🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2012

Chassis Code:

XM

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking versatile transportation with SUV capabilities.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Murano.

Design Philosophy:

Kias 'Opposites United' design language (though evolving, 2012 reflects a more conventional SUV aesthetic) emphasizing European styling cues and perceived premium feel.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential diagnostic and repair information for technicians and owners, enabling efficient troubleshooting of complex electronic systems.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete Factory Electronic Troubleshooting Manual (ETM)

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (as per description)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual / Electronic Troubleshooting Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Electronic (PDF likely, printable)

File Format Detail:

Typically provided as a PDF, often with bookmarking for navigation and searchable text.

Print Quality:

Designed for clear reproduction, ensuring legibility of diagrams, text, and tables when printed.

Binding Type:

Not applicable for electronic format; for print-on-demand, typically spiral or perfect bound.

Paper Type:

Not applicable for electronic format; for print-on-demand, standard paper suitable for technical manuals.

📖 Manual Coverage

Electrical Systems:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems, including engine control, body control modules, infotainment, climate control, lighting, power accessories, safety systems, and instrument cluster.

Engine Management:

Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition system troubleshooting, emissions control, sensor diagnostics (MAF, O2, knock, etc.), and actuator testing.

Powertrain Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting for transmission control modules (TCM), hydraulic and electronic control of automatic transmissions, and potential diagnostic paths for manual transmissions.

Chassis Systems:

Diagnostics for braking systems (ABS, ESC, EBD), steering systems (power steering, electric power steering if applicable), suspension systems, and tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS).

Body Electronics:

Troubleshooting for power windows, door locks, mirrors, sunroofs, remote keyless entry, alarm systems, and interior/exterior lighting.

Climate Control:

Diagnostics for HVAC systems, including blower motor, blend door actuators, refrigerant control, and climate control modules.

Safety Systems:

Troubleshooting for airbag systems (SRS), seatbelt pretensioners, and any associated sensors or control modules.

Diagnostic Flowcharts:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts based on symptom for rapid fault isolation.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including connector pinouts, wire colors, and component locations.

Component Testing:

Procedures for testing individual electrical components, sensors, and actuators using multimeters and diagnostic scan tools.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Comprehensive guides to identify and resolve specific vehicle issues and diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Connector And Pinout Data:

Detailed information on electrical connector configurations and pin assignments for accurate testing and repair.

Depth:

Advanced diagnostics, component-level troubleshooting, and electrical system repair for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

G4KE (2.4L Theta II GDI)

Engine Displacement 1:

2.4 Liters (2359 cc)

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline 4-Cylinder

Aspiration 1:

Naturally Aspirated

Fuel Delivery 1:

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Horsepower 1:

175 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate)

Torque 1:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate)

Engine Code 2:

G6DH (3.5L Lambda II)

Engine Displacement 2:

3.5 Liters (3470 cc)

Engine Configuration 2:

V6

Aspiration 2:

Naturally Aspirated

Fuel Delivery 2:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Horsepower 2:

276 hp @ 6300 rpm (approximate)

Torque 2:

248 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approximate)

Emission Standards:

Meets EPA and CARB standards for the model year.

Fuel Type Recommendation:

Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 2.4L:

6-Speed Automatic with Sportmatic Shifting

Transmission Type 3.5L:

6-Speed Automatic with Sportmatic Shifting

Drive Type:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional.

Transmission Fluid Spec 6At:

Kia SPIII ATF or equivalent (consult manual for specific part numbers like KIA Genuine ATF SP-III).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.8 inches

Width:

74.2 inches

Height:

68.1 inches

Wheelbase:

109.4 inches

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 120.3 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.6 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 40.4 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 75.1 cu ft

Curb Weight 2.4L FWD:

Approx. 3,814 lbs

Curb Weight 3.5L AWD:

Approx. 4,233 lbs

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3,500 lbs (properly equipped)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (typically for this generation, check specific NHTSA data)

IIHS Ratings:

Good ratings in front, side, and rear impact tests; rollover resistance varies with FWD/AWD (check IIHS for specifics).

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard on all models.

Antilock Braking System:

Standard with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).

Traction Control System:

Standard.

Airbags:

Dual front, front side-impact, and side curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available with touch-screen audio systems, optional navigation, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, USB/Auxiliary inputs.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rearview camera (optional), parking assist sensors (optional).

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth hands-free phone system and audio streaming.

Usb Aux:

Standard USB and auxiliary input jacks for media devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (severe driving conditions) or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving conditions), using synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Always consult owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (severe) or 30,000 miles or 24 months (normal).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000 miles or 12 months.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (severe) or 60,000 miles or 48 months (normal), or as indicated by the manual's diagnostic system.

Engine Oil Type:

API SM or higher, SAE 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil for 2.4L Theta II GDI. For 3.5L Lambda II, SAE 5W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic oil. Always verify with manual.

Coolant Type:

Long-life coolant (ethylene glycol based, typically silicate-free or with organic acid technology - OAT). Kia Genuine Long Life Coolant (MS591-08) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

If hydraulic power steering: ATF SPIII or specific Kia power steering fluid. If electric power steering (EPS), no fluid is typically required.

Engine Theta Ii Gdi Potential Issues:

Some Theta II GDI engines have experienced oil consumption issues and potential bearing wear. The manual's diagnostic procedures are critical for identifying and addressing these.

Electrical System Common Faults:

Faulty sensors (e.g., crankshaft position, camshaft position), issues with body control module (BCM) communication, intermittent power window failures, and problems with the infotainment system can occur. The ETM is essential for diagnosing these.

Transmission 6At Potential Issues:

Occasional rough shifting or delayed engagement can be related to transmission fluid degradation or solenoid issues. The ETM provides specific diagnostic steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Motors History:

Founded in 1944, Kia Motors Corporation is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Has evolved significantly from basic utility vehicles to modern, stylish, and technologically advanced cars.

Sorento Generation 2:

The 2012 Sorento represents the second generation (XM) of the model, which debuted in 2009. This generation marked a significant shift from body-on-frame construction to unibody construction, enhancing driving dynamics and fuel efficiency. It also featured a more modern, car-like design.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured at Kia's Hwasung Plant in South Korea.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

While specific awards vary, the Sorento generally achieved good safety ratings from organizations like NHTSA and IIHS for its generation, reflecting its strong safety structure and features.

Value Recognition:

Kias often receive recognition for offering strong value for money, combining features, utility, and a competitive price point.