🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Year:

2010-2012

Internal Vehicle Code:

SL Series

Platform:

Hyundai ix35 / Kia Sportage (SL)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking versatility, practicality, and value in an SUV package.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Nissan Rogue, Hyundai ix35 (platform sibling).

Value Proposition:

Offered a compelling blend of stylish design, practical interior space, available all-wheel drive, and competitive pricing, often with a strong warranty.

Design Evolution:

Marked a significant design departure from its predecessor, adopting Kia's 'Tiger Nose' grille and a more sculpted, modern aesthetic.

Powertrain Options:

Primarily offered with a 2.4L four-cylinder engine, with some markets potentially having a 2.0L option.

Safety Advancements:

Included standard safety features and optional advanced systems, reflecting the growing emphasis on safety in the segment.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive factory repair information

Specific Systems Mentioned:

Brakes, Body, 2.4L Engine, Transmission, HVAC, Fuel System, Clutch, Steering, Suspension, Electrical Systems, Diagnostics (Trouble Codes)

Estimated Page Count:

3000+ pages (typical for factory repair manuals of this scope)

Type:

Factory Repair Manual (often referred to as Service Manual or Workshop Manual)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF or similar electronic format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

2.4L Theta II GDI (MPi on some markets), engine disassembly, assembly, overhaul, component testing, timing, lubrication, cooling, oil pressure.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, evaporative emission control (EVAP), fuel pressure testing.

Ignition System:

Ignition coils, spark plugs, crankshaft position sensor, camshaft position sensor, ignition timing.

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors (O2S), secondary air injection (SAI), PCV system, EVAP system, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to emissions.

Transmission Manual:

6-speed manual transmission (M6CF3), clutch operation, clutch system diagnostics and repair, transmission fluid specifications and replacement.

Transmission Automatic:

6-speed automatic transmission (A6LF1, A6LF2, A6LF3), torque converter, valve body, transmission fluid specifications and replacement, shift control.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, brake calipers, brake pads, brake rotors, brake fluid specifications and bleeding procedures, parking brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and components, ESC (Electronic Stability Control).

Steering:

Power steering system (electric power steering - MDPS), steering column, steering gear, tie rod ends, power steering fluid (if applicable), steering angle sensor.

Suspension:

Front suspension (McPherson strut, lower control arms), rear suspension (multi-link independent), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment specifications, wheel bearing replacement.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, trim, hinges, latches, exterior lighting, windshield wiper system.

Body Interior:

Interior trim panels, seating systems, airbags, seat belts, dashboard assembly, instrument cluster, center console, overhead console.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant type (R-134a), compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, cabin air filter, temperature sensors, climate control module.

Electrical Charging:

Alternator specifications and testing, battery specifications and testing, charging system voltage checks.

Electrical Starting:

Starter motor specifications and testing, ignition switch operation.

Electrical Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights, bulb types and replacement procedures, lighting control modules.

Electrical Instruments:

Instrument cluster functions, gauges, warning lights, diagnostic connector (OBD-II) location and usage.

Electrical Body Controls:

Power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, power mirrors, sunroof operation, horn, interior accessory power outlets.

Electrical Chassis Controls:

ABS, ESC, traction control system (TCS) components and diagnostics, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Electrical Infotainment:

Audio system components, navigation system (if equipped), Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, speaker replacement.

Diagnostics:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) listing and interpretation, troubleshooting flowcharts, component testing procedures, sensor data interpretation using scan tools.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil and filter changes, fluid checks and top-offs, filter replacements (air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation, component testing procedures, wiring diagrams for diagnostic purposes.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems (engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, steering, HVAC, electrical).

Component Replacement:

Replacement procedures for parts such as alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, radiators, AC compressors, brake pads/rotors, shock absorbers, ball joints, control arms, wheel bearings, sensors, actuators.

Bodywork Restoration:

Procedures for panel alignment, bumper repair, door and tailgate adjustments, glass replacement, interior trim reassembly.

Electrical Wiring Repairs:

Wiring diagrams, connector pinouts, repair procedures for damaged wiring harnesses, component electrical testing.

Safety System Service:

Airbag system component replacement and disabling procedures, seat belt servicing, ABS/ESC system bleeding and calibration.

Depth Level:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, including specifications, tolerances, torque values, and special tool requirements.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using OBD-II scanners, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and specialized Kia diagnostic tools.

Schematics:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including power distribution and component connections.

Specifications Tolerances:

Detailed specifications for engine components, driveline, brakes, suspension, steering, and body dimensions, including critical tolerances and clearances.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format) is the most common, offering searchability and ease of access.

Digital Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documents, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and images.

Physical Equivalent Binding:

If printed, typically bound as a multi-volume set or a single large manual with robust binding for durability in a workshop environment.

