Segment:
Compact hatchback/sedan, positioned as an affordable and practical option.
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious individuals and families seeking reliable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Mazda3, Chevrolet Cobalt.
Value Proposition:
Offers a good balance of features, practicality, and affordability.
Body Styles:
Available as a 5-door hatchback (Spectra 5) and a 4-door sedan.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, Engine control systems (ECU), Fuel system, Ignition system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (FWD)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering system, Brake system (ABS, Hydraulic), Wheel alignment
Body & Electrical:
Body exterior, Body interior, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Electrical system (Wiring diagrams, Fuses, Relays), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio system, Power accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and top-ups, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement
Repair:
Engine diagnosis and repair, Transmission removal and installation, Brake component replacement, Suspension component overhaul, Electrical system troubleshooting and repair, Body panel repair and replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Common issues and their solutions
Specifications:
Torque specifications, Clearances, Fluid capacities, Electrical specifications, Emissions data
Component Rebuilds:
Engine internal component rebuild (pistons, rings, bearings), Transmission overhaul, Brake caliper and master cylinder rebuilding
Depth:
Full factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Code:
G4EC (early models), G4FA/G4FC (Theta II, later models, though primarily for Accent/Elantra, may have had variants or been replaced by similar displacement inline-4s in some markets)
Displacement:
2.0L (1998cc)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Horsepower:
Approximately 135-140 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly by year and market)
Torque:
Approximately 137-139 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (varies slightly by year and market)
Induction:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
ECU:
Kia/Hyundai proprietary ECU system, often referred to by internal Hyundai-Kia designations.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Automatic Control:
Electronically controlled with Overdrive (4-speed auto).
Manual Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (manual transmission fluid, consult manual for specific Kia P/N)
Automatic Fluid:
Kia SP-III or equivalent Dexron III H ATF (automatic transmission fluid, consult manual for specific Kia P/N)
Length:
Approx. 170.0 inches (Hatchback), 175.2 inches (Sedan)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches
Height:
Approx. 59.4 inches (Hatchback), 57.3 inches (Sedan)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 102.4 inches
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 19.7 cu ft (with rear seats up), 44.1 cu ft (with rear seats folded)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2700-2900 lbs (varies by trim and transmission)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult manual or VIN plate.
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
Good (Spectra Sedan 2006 models)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Acceptable (Spectra Sedan 2006 models)
ABS:
Available (Standard on higher trims, optional on lower trims)
Traction Control:
Not commonly available on this generation.
Airbags:
Front airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some trims.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front occupants.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player. Optional premium audio and auxiliary input on higher trims.
Display:
Basic digital or analog displays for audio and climate.
Cruise Control:
Available on LX, EX, and EX Premium trims.
Keyless Entry:
Available on higher trims.
Usb Port:
Not typically factory equipped on this generation; aftermarket solutions common.
Bluetooth:
Not typically factory equipped; aftermarket integration possible.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles for iridium plugs (check manual for specific type and interval).
Timing Belt Replacement:
If equipped with a timing belt (some variants may use a timing chain), typically around 90,000 - 100,000 miles. Consult manual for confirmation.
Engine Oil Type:
0W-20 or 5W-20 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher) - consult manual for precise recommendation.
Coolant Type:
HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Asian Blue or equivalent - Kia P/N 00200-00300 or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (consult manual for specific requirement).
Power Steering Fluid:
DEXRON III or equivalent (consult manual for specific P/N).
Engine Issues:
Occasional oil consumption, potential for timing belt wear (if applicable), some reports of catalytic converter issues.
Transmission Issues:
Less common, but potential for rough shifting in automatics, clutch wear in manuals.
Suspension Issues:
Front suspension components (struts, ball joints) can wear over time. Rear stabilizer bar links may also need replacement.
Electrical Issues:
Window regulator failures, intermittent power accessory issues, gauge cluster problems reported on some vehicles.
Body Issues:
Rust on body panels, particularly in areas with harsh climates. Door lock actuators can fail.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Known for offering value-oriented, practical vehicles.
Specta Lineage:
The Spectra nameplate replaced the Kia Sephia. The Spectra was later replaced by the Kia Forte (known as Kia Cerato in some markets).
Generation:
This manual covers the second generation Spectra (LD), produced from 2004 to 2009 globally.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea by Kia Motors. Some assembly may have occurred in other Kia facilities worldwide.
Production Years For This Manual:
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Specific Awards:
While the Spectra was generally seen as a value leader, it did not receive significant mainstream automotive awards compared to its competitors during its production run.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Variable reliability ratings across model years, often rated average or below average compared to segment leaders.
Emissions Compliance:
Designed to meet EPA and CARB emissions standards for its respective model years. Manual will detail specific testing procedures and specifications.
