Segment:
Compact MPV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Families seeking versatile, practical, and value-oriented transportation.
Key Competitors 2008:
Toyota Matrix, Mazda5, Ford Focus, Dodge Caliber.
Unique Selling Points:
Flexible seating configurations, spacious interior for its class, comfortable ride, efficient yet capable 2.7L V6 option.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, valvetrain.
Engine Management:
Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, starting system, charging system.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (likely 5-speed) service, overhaul, and diagnosis.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive components, axles, CV joints, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, rack and pinion.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, parking brake.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component locations, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors.
Body Interior:
Seating, dashboard, trim panels, HVAC system, airbags, seat belts.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement.
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed steps for removing and installing major and minor components.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic approaches to diagnose and resolve common and uncommon issues.
Rebuilding Procedures:
Comprehensive rebuild instructions for engines, transmissions, and other major assemblies.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise measurements and clearances required for engine and chassis components.
Depth:
Deep diagnostics, complete overhauls, component-level repair, wiring schematic interpretation.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6
Displacement:
2.7 Liters (2656 cc)
Valve Configuration:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower:
Approx. 182 hp @ 6000 rpm (US Market Specification)
Torque:
Approx. 182 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (US Market Specification)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Emission Control:
Catalytic Converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control).
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for 2007 model, indicative for 2008)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on some trims.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, available side curtain airbags.
Seat Belts:
Pretensioner and load-limiter equipped front seat belts, LATCH child seat anchors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles with synthetic oil if Kia specifies).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (iridium plugs standard).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles or as specified by Kia, often using Kia SP-III or equivalent fluid.
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type, Asian Red or Pink (e.g., Kia Super Long Life Coolant).
Power Steering Fluid:
Kia Genuine PSF or equivalent (Dexron III/Mercon may be acceptable if specified).
Common Complaints:
Occasional transmission shifting issues, minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, rear suspension noise.
Kia Heritage:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automotive manufacturer known for producing reliable and affordable vehicles.
Global Name:
Carens (primarily outside North America)
North American Name:
Rondo
Generation Details:
The UN chassis code represents the second generation of the Kia Carens/Rondo, introduced for the 2007 model year.
Production Years Un Chassis:
2006-2013 (Global)
Manufacturing Locations:
South Korea (primarily Hwaseong Plant)
