Segment:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Crossover
Competitors:
Toyota Matrix, Mazda5, Ford Focus Wagon, Chevrolet HHR, Nissan Versa Note (later models)
Vehicle Attributes:
Versatile interior, affordable pricing, practical family vehicle, comfortable ride
Manual Advantage:
Provides OEM-level technical data for DIY repair and professional diagnostics, covering all major systems for both engine options.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine control systems (ECM), fuel system, exhaust system, automatic transmission (transaxle), clutch, driveline, axles
Chassis:
Brake system (ABS, EBD), suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Body control module (BCM), multiplex communication systems (CAN), lighting systems, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, audio system, instrument cluster, airbags (SRS), anti-theft system
Body:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, heating and cooling (A/C)
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter diagnosis and replacement, muffler and pipe repairs, oxygen sensor testing.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump testing, injector cleaning and replacement, fuel pressure regulation, EVAP system diagnostics.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups, inspections
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper replacement, suspension component service, electrical diagnostics and repair, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, symptom-based diagnostics
Troubleshooting HVAC:
Includes procedures for diagnosing and repairing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system faults.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, including engine control, body electronics, and safety systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive (covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed specifications and procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly for both 2.4L and 2.7L engines.
Transmission Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for the complete disassembly, repair, and reassembly of the 4-speed and 5-speed automatic transmissions.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-star rating (driver and passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-star rating (front and rear passengers)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Standard front, front side-impact, and side curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, using synthetic oil. (Refer to manual for specific conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), depending on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Iridium spark plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement 2.7L:
Platinum spark plugs: 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-20 (API SM or higher). Capacity: 4.5-5.1 quarts (4.27-4.83 liters) depending on engine.
Coolant:
Amine-based long-life coolant (Blue color). Capacity: Approx. 7.0-7.5 quarts (6.6-7.1 liters).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Complaints:
Occasional transmission shifting issues (early models), potential for oil consumption in higher mileage 2.4L engines, HVAC system fan blower motor failures, rear wheel bearing noise.
Standard Size:
205/55R16 or 215/55R17 (depending on trim level)
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)
Manufacturer Focus:
Kia Motors Corporation, known for offering value-packed and increasingly reliable vehicles.
First Generation:
The 2008 Rondo represents the first generation of Kia's compact MPV, designed to offer SUV-like versatility in a car-based platform. It replaced the Kia Spectra hatchback in many markets.
Manufacturing Location:
South Korea (Hwasung Plant)
Model Run:
2006-2013 (Globally), 2007-2009 (North America)