🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2009

Engine:

3.3L V6

Internal Platform Code:

XM (Second Generation)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size SUV / Crossover

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking a practical, versatile, and value-oriented SUV with available 7-seat configurations.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Murano, Hyundai Santa Fe.

Value Proposition:

Offered a strong balance of features, space, and capability for its price point, making it a compelling choice in a crowded segment.

Practicality:

Spacious interior, flexible seating (optional third row), and good cargo capacity.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Likely PDF)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing system, lubrication system, cooling system, intake and exhaust manifolds, engine mounting

Engine Performance:

Fuel system, fuel injectors, fuel pump, throttle body, ignition system, spark plugs, coils, engine control module (ECM) operation and diagnosis, emissions control systems (catalytic converter, O2 sensors, EGR)

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (likely 5-speed or 6-speed depending on specific configuration for the 3.3L), transmission control module (TCM), gear shifting mechanisms, torque converter, transmission fluid cooling

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive shafts, CV joints, differential, transfer case (if applicable for AWD)

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, brake master cylinder, brake booster, ABS system, EBD system, brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, parking brake, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, stabilizer bar), rear suspension (multi-link, coil springs, shock absorbers), wheel bearings, steering system (power steering pump, rack and pinion)

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, grounds

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, hood, liftgate, bumpers, windows, locks, seats, interior trim, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), climate control

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic flowcharts

Scheduled Maintenance:

Oil change intervals, filter replacement schedules, fluid checks and replacements (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid), spark plug replacement, air filter replacement

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major systems

Troubleshooting Guides:

Detailed guides to diagnose and resolve common and uncommon vehicle issues

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications for bolts and fasteners, engine data, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, dimensions

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complex engine and transmission overhauls, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF. Searchable text, bookmark navigation, hyperlinked sections for ease of use.

Image Resolution:

High resolution for diagrams, illustrations, and photographs for clarity.

Physical Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Physical Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G6CU (likely)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

3.3 Liters (3342 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 82.5 mm (estimated)

Compression Ratio:

10.4:1 (estimated)

Valve Train:

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

Horsepower:

Approx. 242 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 231 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Regular Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Sportmatic)

Drive Type:

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

Sportmatic Mode:

Allows for manual selection of gears.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV (or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 190.4 inches

Width:

Approx. 74.4 inches

Height:

Approx. 68.1 inches (FWD) / 68.3 inches (AWD)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 113.0 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.5 inches

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers (optional third row)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.0 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 39.6 cubic feet

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 72.5 cubic feet

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,145 lbs (FWD) / 4,321 lbs (AWD)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,600 lbs (FWD) / 5,750 lbs (AWD)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3,500 lbs (properly equipped)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

5-Star (most configurations)

NHTSA Side Crash Rating:

5-Star (most configurations)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for certain model years and configurations)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution

Esc:

Electronic Stability Control

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

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

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Optional Infinity premium audio system with subwoofer.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming available on higher trims or as an option.

Navigation:

Optional factory-installed navigation system with touchscreen interface.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking sensors.

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry with remote. Optional push-button start.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (iridium-tipped plugs).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20, API SM or higher (Synthetic recommended for optimal performance and longevity).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (Asian Red/Pink Long Life Coolant), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to manual; typically ATF Dexron-III or equivalent.

Common Complaints:

Potential for minor oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan, occasional reports of suspension component wear (e.g., ball joints, control arms) due to normal use, potential for HVAC blower motor issues in some instances.

Common Complaints Powertrain:

Generally reliable, but like any automatic transmission, proper fluid maintenance is crucial to prevent premature wear. Some early transmissions might exhibit occasional shifting hesitation.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944. It is known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to large SUVs and MPVs, often emphasizing value and strong warranty coverage.

Sorento Generation:

This 2009 model represents the second generation of the Kia Sorento (XM platform), which debuted for the 2010 model year in most markets. It marked a significant shift from the truck-based, body-on-frame construction of the first generation to a modern unibody platform, transitioning it into the crossover SUV segment.

Manufacturing Plant:

Primary assembly was in South Korea (Hwasung Plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Award:

Recipient of NHTSA 5-Star safety ratings for frontal and side crash tests, and an IIHS Top Safety Pick for certain configurations.

Value Award:

Often praised by automotive publications for its strong value proposition and extensive feature set for the price.