Segment:
Subcompact car, economy car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, urban commuters
Key Competitors:
Hyundai Accent, Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Chevrolet Aveo
Vehicle Strengths:
Affordability, fuel efficiency, maneuverability, decent interior space for its class
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with comprehensive knowledge for efficient and accurate repairs and maintenance, reducing reliance on expensive dealerships.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system
Engine Performance:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (M/T), Automatic transmission (A/T) - overhaul, repair, operation, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive shafts, CV joints, differential
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, steering knuckles, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, tie rods, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), ABS, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system components, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers, chassis components, rust prevention
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, components, operation, troubleshooting
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, passive safety features
Maintenance:
Regular inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad/shoe replacement, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission repair, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component replacement, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, scan tool usage (OBD-II)
Troubleshooting:
System-specific troubleshooting flowcharts and diagnostic procedures
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic scheduled maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, procedures with diagrams and step-by-step instructions
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (M/T)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (A/T)
Gear Ratios M T:
Detailed ratios for 1st through 5th gear and reverse available in manual
Gear Ratios A T:
Detailed ratios for 1st through 4th gear and reverse available in manual
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Refer to manual for specific Kia part numbers and approved fluids)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (Refer to manual for specific Kia part numbers and approved fluids)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 Stars (for 2006 model, varies by year and specific test)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for 2006 model, varies by year and specific test)
ABS:
Available on certain trims/options
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
Often paired with ABS
Airbags:
Front airbags standard; side curtain airbags available on some trims
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for severe driving conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (Iridium type)
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 105,000 miles, then every 45,000 miles thereafter
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher, SAE 5W-20 (check manual for regional variations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.5 - 3.9 Liters (3.7 - 4.1 US Quarts) (Refer to manual for exact capacity based on engine)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, P-HOAT type (Pink) (Refer to manual for specific Kia part numbers)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.2 Liters (5.5 US Quarts)
Common Problems:
Engine oil consumption (especially on higher mileage 1.6L Gamma engines), minor electrical gremlins (e.g., power windows, interior lights), potential for clutch wear (manual transmission), occasional catalytic converter issues.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly check engine oil level, change air filters proactively, maintain coolant system, and address any unusual noises promptly. Clutch maintenance is key for manual transmission longevity.
Manufacturer Origin:
South Korea
Brand Philosophy:
Focus on value, affordability, and increasingly, design and technology
First Generation Introduction:
2000 (as Kia Capital/Spectra)
Second Generation Introduction:
2005 (codename JB)
Second Generation Facelift:
2008 (minor styling updates)
Production Locations:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea; also assembled in other locations globally
Production Period:
2005-2011 (for this specific generation)