🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2015

Third Generation Code:

UM

Platform:

Hyundai N platform (shared with Kia Carnival and Hyundai Santa Fe)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Key Selling Points:

Three-row seating, spacious interior, comfortable ride, stylish exterior, good value proposition, available AWD.

Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Mazda CX-9, Chevrolet Traverse, Nissan Pathfinder.

Engine Options:

Available with 2.4L GDI Turbo, 3.3L V6 (for certain markets), and 2.2L CRDI Turbo Diesel (for certain markets).

Seating Capacity:

Standard 7-passenger (2+3+2) with optional 6-passenger (2+2+3) configuration.

Drivetrain Options:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) available.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global, with specific regional adaptations noted where applicable.

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Full Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, based on common distribution for such manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, engine management (ECU), diesel particulate filter (DPF) systems (for diesel variants).

Transmission:

Manual transmission (M/T), automatic transmission (A/T), torque converter, clutch, transfer case (for AWD models), differential (front and rear).

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, CV joints, wheel bearings, propeller shaft (for AWD).

Suspension:

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

Steering:

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

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), brake boosters, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake (mechanical or electronic).

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior), fuses, relays, body control module (BCM).

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control unit.

Body:

Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, interior trim, seats, glass, wipers, mirrors.

Safety Systems:

Airbags (SRS), seatbelt pre-tensioners, seatbelt reminders, child seat anchors (ISOFIX/LATCH).

Infotainment And Comfort:

Audio system, navigation, Bluetooth, USB connectivity, power windows, power locks, keyless entry, power seats, sunroof.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections, spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

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

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostics, sensor testing, actuator testing, specific diagnostic routines for various modules.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Torque specifications for bolts and nuts, engine and transmission clearances, alignment specifications, electrical resistance values.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics and module programming procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Likely PDF (.pdf)

Searchability:

Typically includes searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Print Readability:

Designed for clear printing with legible diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gasoline:

G4KH (2.4L Turbo GDI)

Engine Displacement Gasoline:

2359 cc (2.4 Liters)

Engine Type Gasoline:

Inline-4, Atkinson Cycle (for some models), Turbocharged, Direct Injection (GDI)

Horsepower Gasoline:

Approx. 240-270 hp (depending on specific tune and market)

Torque Gasoline:

Approx. 260-280 lb-ft (depending on specific tune and market)

Engine Code V6:

G6DG (3.3L V6 GDI - primarily for North American market)

Engine Displacement V6:

3342 cc (3.3 Liters)

Horsepower V6:

Approx. 290 hp

Torque V6:

Approx. 250 lb-ft

Engine Code Diesel:

D4HB (2.2L CRDI)

Engine Displacement Diesel:

2199 cc (2.2 Liters)

Horsepower Diesel:

Approx. 190-200 hp

Torque Diesel:

Approx. 300-320 lb-ft

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (GDI for 2.4L and V6), Diesel Fuel (CRDI for 2.2L)

Injection System Gasoline:

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Injection System Diesel:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed automatic transmission (6AT) standard on most gasoline variants. 6-speed manual transmission (6MT) may be available on some base models or specific markets.

Optional Transmission:

The 6-speed automatic is a prevalent offering. Availability of manual transmission varies by market and trim.

AWD System:

Active On-Demand All-Wheel Drive system with lockable center differential (on some models).

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual, critical for troubleshooting and performance analysis.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent). Crucial for longevity.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4755 - 4780 mm (187.2 - 188.2 in)

Width:

Approx. 1890 - 1895 mm (74.4 - 74.6 in)

Height:

Approx. 1680 - 1690 mm (66.1 - 66.5 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2780 mm (109.4 in)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 139.7 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 31.5 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 73.5 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3800 - 4300 lbs (1724 - 1950 kg), depending on configuration.

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2,270 kg) when properly equipped.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Typically 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for models equipped with specific safety features.

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Achieved 'Top Safety Pick' or 'Top Safety Pick Plus' status from IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) in many configurations.

Active Safety Systems:

ABS, EBD, ESC, Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC) (on AWD), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA).

Airbag System:

Advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, driver's knee airbag.

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System Options:

Available with 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen displays. Features include AM/FM/Satellite Radio, CD/MP3 player, USB/Auxiliary input, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Navigation System:

Optional integrated navigation system with real-time traffic updates. Compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay on some later models of the UM generation, though 2015 might be before widespread adoption.

Driver Assistance Features:

Available features include: Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Surround View Monitor (SVM), Parking Assist System.

Connectivity Options:

USB ports for charging and media, Bluetooth for hands-free phone and audio streaming, SiriusXM satellite radio integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific engine and oil type recommendations (e.g., synthetic oil often recommended).

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement Gasoline 2.4L:

Typically around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for GDI engines with iridium-tipped plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Refer to manual for specific interval, often around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for automatic transmissions, or based on severe service. Early changes are advisable for longevity.

Engine Oil Spec:

API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified, SAE 0W-20 or 5W-30 synthetic oil (verify exact spec for each engine in the manual).

Coolant Type:

Propylene Glycol-based Long Life Coolant (LLC) (e.g., Kia Genuine Long Life Coolant - Blue).

Brake Fluid Type:

FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

If hydraulic, refer to manual for specific type (often ATF or a dedicated power steering fluid).

Engine Knocking Gamma 2.4:

Some early GDI engines (Gamma family) experienced issues with carbon buildup on intake valves, potentially leading to knocking or performance loss. Regular cleaning or updated engine management can help.

Transmission Hesitation:

Occasional reports of transmission hesitation or rough shifting, especially in early models. Software updates or internal transmission issues may be a factor.

Infotainment System Glitches:

Minor issues like touchscreen unresponsiveness or Bluetooth connectivity problems have been reported, often resolved by software updates.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Motors History:

Founded in 1944, Kia Motors is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles, known for its rapid growth and evolution in design and quality.

Sorento Generations:

First generation (2002-2009) was body-on-frame SUV. Second generation (2009-2015) transitioned to unibody construction. Third generation (2015-2020) (UM) represents a significant redesign with improved styling, chassis, and technology.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured at Kia's Hwaseong Plant in South Korea. Some assembly may have occurred in other global locations for specific markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Kbb Best Buy Award:

Kia Sorento has received 'Best Buy' awards from Kelley Blue Book in its segment in previous years, indicating strong value and customer satisfaction.

Strategic Vision Quality Award:

Kia often ranks highly in quality studies from firms like Strategic Vision, reflecting positive customer perception of overall quality and reliability.

Certification From Manufacturer:

This manual is essentially the factory-authorized documentation used by Kia dealerships and certified technicians.