Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system (belt/chain), seals and gaskets.
Engine Management:
Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control systems (EGR, EVAP), sensors and actuators, idle control.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission internal components, clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, service and overhaul procedures.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, transmission fluid cooler, service and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive axles, CV joints, differentials, transfer case (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link, shock absorbers, springs, trailing arms), wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, steering wheel alignment.
Brakes:
Brake system components (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, pads, rotors, drums, shoes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, horn.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control unit, cabin air filter.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, frame components, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, interior trim, weatherstripping, anti-corrosion measures.
Restraints:
Airbag system (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System) components, seat belts, SRS control module, diagnostics.
Instrumentation:
Instrument cluster, gauges (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature), warning lights, driver information system.
Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, tire rotation, battery testing.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex problems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based diagnostics.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, electrical circuit testing, component testing.
Specifications Adjustment:
Torque specifications for fasteners, valve clearances, timing belt/chain tensioning, wheel alignment settings.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component location and connector views.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including component testing, circuit analysis, and use of specialized diagnostic equipment.
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete overhaul and rebuilding procedures for engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical components.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair or diagnostic tasks.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing all major and minor components, including part identification and proper installation techniques.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
4-Star
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
4-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Optional (Electronic Stability Control - ESC - not widely available on early models)
Airbags Front:
Standard (Dual front airbags)
Airbags Side:
Optional (Front side-impact airbags, optional front and rear side curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs Gasoline 3.5L:
Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with original equipment iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Gasoline 3.5L:
This engine utilizes a timing *chain*, not a belt, which is designed to last the life of the engine but requires inspection for noise or wear.
Timing Belt Diesel 2.5L:
This engine utilizes a timing *chain*, not a belt, designed for longevity. Inspection is recommended during major services.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under severe driving conditions (towing, dusty environments).
Engine Oil Capacity Gasoline 3.5L:
5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change. API SN or newer, SAE 5W-30 recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity Diesel 2.5L:
7.6 quarts (7.2 liters) with filter change. API CJ-4 or CK-4, SAE 5W-40 recommended.
Coolant:
Asian vehicle-specific Long Life Coolant (OAT), typically pink or red. Capacity: 8.7 quarts (8.2 liters) for V6.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap). Flush every 2-3 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent. Check level regularly.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia SP-III or equivalent. Capacity: 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for fill.
Engine 3.5L V6 Common:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, front crankshaft seal; occasional misfires due to ignition coil failure; timing chain noise if not maintained.
Engine 2.5L Crdi Common:
EGR system clogging, turbocharger issues (wastegate actuator), injector problems leading to rough running.
Transmission Automatic:
Harsh shifting, slipping, or delayed engagement can indicate fluid degradation or valve body issues.
Suspension Components:
Premature wear of ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings due to vehicle weight and typical SUV usage.
Electrical Glitches:
Occasional issues with power window regulators, door lock actuators, and instrument cluster illumination.