Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Individuals and small families seeking an affordable, versatile vehicle.
Key Competitors 2002:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra, Subaru Forester
Body Style:
5-door SUV, unibody construction
Drivetrain:
Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Instrument Cluster:
Indicator lights, gauges, warning signals
Entertainment:
Radio, CD player operation
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C, heater, fan controls
Lighting:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lamps (if equipped)
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel adjustments, pedal operation, gear selector
Locks Security:
Door locks, keyless entry (if equipped), alarm system operation
Seating Safety:
Seat adjustments, seatbelt operation, airbag system explanation
Driving Operation:
Starting, stopping, shifting, braking, fuel economy tips
Customer Assistance:
Dealership contact, warranty information, roadside assistance
Cleaning Care:
Interior and exterior cleaning recommendations
Engine Compartment:
Component identification, fluid level checks
Engine Oil:
Oil type, viscosity, checking procedure, capacity
Battery:
Battery maintenance, jump starting procedures
Fuel:
Fuel type recommendations, fuel filter replacement (general)
Air Filter:
Air filter inspection and replacement
Maintenance Specs:
General maintenance schedule, part numbers, refill capacities, lubricant specifications
Accessories:
Information on optional accessories and their use
Basic Maintenance:
Fluid checks, tire pressure, bulb replacement, filter replacement
Troubleshooting:
Basic diagnostic guidance for common warning lights and symptoms
Operation:
Step-by-step guides for all vehicle functions and features
Depth:
Owner-level information, focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic checks.
Engine Type:
2.0L Inline-4 (J20A)
Engine Displacement Cc:
1998
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 127 hp @ 5000 rpm (US Spec)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 135 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm (US Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, Octane Rating 87 or higher
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles from era, consult NHTSA for specifics)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
Likely 4-star (based on similar vehicles from era, consult NHTSA for specifics)
ABS:
Standard on most trims (Anti-lock Braking System)
AWD System:
Optional 'On-Demand' AWD system
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners for front seats
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific recommendation.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles for iridium plugs, consult manual for exact type and interval.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for exact recommendation based on climate).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III (or equivalent specified by Kia)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil (SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90, consult manual)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or specified power steering fluid
Common Problems:
Radiator leaks/overheating, timing belt replacement (critical maintenance item), minor electrical gremlins, some suspension wear.
Timing Belt Interval:
Critical at 60,000-90,000 miles. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Oil Filter Example:
Kia OEM: 26300-35056 (Note: actual part numbers should be verified in manual or with VIN)
Engine Oil Capacity Qts:
Approx. 4.3 quarts (with filter change)
Kia History Context:
Kia, a South Korean automaker, was expanding its global presence significantly in the early 2000s, with the Sportage playing a key role.
First Generation Introduction:
The first generation Sportage (JA) was introduced in 1993, with significant updates and re-engineering leading into the 2002 model year.
Platform:
Based on the Kia Sportage concept, it shared some underpinnings with the Mazda B-series truck platform.
Production Years Gen1:
1993-2004 (various markets)