🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Year:

1998

Model Code:

KNOA (First Generation)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact SUV / Crossover

Original Release Year:

1997 (for the 1998 model year)

Target Demographic:

Individuals seeking a versatile, capable, and relatively affordable compact SUV, often with a focus on utility and off-road potential (especially in earlier models).

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Suzuki Vitara, Ford Escape, Nissan Xterra.

Powertrain Options:

Available in 2WD and 4WD configurations with gasoline engines.

Body Styles:

Offered primarily as a 5-door SUV, with some markets receiving a 3-door soft-top or hardtop variant.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Yes, detailed overhaul and component repair for all engine variants.

Engine Performance:

Yes, including fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, and cooling systems.

Transmission Manual:

Yes, including clutch, gearbox, and driveline components.

Transmission Automatic:

Yes, detailed overhaul and repair procedures for automatic transmission.

Drivetrain:

Yes, including 4WD system operation, differentials, driveshafts, and CV joints.

Suspension And Steering:

Yes, covering front and rear suspension, steering gearbox, power steering, and wheel alignment.

Brakes:

Yes, including hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc and drum brake components.

Electrical System:

Yes, comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting.

HVAC:

Yes, covering air conditioning, heating, ventilation, and blower system.

Body And Frame:

Yes, including exterior panels, interior trim, glass, doors, and basic structural information.

Maintenance Procedures:

Yes, routine service checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, and lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Yes, diagnostic charts and step-by-step guides for common and uncommon issues.

Diagnostics:

Yes, including OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system information and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Engine Rebuild:

Yes, detailed instructions for complete engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.

Transmission Overhaul:

Yes, step-by-step guide for automatic and manual transmission rebuilds.

Brake System Repair:

Yes, including caliper rebuild, rotor replacement, and bleeding procedures.

Electrical Component Replacement:

Yes, instructions for replacing alternators, starters, sensors, and ECUs.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Yes, including shock absorber/strut replacement, ball joint service, and bushing replacement.

Engine Timing:

Yes, belt/chain replacement and timing mark alignment.

Cooling System Service:

Yes, including radiator, thermostat, and water pump replacement.

Fuel System Cleaning:

Yes, including fuel injector service and fuel pump replacement.

Exhaust System Repair:

Yes, component replacement and exhaust leak diagnosis.

Wheel Alignment Specifications:

Yes, detailed alignment angles for front and rear.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

Target Audience:

Professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Yes, text-searchable content for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Yes, designed for printing specific sections or the entire manual.

Resolution:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, gasoline

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Engine Code:

FE (typically)

Horsepower Net:

Approx. 122-130 PS (90-96 kW) at 5500-6000 rpm (market dependent)

Torque Net:

Approx. 170-180 Nm (125-133 lb-ft) at 3500-4500 rpm (market dependent)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 87-91)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Distributor-based (depending on market/specific engine version)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Drive Modes:

Selectable 4WD (4H, 4L) or Full-time 4WD with center differential (market dependent).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III / Mercon equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,035 mm (158.9 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1,720 mm (67.7 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1,660 mm (65.4 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,650 mm (104.3 inches)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 200 mm (7.9 inches)

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Variable, typically around 0.5 - 0.6 cubic meters (18-21 cu ft)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,350 - 1,500 kg (2,976 - 3,307 lbs), depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Varies by market and configuration, often around 1,500 kg (3,300 lbs) with appropriate hitch.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Not formally rated by NHTSA for this specific model year and market.

IIHS Side Impact:

Not formally rated by IIHS for this specific model year and market.

ABS:

Optional on some trims, standard on higher trims or specific markets.

Traction Control:

Rarely equipped on this generation.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags were standard or optional depending on trim and market.

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced body structure for improved rollover resistance, but no specific rating available.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. CD player optional or integrated with cassette.

Speakers:

Typically 4 to 6 speakers, depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trim levels.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard; aftermarket solutions may be available.

Usb Ports:

Not available on this model year.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 km (4,500 - 6,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 45,000 km (18,000 - 27,000 miles) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Engine Coolant Flush:

Every 45,000 - 60,000 km (27,000 - 36,000 miles) or 3 years.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 90,000 - 100,000 km (54,000 - 60,000 miles) or 5 years. Crucial for engine longevity.

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (viscosity depending on ambient temperature, consult manual).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.2 Liters (4.4 Quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a green or orange color. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Timing Belt Failure:

A critical maintenance item; failure can lead to severe engine damage (interference engine design). Regular replacement is paramount.

Rear Differential Leaks:

Common on 4WD models; check for leaks and fluid levels.

Suspension Bushings Wear:

Rubber bushings in the suspension can wear over time, leading to clunking noises and poor handling.

HVAC Blower Motor Failure:

Blower motor resistor or motor itself can fail, resulting in no cabin fan operation.

Window Regulator Issues:

Power window regulators can fail, causing windows to not operate.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia, a South Korean manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944, initially producing bicycle parts and later motorcycles and trucks. The company entered the passenger car market in the late 1970s and began exporting globally in the 1990s, with the Sportage being one of its early successful international models.

First Generation Start:

1997

First Generation End:

2004

Platform Sharing:

Built on a body-on-frame chassis, derived from Mazda Bongo/Proceed platform, distinguishing it from unibody crossovers that became more prevalent.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Kia's Gwangmyeong plant). Some assembly may have occurred in other global locations depending on market specific contracts.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Early Crossover Recognition:

While not winning specific major awards in its debut year, the Sportage was part of a growing segment that redefined the SUV market, offering more car-like driving characteristics than traditional truck-based SUVs.