🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

KIA

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2006

Engine Variant:

V6 3.5L

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (JC)

Chassis Code:

JC

Engine Code Primary:

G6CU

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The KIA Sorento (JC) was positioned as a mid-size SUV offering a blend of capability, comfort, and value, competing with models like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Nissan Murano

Segment Strengths:

Spacious interior, V6 power, available AWD, comfortable ride for its class.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair information, enabling DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics to perform accurate and efficient maintenance and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

North America

Secondary Coverage:

Global specifications may differ

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500 (typical for comprehensive OEM FSM)

Manual Type:

Factory Shop Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, engine control (ECU), transmission (automatic)

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, differentials, driveshafts, CV joints

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels, tires

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, infotainment systems, body control modules (BCM)

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, hood, tailgate, HVAC system, seats, safety restraints (SRS)

Maintenance:

Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnostics, electrical circuit testing

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake component replacement, suspension overhaul, steering rack replacement, electrical component repair/replacement

Installation:

Component replacement procedures, accessory installation where applicable to factory-fit items

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance and adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text with index

Readability:

High-resolution scans, legible text and diagrams

Dependency:

No internet access or proprietary software required

Compatibility:

Universal OS compatibility (Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux)

Printability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital File)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital File)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6, Lambda G6CU

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3497 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

93.0 mm x 82.7 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.8:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (24 valves total)

Horsepower Net SAE:

203 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Net SAE:

217 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

70 Liters (18.5 US Gallons)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic

Transmission Options:

N/A for this specific 3.5L V6 model year; typically automatic was standard.

Transmission Control:

Electronic with adaptive shift control

Transmission Fluid Type:

KIA Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (Refer to manual for exact specification)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 Liters (2.5 US Quarts) for change, 10.8 Liters (2.8 US Quarts) for overhaul (Refer to manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4675 mm (184.1 in)

Width:

1890 mm (74.4 in)

Height:

1745 mm (68.7 in)

Wheelbase:

2710 mm (106.7 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 200 mm (7.9 in)

Seating Capacity:

7-passenger (with 3rd-row seating)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.4 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 37.2 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1900-2050 kg (4189-4519 lbs) depending on trim and drivetrain

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 2500 kg (5511 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Driver:

5-Star (2006 model year testing)

NHTSA Frontal Crash Passenger:

5-Star (2006 model year testing)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Traction Control:

Optional Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Traction Control System (TCS) depending on trim

Airbags Front:

Standard Dual front airbags

Airbags Side:

Optional front side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners for all occupants

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM/CD player with optional Sirius Satellite Radio, steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system.

Display:

Central dashboard display for audio and climate settings.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking sensors on some trims.

Aux Input:

Optional auxiliary audio input jack.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months

Spark Plug Replacement Interval:

Every 100,000 miles (Iridium type recommended)

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 60,000 miles or 48 months

Engine Oil Type:

API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher, SAE 5W-20 (Refer to manual for specific viscosity recommendations under different temperature conditions)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type coolant, typically red or pink. Use a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for Kia's specific coolant specification.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Engine Oil Consumption:

Some owners reported higher than normal oil consumption, particularly with higher mileage. Regular checks are advised.

Suspension Wear:

Front suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar links) can wear prematurely due to vehicle weight and typical SUV usage.

Transmission Hesitation:

Occasional reports of transmission hesitation or rough shifts, often addressed by a fluid and filter change or software update.

HVAC System Issues:

Blend door actuators and blower motor resistor failures can lead to climate control issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

KIA, a South Korean automaker, has a history of producing a wide range of vehicles from economy cars to SUVs, known for offering value and improving quality over successive generations.

First Generation:

First generation (2000-2006) was a body-on-frame SUV, based on the Kia Sportage platform. The 2006 model year marked the transition to the second generation.

Second Generation Introduction:

The second generation (JC) introduced for the 2007 model year, but this manual covers the transition year 2006 which may refer to the end-of-life cycle of the first generation or early introduction of second generation features.

Manufacturing Plant:

Hwaseong, South Korea

Production Years For Generation:

First Generation: 2000-2006 (This manual is for the 2006 model)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Award 2006:

Recipient of 5-Star frontal crash test ratings from NHTSA for the 2006 model year.

Value Recognition:

Often recognized for offering a good balance of features, space, and affordability within the mid-size SUV segment.