Positioning:
The Kia Borrego was Kia's entry into the mid-size, body-on-frame SUV segment, positioned to compete with established players offering robust towing and off-road capabilities, although it had a relatively short production run.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota 4Runner, Ford Explorer (previous generation body-on-frame models), Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Chevrolet TrailBlazer.
Vehicle Features:
Body-on-frame construction, available V6 and V8 engines, rear-wheel-drive or optional four-wheel-drive, significant towing capacity, spacious interior.
Goal:
To provide comprehensive service and repair information for automotive technicians and knowledgeable owners, enabling them to perform maintenance and repairs effectively, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the Kia Borrego.
Primary Coverage:
Workshop Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Routine Maintenance, Diagnostics, Overhaul, Troubleshooting
Estimated Pages:
Detailed but not specified in product information (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage for gasoline engines, including tune-ups, diagnostics, repair, overhaul, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Detailed procedures for transmission disassembly, assembly, repair, and overhaul.
Electrical:
Extensive coverage of the electrical system, including wiring diagrams, diagnostics, and repair of electrical components.
Body:
Includes repair and overhaul procedures for the vehicle body.
Chassis:
Implied coverage for suspension, steering, and braking systems as part of general automobile practices.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying and troubleshooting various issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems.
Installation:
Removal and installation procedures for components and assemblies.
Overhaul:
Detailed overhaul procedures for major mechanical components like the engine and transmission.
Depth:
Professional level, suitable for experienced mechanical technicians. Covers everything from routine maintenance to extensive engine and transmission disassembly.
Special Tools:
References and illustrations for recommended or required special tools, including Kia specific tool numbers.
Component Manufacturers:
Includes instructions for proprietary components, referencing respective manufacturer guidelines to ensure proper function understanding.
Engine Options:
The manual specifically states GASOLINE ENGINE!!! This implies coverage for the gasoline powertrain options available for the Borrego. While specific engine displacements aren't listed, common options for this segment and era would include V6 and V8 configurations.
Displacement V6:
Likely the 3.8L Lambda V6 (G6DA/G6DB)
Horsepower V6:
Approx. 276 hp @ 6000 rpm (for 3.8L)
Torque V6:
Approx. 277 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (for 3.8L)
Displacement V8:
Likely the 4.6L Tau V8 (G8BD)
Horsepower V8:
Approx. 337 hp @ 6000 rpm (for 4.6L)
Torque V8:
Approx. 326 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (for 4.6L)
Engine Notes:
Manual emphasizes gasoline engines, indicating comprehensive coverage for these powertrains. Information regarding specific performance figures will be detailed within the manual.
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Transmission Type:
Likely a 6-speed automatic transmission for both V6 and V8 engines.
Transmission Type:
N/A (Automatic was standard)
Transmission Features:
The manual would cover removal, installation, overhaul, and repair procedures for the automatic transmission, including torque converter operation and electronic controls.
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 stars (driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Rating:
5 stars (front and rear passengers)
IIHS Moderateroll Over Rating:
Acceptable
Standard Active Safety:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
Standard Passive Safety:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and second row), active front head restraints, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH child seat anchors.
Infotainment System:
Base models might have a basic CD player with auxiliary input. Higher trims could feature a touchscreen navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity).
Driver Assistance Features:
Features like parking sensors and a rearview camera were available on higher trims. Advanced driver-assistance systems common in modern vehicles were not prevalent.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling was an option on some trims. USB and auxiliary inputs for audio devices.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Manual will provide precise intervals.
Tire Rotation:
Recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual for specific interval, often around 60,000 to 100,000 miles for automatic transmissions, or based on severe usage.
Engine Oil Type V6:
Likely SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic. Manual will confirm API service classification.
Engine Oil Type V8:
Likely SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic. Manual will confirm API service classification.
Coolant Type:
Asian Vehicle Pink Antifreeze/Coolant (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) or equivalent. Manual will specify.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Likely a specific ATF type (e.g., SP-IV or equivalent). Manual is critical for correct specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will confirm.
Potential Issues:
Some common issues reported in various forums include minor electrical gremlins, potential for suspension wear due to vehicle weight, and sometimes transmission performance quirks. The manual will help diagnose and address these.
Tune Up Procedures:
Covers spark plug replacement, air filter inspection/replacement, fuel filter checks, and general engine performance diagnostics.
Kia SUV History:
Kia had earlier models like the Sportage, but the Borrego represented a more significant push into the larger, more capable SUV market segment, building on their growing global presence.
Borrego Introduction:
Introduced for the 2008 model year as Kia's first body-on-frame SUV, aiming to offer a more rugged and capable alternative to its unibody Sportage.
Production Period:
2008-2010
Manufacturing Location:
Korea (Hwaseong Plant)
Discontinuation:
Discontinued after the 2010 model year due to poor sales and Kia's strategic shift towards more fuel-efficient, car-based SUVs like the Sorento and Sportage.