🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

KIA

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2012

Engine:

3.5L V6

Engine Code Variant:

G6CU (Lambda II)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking versatile utility and comfortable ride.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder.

Engine Variant:

Focus on the powerful 3.5L V6 Lambda II engine, known for its balance of performance and efficiency.

Manual Utility:

Designed for DIY mechanics and professional technicians, offering comprehensive repair guidance.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF (Instant Download)

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive Repair and Service Information

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (typical for a full workshop manual)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, internal components, timing system, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, emissions control.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting and charging system, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensors, actuators.

Transmission Mechanical:

Automatic Transmission (6-speed A6LF2): Overhaul, valve body, torque converter, gear sets, clutch packs.

Transmission Electrical:

Transmission Control Module (TCM) diagnostics, shift solenoids, speed sensors, mode sensors.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear differentials, drive shafts, CV joints, transfer case (if applicable), AWD system.

Suspension:

Front MacPherson strut, multi-link rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes (ventilated), rear disc brakes, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, parking brake system, hydraulic lines, master cylinder.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant system diagnostics.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, glass, seats, trim, headliner, exterior lighting.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, traction control, electronic stability control (ESC).

Preventative Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, common problem diagnosis, fault code interpretation.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair.

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostics, specific system diagnostics, wiring diagram analysis.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, machining, and reassembly.

Transmission Overhaul:

Complete guide for automatic transmission disassembly, repair, and reassembly.

Electrical Component Testing:

Testing of sensors, actuators, ECUs, and other electrical components.

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds).

Diagnostic Level:

Advanced, including wiring diagrams and component testing procedures.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.

Clearances And Tolerances:

Specifications for engine and transmission component clearances.

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

Works on all computers and devices capable of opening PDF files.

Searchability:

Likely searchable text content within the PDF.

Printability:

Designed for printing specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Product)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Product)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3470 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 87.5 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

10.4:1 (approx.)

Cylinder Head:

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

Engine Design Features:

Aluminum block and cylinder heads, variable valve timing (VVT).

Horsepower:

276 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

248 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher for optimal performance)

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, EVAP system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Automatic with Shiftronic

Transmission Model:

A6LF2

Drive Modes:

Sport mode, manual shifting (Shiftronic).

Fluid Type:

KIA SPIIIL ATF (or equivalent specification)

Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.7 Quarts (8.2 Liters) for initial fill; complete system capacity higher.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.8 inches (4795 mm)

Width:

74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

68.1 inches (1730 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.5 inches (2755 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4120 - 4300 lbs (depending on drivetrain and trim)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 5732 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper equipment and configuration)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.0 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 46.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 86.3 cubic feet

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Likely 4 or 5 Stars (Check specific test results for 2012 model year)

IIHS Ratings:

Varies by test, but generally good for its class (refer to IIHS for specifics).

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System

Esc:

Electronic Stability Control

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS)

Ebd:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Brake Assist:

Brake Assist (BAS)

Airbags:

Front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models may have a simpler audio system, while higher trims offer touchscreen infotainment with navigation, Bluetooth, and rearview camera integration.

Driver Assistance Features:

Availability depends on trim level and options. May include parking sensors, rearview camera. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane departure warning were less common in this specific model year's base trims.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for device charging and media playback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe driving may require more frequent changes.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 20,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving environment.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 - 20,000 miles or annually.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 60,000 - 100,000 miles, though the manual will provide specific intervals based on driving conditions. Early changes are often beneficial for longevity.

Spark Plugs:

Typically iridium spark plugs, recommended replacement around 100,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 (API SN or higher).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.1 Quarts (5.8 Liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Approved OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant, typically an ethylene glycol-based coolant, pre-diluted 50/50. Use KIA genuine coolant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Engine Common Issues:

While generally robust, potential issues can include occasional oil consumption, particularly at higher mileage, and intake manifold/throttle body carbon buildup. The manual will detail diagnostic and cleaning procedures.

Transmission Common Issues:

Some owners have reported occasional hesitation or rough shifting. Regular fluid changes and adherence to maintenance schedules are crucial. The manual covers diagnosis for these symptoms.

Suspension Common Issues:

Wear in bushings and ball joints can occur over time, leading to noise or alignment issues. The manual provides procedures for inspection and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

KIA Motors Corporation, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944, evolving from a bicycle manufacturer to a global automotive player known for value and improving quality.

Sorento Generation:

This is the second generation (XM) Sorento, launched in 2009 as a 2010 model year, marking a significant shift from a body-on-frame SUV to a unibody construction.

2012 Updates:

Minor updates for the 2012 model year may include feature packaging adjustments or slight styling tweaks, but the core platform and powertrain remain consistent with the earlier second-generation models.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea at KIA's Hwasung Plant. Some assembly may have occurred in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Check specific year awards; some Kia models in this era received good safety ratings.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings vary by model year and specific components. The manual provides information to address common wear items and potential failures.