Physical Equivalent Paper:

Durable, often glossy or semi-gloss paper to withstand shop conditions and prevent ink bleed-through from diagrams.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

Theta II GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) 2.4L DOHC 16-valve inline-4 cylinder engine.

Displacement:

2359 cc (2.4 Liters)

Horsepower:

Approximately 175-182 hp (depending on market and specific tuning)

Torque:

Approximately 169-178 lb-ft (depending on market and specific tuning)

Fuel Delivery:

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) or Multi-Point Injection (MPI) depending on regional specification.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Recommended Octane:

87 AKI (Anti-Knock Index) / 91 RON (Research Octane Number), though GDI may benefit from higher octane.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant (typically OAT or HOAT type, refer to manual for exact specification like P-OAT or G-OAT).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 API SN or higher.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.8 U.S. quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed manual transmission (M6CF3).

Transmission Type:

6-speed automatic transmission (A6LF1, A6LF2, A6LF3).

Automatic Features:

Sequential manual shifting (Sportmatic/manual mode), electronic control unit (TCU).

Fluid Type:

Genuine Kia ATF SP-IV or equivalent DEXRON-VI compatible fluid.

Capacity:

Approximately 7.7 U.S. quarts (7.3 liters) for a complete fill, but typically around 4-5 quarts for a drain and fill with filter.

Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-85 gear oil or equivalent.

Capacity:

Approximately 2.1 U.S. quarts (2.0 liters).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 174.7 inches (4,435 mm)

Width:

Approximately 72.4 inches (1,839 mm)

Height:

Approximately 65.4 inches (1,661 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 103.9 inches (2,640 mm)

Curb Weight FWD:

Approximately 3,417 - 3,505 lbs (1,550 - 1,590 kg)

Curb Weight AWD:

Approximately 3,560 - 3,682 lbs (1,615 - 1,670 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Typically not rated for towing or limited to very light loads in most markets (check local specifications).

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approximately 26.7 cubic feet (756 liters)

Cargo Volume With 2Nd Row Folded:

Approximately 66.4 cubic feet (1,880 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Achieved 4-star overall safety rating in NHTSA crash tests (model year 2011, FWD variant).

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Awarded 'Top Safety Pick' by the IIHS for several model years within this generation.

Standard Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC).

Standard Passive Safety:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear occupants), active front headrests, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.

Optional Safety Tech:

Rearview camera, parking assist sensors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Systems:

Available with various audio systems, including AM/FM/CD/MP3 players with USB and auxiliary inputs. Higher trims featured touchscreen infotainment with navigation, Bluetooth hands-free calling, and audio streaming.

Driver Assistance Features:

Available rearview camera, parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were not common in this generation.

Connectivity Options:

Standard USB port for device charging and audio playback, auxiliary audio input jack, optional Bluetooth for hands-free phone calls and audio streaming.

🔧 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 (e.g., 3,750 miles / 6,000 km).

Air 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.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for Iridium type plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace if under severe service or if fluid is discolored/degraded (typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles).

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replacement typically recommended around 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or based on inspection.

Coolant Flush:

Initial change at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 2-3 years thereafter.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Power Steering Fluid:

For electric power steering (MDPS), no fluid is typically serviced, but if hydraulic, refer to manual for specific type (often ATF Dexron III/VI).

Engine Issues:

Some reports of oil consumption in early GDI engines, potential for carbon buildup in direct injection systems, fuel pump issues in some cases.

Transmission Issues:

Infrequent reports of harsh shifting or transmission control module (TCM) issues in automatics. Clutch wear is normal maintenance for manuals.

Suspension Issues:

Worn sway bar links, bushings, and ball joints can develop over time, leading to clunks or poor handling. Wheel bearing noise is also possible.

Electrical Issues:

Occasional reports of battery drain issues, faulty sensors (e.g., ABS wheel speed sensors), or HVAC blower motor resistor failures.

HVAC Issues:

HVAC blower motor resistor failure leading to inoperative fan speeds, or refrigerant leaks in the AC system.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944, growing from bicycle parts to motorcycles and eventually automobiles. Known for value, distinctive design, and improving quality.

Sportage History:

The Sportage is Kia's longest-running nameplate, initially introduced in 1993 as a compact SUV. This generation (SL, 2010-2015) represented a significant redesign, moving to a unibody construction and platform shared with the Hyundai ix35, targeting a more refined and modern crossover market.

Production Years:

2010-2015 (SL generation worldwide).

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing primarily in South Korea (Gwangju Plant), with some production in Slovakia and Ecuador for regional markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Awards:

Recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick for multiple years within its production run, indicating good performance in crashworthiness tests.

Kes Awards:

Kia's commitment to quality and design was recognized through various industry awards and consumer satisfaction ratings during this period.

Safety Certifications:

Meets or exceeds Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).