🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2008

Engine:

3.3L V6

Engine Code:

Lambda G6DA

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2008 Kia Sorento, particularly the 3.3L V6 model, represented Kia's mid-size SUV offering, competing in a segment with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer. It aimed to provide value, space, and a good feature set for families and those seeking utility.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Vehicle Attributes:

Available with V6 engine, optional AWD, spacious interior, third-row seating (in some configurations), good towing capacity for its class.

Value Proposition:

This manual is an indispensable tool for Kia Sorento 3.3L 2008 owners and independent mechanics, offering detailed guidance to maintain, diagnose, and repair the vehicle effectively, saving time and money compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete service, maintenance, and troubleshooting for the 2008 Kia Sorento 3.3L V6.

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems (including OBD-II diagnostics).

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (likely 5-speed H-Matic), including torque converter, gear sets, hydraulic controls, service and overhaul.

Drivetrain:

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

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, stabilizers), wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack and pinion, steering column, hydraulic components.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake caliper service, rotor replacement, hydraulic lines.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, power windows, power locks, horn, wiper system.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hoods, trunk lid, interior trim, chassis components, structural integrity.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, refrigerant servicing, blower motor, evaporator, condenser.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seat belt mechanisms, diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance schedules, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting, common fault codes and their resolutions, electrical diagnostics.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems, component removal and installation, engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension and brake component replacement.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, module diagnosis.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Resolution:

High-resolution, suitable for printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

3.3L DOHC V6 (Lambda)

Horsepower:

Approx. 242 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 227 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Kia Long Life Coolant)

Oil Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 6.4 quarts (6.0 liters)

Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)

Drive Type:

Timing Chain

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (H-Matic)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for this specific engine/model year combination (primarily automatic)

Driver Selectable Modes:

Sport mode, Manual shift mode (Sportmatic)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia SP-III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent DEXRON III/Mercon

Fluid Capacity Quarts:

Approx. 8.4 quarts (7.9 liters) for drain and refill

📐 Dimensions

Length Inches:

187.4 inches

Width Inches:

74.4 inches

Height Inches:

67.1 inches

Wheelbase Inches:

110.0 inches

Passenger Volume Cubic Feet:

Approx. 126.3 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row Cubic Feet:

Approx. 30.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row Cubic Feet:

Approx. 10.0 cubic feet (if equipped with 3rd row)

Curb Weight Lbs:

Approx. 4,300 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

Towing Capacity Lbs:

Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5 Stars (for 2008 model year)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:

Good (for 2008 model year)

ABS:

Standard

Traction Control:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard

Airbags:

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

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD audio system with available SiriusXM satellite radio. AUX input typically standard or optional.

Cruise Control:

Standard

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking sensors available on some trims.

Bluetooth:

Optional on higher trim levels for hands-free calling.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 100,000 miles (iridium type recommended).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles or 48 months (severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to owner's manual for specific type (often ATF or a dedicated PSF).

Common Problems:

Potential issues may include minor oil leaks, ABS sensor faults, and occasional transmission shifting issues. The manual will provide diagnostic steps for these and other potential problems.

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Kia OE: 26300-35056 (example, consult manual for definitive part numbers)

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Kia OE: 28113-2P000 (example, consult manual for definitive part numbers)

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia, founded in 1944, initially produced motorcycles and later expanded into trucks and passenger cars. It gained significant global recognition for its value-oriented and increasingly stylish vehicles in the late 1990s and 2000s.

Sorento Generations:

The 2008 Sorento is part of the first generation (2003-2009), which was a body-on-frame SUV. It was succeeded by a unibody crossover SUV in 2010, marking a significant shift in the model's platform and design philosophy.

Manufacturing Location:

Hwasung Plant, South Korea

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes, for 2008 model year

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Varies by specific component; the manual will help address common wear items. Generally considered average for the segment at the time.