🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Rondo

Year:

2008

Generation Identifier:

First Generation (2006-2013)

Platform Code:

JC

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact MPV / Crossover

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking versatile and practical transportation

Key Competitors:

Mazda5, Ford Focus Wagon, Volkswagen Golf SportWagen, Toyota Matrix

Versatility:

Flexible seating arrangements, ample cargo space

Value Proposition:

Affordable pricing, good feature set for the cost

Practicality:

Easy ingress/egress, high seating position

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (primarily North America, Europe, and Asia, based on typical Kia Rondo markets)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Manual Type:

Workshop Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

2.4L CVVT (G4KC), 2.7L MPI (G6BA)

Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic (F4A51), 5-Speed Automatic (Optional, less common on this model year)

Drivetrain:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

Suspension:

Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Multi-link

Steering:

Hydraulic Power Steering

Brakes:

Front: Ventilated Disc, Rear: Disc (ABS equipped)

Electrical System:

Battery, Charging System (Alternator, Starter), Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Power Distribution

Engine Management:

ECU, Sensors (MAF, MAP, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position, Knock), Fuel Injection, Ignition Timing

Cooling System:

Radiator, Fan, Thermostat, Coolant Pump, Hoses

Exhaust System:

Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Muffler, Pipes

HVAC:

Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Liftgate, Seats, Trim, Glass

Safety Systems:

Airbags, Seatbelts, ABS, Traction Control (if equipped)

Maintenance:

Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replenishment, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement

Engine Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Cylinder Head Repair, Piston and Connecting Rod Service, Crankshaft Service, Timing Belt/Chain Replacement (if applicable)

Transmission Service:

Fluid and Filter Replacement, Transmission Overhaul, Solenoid Replacement, Torque Converter Service

Brake System Repair:

Brake Pad/Shoe Replacement, Rotor/Drum Resurfacing or Replacement, Brake Fluid Flush, Caliper/Wheel Cylinder Service

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Strut/Shock Absorber Replacement, Ball Joint and Bushing Service, Tie Rod End Replacement, Power Steering Pump and Rack Repair

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring Diagram Analysis, Component Testing, Fault Code Retrieval and Interpretation, Sensor Diagnosis

HVAC Repair:

Refrigerant Charging, Component Replacement (Compressor, Evaporator, Condenser), Blower Motor and Resistor Service

Body Repair:

Panel Replacement, Door Mechanism Adjustment, Glass Installation, Dent Repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides

Depth Level:

Comprehensive (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers)

Diagnostic Capability:

Detailed diagnostic procedures, sensor data interpretation, pinpoint tests

Rebuild Procedures:

Includes detailed step-by-step instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams for all systems

Torque Specifications:

All critical fastener torque specifications provided

Special Tools:

Lists required special tools for specific repair procedures

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchable Text:

Yes (typically OCR processed for searchability)

Print Readability:

High (designed for clear printing of text and diagrams)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format - PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format - PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

G4KC

Engine Description 1:

2.4L Inline-4 DOHC CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing)

Displacement 1:

2359 cc (2.4 Liters)

Bore Stroke 1:

86.7 mm x 97.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

9.4:1

Horsepower 1:

160 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by market)

Torque 1:

162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate, varies slightly by market)

Engine Code 2:

G6BA

Engine Description 2:

2.7L V6 MPI (Multi-Point Injection)

Displacement 2:

2656 cc (2.7 Liters)

Horsepower 2:

185 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)

Torque 2:

182 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approximate)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Economy Rating 2.4L:

Approx. 20 MPG City / 27 MPG Highway (Varies by transmission and driving conditions)

Fuel Economy Rating 2.7L:

Approx. 18 MPG City / 25 MPG Highway (Varies by transmission and driving conditions)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (F4A51)

Optional Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (Less common for 2008 model year, check specific vehicle)

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF SP-III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific part number and capacity)

Drivetrain Layout:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.6 inches (4435 mm)

Width:

71.7 inches (1820 mm)

Height:

63.4 inches (1610 mm)

Wheelbase:

104.3 inches (2650 mm)

Front Track:

61.7 inches (1568 mm)

Rear Track:

61.8 inches (1570 mm)

Curb Weight 2.4L:

Approx. 3,300 - 3,500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg)

Curb Weight 2.7L:

Approx. 3,500 - 3,700 lbs (1588 - 1678 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,500 - 4,700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-Star (for some configurations)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-Star (for some configurations)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:

5-Star (for some configurations)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:

4-Star (for some configurations)

IIHS Front Crash:

Good (for some configurations)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for some configurations)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Traction Control:

Optional (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Optional (ESC/ESP)

Airbags:

Frontal, Side-Curtain (standard or optional depending on trim)

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM/CD player with available MP3 playback and satellite radio compatibility. Aux input common.

Display:

Central dashboard display for audio and climate control. Higher trims may offer more integrated displays.

Parking Assist:

Rear parking sensors were an available option on some trims.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard on most models for audio device connectivity.

Usb Port:

Less common on 2008 models, might be present on premium audio systems or later production runs of the generation.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (whichever comes first, refer to manual)

Oil Filter Replacement:

At each oil change

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 30,000 miles)

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 15,000-30,000 miles)

Spark Plugs 2.4L:

Replace every 105,000 miles (Platinum or Iridium plugs)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (severe usage may require more frequent changes)

Coolant Flush:

Initial flush at 60,000 miles, then every 30,000-50,000 miles thereafter

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles

Engine Oil Type 2.4L:

SAE 5W-20 API SM or higher

Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:

Approx. 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change

Engine Oil Type 2.7L:

SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher

Engine Oil Capacity 2.7L:

Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water (refer to manual for Kia specified type, e.g., Long Life Coolant)

Engine Hesitation:

Can occur due to fouled spark plugs, dirty fuel injectors, or faulty EGR valve.

Transmission Slipping:

May indicate low fluid levels, worn clutch packs, or solenoid issues; requires diagnostic attention.

Suspension Noise:

Worn bushings, ball joints, or strut mounts can cause clunking or rattling sounds.

HVAC Blower Issues:

Blower motor resistor failures or worn blower motors can lead to erratic fan speeds or no fan operation.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Heritage:

Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is a South Korean automobile manufacturer. Known for offering reliable and value-oriented vehicles.

Kia Rondo First Gen Intro:

The Kia Rondo (also known as Kia Carens in some markets) was introduced globally in 2006 as a compact MPV with a focus on practicality and versatility.

Kia Rondo 2008 Updates:

The 2008 model represents part of the first generation, receiving minor updates and potentially trim level adjustments based on market feedback. The core platform and powertrain options remained largely consistent with the initial launch.

Manufacturing Plant:

Hwaseong Plant, South Korea (primary)

Production Period First Gen:

2006 - 2013

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick Predecessor:

While the Rondo itself might not have specific awards for 2008, its platform and Kia's general focus on safety contributed to positive safety ratings in its class.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings vary; consult specific Consumer Reports archives for detailed historical data for the 2008 Rondo.

Emissions Standards:

Meets U.S. EPA emissions standards for the model year (e.g., Tier 2 Bin 5).