🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2012

Platform:

XM

Chassis Code:

XM

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking versatility and capability.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano.

Body Styles:

Available in 5-seater and 7-seater configurations.

Powertrain Options:

Offered with a choice of two gasoline engines.

Drivetrain:

Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD).

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Electronic Troubleshooting

Secondary Coverage:

Electrical Systems Diagnosis, Component Functionality

Estimated Pages:

1000+

Type:

Electronic Troubleshooting Manual (ETM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Electrical System:

Comprehensive coverage of all electrical circuits, wiring diagrams, and component locations.

Powertrain Control Module:

Diagnosis and troubleshooting of PCM related issues, sensor inputs, and actuator outputs.

Engine Management:

Detailed schematics and diagnostic procedures for fuel injection, ignition, emissions, and cooling systems.

Transmission Control:

Troubleshooting for automatic transmission control module (TCM), shift solenoids, and transmission sensors.

Anti Lock Braking System:

ABS/ESC system diagnosis, including wheel speed sensors, hydraulic unit, and control module.

Airbag System:

SRS system troubleshooting, including impact sensors, occupant classification system, and airbag modules.

Body Control Module:

Diagnosis of BCM functions such as lighting, power windows, door locks, and interior controls.

Infotainment System:

Troubleshooting for audio, navigation, and display unit electrical issues.

Instrument Cluster:

Diagnosis of gauge operation, warning lights, and cluster communication.

HVAC Control:

Troubleshooting for automatic climate control systems, blend doors, and sensors.

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, and fog lights troubleshooting.

Power Accessory:

Diagnosis of power windows, door locks, mirrors, and sunroof electrical operation.

Charging System:

Alternator, battery, and voltage regulator troubleshooting.

Starting System:

Starter motor, ignition switch, and starter relay diagnosis.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Detailed flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various electrical issues.

Diagnostic Fault Codes:

Explanation of OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their correlation to system failures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Complete and accurate wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Component Testing:

Procedures for testing individual electrical components, sensors, and actuators.

Connector Pinouts:

Detailed pinout information for various electrical connectors.

Ground Point Locations:

Identification and location of all chassis and body ground points.

Fuse And Relay Assignments:

Clear identification of fuse box layouts and relay functions.

Signal Tracing:

Guidance on how to trace electrical signals through circuits.

Module Replacement Procedures:

Diagnostic considerations and initial programming procedures for electronic modules.

Depth:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, circuit analysis, and component-level troubleshooting.

Focus:

Electrical faults, intermittent issues, and system integration problems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to information.

Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and text.

Binding:

Not applicable (Digital)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine 1 Code:

Theta II G4KJ

Engine 1 Type:

Inline 4-cylinder

Engine 1 Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2359 cc)

Engine 1 Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm

Engine 1 Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Engine 1 Horsepower:

175 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine 1 Torque:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine 1 Valve Train:

DOHC, 16 Valves, Dual CVVT

Engine 1 Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine 1 Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine 1 Emission Control:

California / PZEV specifications may vary.

Engine 1 Oil Capacity:

5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity).

Engine 1 Recommended Oil:

API SN, ILSAC GF-5 0W-20 Synthetic (refer to manual for specific Kia approval).

Engine 1 Cooling System Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 US quarts (7.1 Liters) (refer to manual).

Engine 1 Spark Plug Type:

Iridium Long Life (e.g., NGK SILFR6A11).

Engine 2 Code:

Lambda II G6DH

Engine 2 Type:

V6

Engine 2 Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3470 cc)

Engine 2 Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 87.1 mm

Engine 2 Compression Ratio:

10.4:1

Engine 2 Horsepower:

276 hp @ 6300 rpm

Engine 2 Torque:

248 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Engine 2 Valve Train:

DOHC, 24 Valves, Dual CVVT

Engine 2 Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Engine 2 Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (GDI)

Engine 2 Oil Capacity:

5.7 US quarts (5.4 Liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity).

Engine 2 Recommended Oil:

API SN, ILSAC GF-5 0W-20 Synthetic (refer to manual for specific Kia approval).

Engine 2 Cooling System Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 US quarts (7.1 Liters) (refer to manual).

Engine 2 Spark Plug Type:

Iridium Long Life (e.g., NGK SILFR6A11).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Std:

6-Speed Automatic with Sportmatic

Transmission Opt:

N/A (6-Speed Automatic was standard across all engines for 2012).

Sportmatic Mode:

Allows manual gear selection for a more engaging driving experience.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia SPIIIL (or equivalent SP-III/SP-IV specification, refer to manual).

