid bleeding, caliper/wheel cylinder replacement, rotor/drum resurfacing or replacement, parking brake adjustment

Suspension Steering Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint/tie rod end replacement, wheel bearing service, power steering pump/rack replacement

Electrical System Repair:

Component testing, wiring harness repair, sensor replacement, ECU diagnostics

Body Panel Replacement:

Door panel removal/installation, fender replacement, bumper repair/replacement

Climate Control Service:

AC system recharge, heater core replacement, blower motor replacement

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, covering detailed repair procedures, specifications, and diagnostic information typically found in factory-authorized manuals.

Special Tools:

Identification of required special tools for specific repair procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all fasteners.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable content for quick information retrieval.

Print Readability:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing key sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

FE-DOHC (2.0L)

Engine Type 1:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve

Displacement 1:

1998 cc

Bore X Stroke 1:

85.0 mm x 88.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

9.6:1

Horsepower 1:

Approx. 122-130 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on market and year)

Torque 1:

Approx. 135-140 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (depending on market and year)

Engine Code 2:

GA-DK (2.5L Diesel - less common in North America)

Engine Type 2:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, Turbocharged Diesel

Displacement 2:

2500 cc

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual recommendation)

0-60 Mph Estimate:

Approx. 10-12 seconds (highly dependent on transmission and drivetrain)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission (M5/M5HD)

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (A5S310R/R)

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) or Part-Time Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) with transfer case and locking hubs (manual or automatic engaging front axle).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 75W-85 (refer to manual for exact specification)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (or equivalent, e.g., Mercon) as per manufacturer's recommendation.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2650 mm (104.3 inches)

Length:

Approx. 4330 mm (170.5 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1795 mm (70.7 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1660 mm (65.4 inches) - varies with roof rails

Curb Weight Estimate:

Approx. 1550-1700 kg (3417-3748 lbs) depending on configuration

Towing Capacity:

Varies by market and configuration, often around 1500-2000 lbs

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x139.7 mm (5x5.5 inches)

Standard Tire Size:

215/75R15, 235/60R16 (depending on trim and year)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Information for this specific generation is limited; early SUVs often had less rigorous testing compared to modern standards.

ABS:

Available on higher trims or as an option, typically on rear wheels or all four wheels depending on the year.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags typically standard from mid-generation onwards, early models might have only driver airbag.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, with pretensioners for front occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette or CD players. Aftermarket head unit compatibility is high.

Speakers:

Standard speaker configurations, upgradeable.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Not typically factory-equipped; aftermarket solutions are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (consult manual for specifics).

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace with every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles for iridium or platinum plugs, older copper plugs may require earlier replacement (refer to manual).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for the FE-DOHC engine. Typically around 60,000-90,000 miles. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Manual will specify interval and replacement procedure.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or as recommended.

Engine Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol-based antifreeze/coolant. Refer to manual for specific type and mixture ratio (e.g., 50/50).

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron-II or Dexron-III recommended (verify with manual).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual).

Washer Fluid:

Automotive windshield washer fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Front suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), wheel bearings, exhaust system, catalytic converter, radiator.

Engine Timing Belt:

Critical maintenance item; known to stretch or break if not replaced at recommended intervals, leading to severe engine damage.

Rust And Corrosion:

Potential for rust on body panels, frame, and suspension components, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt.

Electrical Gremlins:

Occasional issues with power windows, door locks, or dashboard warning lights due to age and wiring harness wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Automotive History:

Kia Motors, established in 1944, began as a manufacturer of motorcycles and trucks before entering the passenger car market in the late 1980s. The Sportage was one of its earliest globally recognized SUVs.

First Generation Introduction:

The first-generation Kia Sportage (JA) was introduced in 1993 (model year 1995 in some markets) and was built on a Mazda Bongo platform, sharing components with the Mazda Navajo and Ford Bronco II. It was available in long-wheelbase and short-wheelbase (soft-top convertible) versions.

Mid Generation Updates:

A facelift occurred in 2001 (for the 2002 model year in North America), introducing revised styling and some interior updates. This manual covers the period leading up to and including this facelift.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily South Korea (Kia's main manufacturing base), with potential assembly in other regions depending on the market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Early SUV Market:

The Kia Sportage was positioned as an affordable and capable compact SUV, attracting buyers looking for utility and off-road capability at a lower price point than some Japanese competitors.

Consumer Reports Data:

Ratings varied during its lifespan, with some years receiving average or below-average marks for reliability and performance compared to segment leaders.