🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Kia Model: Sorento Year: 2002 Body Style: Body-on-frame SUV Platform: Hyundai KM platform Vin Code Location: Driver's side dashboard, visible through windshield 👋 Introduction Market...
Driver's side dashboard, visible through windshield
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Mid-size SUV, often competing in the compact to mid-size crossover and body-on-frame SUV segments depending on specific market positioning.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 2002:
Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Key Features
Body On Frame Construction:
Provides robust chassis for off-road capability and towing, distinguishing it from unibody crossovers.
Engine Options:
Offered with robust V6 and V8 engine options providing good power for its class.
Manual Value Proposition
Target Audience:
Body shops, collision repair centers, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts focused on vehicle body repair and restoration.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Body shop repairs, maintenance, diagnostics, and service procedures
Specific Sections Covered:
General Information, Body Structure, Replacing Body Panels, Body Dimensions, Waterproofing and Rustproofing, Body Modification Tools, Plastic Parts
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
N/A (Digital Download)
Manual Type
Type:
Body Shop Manual / Service Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Digital Format:
PDF
Download Type:
Instant Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Body Systems:
Chassis, frame, body panels, exterior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, glass, interior trim, sound insulation, weather stripping, body sealing
Procedures Included
Repair Procedures:
Panel replacement, dent repair, structural alignment, rust repair, corrosion protection, sealant application, glass replacement, trim installation, component repair and replacement
Technical Depth
Depth:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions with exploded views and diagrams for professional repair and maintenance. Equivalent to dealer-level documentation.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader & WinZip
Print Quality
Printability:
All pages are printable
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code V6:
Kia KV6 (3.5L V6)
Performance
Horsepower V6:
Approximately 192-200 hp (depending on market and specific tune)
Torque V6:
Approximately 215-220 lb-ft (depending on market and specific tune)
Horsepower V8:
Approximately 230-240 hp
Torque V8:
Approximately 250-260 lb-ft
Engine Code V8
Engine Code V8:
Hyundai Sigma 3.5L V8 (in some markets)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) for managing fuel, ignition, and emissions
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type V6:
4-speed automatic
Optional
Transmission Type V8:
4-speed automatic (often)
Features
Drive Modes:
Available in 2WD (RWD) and 4WD (Part-time or Full-time, depending on trim)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
ATF SP-III (or equivalent approved by Kia)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4,675 mm (184.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,830 mm (72.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,730 mm (68.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,755 mm (108.5 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,800 - 2,000 kg (3,968 - 4,409 lbs), varies by configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
N/A (Specific values vary by configuration, consult manual)
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) with proper equipment
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for 2002 model year, varies)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, varies)
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags standard, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with CD player and cassette tape deck. Optional premium audio systems available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims
Connectivity
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard on most trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact recommendations.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km)
Engine Coolant Flush:
Refer to manual for specific mileage or time interval (e.g., every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity and API rating)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters (4.8 - 5.3 US quarts) for 3.5L V6, with filter
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a green or pink colored long-life coolant (refer to manual for exact type)
Known Issues
Common Body Issues:
Rust on lower body panels, wheel wells, and rocker panels, especially in corrosive environments. Door hinge wear and alignment issues.
Common Mechanical Issues Relevant To Body:
Subframe rust, exhaust system rust, potential for body panel fitment issues due to age or previous repairs.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia Motors Founding:
Established in 1944, initially as a manufacturer of motorcycle parts and bicycles.
Model Evolution
First Generation Sorento Launch:
Introduced in South Korea in 2002, marking Kia's entry into the mid-size SUV market. Based on a body-on-frame chassis.
Production
Manufacturing Plant:
Hwaseong, South Korea (Donghee Plant)
Production Years:
2002-2009 (First Generation)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Segment Awards 2002:
While specific individual awards for the 2002 Sorento are not as widely publicized as later models, it was generally well-received for its value proposition and capability within its class.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings for early Sorento models varied, with some reports of minor electrical and transmission issues. This manual is crucial for addressing body-related maintenance.