Segment:
Mid-size SUV, body-on-frame construction.
Competitors:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder.
Vehicle Type:
Body-on-frame SUV, offering robust construction for off-road capability and towing.
Configurable Seating:
Available with 5 or 7 seating configurations.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission, transfer case, differentials, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, parking brake), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Body electrical systems, lighting, instruments, infotainment, charging system, starting system, ignition system, wiring diagrams.
Body & Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC, safety restraints, interior trim, exterior trim.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, diagnostics, troubleshooting, adjustments.
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, mechanical diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (45RFE or equivalent)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Less Common)
Drivetrain:
Available in 2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) with transfer case.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4/GL-5 compliant Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., ATF SP-III or equivalent)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4/GL-5 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90)
Length:
Approx. 184.4 inches (4683 mm)
Width:
Approx. 73.4 inches (1865 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.3 inches (2700 mm)
Seating Capacity:
5 or 7 passengers
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Variable, often limited (specific figures vary)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 31.7 cu ft (specific figures vary)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 4,100 - 4,400 lbs (1860 - 2000 kg), depending on configuration
Towing Capacity Est:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) when properly equipped
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
Four Stars (Driver & Passenger) for 2004 model year.
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Acceptable (for models tested)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) may be optional on higher trims.
Airbags:
Front airbags for driver and passenger; optional side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended replacement at 60,000 to 90,000 miles (96,000 to 145,000 km) or 5-7 years.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN/SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for exact specification)
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type, typically red or pink. Refer to Kia specification.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Timing belt tensioner issues, potential for head gasket leaks (especially on early models), catalytic converter failure, ABS sensor faults, interior trim creaks.
Oil Filter Example:
Kia part # 26300-35056 or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51522, Fram PH10152)
Air Filter Example:
Kia part # 28113-3E000 or equivalent (e.g., Purolator A35537)
Timing Belt Kit Example:
Gates TCKWP147 or equivalent (includes belt, tensioner, idlers, water pump)
Segment Awards:
The Sorento has received various positive reviews for its value proposition and utility in its segment, although specific major awards for the 2004 model year are less prominent compared to some competitors.
Reliability Expectations:
Generally considered average to slightly below average for its class, with specific attention needed for noted common issues.
