🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Year:

1996

Platform Code:

NB-1 (Mazda B-Series based)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Positioning:

Affordable, practical, and rugged SUV, often seen as an entry-level option in the segment.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Ford Explorer (early models), Nissan Pathfinder (early models)

Design Basis:

Based on the chassis of the Mazda B-Series pickup truck, lending it a body-on-frame construction and robust capabilities.

Body Styles:

Available in 2-door (soft top or hard top) and 4-door configurations.

Drivetrain Options:

Available in 2WD (rear-wheel drive) and 4WD (part-time 4WD system).

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Secondary Coverage:

Global markets with similar configurations

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manual)

Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, potentially printable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system

Drivetrain:

Transmission (manual and automatic), transfer case, driveshafts, differentials, axles

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped)

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body electricals, power accessories

Body:

Body construction, exterior panels, interior trim, HVAC system, seats, safety restraints

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation (if applicable for the era)

Repair:

Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments, component testing

Diagnostics:

Engine performance diagnostics, electrical system testing, brake system diagnostics

Depth:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts

Special Tools:

Identification of required special tools for specific procedures

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive torque specifications for all fasteners

Alignment Data:

Wheel alignment specifications

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for efficient information retrieval

Printability:

Printable pages for hands-on use in a workshop environment

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations (typical for factory manuals)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

FE-DOHC (or similar Mazda-derived engine codes like G6)

Engine Type:

2.0L Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC/DOHC (likely DOHC for performance)

Displacement:

1998 cc

Horsepower Est:

122-130 hp @ 5500-6000 rpm (depending on specific market tune)

Torque Est:

127-135 lb-ft @ 3000-4000 rpm (depending on specific market tune)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

ECU Type:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) for fuel and ignition timing

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD system with manual or electronic engagement (depending on trim).

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for manual and automatic transmissions and transfer case will be detailed in the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length Est:

Approx. 4060 - 4200 mm (depending on body style)

Width Est:

Approx. 1700 - 1750 mm

Height Est:

Approx. 1600 - 1650 mm

Wheelbase Est:

Approx. 2650 mm

Curb Weight Est:

Approx. 1400 - 1600 kg

Towing Capacity Est:

Varies by market and configuration, typically around 1000-1500 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Limited data available for this era and model, likely not rated by NHTSA in early iterations.

ABS:

Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may be equipped on higher trims.

Traction Control:

Not commonly found on this generation.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger airbags standard on most models from this year.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners (front).

Rollover Protection:

Body-on-frame construction offers some inherent rigidity, but rollover risk is a consideration for SUVs of this era.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Basic AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, often with a digital display. Optional premium sound systems may exist.

Speakers:

Typically 4 or 6 speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Power Windows:

Available on higher trim levels, manual crank windows on base models.

Aux Input:

Not typically equipped with factory aux input; aftermarket solutions available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (consult manual for precise recommendation).

Engine Oil Filter Replacement:

At every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type and material).

Timing Belt Replacement:

Crucial for this engine. Typically every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage (interference engine likely).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (consult manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Kia/Hyundai coolant may be recommended.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III/Mercon or equivalent ATF.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Common leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and crankshaft seals.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear due to age and off-road use.

Exhaust Rust:

Prone to rust, especially in areas with salt exposure.

Electrical Gremlins:

Older wiring can degrade, leading to intermittent issues with lights, sensors, or power accessories.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, hose degradation, and water pump failures are common with age.

Oil Filter Example:

Part Number examples: Fram PH3600, Wix 51354, Purolator L14000 (verify exact fitment in manual).

Air Filter Example:

Part Number examples: Fram CA3214, Wix 42162 (verify exact fitment in manual).

Timing Belt Kit Example:

Includes timing belt, tensioner, idler pulleys, and water pump. Example: Gates TCKWP307 (verify exact fitment).

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Positioning 1990S:

Kia was a growing manufacturer in the 1990s, establishing its presence in international markets with budget-friendly and practical vehicles.

Generation 1:

The 1996 model marks the debut of the first generation Sportage (index NB-1), designed as a monocoque SUV initially, but later adapted to the Mazda B-Series platform for many markets due to cost and tooling considerations.

Platform Sharing:

Shared platform and components with the Mazda B-Series pickup truck, influencing its robust yet truck-like driving characteristics.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily South Korea, with potential assembly in other regions.

Production Years:

1993-2006 (First Generation)