🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Year:

2012

Engine Type:

Inline-4

Engine Displacement:

2.4L

Generation Code:

SL

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Demographic:

Families, young professionals, individuals seeking practical and stylish transportation.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson.

Value Proposition:

Offers a compelling blend of style, practicality, features, and value for money, often undercutting some rivals on price while providing a strong feature set.

Design:

Distinctive 'tiger nose' grille, sculpted body lines, modern and upscale interior design for its class.

Engine Options:

Primarily offered with a 2.4L GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) engine, and in some markets a 2.0L engine.

Transmission Options:

Available with a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering smoother shifts and improved fuel economy over previous generations.

Drivetrain Options:

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

Interior Space:

Spacious cabin for its class, with ample passenger room and a versatile cargo area.

Technology And Features:

Available features like heated and ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, advanced infotainment systems, and keyless entry.

📋 Manual Details

Engine Mechanical:

Yes

Engine Management:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Transmission Manual:

Yes

Transmission Automatic:

Yes

Drivetrain:

Yes

Suspension:

Yes

Steering:

Yes

Brakes:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Lighting System:

Yes

Body And Chassis:

Yes

Interior Trim:

Yes

HVAC System:

Yes

Restraints System:

Yes

Troubleshooting Guides:

Yes

Diagnostic Procedures:

Yes

Torque Specifications:

Yes

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management System:

Detailed diagnostics for powertrain control module (PCM), sensors (MAP, TPS, O2, Knock, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), actuators (injectors, ignition coils, EVAP purge solenoid), and emission control systems. Includes idle speed control, fuel trim adjustments, and emissions-related fault code diagnosis.

Cooling System:

Coolant flow paths, thermostat operation, radiator and fan assembly diagnosis, water pump removal/installation, heater core diagnosis and replacement, and coolant type specifications. Includes bleed procedures.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump operation, oil filter replacement, oil pan removal/installation, lubrication passages, and recommended oil viscosity and capacity. Covers oil pressure testing.

Engine Mechanical Components:

Detailed procedures for cylinder head removal/installation, valve adjustments (if applicable), piston and connecting rod assembly, crankshaft main and rod bearing replacement, timing belt/chain replacement, engine block machining specifications, and engine assembly/disassembly.

Transmission Automatic:

Diagnosis and repair of the 6-speed automatic transmission (A6LF1/A6LF2). Covers valve body operation, torque converter diagnosis, transmission fluid checks and changes, solenoids operation, shift control system, and rebuild procedures. Includes transmission fluid type and capacity.

Transmission Manual:

Diagnosis and repair of the 6-speed manual transmission (M6CF3/M6GF2). Covers clutch operation, gearbox internal component inspection and replacement, shift linkage adjustment, and clutch fluid specifications.

Braking System:

Front and rear brake component diagnosis (discs, pads, calipers, hoses, master cylinder, ABS modulator). Includes brake fluid type, bleeding procedures, and parking brake adjustment. Covers ABS sensor diagnosis and replacement.

Suspension System:

Front and rear suspension component diagnosis (struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, stabilizer bars). Includes alignment specifications, wheel bearing replacement, and hub assembly replacement.

Steering System:

Power steering system diagnosis (pump, reservoir, steering rack/gearbox, lines). Includes power steering fluid type and capacity, bleeding procedures, and steering wheel alignment.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator testing and replacement, battery testing and replacement, charging system voltage checks, and drive belt inspection/replacement.

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor testing and replacement, ignition switch diagnosis, and battery terminal and cable inspection.

Lighting And Signals:

Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signal, and interior light bulb replacement and troubleshooting. Covers exterior and interior lighting control modules.

Body And Chassis Exterior:

Door panel removal, bumper cover replacement, fender replacement, hood and tailgate adjustment and replacement, mirror replacement, and glass replacement (windshield, side glass).

Body And Chassis Interior:

Dashboard removal, center console disassembly, seat removal/installation, headliner removal, and interior trim panel replacement.

HVAC System:

A/C system diagnosis (compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve), refrigerant recharge, blower motor testing and replacement, cabin air filter replacement, and heater control valve diagnosis.

