Market Position:
Mid-size SUV offering practicality, seating for up to seven passengers, and available all-wheel drive, competing with models like the Toyota Highlander, Ford Edge, and Honda Pilot.
Competitive Analysis:
The 2006 Sorento offered a value proposition with its robust construction, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options, positioning itself as a budget-friendly alternative in a competitive segment.
Key Features:
Available V6 engine, optional 7-passenger seating, available 4WD, body-on-frame construction (for this generation) providing durability.
Engine Service:
Engine overhaul, diagnosis, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control.
Transmission Service:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, diagnosis, fluid specifications, clutch service (manual), torque converter service (automatic).
Drivetrain Service:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differential service, drive axles, CV joints, propeller shafts.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, springs, ball joints, bushings, power steering system, steering column.
Brake System:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS diagnosis and repair, brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control modules, power windows, door locks.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis diagnostics.
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and service, seat belt mechanisms.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed maintenance schedules, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement (if applicable).
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various systems.
Component Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for removing, inspecting, repairing, and reinstalling major and minor vehicle components.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic codes and procedures, sensor testing, actuator testing, control module programming (where applicable).
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagram interpretation, circuit testing, component testing using multimeters and oscilloscopes.
Alignment Balancing:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures, tire balancing.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:
Four-Star (Driver), Four-Star (Passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash Test Rating:
Five-Star (Front), Four-Star (Rear)
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test:
Not Rated (vehicle designed before this test was standard)
Traction Control:
Available
Electronic Stability Control:
Available
Airbags:
Front-seat airbags, front-side airbags, available curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Infinity audio system, available navigation system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking sensors (optional), Cruise control.
Connectivity Options:
Auxiliary audio input (on some models/head units), 12V power outlets.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
7,500
Air Filter Replacement Miles:
30,000
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
100,000 (for long-life iridium plugs)
Timing Belt Replacement Miles:
Not Applicable (3.5L V6 is chain-driven)
Engine Oil Type:
API SM or higher, SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
6.7 (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based (typically OAT or HOAT, check manual for specifics)
Common Issue Oil Leaks:
Potential for valve cover gasket leaks and oil pan gasket leaks.
Common Issue Suspension:
Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings leading to clunking noises or steering issues.
Common Issue ABS:
ABS sensor failures can illuminate the ABS warning light.
Common Issue Evap System:
Loose or faulty gas cap can trigger evaporative emissions system codes.
Brand Heritage:
Kia, a South Korean automaker, has a history dating back to 1944, evolving from a motorcycle manufacturer to a global automotive producer known for offering value-oriented vehicles.
Model Evolution Genesis:
The Sorento was introduced in 2002 as Kia's first mid-size SUV. The 2006 model represents a significant facelift and update to the first generation.
Production Location:
South Korea (Hwaseong Plant)
Production Years First Gen:
2002-2009
