🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Generation Code:

SL

Model Years Covered:

2011, 2012

Engine Variant Covered:

2.4L G 2.4 DOHC

Chassis Code:

SL

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV

Positioning:

The Kia Sportage (SL) is positioned as a value-oriented, stylish, and practical compact SUV, offering a good balance of features, fuel efficiency, and driving dynamics within its segment.

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5.

Vehicle Highlights:

Available AWD, panoramic sunroof (optional), modern styling, comfortable interior, good cargo space for its class.

Manual Advantage:

Provides detailed, manufacturer-specific repair and maintenance procedures, enabling cost savings and promoting DIY repairs. Digital format allows for easy navigation and magnification.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive service and repair

Specific Systems Listed:

General Information, 4 Wheel Drive (4WD) System, Automatic Transaxle System, Fuel System, Body (Interior and Exterior), Brake System, Clutch System, Driveshaft and Axle, Emission Control System, Engine Electrical System, Engine Mechanical System, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC), Manual Transaxle System (M6GF2), Restraint System

Estimated Page Count:

Varies based on original factory manual; typically 2000+ pages for comprehensive coverage.

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Electronic Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical (GDI/MPI systems, cylinder head, block, lubrication, cooling), Engine electrical (ignition, starting, charging, sensors, ECU), Fuel system (components, pressure, injectors), Emission control (catalytic converter, evaporative emission system).

Drivetrain:

Automatic Transaxle (operation, diagnostics, repair, fluid), Manual Transaxle (M6GF2 specific details, operation, diagnostics, repair), 4WD system (components, operation, diagnostics, repair), Driveshaft and Axles (CV joints, bearings, seals).

Chassis:

Brake system (hydraulic components, ABS, parking brake), Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Wheels and tires.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, seats, safety restraints, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors).

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system components, operation, diagnostics, refrigerant service, climate control module.

Maintenance Tasks:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspections, tire rotations.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components. Includes torque specifications, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts.

Troubleshooting:

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

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system, specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for powertrain and chassis control modules, sensor testing procedures.

Depth:

Professional-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for dealership technicians and advanced DIY mechanics. Covers detailed component specifications, electrical schematics, and system overviews.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for extraction)

Quality:

High resolution, allows for zooming for clarity.

Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Type:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G4KE (likely designation for 2.4L Theta II engine)

Engine Type:

Inline-4, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2359 cc)

Valvetrain:

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

Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm (typical for Theta II 2.4L)

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

Approx. 176-182 hp @ 6000 rpm (depending on market/tune)

Torque:

Approx. 169-174 lb-ft @ 4000-4500 rpm (depending on market/tune)

Induction:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Octane Recommendation:

87 AKI (Octane Rating)

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed Automatic Transaxle (often designated as A6GF1)

Type:

6-speed Manual Transaxle (M6GF2 specified in product info)

Automatic Features:

Sequential shifting capability, lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency.

Manual Features:

Direct linkage, optimized gear ratios for drivability.

Automatic Fluid Type:

Kia SPIII (or equivalent SP-IV) automatic transmission fluid

Manual Fluid Type:

GL-4 75W/85 or 75W-90 manual transmission fluid

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.7 inches (4437 mm)

Width:

Approx. 72.4 inches (1838 mm)

Height:

Approx. 65.2 inches (1656 mm) (without roof rails)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 103.9 inches (2640 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.1 inches (180 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300 - 3600 lbs (1497 - 1633 kg) (depending on drivetrain and options)

Towing Capacity:

Typically not recommended or limited to light loads (check specific market documentation)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 26.7 cu ft (756 liters)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 56.4 cu ft (1597 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Barrier Crash Test:

5-Star (for the driver and front passenger in some configurations)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for models with optional upgrades in some test years)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esc:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Hill Start Assist:

Available on some models

Downhill Brake Control:

Available on some AWD models

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear).

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit Features:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input, USB port, available Bluetooth, and satellite radio. Optional navigation system.

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker audio system, optional Infinity premium audio.

Camera System:

Available rearview camera (displayed on infotainment screen or auto-dimming mirror).

Keyless Entry:

Standard keyless entry, optional push-button start with smart key.

Bluetooth:

Available for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs.

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) depending on driving conditions.

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change for 2.4L engine.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or SAE 5W-30

Coolant Type:

Asian Red Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (based on HOAT chemistry)

Engine Issues:

Some reports of oil consumption in higher mileage Theta II engines; occasional issues with valve cover gasket leaks.

Transmission Issues:

Infrequent reports of rough shifting or transmission control module (TCM) issues.

Suspension Issues:

Wear on front suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings, ball joints) at higher mileage.

Electrical Issues:

Occasional reports of faulty window regulators or minor electrical gremlins.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Kia Motors Corporation

Generation:

The SL generation represents the second generation of the Kia Sportage, introduced for the 2005 model year globally. The 2011-2012 models are part of an update to this second generation.

Design Language:

The SL generation adopted Kia's new design language, moving away from the rugged, body-on-frame platform of its predecessor to a unibody construction, aligning it more with modern car-based crossovers.

Production Locations:

Primarily produced in South Korea at Kia's Gwangmyeong plant. Assembly may have occurred in other global locations.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Recognition:

Achieved good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, contributing to its appeal.