Safety Restraint System:

Airbag system diagnosis, airbag module replacement, seat belt inspection and replacement, and SRS warning light troubleshooting. Includes specific safety precautions for working on airbag systems.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed steps for oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid flushes, transmission fluid changes, and differential fluid changes. Includes recommended intervals and specifications.

Engine Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, timing chain/belt servicing, and component replacement (e.g., crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, starter, alternator).

Transmission Overhaul:

Complete procedures for automatic and manual transmission removal, disassembly, inspection of internal components (clutches, bands, planetary gears, valve bodies), seal replacement, reassembly, and installation. Includes torque specifications for critical fasteners.

Brake Service:

Pad and rotor replacement, caliper servicing and replacement, brake line replacement, brake bleeding (including ABS module bleeding), and parking brake adjustment. Includes torque specifications for brake components.

Suspension And Steering Repair:

Replacement of struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel bearings. Includes steering rack replacement and power steering pump replacement. Covers alignment procedures and specifications.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic approaches for electrical issues. Includes fuse and relay identification, circuit testing using multimeters, connector inspection, and diagnosis of common electrical faults. Extensive use of wiring diagrams.

Body And Interior Repair:

Detailed instructions for removing and installing interior trim panels, dashboard components, door panels, seats, and exterior body panels. Includes procedures for glass replacement and alignment of body panels.

HVAC System Service:

Refrigerant system evacuation and recharging, component replacement (compressor, condenser, expansion valve), blower motor resistor replacement, and cabin air filter replacement. Includes leak detection procedures.

Diagnostics And Fault Codes:

Provides P-codes, B-codes, C-codes, and U-codes with their probable causes, symptoms, and diagnostic steps. Includes procedures for using OBD-II scanners for diagnosis and clearing fault codes.

Torque Specifications:

Comprehensive list of torque values for all critical fasteners throughout the vehicle, including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and body components. Essential for proper assembly and preventing damage.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all major systems, including engine control, transmission control, ABS, airbags, lighting, power accessories, and body control modules. Critical for electrical troubleshooting.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians, DIY Mechanics, Automotive Enthusiasts

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine performance, transmission shifting, ABS, airbags, and other electronic control modules, including live data interpretation and actuator testing.

Repair Instructions:

Detailed, step-by-step repair instructions with accompanying diagrams and illustrations for virtually every component on the vehicle.

Troubleshooting Methodology:

Structured troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom-based diagnostic guides to efficiently identify and resolve issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchable:

Yes

Printable:

Yes

Quality:

High-resolution scans, clear text and diagrams

Type:

N/A (Digital)

Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Theta II GDI (e.g., G4KJ)

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-Cylinder

Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm (approximate)

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1 (approximate)

Horsepower Net Peak:

176 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate for US market)

Torque Net Peak:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate for US market)

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 Valves with CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing)

Fuel Delivery:

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular Gasoline

Ignition System:

Electronic, Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (6AT)

Transmission Model:

A6LF1 / A6LF2

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (6MT) - Less common in North America for 2.4L

Transmission Model:

M6CF3 / M6GF2

Driver Selectable:

Sportmatic manual shifting mode

Drivetrain Availability:

Available with FWD and AWD

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent (refer to manual for specific part number)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.7 Liters (8.1 US Quarts) for a complete fill, subject to variation.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4440 mm (174.8 in)

Width:

1820 mm (71.7 in)

Height:

1665 mm (65.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2640 mm (103.9 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 195 mm (7.7 in)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 2667 Liters (94.2 cu ft)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

Approx. 888 Liters (31.3 cu ft)

Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:

Approx. 1877 Liters (66.3 cu ft)

Curb Weight FWD:

Approx. 1530 kg (3373 lbs)

Curb Weight AWD:

Approx. 1590 kg (3505 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 2100 kg (4630 lbs)

Towing Capacity:

Typically unbraked: 400 kg (882 lbs); Braked: 1200 kg (2646 lbs) (Check local regulations and specific model documentation)

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels

Standard Tire Size:

225/65R17 or 235/55R18 (depending on trim)

Bolt Pattern:

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

Center Bore:

67.1 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash:

5 Stars (for 2012 model, specific configurations may vary)

NHTSA Side Crash:

5 Stars (for 2012 model, specific configurations may vary)

NHTSA Rollover:

4 Stars (for 2012 model, specific configurations may vary)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for 2012 model, depending on specific equipment and testing criteria)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Esc:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Hill Start Assist:

Available on some trims

Downhill Brake Control:

Available on AWD trims

Airbags:

Front, front side-impact, and full-length side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point active front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seat belts

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

Body Structure:

High-strength steel construction for enhanced crashworthiness.

