🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2008

Engine:

3.3L V6

Engine Code:

G6DA

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV

Positioning:

A versatile and practical SUV, often seen as a family-oriented vehicle offering good value and capability.

Competitors:

Competed against models like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, and Nissan Murano during its production run.

Features:

Available V6 engine, optional AWD, third-row seating (in some configurations), comfortable ride, robust build quality for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for 2008 Kia Sorento 3.3L V6 models.

Pages:

Estimated 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals of this era).

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, exhaust system.

Engine Performance:

Engine control module (ECM) diagnosis, ignition system, fuel injection system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR).

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (e.g., 5-speed A/T) service, overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications, torque converter.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, propeller shaft, differential, drive axles, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front suspension (MacPherson strut, stabilizer bar), rear suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, power steering fluid specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid type, caliper and rotor service, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, component locations.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), body sealing.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), troubleshooting procedures, scan tool usage.

Scheduled Maintenance:

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

Engine Repair:

Timing belt/chain replacement, head gasket repair, piston and ring replacement, bearing replacement, oil pump service.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid and filter replacement, internal component inspection, solenoid testing, seal replacement.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid bleeding, caliper overhaul, ABS sensor replacement.

Electrical Diagnosis:

Troubleshooting electrical circuits, testing sensors and actuators, starter and alternator testing, wiring harness repair.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of ball joints, tie rods, control arms, shock absorbers, power steering pump replacement, steering rack diagnosis.

HVAC Service:

Refrigerant charging, AC compressor replacement, blower motor service, cabin filter replacement.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic trees for common and uncommon problems.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners.

Depth:

In-depth, from basic maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes diagnostic procedures and specifications for professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. May include searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and illustrations for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

3.3 Liters (3342 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.5 mm x 82.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

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

Horsepower:

Approximately 235-240 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Net)

Torque:

Approximately 233-237 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (SAE Net)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.3 Liters (8.8 US qts)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5.5 Liters (5.8 US qts) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20 (API SM or higher)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission

Type:

N/A (3.3L typically only offered with automatic)

Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic, Sportmatic manual shifting mode.

Fluid Type:

Kia SPII ATF or equivalent (refer to manual for specific part number and approved alternatives)

Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US qts) for torque converter refill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4675 mm (184.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1890 mm (74.4 in)

Height:

Approx. 1745 mm (68.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2710 mm (106.7 in)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 359 Liters (12.7 cu ft) (5-seater configuration)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 138 Liters (4.9 cu ft) (7-seater configuration)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1850-2000 kg (4078-4409 lbs) (depending on FWD/AWD and options)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) (properly equipped)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5-star rating (driver and passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Crash Test:

5-star rating (front and rear seat occupants)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (Good ratings in frontal and side impact tests)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution

Esc:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), often branded as VSM (Vehicle Stability Management)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-mounted airbags, side curtain airbags (for all rows in 7-seater models).

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Available AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, optional Infinity premium sound system with subwoofer.

Navigation:

Optional factory-integrated navigation system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking sensors.

Connectivity Features:

Auxiliary audio input jack for external music players.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe conditions); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal conditions).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per severe duty schedule.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (e.g., Kia Genuine Coolant or equivalent)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Dexron III ATF or Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid

Engine Issues:

Potential for oil leaks from valve covers or oil pan gaskets; some reports of premature wear on PCV valves. Cooling system components like radiators and thermostat housings can be prone to failure over time.

Transmission Issues:

Occasional rough shifting or slipping, often related to low fluid levels or internal wear. Transmission cooler lines can sometimes develop leaks.

Suspension Issues:

Wear in ball joints, tie rod ends, and strut mounts can lead to clunking noises and alignment issues. Rear wheel bearings can also be a point of wear.

Electrical Issues:

Alternator failures, issues with window regulators, and sometimes problems with power door locks or interior lighting have been reported.

Brake Issues:

Warped rotors and premature wear on brake pads can occur if not maintained, especially under heavy use.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand:

Kia Motors Corporation

Heritage Focus:

Known for offering value-packed vehicles, evolving from budget-friendly options to more feature-rich and stylish offerings.

Generation:

First Generation (2004-2009)

Model Year Context:

The 2008 model year falls within the first generation, which received a significant facelift for the 2007 model year, introducing updated styling, improved interior materials, and powertrain enhancements, including the 3.3L V6.

Assembly Location:

Hwasung, South Korea

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

As part of the first generation Sorento, it was generally well-received for its value proposition, safety features, and practicality, contributing to Kia's growing reputation in the SUV market.