Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV
Target Audience:
Families, outdoor enthusiasts, towing needs
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder
Body On Frame:
Durable body-on-frame construction for towing and off-road capability
Seating Capacity:
Available in 5-seater and optional 7-seater configurations
Completeness:
Covers all aspects of vehicle service and repair, from routine maintenance to complete overhauls.
Usability:
User-friendly format with clear diagrams and step-by-step instructions for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Service:
Engine mechanical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, ignition, exhaust systems
Drivetrain Service:
Transmission (automatic and manual), transfer case, differentials, driveshafts, axles
Chassis Service:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS and non-ABS)
Electrical Service:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, power distribution, starting and charging systems, ECUs, sensors
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, HVAC systems, exterior trim
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
System diagnosis, fault code lookup, common problem resolution guides
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all serviceable components
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive diagnostic flowcharts, sensor data interpretation, troubleshooting trees
Rebuilding Instructions:
Detailed specifications and procedures for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all fasteners and critical assemblies
Wiring Diagrams:
High-quality, detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems
Engine Code 1:
G6CU (3.5L V6 Lambda)
Engine Displacement 1:
3.5 Liters (3497 cc)
Engine Configuration 1:
V6, SOHC, 24 Valves
Horsepower 1:
192 hp @ 5300 rpm
Torque 1:
217 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
Engine Code 2:
FE2 (2.5L Inline-4 Diesel - European/other markets, not typically US for this generation)
Engine Displacement 2:
2.5 Liters (2493 cc)
Engine Configuration 2:
Inline-4, DOHC, Turbocharged (Common Rail Diesel)
Transmission Type 1:
5-Speed Manual (Limited availability, often with 4-cylinder models)
Transmission Type 2:
4-Speed Automatic (Standard with 3.5L V6)
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or Optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
SPII-ATF or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 (75W-85W) or GL-5 (75W-90)
Length:
Approx. 187.8 inches (4770 mm)
Width:
Approx. 73.4 inches (1865 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.7 inches (2710 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 4,000 - 4,400 lbs (depending on configuration)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (with proper towing package)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2002-2004 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) became more prevalent in later model years, may be optional or absent on early models.
Airbags:
Front airbags, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement V6:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) using Iridium type plugs.
Engine Oil Type V6:
API SJ/SL or ILSAC GF-3, SAE 5W-30
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (Asian Red or equivalent), typically 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear and failure of engine mounts, leading to vibrations.
Transfer Case Actuator:
Potential issues with the AWD system's transfer case actuator, especially with higher mileage or lack of maintenance.
Rear Differential Leaks:
Occasional reports of rear differential seal leaks.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, has grown from a motorcycle manufacturer to a global automotive player.
First Generation Launch:
The Sorento (model code BL) was first introduced in South Korea in 2002 and globally for the 2003 model year.
Platform:
Built on a body-on-frame chassis, distinguishing it from many unibody competitors of its time.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea.