Engine Service:
Complete engine overhaul, repair, and maintenance procedures
Transmission Service:
Automatic and Manual transmission repair, maintenance, and fluid service
Drivetrain Service:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) system servicing, including differentials and transfer case
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system diagnosis and repair
Brake System:
Disc and drum brake system maintenance, repair, and hydraulic system bleeding
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for all electrical systems
HVAC System:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
Body And Trim:
Exterior and interior body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement
Fuel System:
Fuel pump, injectors, lines, and fuel tank service
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant, thermostat, and water pump service
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, and exhaust pipe repair and replacement
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seat belt mechanisms
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues
Component Replacement:
Step-by-step guides for replacing major and minor components
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds
Alignment Procedures:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Explanation and troubleshooting steps for OBD-II DTCs
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete overhauls and diagnostics
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics included
Torque Specifications:
All essential torque specifications for fasteners and components
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for repairs
Transmission Option 1:
5-speed manual (4-cyl models)
Transmission Option 2:
4-speed automatic (V6 models)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Kia ATF SP-III or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4 (SAE 75W-90)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (2003-2004 models)
Traction Control:
Optional on some models
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Optional on some later models
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts, pretensioners
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ/SL, ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for specific temperature ranges)
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plug Replacement Interval 4Cyl:
Every 60,000 miles (platinum tipped)
Spark Plug Replacement Interval V6:
Every 100,000 miles (iridium tipped)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based, Asian vehicle formula (e.g., Kia Genuine Coolant or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF SP-III or equivalent
Common Issue 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and rear main seals, especially on V6 engines
Common Issue 2:
Premature wear of front suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings)
Common Issue 3:
Catalytic converter failure (check for rattling or reduced engine power)
Common Issue 4:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure
Common Issue 5:
Transmission shift solenoid issues leading to rough shifting or failure to engage gears
Safety Awards:
Received 'Good' ratings in frontal offset crash tests from IIHS for certain years.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by year, generally average to below average for early models, improving in later years of the generation.
