🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Model Generation:

Second Generation (XM)

Model Years Covered:

2006, 2007, 2008, 2009

Engine Variant Covered:

V6 3.5L

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size SUV / Crossover

Key Selling Points:

Spacious interior, family-oriented, capable for light off-roading and towing (depending on configuration), value proposition.

Primary Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, Chevrolet Equinox (though larger than some).

Body Styles:

4-door SUV

Seating Capacity:

Typically 7-passenger seating (2+3+2 configuration)

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential factory-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling cost-effective maintenance and repairs for owners and independent shops.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

Availability:

Instant Download

Licensing:

No Expiry Dates

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, emission control systems, timing belt/chain, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts.

Engine Electrical:

Starting system, charging system, engine control module (ECM), sensors (MAF, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position, Knock, Throttle Position), ignition coils, spark plugs, wiring diagrams.

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (A/T) overhaul, fluid service, valve body, torque converter, gearsets, solenoids, transmission control module (TCM), troubleshooting.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, front differential, rear differential (if applicable), driveshafts, CV joints, transfer case (for AWD).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shock absorbers, coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, sway bars), alignment specifications, troubleshooting.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, troubleshooting.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, pads, rotors, master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system, EBD system, parking brake, hydraulic lines, bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, starter, alternator, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all major systems, power windows, power locks, mirrors, horn.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, evaporator, condenser, climate control unit, troubleshooting.

Body:

Exterior panels, doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, glass, mirrors, interior trim, seat removal, body repair procedures, corrosion prevention.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, battery maintenance, tire rotation and balancing.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, OBD-II trouble codes, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnostic flowcharts.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical components, and body parts.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, critical component clearances, diagnostic values, wiring harness routing, and alignment settings.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, complex electrical diagnostics, and body repairs.

Target Audience:

Professional technicians, DIY mechanics, and automotive enthusiasts seeking in-depth repair and maintenance knowledge.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text content

Printability:

Printable pages

Quality:

High-resolution, clear diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G6CU (for 3.5L V6)

Engine Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3497 cc)

Engine Configuration:

60-degree V6

Bore X Stroke:

93.0 mm x 82.7 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1 (approx.)

Valve Train:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Horsepower:

Approximately 235-240 hp @ 6000 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)

Torque:

Approximately 227-230 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 (Octane rating may vary based on regional availability and specific model tuning)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converters, EGR valve, evaporative emission control system (EVAP).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (5AT)

Transmission Model:

Various Hyundai/Kia proprietary models (e.g., F5A51-derived components)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available within the manual for each gear and reverse.

Optional Transmission:

N/A for this engine/model year combination (only automatic was offered with the 3.5L V6)

Transmission Features:

Lock-up torque converter, electronic control unit (TCU), adaptive shift logic.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia SPIII Automatic Transmission Fluid (or equivalent high-quality ATF)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 Liters (dry fill), 4.5-5.0 Liters (drain and fill)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 188.4 inches (4785 mm)

Width:

Approximately 74.2 inches (1885 mm)

Height:

Approximately 66.1 - 67.3 inches (1680 - 1710 mm) depending on roof rails

Wheelbase:

Approximately 110.2 inches (2800 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 8.1 inches (206 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4000 - 4300 lbs (1814 - 1950 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 5500 - 5700 lbs (2495 - 2585 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) with appropriate towing package and hitch.

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approximately 10.0 - 12.4 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approximately 32.0 - 37.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approximately 74.0 - 75.0 cu ft

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (for most configurations)

IIHS Front Crash Rating:

Good (for most configurations)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for most configurations)

Antilock Braking System ABS:

Standard on all trims

Electronic Stability Control Esc:

Standard on all trims

Traction Control System TCS:

Standard on all trims

Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Ebd:

Standard on all trims

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags for all three rows.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with optional premium sound. Higher trims may feature auxiliary input, USB connectivity (depending on exact year/trim), and Bluetooth hands-free calling.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Driver Assistance Features:

Backup camera (optional on some trims), parking assist sensors (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input jack, USB ports (on later models or higher trims), 12V power outlets.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months under severe driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (standard on this engine).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as specified by Kia's severe service schedule (e.g., towing, frequent short trips).

Coolant Flush Replacement:

Initial replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or SP certified, ILSAC GF-5 or GF-6 certified.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5.5 Quarts (5.2 Liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, Long Life coolant (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Blue or equivalent).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Kia Power Steering Fluid or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon ATF.

Engine Issues:

Some reports of oil consumption, potential for timing chain/tensioner wear over high mileage, occasional sensor failures (e.g., crankshaft position sensor).

Transmission Issues:

Some transmission shifting concerns or solenoid issues reported, particularly if fluid maintenance is neglected.

Suspension Issues:

Wear in control arm bushings and ball joints over time, leading to clunks or wandering.

Electrical Issues:

Corrosion on electrical connectors, especially ground points, can lead to intermittent issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Heritage:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automobile manufacturer, has a history of producing a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs and minivans. Known for offering value and increasingly for improved quality and design.

Sorento Evolution Pre 2006:

The first generation Sorento (2002-2009, but with significant changes for 2007) was a more traditional body-on-frame SUV. The 2006 model year represents a transition year or early part of the second generation's development/introduction depending on market timing.

Sorento Second Generation Xm:

The second generation Sorento (XM platform), launched for the 2009/2010 model year, shifted to a unibody construction, offering improved ride comfort, fuel economy, and a more car-like driving experience. The 2006-2009 range, particularly 2006-2008, largely belongs to the later part of the first generation, while the 2009 model year bridges the transition. This manual specifically covers the 3.5L V6 from the first generation's end and potentially early second-gen application.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Hwaseong plant), with potential assembly in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Mention:

While specific awards for the 2006-2009 Sorento 3.5L are less prominently documented than later generations, Kia as a brand has received numerous awards for value, reliability (especially in later years), and design from organizations like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports, reflecting a general positive trend in the company's offerings.