Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV / Crossover
Target Audience:
Owner DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, professional technicians
Competitors 2003:
Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Murano
Manual Utility:
Designed for professional mechanics, providing the same information used by dealership technicians
Ease Of Use:
Suitable for individuals with basic mechanical knowledge due to clear text and illustrations
Information Source:
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) factory specifications
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Yes
Maintenance Procedures:
Yes
Component Disassembly Reassembly:
Yes
Torque Specifications:
Yes
Electrical System Diagnosis:
Yes
Body And Frame Repair:
Yes
Brake System Overhaul:
Yes
Suspension And Steering Service:
Yes
Cooling System Maintenance:
Yes
Emission Control Systems:
Yes
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1500
Manual Type:
OEM Factory Shop Service Manual (FSM)
Transmission Automatic:
Yes
Drivetrain And Axles:
Yes
Electrical Power Distribution:
Yes
Instrumentation And Gauges:
Yes
Climate Control HVAC:
Yes
Body Exterior Panels:
Yes
Safety Restraints Srs:
Yes
Brake Pad Replacement:
Yes
Engine Component Overhaul:
Yes
Transmission Service:
Yes
Suspension Alignment:
Yes
Diagnostic Troubleshooting Charts:
Yes
Component Testing And Calibration:
Yes
Body Panel Replacement:
Yes
Electrical Component Replacement:
Yes
HVAC Refrigerant Handling:
Yes
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive Bumper-to-Bumper Diagnosis and Repair
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and troubleshooting flowcharts
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from simple maintenance to complete engine and transmission disassembly
Searchability:
Searchable PDF with internal index
Software Dependency:
No ZIP or additional software required; self-contained PDF
Internet Requirement:
No internet access needed for use
Text Clarity:
Accurate, clear, and concise text
Illustration Quality:
Comprehensive diagrams and in-depth illustrations
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
Engine Code:
G6CU (commonly associated with 3.5L V6)
Engine Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3497 cc)
Engine Aspirated:
Naturally Aspirated
Engine Block Material:
Aluminum
Cylinder Head Material:
Aluminum
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower Est:
203 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque Est:
217 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular Gasoline
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Model Codes:
Often referred to as 'RE4R01A' or similar Aisin Warner derivatives for this era
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with adaptive shift logic
Transfer Case:
Available 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) with electronic engagement
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
KIA ATF SP-III (or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon)
Length:
Approx. 186.4 inches (4735 mm)
Width:
Approx. 73.0 inches (1854 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 106.5 inches (2705 mm)
Curb Weight Est:
Approx. 4200 - 4500 lbs (1905 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Not specified, but typically around 5700-6000 lbs
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4-Star (for 2003 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4-Star (for 2003 model year)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Acceptable (for 2003 model year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Not widely available for 2003, but some later models might have it as an option.
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Front Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Front Side-Impact Airbags
Rollover Protection:
Rollover sensors for airbag deployment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems available with more speakers.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (limited availability for 2003)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Not typically available for this model year.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions may be required.
Bluetooth:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions may be required.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (or refer to specific manual for severe duty)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (check manual for specific recommendation)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Automatic Transmission Service:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (48,000 - 96,000 km), fluid and filter replacement recommended
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SM or higher
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.3 US quarts (5.0 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Asian Blue / Pink Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid:
DEXRON III (or specified equivalent)
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common areas include valve cover gaskets and oil pan gaskets due to age and material degradation.
Transmission Hard Shifts:
Can sometimes be related to solenoids or fluid level/condition. The manual will guide diagnostics.
Suspension Component Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear over time, leading to noise or handling issues.
HVAC Blower Motor:
Blower motor resistor or the motor itself can fail, leading to intermittent or no airflow.
ABS Sensor Failure:
Wheel speed sensors for the ABS system can fail, triggering ABS warning lights.
Kia Origins:
Founded in 1944, Kia Motors is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles.
Kia Global Expansion:
Became a significant global player through its alliance with Hyundai Motor Group.
First Generation Sorento:
The 2003 Sorento is part of the first generation (2002-2009), codenamed GQ.
Initial Platform:
Built on a traditional body-on-frame chassis, offering robust construction.
Powertrain Strategy:
Offered with inline-4 and V6 engine options, with the 3.5L V6 being a popular choice for enhanced performance.
Assembly Locations:
Primary assembly in South Korea (Hwasung)
Production Years First Gen:
2002-2009
Jd Power Initial Quality Study 2003:
Kia Sorento ranked second in the Entry Midsize SUV segment for initial quality in 2003.
Kbb Best Resale Value:
While specific awards might vary, the Sorento generally offered competitive value in its segment at the time.
Emissions Certification:
Meets Federal EPA standards for emissions for the 2003 model year.