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 US quarts (7.6 Liters) for dry fill; service fill varies (refer to manual).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2761 mm)

Length:

188.5 inches (4788 mm)

Width:

74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

68.1 inches (1730 mm) (without roof rails)

Ground Clearance:

7.5 inches (191 mm)

Wheel Size:

17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size:

235/65R17 (17-inch wheels), 235/55R18 (18-inch wheels)

Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Front Overhang:

36.4 inches (925 mm)

Rear Overhang:

23.4 inches (593 mm)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

9.6 cubic feet (272 Liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

37.0 cubic feet (1048 Liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

77.3 cubic feet (2189 Liters)

Curb Weight 2.4L FWD:

Approximately 3,900 lbs (1769 kg)

Curb Weight 3.5L AWD:

Approximately 4,200 lbs (1905 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by configuration, typically around 5,500 lbs - 5,800 lbs (2500 kg - 2630 kg).

Towing Capacity:

2,000 lbs (907 kg) for 2.4L, 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) for 3.5L (with available towing package).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (for models equipped with optional features) / 5-Star Safety Rating in Frontal and Side Crash Tests.

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (Good rating in front, side, rear, and roof strength tests).

Traction Control:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard

Anti Lock Brakes:

Standard (4-wheel disc ABS)

Electronic Brake Force Distribution:

Standard

Brake Assist:

Standard

Hill Start Assist Control:

Available (on some AWD models)

Airbags Front:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Airbags Side:

Front seat-mounted side airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Full-length side curtain airbags for all rows

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

Tire Pressure Monitoring System:

Standard

Blind Spot Detection:

Optional (on higher trims)

Rear Parking Sensors:

Optional

Backup Camera:

Optional

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touchscreen audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, USB and auxiliary input jacks.

Navigation System:

Optional voice-activated navigation system with integrated backup camera display.

Premium Audio:

Optional Infinity® premium audio system with amplifier and subwoofer.

Rearview Camera:

Optional, integrated with navigation system or standalone display.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry; available push-button start with smart key.

Bluetooth:

Available Bluetooth® hands-free phone system.

Usb Port:

Standard USB/auxiliary input for audio devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.

Air Cleaner Filter Replacement:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

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

Engine Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 5 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years thereafter.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km); replacement recommended based on driving conditions, often around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or consult manual.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium spark plugs: 105,000 miles (168,000 km).

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years, whichever comes first.

Engine Oil:

API SN, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic

Engine Coolant:

Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) antifreeze (e.g., Hyundai/Kia genuine coolant).

Transmission Fluid:

Kia SPIIIL or equivalent (e.g., SP-IV specification, refer to manual).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Power Steering Fluid:

Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid or PSF Type 3 (refer to manual).

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Automotive windshield washer fluid (non-toxic, low-temperature type as needed).

Engine Noise Theta Ii:

Some owners have reported engine knocking or ticking noises, potentially related to piston slap or valve train components. The ETM would detail diagnostic steps for these sounds.

Transmission Hesitation:

Occasional reports of transmission hesitation or rough shifting. The ETM covers transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics and solenoid checks.

Electrical Gremlins:

Intermittent issues with various electrical components (lights, power windows, infotainment) can occur. This ETM is specifically designed to diagnose such problems through circuit analysis.

Brake Wear:

Front brake pads and rotors may wear faster than expected, especially under heavy use. ETM provides brake system electrical diagnostics but not mechanical wear limits.

Airbag Light:

Illuminated airbag warning light can be caused by faulty sensors or seat belt pretensioners. The ETM details SRS system troubleshooting.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Known for value-oriented vehicles and a growing reputation for quality and design.

First Generation:

The Kia Sorento was introduced in 2002 as a body-on-frame SUV, competing in the mid-size segment. The 2012 model represents the second generation (XM platform), which transitioned to a unibody chassis for improved ride comfort and handling.

Xm Platform Introduction:

The XM platform Sorento was unveiled at the 2009 Busan Motor Show. It offered a more car-like driving experience compared to its predecessor.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary production for the North American market occurred at Kia's West Point, Georgia, USA facility, and also in South Korea.

Production Years:

The XM generation Sorento was produced from 2009 to 2015. The 2012 model is part of this generation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

2012 Kbb Best Family Cars:

Kia Sorento was listed as one of Kelley Blue Book's 'Best Family Cars' for 2012.

2012 Edmunds Consumer Recommendations:

Edmunds.com often highlighted the Sorento for its value and features in its reviews and recommendations.

Overall Value Perception:

Generally perceived as a strong value proposition in its segment, offering a good balance of features, space, and price.

Emissions Certification:

Meets EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards depending on specific region and engine configuration.