💡 Technology Features

Display Size:

Available with 6.5-inch or 7-inch color touchscreen displays depending on trim level and optional packages.

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability. Premium Infinity sound system available on higher trims.

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming, USB auxiliary input, and iPod connectivity.

Navigation:

Optional voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic information.

Rearview Camera:

Standard or optional rearview camera integrated into the infotainment display.

Parking Sensors:

Optional front and rear parking assist sensors.

Keyless Entry And Start:

Available push-button start and smart key system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Climate Control:

Manual air conditioning, with available automatic climate control and dual-zone climate control.

Usb Ports:

Standard USB port for charging and media playback.

Auxiliary Input:

Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.

Bluetooth Connectivity:

Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling and music streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. For severe driving conditions, every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months.

Air Filter Replacement:

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

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

NGK SILZKR7B11 (or equivalent) - Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km).

Engine Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months. Use OAT coolant (Organic Acid Technology) - Kia Super Long Life Coolant (PS Pink) or equivalent.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for normal use. Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for severe use (towing, frequent short trips, dusty conditions). Fluid type: Kia ATF SP-IV.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 24 months or 30,000 miles (48,000 km). Use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Drive Belt Inspection:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km). Replace as needed.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (refer to Owner's Manual for specific recommendations)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 Liters (5.1 US Quarts) with filter change

Power Steering Fluid:

Hyundai/Kia Genuine PSF-3 or equivalent (refer to Owner's Manual for exact specification)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Theta Ii Engine Problems:

Some Theta II engines have been subject to recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to potential oil consumption and engine bearing wear. The manual will cover diagnostic procedures and repair strategies for these potential issues.

Cvvt Rattle:

Some owners report a rattling noise from the CVVT system on startup, which may indicate a need for inspection or component replacement.

Transmission Shifting Issues:

Occasional reports of rough shifting or delayed engagement, often related to transmission fluid degradation or valve body issues. The manual provides diagnostic steps.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many modern vehicles, intermittent electrical issues can occur. Thorough troubleshooting using the provided wiring diagrams is crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Automotive Group:

Kia Motors Corporation, a subsidiary of the Hyundai Motor Group, is a South Korean automobile manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs and minivans, often emphasizing value, style, and modern features.

First Generation Sportage:

Launched in 1993, it was a body-on-frame SUV, competing in a different segment. Known for its ruggedness and affordability.

Second Generation Sportage:

Introduced in 2004, it transitioned to a unibody construction, mirroring the trend of compact SUVs. Offered improved comfort and on-road manners.

Third Generation Sportage Sl:

This generation (2010-2016, with the 2012 model falling within this range) represented a significant leap in design and refinement, heavily influenced by Peter Schreyer's design direction. It adopted a more car-like driving experience, enhanced interior quality, and advanced technology, establishing the Sportage as a strong contender in the compact SUV market.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing for this generation included South Korea (Gwangmyeong) and Slovakia (Žilina).

Sales Performance:

The third-generation Sportage achieved considerable sales success globally, reflecting its competitive styling, feature set, and value proposition.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick 2012:

The 2012 Kia Sportage earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) Top Safety Pick award, underscoring its strong performance in crash testing.

Kbb Best Family Car To Buy:

While specific year awards can vary, the Sportage generation has been recognized by Kelley Blue Book for its value and suitability as a family vehicle.

Jd Power Dependability Studies:

Kia as a brand has seen significant improvements in J.D. Power dependability studies over the years, often ranking well among mainstream brands, reflecting improved build quality and reliability.

Owner Satisfaction:

Generally good owner satisfaction ratings, particularly for styling, features, and overall value. Maintenance costs are typically competitive.

Emissions Compliance:

Compliant with EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.