Segment:
Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra
Value Proposition:
Affordable, reliable, and practical transportation with a focus on straightforward mechanicals.
Manual Utility:
Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics with the necessary information to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain Components (CV Joints, Axles), Differentials
Chassis:
Suspension System (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper & Washer Systems, HVAC Electrical Controls, Power Windows/Locks, Audio System Wiring, Body Control Modules (BCM)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hinges, Latches, Seals, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Glass Replacement, Body Repair Procedures
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks & Replenishment, Belt Inspections & Replacement
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Reassembly, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Bushing Replacement, Steering Rack Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Fault Code Interpretation (OBD-II), Component Testing Procedures
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specific tools required for certain repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic adjustments to complete overhauls and diagnostics
Scope:
Mechanic-level detail, including torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters
Format:
Portable Document Format (PDF)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval
Printability:
Designed for printing, with clear diagrams and text
Binding:
Not applicable for digital format (PDF)
Paper Type:
Not applicable for digital format (PDF)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-Valve
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1799 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
80.5 mm x 88.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (typical)
Horsepower Net:
125 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, may vary by market/spec)
Torque Net:
115 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (approximate, may vary by market/spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 Octane (Minimum)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Dry Single Plate (Manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia ATF-SP-III or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (typical, consult manual for exact spec)
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
4 Stars (2002 Model Year)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
4 Stars (2002 Model Year)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims
Traction Control:
Not commonly available or standard
Airbags:
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags (Standard); Optional Side-Curtain Airbags on certain trims
Seatbelts:
3-point ELR seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters (Front)
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with optional cassette and premium speaker systems. Basic auxiliary inputs were not common.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls with A/C and heater. Automatic climate control was not a common option.
Cruise Control:
Available on most trim levels.
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely equipped from factory; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (typically iridium or platinum)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (critical component, replacement interval is crucial)
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ or ILSAC GF-2/GF-3; SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (preferred for cooler climates), 10W-30 (preferred for warmer climates)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based Antifreeze/Coolant, compatible with Asian vehicle specifications (e.g., Toyota Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Timing Belt:
Potential for premature wear or failure if maintenance intervals are neglected, leading to catastrophic engine damage.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends are common with age and mileage.
HVAC System:
Blend door actuator failure, blower motor resistor failure, and AC refrigerant leaks.
Electrical Connectors:
Corrosion or loose connections in engine bay and chassis wiring harnesses can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Manufacturer Origin:
South Korea
First Generation Start Year:
2000 (North America)
Model Lineage:
The Spectra replaced the Kia Sephia. It was sold globally under various names including Spectra, Cerato, and Shuma depending on the market.
Production Years:
2000-2009 (Global production for Spectra/Cerato generations)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea, Malaysia, Colombia, Russia, etc.
Award Type:
Not widely recognized for major awards; focused on value and practicality.
Jdp Power Initial Quality:
Generally ranked below segment average in initial quality studies during its production run.
Certification:
Meets all applicable US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its model year.