Vehicle Segment:
Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Crossover
Target Audience:
Families seeking versatile, fuel-efficient transportation with flexible seating and cargo options.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet HHR, Ford Focus Wagon, Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen, Mazda5.
Versatility:
Flexible seating configurations (optional 3rd row), ample cargo space.
Value Proposition:
Offers a good balance of features, practicality, and affordability within its segment.
Engine Performance:
Adequate power from the 2.4L engine for daily driving and highway cruising.
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics, testing, and repair procedures for fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls, engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, and timing components.
Transmission:
Service, maintenance, and repair procedures for the automatic transmission, including fluid checks, replacement, internal component diagnostics, and torque converter service.
Drivetrain:
Covers front-wheel drive system, including axle shafts, CV joints, differential service, and related components.
Suspension:
Detailed information on front and rear suspension systems, including shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Procedures for power steering system service, including pump, rack and pinion, hoses, and fluid replacement.
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage of brake system components, including disc brakes (front and rear), hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, and component replacement.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical system, including battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, wiring diagrams for all circuits, fuses, relays, and power distribution.
HVAC:
Service and repair of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including refrigerant handling, compressor service, blower motor, evaporator, and condenser diagnostics.
Body And Interior:
Procedures for body panel removal and installation, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and collision repair information.
Chassis:
Details on frame, subframes, and body mounting points.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, washer fluid).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for identifying common problems and their causes, with step-by-step troubleshooting guides and symptom-based diagnostics.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing wear items and major components, such as brake pads and rotors, belts, hoses, water pump, alternator, starter motor, fuel pump, and suspension components.
Engine Overhaul:
Procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly, including piston and ring replacement, bearing service, cylinder head service, and valve adjustments.
Transmission Service:
Complete procedures for transmission fluid and filter changes, as well as more involved repairs.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic charts, and step-by-step testing procedures for electrical faults.
Body Repair:
Guidelines for dent repair, panel alignment, and trim piece removal/installation.
Special Tools:
Identification of necessary special tools for specific repair and diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic preventative maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including in-depth diagnostic strategies.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4-Star
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
4-Star
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution:
Standard (EBD)
Traction Control:
Standard (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (ESC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (for all rows).
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats, 3-point seat belts for rear seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), recommended replacement every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions.
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 5 years, then every 52,500 miles (84,000 km) or 2.5 years thereafter.
Brake Fluid Replacement:
Recommended every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to vehicle owner's manual for specific type, typically ATF DEXRON III equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some reports of higher-than-average oil consumption, particularly in earlier models. Regular checks are crucial.
Suspension Noise:
Occasional reports of suspension noises, potentially related to worn bushings or sway bar links.
HVAC Issues:
Infrequent issues with blower motor or HVAC control module failures.
Evap System Leaks:
Potential for EVAP system leaks (e.g., loose gas cap or faulty vent valve) leading to check engine lights.
Manufacturer:
Kia Motors Corporation
Founding:
Founded in 1944, initially as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts. Entered automotive manufacturing in the late 1960s.
First Generation Start:
The Kia Rondo (first generation, known as the Kia Carens in most markets outside North America) was introduced in 2006 in North America.
Model Year Updates:
The 2010 model represents a mid-cycle refresh for the first generation, featuring updated styling, interior refinements, and feature enhancements.
Second Generation Transition:
The Rondo platform was later replaced by the Kia Soul in some markets, while the Carens name continued in others with a new generation.
Assembly Location:
Hwasung Plant, South Korea (primary assembly).