Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and automotive enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge of the first-generation Kia Sportage.
Competitors 1St Gen:
Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Bronco II, Jeep Cherokee (XJ), Suzuki Vitara.
Vehicle Platform:
Body-on-frame construction, derived from the Mazda B-series truck platform.
Powertrain Options:
Available with both 2WD and 4WD drivetrains.
Covered Years:
1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Estimated Pages:
1500-2000 (Estimated for comprehensive WSM)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual (WSM)
Format:
Digital (Likely PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, automatic and manual transmissions.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS if equipped), drivetrain (4WD system components).
Electrical:
Starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrumentation, interior and exterior electronics, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay locations.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, body hardware, climate control system (HVAC).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad service, tire rotation.
Repair:
Engine component overhaul (e.g., cylinder head, pistons), transmission rebuilds, brake caliper and rotor replacement, CV axle replacement, suspension component replacement, starter and alternator replacement, radiator replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, component testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls. Includes torque specifications, clearances, and detailed assembly/disassembly instructions.
Engine Code Gasoline:
FE (2.0L SOHC I4)
Displacement Gasoline:
1998 cc
Bore X Stroke Gasoline:
82.0 mm x 93.0 mm
Compression Ratio Gasoline:
9.2:1
Horsepower Gasoline:
122 hp @ 5000 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)
Torque Gasoline:
134 lb-ft @ 2600 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)
Top Speed:
Approximately 170 km/h (106 mph)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Octane Rating:
87 Octane (AKI) / 91 RON
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
4Wd System:
Part-time 4WD with manual or electronic (push button) engagement, and 2WD options. Some models may feature a limited-slip rear differential.
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate (for manual transmission)
Length:
4025 - 4230 mm (158.5 - 166.5 in) (depending on variant)
Width:
1715 - 1780 mm (67.5 - 70.1 in)
Height:
1640 - 1700 mm (64.6 - 66.9 in)
Wheelbase:
2650 mm (104.3 in)
Ground Clearance:
200 mm (7.9 in)
Seating Capacity:
5 passengers
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 650 liters (22.9 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
1450 - 1650 kg (3200 - 3640 lbs) (depending on configuration)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 2000 kg (4400 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 1000 kg (2200 lbs) (braked trailer)
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Not officially rated by NHTSA for this generation in most markets due to early production year.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on 4-wheel disc brake models.
Traction Control:
Not typically available for this generation.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags (standard on later models, optional on early ones).
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH or ISOFIX not standard on this generation.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
At every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Coolant Flush And Replace:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or SL, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.3 liters (4.5 US quarts) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible automatic transmission fluid (ATF)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II/III compatible ATF or specific power steering fluid
Timing Belt Wear:
High incidence of timing belt failure if not replaced at recommended intervals. The 2.0L engine is an 'interference' engine, meaning valve-piston contact will occur upon belt failure.
Cv Joint Boots:
Tears in CV joint boots leading to premature wear of CV joints, especially in 4WD models due to more exposure.
Radiator Leaks:
Cracking plastic end tanks on the radiator leading to coolant leaks.
Rear Main Seal Leaks:
Potential for rear main crankshaft seal leaks.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear can be accelerated with heavy use, particularly in manual transmission models.
Kia Heritage:
Kia Corporation, founded in 1944, initially produced steel tubing and bicycle parts before entering the automotive sector in the 1960s. Known for its growth into a global automotive manufacturer.
Sportage 1St Gen Introduction:
Launched in 1993 globally, it was Kia's first foray into the SUV market. It was developed in conjunction with Mazda, utilizing their B-series platform.
Sportage 1St Gen Facelift:
Received a minor facelift around 1997-1998 with updated styling and features.
Production Location:
South Korea (Gwangmyeong plant)
Production Years:
1993-2002 (for JA generation)
