Basic Information Identification Make: Kia Model: Cerato Year: 2008 Platform: LD (Second Generation) Introduction Market Position Market Position: Compact sedan/hatchback targeting value-conscious buyers with a focus on practicality and features....
['Professional-grade information', 'Hundreds of pages with diagrams and photos', 'Detailed substeps for procedures', 'Notes, cautions, and warnings', 'Numbered instructions', 'Bold figure numbers for easy illustration matching', 'Enlarged insets for detailed part examination', 'Combined troubleshooting and electrical service with wiring diagrams', 'Cost savings for DIY repairs', 'Instant digital download convenience']
Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
All Models, Engines, Trim, and Transmission Types for the 2008 Kia Cerato
Page Count
Page Count Estimate:
Hundreds of pages (typical for a comprehensive workshop manual)
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Full Printable (High-quality, clear reproductions)
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Zoom Functionality
Zoom In Out:
YES
Delivery Method
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip
Compatibility
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Engine Specifications
Primary Engine 1
Engine Code:
G4FC (Beta II)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1599 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
76.5 mm x 87.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower Output:
Approx. 112-121 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies by market/tuning)
Torque Output:
Approx. 107-114 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (varies by market/tuning)
Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Cooling System Type:
Pressurized liquid-cooled
Primary Engine 2
Engine Code:
G4KD (Theta II)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
81.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.1:1
Horsepower Output:
Approx. 138-145 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies by market/tuning)
Torque Output:
Approx. 135-137 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm (varies by market/tuning)
Fuel System:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed manual
Optional
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed automatic
Features
Transmission Features:
Manual transmission with clutch actuation. Automatic transmission with torque converter and hydraulic control.
Dimensions
Exterior Sedan
Wheelbase:
2650 mm (104.3 in)
Length:
4545 mm (178.9 in)
Width:
1765 mm (69.5 in)
Height:
1485 mm (58.5 in)
Exterior Hatchback
Wheelbase:
2650 mm (104.3 in)
Length:
4280 mm (168.5 in)
Width:
1765 mm (69.5 in)
Height:
1490 mm (58.7 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Est:
1250 - 1350 kg (2755 - 2976 lbs) - Varies by engine and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Est:
Approx. 1700-1800 kg (3748-3968 lbs)
Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating Est:
Not consistently rated across all configurations and markets. Generally considered average for its class.
Active Features
Active Safety Features Available:
['Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)', 'Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)', 'Brake Assist (BA)']
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features Available:
['Front airbags (driver and passenger)', 'Optional side and curtain airbags (market dependent)', 'Front seatbelt pretensioners', 'Reinforced body structure']
Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Features Available:
['Base models: AM/FM/CD player with 4 speakers.', 'Higher trims: Optional premium audio systems, auxiliary input, satellite radio.', 'Limited Bluetooth connectivity on some later models or as an aftermarket addition.']
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features Available:
['Cruise control (standard on most trims)', 'Optional steering wheel-mounted audio controls']
Connectivity
Connectivity Features Available:
Primarily basic connectivity via auxiliary input or USB (later models/packages). No advanced smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) available from factory.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific oil type recommendations).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, potentially longer for iridium or platinum plugs (refer to manual).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable for the Beta II and Theta II engines, as they utilize a timing chain.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to manual for exact viscosity and specification based on climate and engine).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Kia-approved coolant type (e.g., Long Life Coolant - Long Life Red).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Kia/Hyundai Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Known Issues
Common Issues List:
['Minor interior rattles or trim issues.', 'Occasional issues with power window regulators.', 'Potential for ABS sensor failures leading to ABS warning lights.', 'Some reports of oil consumption in higher mileage engines (less common than some competitors).', 'Check engine lights related to emissions components or sensors.', 'Automatic transmission can be less responsive than modern units.']
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Kia, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944, evolving from a manufacturer of bicycle parts to motorcycles and eventually automobiles. Kia is part of the Hyundai Motor Group.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution Ld:
The 2008 Cerato is part of the second generation (LD), which debuted globally in late 2006/early 2007. It offered a significant upgrade in styling, interior quality, and technology over its predecessor, the first-generation Cerato (also known as Spectra).
Production
Production Locations:
Primary manufacturing locations included South Korea (Hwaseong plant) and additional assembly in other countries depending on market.
Production Years
Production Years Ld:
2003-2009 (for the first generation, Spectra), 2007-2013 (for the second generation, Cerato LD).
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Industry Recognitions:
The Kia Cerato (Spectra) generally received decent reviews for its value proposition, fuel economy (especially the 1.6L), and warranty coverage. Specific major awards for the 2008 model year are not prominently highlighted, but it was considered a strong contender in the affordable compact segment.