Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, piston/connecting rod, crankshaft/main bearings, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (delivery, injection, control), exhaust system, timing system.
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM) operation, sensors, actuators, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch system, transmission assembly, gearshift mechanism, internal components, maintenance, repair.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission assembly, torque converter, hydraulic control system, electronic control unit (ECU) operation, maintenance, repair (if applicable to specific models).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) system, drive shafts, CV joints, differential, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (torsion beam, shock absorbers), wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (pump, rack, hoses), steering column, steering wheel, linkages, maintenance, repair.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc, depending on spec), hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake, ABS system (if equipped), bleeding procedures, specifications.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, panels, doors, hinges, latches, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, seals, rust prevention, corrosion protection.
Electrical System:
Battery, starting system, charging system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers, washers, power windows, power locks, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, control panel, diagnosis, recharge procedures.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt system, structural safety, anti-lock braking system (ABS) operation.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel, cabin), fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, identification of symptoms, root cause analysis, use of diagnostic tools.
Repair:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems. Includes torque specifications, special tool requirements, and clearances.
Diagnostics:
ECM scan tool procedures, interpretation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical circuit testing.
Rebuilds:
Comprehensive instructions for the overhaul and rebuilding of engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical components.
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds and advanced diagnostics).
Diagnostic Detail:
In-depth diagnostic trees, voltage/resistance checks for electrical components, pressure tests for fuel and oil systems.
Specifications Detail:
Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, diagnostic specifications, measurement tolerances, alignment data.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 96.1 inches (2440 mm)
Length:
Sedan: ~163.8 inches (4160 mm); Hatchback: ~154.7 inches (3930 mm)
Width:
Approximately 66.7 inches (1695 mm)
Height:
Sedan: ~58.3 inches (1480 mm); Hatchback: ~59.3 inches (1505 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 6.1 inches (155 mm)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approximately 12.9 cu ft (365 Liters)
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approximately 12.4 cu ft (352 Liters) with rear seats up
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2,300 - 2,500 lbs (1043 - 1134 kg), varies by trim and body style.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3,400 - 3,500 lbs (1542 - 1588 kg) (verify with manual)
Wheel Size:
Typically 14-inch or 15-inch steel or alloy wheels.
Tire Size:
Commonly 175/70R14 or 185/65R14; 195/55R15 for higher trims (verify with manual).
Offset:
ET35 to ET45 (approximate, verify with manual).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions; severe conditions may require more frequent changes).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Engine Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months (using extended life coolant).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) (if equipped with Iridium spark plugs, check manual for specific type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
This engine uses a timing chain, not a belt, which typically does not require periodic replacement unless noisy or faulty.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (verify with manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon or specific Kia power steering fluid (verify with manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water), typically green or equivalent extended-life coolant (verify color and type with manual).
Common Wear Items:
Front struts/shocks, sway bar links, ball joints, tie rod ends (typical for age and mileage).
Engine Performance:
Occasional issues with idle control valve or oxygen sensors leading to rough idle or check engine lights.
Electrical:
Potential for alternator or starter motor failure; interior light issues; window regulator problems.
HVAC:
Compressor clutch failure or refrigerant leaks are not uncommon in older vehicles.
Transmission:
Clutch wear (manual) and occasional jerky shifts in automatic transmissions if fluid is neglected.