🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Generation:

First Generation (JA)

Body Style:

Compact SUV

Model Years Covered:

2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007

Chassis Code:

JA

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV, Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV)

Target Demographic:

Individuals and families seeking a versatile, affordable, and capable compact SUV for everyday use and light off-roading.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Subaru Forester, Mazda Tribute.

Unique Selling Points:

Robust body-on-frame construction (early models), available 4WD, practical interior space, strong value proposition for its class.

Manual Advantage:

Provides in-depth technical knowledge crucial for maintaining and repairing this generation of Sportage, bridging the gap for owners who want to perform their own service.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Repair and Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Intended Audience:

Professional Technicians and Experienced DIY Enthusiasts

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, timing components (belts/chains), valve train.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (MPI), ignition system, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensors (MAF, O2, TPS, CKP, CMP), emissions control systems (EGR, catalytic converter).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch operation, gearshift mechanism, internal transmission components, maintenance, and repair.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, hydraulic control system, planetary gear sets, valve body, transmission control unit (TCU) diagnostics, fluid and filter service.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, rear-wheel drive (RWD) differential, driveshafts, propeller shafts, universal joints.

Suspension System:

Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms), rear independent suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Power steering pump, steering rack, steering column, tie rods, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (or drum brakes depending on trim/market), hydraulic system, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) operation and diagnosis, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM).

HVAC System:

Air conditioning (refrigerant types, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heating system, blower motor, climate controls, cabin air filter replacement.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, latches, hinges, interior trim, seats, airbags, seat belts, sound insulation, weather stripping.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), OBD-II procedures, common fault diagnosis for various systems, symptom-based troubleshooting.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake pad inspection.

Engine Repair:

Engine removal and installation, cylinder head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, crankshaft seal replacement, oil pan gasket replacement, timing belt/chain replacement.

Transmission Repair:

Transmission fluid and filter service, clutch replacement (manual), torque converter replacement (automatic), seal replacement, internal transmission component repair.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump replacement, steering rack replacement.

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper rebuild or replacement, brake line flushing and bleeding, master cylinder replacement, ABS sensor replacement.

Electrical Diagnosis And Repair:

Charging system testing, starter motor testing, diagnostic scan tool usage, wiring harness repair, component testing and replacement (sensors, actuators, relays).

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant recharging, compressor replacement, condenser replacement, blower motor replacement, cabin air filter replacement.

Body And Trim Repair:

Door panel removal and installation, bumper cover replacement, headlight and taillight bulb replacement, interior trim piece replacement.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, OBD-II code interpretation, specific component testing strategies, wiring schematics for troubleshooting.

Rebuild Procedures:

Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and critical clearances.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair and diagnostic tasks.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-the-go reference.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Detailed exploded views, wiring diagrams, and step-by-step repair illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

FE3

Engine Description 1:

2.0L DOHC 16-valve Inline-4 (1998cc)

Horsepower 1:

138 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 1:

136 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine Code 2:

RFA

Engine Description 2:

2.7L SOHC V6 (2656cc) - Introduced later in the generation

Horsepower 2:

175 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 2:

182 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Coil Packs

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (with Overdrive)

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), On-Demand Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:

Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., SP-III or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 167.1 - 170.1 inches (4245 - 4320 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)

Height:

Approx. 66.7 - 67.7 inches (1695 - 1720 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.1 inches (2619 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Approx. 27.6 cu ft (781 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:

Approx. 66.5 cu ft (1883 L)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300 - 3700 lbs (1497 - 1678 kg) depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2000 lbs (907 kg) when properly equipped (check vehicle specific rating).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Likely Good (refer to specific year and test)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Likely Good (refer to specific year and test)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:

Acceptable to Good (refer to specific year and test)

ABS:

Standard on most trims, Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Available on some 4WD models

Electronic Stability Control:

Not widely available on this generation.

Airbags Front:

Driver and Passenger front airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional side-impact airbags on some later models.

Seat Belts:

3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems with more speakers.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system on higher trim levels.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Rear View Camera:

Not available from the factory on this generation.

Auxiliary Input:

Not commonly available; later models might have an auxiliary input jack.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific oil type and viscosity.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on plug type (e.g., iridium).

Timing Belt:

Critical replacement: Refer to manual, typically around 60,000 - 90,000 miles (96,000 - 144,000 km) for 4-cylinder engine. V6 may have a chain or belt, check manual.

Engine Oil Type 1:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (API certified)

Engine Oil Capacity 1:

Approx. 4.5 - 4.9 quarts (4.2 - 4.6 liters) with filter

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (refer to manual for specific color/type, typically Asian green or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to manual, typically ATF or power steering fluid.

Common Issues Engine:

Oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets, occasional overheating due to radiator or thermostat issues, timing belt tensioner noise on 4-cylinder engines.

Common Issues Transmission:

Automatic transmission harsh shifting or slipping, potential for internal seal leaks, clutch wear (manual).

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn front strut mounts, worn ball joints and tie rod ends, rear suspension bushings fatigue.

Common Issues Electrical:

Window regulator failure, power door lock issues, alternator failure, sensor failures (e.g., crankshaft position sensor).

Common Issues HVAC:

AC compressor clutch failure, blend door actuator issues, heater core leaks.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. It is known for its rapid growth and expansion into global markets with a diverse range of vehicles.

Sportage Generation 1 Ja:

The first generation Sportage (JA) was introduced in 1993 globally and redesigned for the 2005 model year. This manual covers the facelifted version from 2002-2007, which received styling updates and powertrain refinements.

Platform Sharing:

This generation often shared its platform with the Mazda Tribute and Ford Escape, contributing to its robust build.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily South Korea (Gwangmyeong), with potential assembly in other international markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards:

The Sportage generation from 2002-2007 did not garner major segment-defining awards but was recognized for its value and capability in budget-conscious SUV categories.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varied reliability ratings across model years; refer to specific year ratings for detailed insights.