🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Rondo

Year:

2012

Engine Variant:

2.4L

Platform Code:

Unspecified (Related to Hyundai Elantra platform)

Engine Code Common:

Theta II G4KC

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Kia Rondo (known as Carens in many markets) is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) positioned as a practical and affordable family hauler, often bridging the gap between a compact SUV and a minivan.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Mazda5, Toyota Matrix, and Dodge Caliber in its segment.

Practicality:

Offered flexible seating configurations (often 5 or 7-passenger), good cargo space for its class, and a comfortable ride.

Value Proposition:

Known for delivering good value with a decent level of standard equipment at a competitive price point.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for all systems of the 2012 Kia Rondo 2.4L.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Official Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), potentially printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.

Drivetrain:

Automatic transmission (FWD), driveline components (axles, CV joints).

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments and gauges, power accessories, body control modules (BCM), infotainment system wiring, HVAC controls.

Body:

Body and frame structure, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, glass, HVAC system (controls, ducting, components).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, fluid checks and replacements, filter replacements (air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair:

Engine assembly/disassembly, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, diagnostic tool usage.

Adjustments:

Wheel alignment specifications, parking brake adjustment, idle speed adjustment (if applicable).

Depth:

Expert-level coverage including complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and detailed bodywork procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and text, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for quick information retrieval.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Engine Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2359 cc)

Engine Code:

Theta II G4KC

Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 16 valves, Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT)

Horsepower:

175 hp @ 6000 RPM

Torque:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87

Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change

Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7.6 US quarts (7.2 Liters)

Coolant Type:

HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) - typically Orange/Pink

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Automatic

Drive Type:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Manual Mode:

Typically includes a manual shifting mode (Sport mode/Shiftronic)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia SPIII or equivalent ATF

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.7 US quarts (7.3 Liters)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.7 inches (4,437 mm)

Width:

70.9 inches (1,801 mm)

Height:

63.0 inches (1,600 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2,649 mm)

Front Track:

61.4 inches (1,560 mm)

Rear Track:

61.5 inches (1,562 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 102.7 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 31.2 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 63.0 cubic feet

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,400 lbs (1,497 - 1,542 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4,586 lbs (2,080 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not recommended (typical for this vehicle class)

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy standard on most trims

Tire Size:

225/55R17

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Driver:

5-Star (2012 Model Year)

NHTSA Frontal Passenger:

5-Star (2012 Model Year)

NHTSA Side Driver:

4-Star (2012 Model Year)

NHTSA Side Passenger:

4-Star (2012 Model Year)

NHTSA Side Rear Occupant:

5-Star (2012 Model Year)

NHTSA Rollover:

4-Star (2012 Model Year)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esc:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Brake Assist:

Standard Brake Assist System (BAS)

Airbags Front:

Dual front advanced airbags

Airbags Side:

Front side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Full-length side curtain airbags (all rows)

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with satellite radio capability. Optional Infinity premium audio system.

Display Screen:

Optional touchscreen navigation system (typically 7-inch).

Connectivity:

Auxiliary audio input jack, USB port (on higher trims/with navigation), Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming (optional).

Climate Control:

Manual air conditioning standard; optional dual-zone automatic climate control.

Rear Camera:

Optional rearview camera integrated with navigation screen.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry; optional push-button start with smart key.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) (Long-life iridium plugs).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or under severe driving conditions.

Coolant Flush:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 5 years, then every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.

Engine Oil Part Number:

Refer to owner's manual/dealership for specific OEM recommended oil filter part number (e.g., Kia 26300-35503 or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Part Number:

Kia SPIII ATF (e.g., Kia 00200-00030 or equivalent).

Engine Problems:

Some reports of oil consumption in the Theta II engine, potential for piston ring wear. Engine knocking or rattling at startup can occur if oil pressure is low. Check for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets.

Transmission Problems:

Occasional rough shifting or delayed engagement reported. Regular fluid changes are crucial for longevity.

Suspension Components:

Strut mounts and bushings can wear over time, leading to noise and handling issues, especially on higher mileage vehicles.

Electrical Systems:

Power window motors, interior light issues, and occasional infotainment system glitches have been noted.

HVAC System:

Blower motor resistor failures can lead to the fan only working on high speed. Cabin air filter clogs are common and can reduce airflow.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automobile manufacturer founded in 1944.

First Generation Start:

Kia Rondo was first introduced globally as the second generation of the Carens in 2006. The 2012 model represents a mid-cycle refresh or the latter part of this generation.

Second Generation Details:

This generation (2006-2012) adopted a more conventional minivan/MPV styling and offered a wider range of engines and features.

Third Generation Start:

A significantly redesigned third generation of the Carens was introduced globally in late 2012/early 2013 for the 2013 model year, moving to a sleeker crossover-like design.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Donghee Plant, Gwangmyeong).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Achieved 5-star ratings in NHTSA frontal crash tests, indicating good structural integrity and airbag performance.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings varied by year and specific components; generally considered average for its class.

Emissions Standards:

Meets relevant EPA emissions standards for its model year.