Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size Crossover SUV
Target Audience:
Families, individuals seeking versatile and capable SUV
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Murano, Hyundai Santa Fe
Value Proposition:
Strong feature set for the price, comfortable ride, available third-row seating
Manual Benefit:
Essential resource for diagnosing and repairing complex electrical issues, saving on specialized labor costs
Primary Coverage:
Electronic Troubleshooting
Secondary Coverage:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Function, Diagnostic Procedures, System Operation
Estimated Pages:
600-800 (typical for OEM ETMs of this era)
Type:
OEM Factory Electronic Troubleshooting Manual (ETM)
Format:
Electronic (PDF or similar digital format)
Powertrain Control:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Emissions Control
Transmission:
Transmission Control Module (TCM), Gear Selection, Shift Control
Chassis Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Power Steering
Body Electrical:
Lighting Systems (Headlights, Taillights, Interior), Wipers, Horn, Power Windows, Power Locks, Sunroof
Comfort Convenience:
Climate Control (HVAC), Audio System, Navigation System, Keyless Entry, Smart Key System
Safety Security:
Airbag System (SRS), Immobilizer System, Alarm System
Instrumentation:
Instrument Cluster, Gauges, Warning Lights
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting
Component Testing:
Resistance, voltage, continuity testing of sensors, actuators, and wiring harnesses
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed circuit diagrams for all electrical systems, including connector views and pin assignments
Relay Fuse Identification:
Location and function of fuses and relays within the vehicle's electrical system
Module Diagnosis:
Procedures for diagnosing issues related to ECUs, TCMs, and other control modules
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Explanation of DTCs, their causes, and recommended diagnostic steps
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic component checks to advanced system diagnostics and repair
Diagnostic Tools:
References to required diagnostic scan tools (e.g., GDS) and specific diagnostic procedures
Specifications Data:
Electrical specifications, voltage, resistance, signal parameters for various components
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval
Print Readability:
High resolution, suitable for printing individual sections or the entire manual
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format)
Paper Quality:
Not applicable (digital format)
Engine Code:
G4KH (2.4L Theta II GDI)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Displacement:
2359 cc (2.4 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Horsepower:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with GDI
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Economy Est Mpg:
20 City / 27 Highway (FWD)
Optional Engine:
3.5L V6 Lambda II (3.5L G6DC)
V6 Displacement:
3470 cc (3.5 Liters)
V6 Horsepower:
276 hp @ 6300 rpm
V6 Torque:
248 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Length:
188.1 inches (4778 mm)
Width:
74.2 inches (1885 mm)
Height:
68.1 inches (1730 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.4 inches (2780 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 108.1 cu ft (3061 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
9.6 cu ft (272 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
31.4 cu ft (889 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
87.0 cu ft (2464 L)
Curb Weight Est:
3800 - 4200 lbs (1724 - 1905 kg)
Towing Capacity Max:
2000 lbs (907 kg) (2.4L), 5000 lbs (2268 kg) (3.5L V6)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4-Star (2012 Model Year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models with specific options/builds)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard
Traction Control:
Standard
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS with EBD)
Hill Start Assist:
Available
Airbag System:
Front, Front Side, Curtain Airbags (standard); Knee Airbag (driver, optional/trim dependent)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Available Systems:
UVO infotainment system, touchscreen navigation, premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity)
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming, USB/Auxiliary input
Available Features:
Rearview camera, parking sensors, all-wheel drive (AWD)
Keyless Entry Start:
Available Smart Key system with push-button start
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions
Cabin Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) (GDI engines)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), or sooner under severe driving conditions
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 0W-20 API SN/GF-5 (Synthetic)
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, meeting KSM 2142 standard (typically a long-life orange/red coolant)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent like PSF-3)
Theta Ii Engine Concerns:
While less common in the GDI variant, some Theta II engines have faced issues with oil consumption or potential engine bearing failures. This manual's diagnostic focus is crucial here.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common for any vehicle of this age, potential issues include sensor failures, faulty actuators, wiring harness degradation, and module communication errors, all covered by this ETM.
Infotainment System Glitches:
Occasional issues with touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, or navigation system freezing can occur, often software-related or requiring module resets/updates.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, known for producing reliable and value-oriented vehicles globally.
Sorento Genesis:
First generation launched in 2002 as a traditional body-on-frame SUV.
Second Gen Transition:
The 2012 model is part of the second generation (XM), which transitioned to a unibody platform, offering improved ride comfort and fuel efficiency.
Production Location:
Hwaseong, South Korea; West Point, Georgia, USA
Production Years Xm Gen:
2009-2015