🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Year:

1999

Platform Code:

KJ

Vin Prefix:

514

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact SUV

Original Target Audience:

Budget-conscious consumers seeking an affordable, capable SUV with either 2WD or 4WD options.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Suzuki Vitara, Ford EcoSport (early models), Nissan Xterra.

Body Styles:

3-door and 5-door variants.

Drivetrain Options:

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

Suspension Type:

Body-on-frame construction with independent front suspension and solid rear axle (common for its era).

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and service procedures for the 1999 Kia Sportage.

Engine Coverage:

2.0L FE DOHC, 2.0L FE SOHC, 2.5L MV DOHC.

Transmission Coverage:

4-speed automatic, 5-speed manual.

Chassis Coverage:

Suspension, steering, brakes, drivetrain, 4WD system.

Electrical Coverage:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, accessories, starter, alternator, battery.

Body Coverage:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC system.

Troubleshooting Coverage:

Diagnostic procedures and common issue resolutions.

Estimated Pages:

~1500-2000

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions, engine control module (ECM).

Transmission Systems:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, operation, diagnosis, and repair.

Drivetrain Systems:

Front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, 4WD system operation and repair.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system.

Brake Systems:

Front and rear brakes (discs/drums), ABS system components and diagnosis.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, wipers, horn, power windows, central locking.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair, air conditioning.

Body And Trim:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, glass, seals, door mechanisms.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, fluid checks.

Diagnostics:

Fault finding charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, DTC code explanations.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components.

Rebuilding:

Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, detailed component reassembly.

Disassembly Reassembly:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete electrical schematics for all systems.

Depth:

Designed for professional technicians, offering detailed diagnostics, component specifications, and repair procedures. Suitable for advanced DIY mechanics as well.

📊 Manual Specifications

Type:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes (if OCR applied)

Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 2.0L Fe DOHc:

DOHC inline-4, 16-valve

Engine 1 Displacement Cc:

1998

Engine 1 Bore Stroke Mm:

82.0 x 93.0

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

9.4:1

Engine 1 Horsepower Hp:

122-126

Engine 1 Torque Lb Ft:

129-130

Engine 2 Description:

DOHC V6, 24-valve

Engine 2 Displacement Cc:

2493

Engine 2 Horsepower Hp:

152

Engine 2 Torque Lb Ft:

158

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

ECM:

Kia Electronic Control Unit (ECU)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 2.0L:

5-speed manual

Transmission Type Auto:

4-speed automatic

4Wd System:

Selectable 4WD system with Hi/Lo range (on most models).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 75W-90

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

SP-III or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4360

Width Mm:

1795

Height Mm:

1725

Wheelbase:

2650

Curb Weight Kg Approx:

1650-1800

Wheel Size:

15-inch or 16-inch alloy/steel

Tire Size Common:

235/75R15, 225/70R16

Bolt Pattern:

5x139.7

Offset Et:

+35 to +45

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver:

Not extensively tested by NHTSA for this era.

NHTSA Front Passenger:

Not extensively tested by NHTSA for this era.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners.

Chassis Design:

Body-on-frame construction provides robustness but may compromise impact absorption compared to unibody designs.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM/Cassette/CD player, optional upgraded systems.

Speakers:

Typically 4 or 6 speaker configurations.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trims.

Power Accessories:

Power windows, power door locks, and power mirrors were optional or standard on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.

Spark Plug Replacement DOHc:

Every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type).

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ, ILSAC GF-2, SAE 10W-30 or 5W-30 (depending on climate, refer to manual).

Engine Oil Capacity Qt:

4.2 (with filter)

Coolant Capacity L:

6.7

Common Problem 1 Timing Belt:

The 2.0L SOHC engine uses a timing belt that requires replacement at recommended intervals (e.g., 60,000 miles) to prevent catastrophic engine damage. The DOHC engines also use a belt.

Common Problem 2 Rear Main Seal:

Leaks from the rear main crankshaft seal can occur, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.

Common Problem 3 Suspension Bushings:

Wear in suspension bushings (control arm, sway bar) can lead to noise and poor handling.

Common Problem 4 4Wd Actuator:

Issues with the front hub locking mechanisms or 4WD actuator can arise, affecting engagement.

Common Problem 5 Exhaust Manifold:

Cracks in the exhaust manifold, especially on the 2.0L engines, can cause exhaust leaks and ticking noises.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, initially produced metal tubing and bicycle parts, later moving into motorcycles and trucks before entering the passenger car market and SUVs.

Sportage Generation 1 Kj:

The first generation Sportage (KJ) was introduced in 1993 and continued production through 2006, with significant updates in 1999. This manual covers the post-facelift 1999 models.

Manufacturing Locations:

South Korea, Malaysia, Ecuador, Philippines.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Early Sportage Reputation:

The first-generation Sportage gained a reputation for being a value-oriented SUV, offering decent off-road capability for its class and a robust chassis, although it was often outclassed in refinement by Japanese competitors.