🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Year:

2012

Generation Designation:

Third Generation (SL)

Platform Code:

EL

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, active individuals, those seeking utility and modern styling.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai ix35/Tucson.

Differentiation:

Often praised for its bold styling, generous feature set for the price, and strong value proposition.

Design:

Distinctive 'tiger nose' grille, sculpted body lines, available panoramic sunroof.

Powertrain Options:

Choice of efficient 2.4L or powerful 2.0L turbocharged engines.

Interior Features:

Spacious cabin, user-friendly controls, available premium audio and navigation.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Engines Covered:

2.4L GDI (Theta II) and 2.0L Turbo GDI (Theta II)

Transmission Types Covered:

6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual

Drivetrain Types Covered:

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

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Classification:

Factory Service Workshop Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF (Downloadable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, disassembly, assembly, diagnosis, and repair of 2.4L Theta II and 2.0L Turbo Theta II engines.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, engine control module (ECM) diagnosis and programming.

Transmission:

Diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for the 6-speed automatic and manual transmissions.

Drivetrain AWD:

Service and repair of the Dynamax AWD system, including transfer case and rear differential.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension systems, steering rack, power steering system, alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, repair, ABS/ESC system, hydraulic components, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, power accessories.

Body Exterior:

Body panel repair, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass replacement, weather stripping.

Body Interior:

Interior trim removal and installation, seats, dashboard, HVAC system components.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, climate control system repair.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seat belt mechanisms.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules and procedures for all intervals.

Troubleshooting:

Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step repair and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle components.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical assembly points.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Listing and explanation of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their resolution.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, system-specific electrical wiring diagrams for accurate diagnosis and repair.

Depth Of Coverage:

Complete factory-level diagnostic, repair, and overhaul procedures.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostic strategies and component testing for all electronic systems.

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed instructions for rebuilding major mechanical assemblies like engines and transmissions.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for on-site use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding Description:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Description:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Variant:

2.4L GDI Inline-4 (Theta II G4KC)

Engine 1 Displacement:

2359 cc

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

176 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 1 Torque:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2 Variant:

2.0L Turbo GDI Inline-4 (Theta II G4KH)

Engine 2 Displacement:

1998 cc

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 86.0 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

260 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Engine 2 Torque:

269 lb-ft @ 1750-4500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 AKI (for 2.4L), 91 AKI recommended for 2.0T for optimal performance.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed automatic transmission (A6GF1 for 2.4L, 6T40/45 equivalent for 2.0T in some markets)

Optional Transmission:

6-speed manual transmission (M6CF2)

Transmission Features Automatic:

Electronically controlled, driver-adaptive shift logic, manual mode.

Transmission Features Manual:

Standard clutch operation, robust design.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia ATF SP-IV or equivalent.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 liters (15.8 US quarts) for a complete fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

174.0 inches (4420 mm)

Width:

72.0 inches (1829 mm)

Height:

65.2 inches (1656 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.9 inches (2640 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 99.9 cu ft (2829 L)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 26.1 cu ft (739 L)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 60.3 cu ft (1707 L)

Curb Weight FWD 2.4L:

Approx. 3459 lbs (1569 kg)

Curb Weight AWD 2.4L:

Approx. 3600 lbs (1633 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4630 lbs (2100 kg) for 2.4L AWD models.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2000 lbs (907 kg) when properly equipped.

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Crash Test Rating:

Good in front-offset, side, rear, and roof strength tests (2012 model year).

NHTSA Overall Safety Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (for models with specific configurations).

Active Safety Systems:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC) (AWD models).

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, front side-mounted airbags, side curtain airbags (front and second row), active front headrests.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available UVO infotainment system (later trims), Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Aux input, optional navigation system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Standard features like ABS, ESC, TCS. Advanced features like rearview camera and parking sensors were optional on certain trims.

Connectivity Options:

SiriusXM Satellite Radio, USB/Auxiliary audio inputs, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes.

Engine Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement Interval 2.4L:

Iridium spark plugs: 105,000 miles (168,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement Interval 2.0T:

Iridium spark plugs: 60,000 miles (96,000 km) due to turbocharging.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval Automatic:

Check level at every oil change. Replacement recommended every 60,000 miles (96,000 km), especially for severe use.

Coolant Replacement Interval:

Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 5 years, then every 52,500 miles (84,000 km) or 3 years thereafter.

Engine Oil Specifications:

API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 0W-20 viscosity grade.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.4L:

Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter.

Engine Oil Capacity 2.0T:

Approx. 5.1 US quarts (4.8 liters) with filter.

Coolant Type:

Long-life antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol based), typically a pre-diluted 50/50 mix of quality coolant and distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issue Engine 2.4L:

Potential for oil consumption in some engines (monitor oil level), knocking or rattling noises under acceleration can sometimes indicate issues with variable valve timing (VVT) system.

Common Issue Engine 2.0T:

Turbocharger issues can arise if not maintained properly (e.g., oil changes), carbon buildup on intake valves can affect performance and fuel economy.

Common Issue Transmission:

Some reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement in the automatic transmission, particularly at higher mileage. Software updates or internal repairs may be necessary.

Common Issue Suspension Steering:

Premature wear of suspension components like bushings or ball joints, especially in vehicles driven in harsh climates or on poor roads.

Common Issue Electrical:

Occasional reports of minor electrical glitches, such as issues with infotainment system responsiveness or power window operation.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is a South Korean automobile manufacturer with a significant global presence, known for its value-oriented vehicles and increasing focus on design and technology.

Sportage First Generation:

Launched in 1993, based on Mazda Bongo platform, body-on-frame SUV.

Sportage Second Generation:

Launched in 2004, unibody construction, shared platform with Hyundai Tucson.

Sportage Third Generation Sl:

Launched in late 2009 for the 2010 model year, significantly redesigned with a focus on modern styling and improved driving dynamics. The 2012 model is part of this generation.

Production Locations Sl Generation:

Primary assembly in Gwangmyeong, South Korea; also produced in Slovakia (Zilina) and China (Yueda Kia).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Awarded IIHS Top Safety Pick for the 2012 model year, signifying good performance in crash tests.

Other Industry Awards:

Various automotive publications have recognized the Sportage for its styling, value, and overall competence within the compact SUV segment during its generation.