The 1.3-liter 8-valve Kia A3E engine was produced at a factory in Korea from 1999 to 2005 and was installed only on the basic modifications of the first generation of the popular Rio model. This power unit is built on the basis of the well-known Japanese Mazda B3 engine.
Kia family: A3E, A5D, BFD, S5D, A6D, S6D, T8D, FED, FEE.
Specifications
| Production years | 1999-2005 |
| Displacement, cc | 1343 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 75 – 82 |
| Torque output, Nm | 113 – 116 |
| Cylinder block | cast iron R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 8v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 75.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 75 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 |
| Features | SOHC |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | belt |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 3.4 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 2 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Kia Rio 2003) — city — highway — combined |
9.4 6.1 7.3 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~220 000 |
| Weight, kg | 115.3 |
The engine was installed on:
- Kia Rio 1 (DC) in 1999 – 2005.
Disadvantages of the Kia A3E engine
- This is a simple, but not very resourceful unit and all problems are from natural wear and tear;
- The timing belt can break even up to 50 thousand km, and when it breaks, the valve bends;
- From cheap grease, the oil pump pressure reducing valve and hydraulic lifters wedge;
- Closer to 200,000 km, oil scraper rings often lie down and an oil burn begins;
- Often breaks the gasket, components of the ignition system, the fuel pump fails.
Frequently asked questions about the Kia A3E
How much power does the Kia A3E make?
The Kia A3E develops 75 - 82 hp and 113 - 116 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Kia A3E take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 3.4 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Kia A3E have a timing belt or chain?
The Kia A3E uses a timing belt.
Is the Kia A3E turbocharged?
No, the Kia A3E is naturally aspirated.
Does the Kia A3E need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Kia A3E has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Kia A3E last?
The typical lifespan of the Kia A3E is ~220 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Kia A3E?
Kia Rio 2003: city 9.4, highway 6.1, combined 7.3 L/100 km.
What cars was the Kia A3E installed on?
Kia Rio 1 (DC) in 1999 - 2005.
What are the common problems of the Kia A3E?
This is a simple, but not very resourceful unit and all problems are from natural wear and tear. The timing belt can break even up to 50 thousand km, and when it breaks, the valve bends. All known problems.
