Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, owners seeking detailed vehicle knowledge
Key Competitors:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra
Vehicle Appeal:
Affordable pricing, capable powertrain, versatile interior, decent off-road ability for its class
Value:
Provides factory-level technical data and procedures, enabling accurate maintenance and repair, saving significant costs compared to dealership servicing.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management system (ECU)
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (4-speed), transmission control system, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid service
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differential, drive shafts, axles
Suspension:
Front McPherson strut, rear multi-link suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, alignment procedures
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic), steering gear, column, diagnosis and repair
Brakes:
Front disc, rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid, hydraulic system, components
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, power accessories, fuse/relay locations and diagrams
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, components, diagnosis and repair
Body:
Body construction, exterior panels, doors, glass, seals, interior trim, noise insulation
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components and diagnosis
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, common problem solutions
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component removal and installation, adjustments
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, sensor testing
Rebuilding:
Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, major component rebuild procedures
Electrical Repair:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component replacement for electrical faults
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic information.
Engine Type:
60-degree V6
Displacement:
2.7 Liters (2656 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.7 mm x 75.0 mm
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
182 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)
Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended
ECU Type:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (available on some trims)
AWD:
Electronically controlled Active On-Demand All-Wheel Drive (available)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ATF SP-III (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 7.0-7.5 liters (pan drop/refill)
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (2009 model year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (2009 model year)
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc ABS)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Available on some trims
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (front and rear)
Seat Belts:
3-point active front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seat belts
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (iridium type)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (under normal driving conditions)
Coolant Replacement:
Initial replacement at 120,000 miles, then every 60,000 miles thereafter
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or newer, ILSAC GF-5 or newer, SAE 5W-30 synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change
Engine Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixture of 50% antifreeze and 50% deionized water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Complaints:
Potential for seized brake calipers, radiator leaks, minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, occasional transmission shift issues.
Oil Filter Example:
Kia/Hyundai: 26300-35503 (check VIN for exact fitment)
Air Filter Example:
28113-2F000 (check VIN for exact fitment)