The 1997-2000 KIA CLARUS Body Service/Repair/Workshop Manual provides comprehensive information for maintaining, servicing, diagnosing, and repairing the body of your vehicle. This manual, designed for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts, offers detailed instructions and high-quality exploded diagrams to guide you through every step of the repair process. You'll find clear and concise explanations, making even complex procedures easy to understand. The manual covers a wide range of topics, including: * **General Information:** This section provides an overview of the KIA CLARUS body, including safety precautions, tools and equipment requirements, and basic maintenance procedures. * **Body Structure:** Detailed diagrams and descriptions of the various body panels, components, and their assembly. * **Replacing Body Panels:** Step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling body panels, including doors, fenders, hoods, and trunk lids. * **Body Dimensions:** Precise measurements and specifications for various body parts, ensuring accurate replacements and repairs. * **Waterproofing and Rustproofing:** Techniques and procedures for protecting the body from rust and corrosion, maintaining its structural integrity. * **Body Modification Tools:** Information on specialized tools needed for body repairs and modifications. * **Plastic Parts:** Guidance on working with plastic components, covering repair methods and replacement procedures. With this comprehensive manual, you'll have all the information you need to confidently tackle any body-related repair or maintenance task on your 1997-2000 KIA CLARUS.

The 1997-2000 KIA Clarus, a mid-size sedan, marked KIA's foray into the North American market. It was a rebadged version of the Mazda 626, a testament to KIA's initial strategy of collaborating with established manufacturers to gain traction in a new market. The Clarus, known for its affordability and practicality, offered a range of features typical of its class, including a spacious cabin, a comfortable ride, and a reliable powertrain. It was available in both sedan and wagon body styles, catering to diverse needs and preferences. The Clarus was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, offering moderate power and fuel efficiency. Transmission options included a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic gearbox. The vehicle was lauded for its spacious interior, which provided ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Clarus also boasted a well-designed dashboard with easy-to-use controls. However, the Clarus faced challenges in terms of reliability and performance in comparison to its Japanese counterparts. It struggled to garner a strong reputation in a market dominated by brands like Honda and Toyota. The vehicle's overall build quality was perceived as lacking, and it was prone to certain mechanical issues that hampered its long-term appeal. Despite these shortcomings, the 1997-2000 KIA Clarus served as a vital stepping stone for the Korean manufacturer, providing valuable experience and market presence. The model's success played a crucial role in shaping KIA's path towards becoming a more established and respected automotive player in the global market. Today, the Clarus is primarily of interest to enthusiasts and collectors, representing a significant chapter in KIA's history. While its production run was relatively short, the Clarus helped pave the way for a future filled with innovative and popular models that redefined KIA's image in the automotive world.