🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Rondo

Year:

2012

Engine Variant:

2.4L DOHC

Engine Code:

Theta II G4KC

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) / Crossover.

Target Audience:

Families seeking practical, versatile, and affordable transportation with ample passenger and cargo space.

Key Competitors:

Dodge Journey, Ford C-Max, Mazda 5, Toyota Matrix (though Rondo offered more MPV-like practicality).

Seating Configuration:

Typically offered with 5 or 7-seat configurations, providing excellent passenger flexibility.

Versatility:

Known for its flexible interior with fold-flat rear seats for expanded cargo capacity.

Value Proposition:

Positioned as a value-oriented option in the compact MPV segment, offering a good balance of features and practicality for the price.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and service procedures for the Kia Rondo 2012, 2.4L DOHC model.

Total Pages:

1091

Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, lubrication, cooling.

Engine Performance:

Fuel system, ignition system, emissions control, starting and charging system, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (likely A6GF1/A6MF1 based on model/year), removal, installation, internal components, torque converter, fluid service.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear axles, drive shafts, CV joints, differentials.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, control arms, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric, likely hydraulic for this generation), steering column, rack and pinion, tie rods.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, disc brakes, hydraulic components, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, power windows, door locks, mirrors, horn, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system components, refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, controls.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, trim, latches, hinges.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, carpeting, interior trim, airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) diagnosis and precautions.

Body Chassis:

Frame, unibody construction, corrosion protection.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures, common faults, fault code interpretation, troubleshooting trees.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement.

Disassembly Assembly:

Complete instructions for the removal and installation of all major and minor components.

Diagnostics:

In-depth diagnostic strategies, including the use of scan tools and specialized equipment for identifying and resolving issues.

Depth:

Full factory-level technical detail, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics and components.

Quality:

High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-Cylinder, naturally aspirated.

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2359 cc)

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder).

Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm (estimated).

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1 (estimated).

Horsepower:

Approximately 175 hp @ 6000 RPM (rated).

Torque:

Approximately 169 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM (rated).

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), multi-port or sequential.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline.

ECU:

Kia Electronic Control Unit (ECU) / Engine Control Module (ECM).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission.

Optional Transmission:

N/A for this specific engine/model year, primarily automatic.

Gear Ratios:

Detailed gear ratios and final drive ratio will be found within the manual.

Fluid Type:

Specific Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) type (e.g., ATF SP-IV or equivalent specified by Kia) will be detailed in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4480 mm (176.4 inches).

Width:

Approximately 1790 mm (70.5 inches).

Height:

Approximately 1650 mm (65.0 inches).

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2650 mm (104.3 inches).

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 Passengers.

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Specific figures vary, but generally designed for utility.

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Substantial, with fold-flat seating for maximum capacity.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1500-1600 kg (3300-3500 lbs), depending on configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

Likely 4 or 5 stars (refer to specific NHTSA data for exact 2012 Rondo rating).

IIHS Crash Test:

Varies by test, generally performed well for its class.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System.

Esc:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) likely standard.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS).

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (coverage varies by trim).

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input jack. Higher trims may feature upgraded audio systems and satellite radio.

Connectivity:

USB port for media device connection may be available on some trims. Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming are also possible.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking sensors available on higher trim levels.

Rearview Camera:

Rearview camera integrated into the infotainment display may be available on some trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for precise intervals.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at least every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or at least every 20,000 miles.

Spark Plugs:

Typically iridium-type plugs with a replacement interval of 100,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid:

Inspect regularly, replace at intervals recommended by Kia (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles, or as per severe duty schedule).

Engine Oil:

0W-20 or 5W-20 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (refer to manual for exact viscosity and API service category).

Coolant:

Nitrite-free, silicate-free, amine-free, borate-free, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) antifreeze/coolant, typically blue or orange. Kia genuine coolant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification).

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some Theta II engines have been reported to consume oil. Regular checks are advised.

Transmission Performance:

Occasional reports of harsh shifting or hesitation. Regular fluid maintenance is crucial.

Suspension Noise:

Front suspension components like sway bar links or bushings can wear over time, leading to noise.

HVAC Issues:

Blend door actuator failures or refrigerant leaks can affect HVAC performance.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automobile manufacturer with a history dating back to 1944, known for its progressive growth and diverse vehicle offerings.

Rondo Generation:

This 2012 model is part of the first generation (2007-2013) of the Kia Rondo (also known as Kia Carens in some markets).

Facelift:

The 2012 model may incorporate minor updates from an earlier facelift of the first generation.

Assembly Location:

Primarily assembled in South Korea.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

The Kia Rondo (and its predecessor Carens) has often received good safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA, indicating its solid structural integrity and safety feature implementation.

Value Awards:

Often recognized for its strong value proposition, blending utility, family-friendliness, and affordability, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.