🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2004

Generation Code:

First Generation (JC)

Chassis Code:

JC

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV, offering a blend of utility, comfort, and affordability in its class

Competitors 2004:

Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, Honda Pilot

Offering:

Body-on-frame construction (for the first generation), available V6 engine, spacious interior, and often competitive pricing

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance for the 2004 Kia Sorento

Estimated Pages:

Over 1500

Type:

Factory Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digital Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (V6 3.5L G6CU, Inline-4 2.4L G4CS - if applicable for specific markets), Engine electrical, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Transmission (Automatic and Manual) mechanical and electrical, Drivetrain (4WD system, differentials, drive shafts)

Chassis:

Suspension (front/rear), Steering system, Brake system (ABS, hydraulic/mechanical components)

Body & Electrical:

Body construction and panels, Interior trim, HVAC system, Lighting system, Audio system, Power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), Safety systems (SRS airbags, seat belts), Wiring diagrams, Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for all modules

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics, use of diagnostic scan tools

Repair:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake component replacement, suspension component replacement, steering system repair, electrical component repair, body panel repair and replacement

Special Procedures:

Component removal and installation, torque specifications, timing belt/chain service (if applicable), AC system servicing, wheel alignment procedures

Depth Level:

Factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians, with clear explanations and diagrams for complex tasks

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution scans with searchable text for easy navigation

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Variant 1:

G6CU (3.5L SOHC V6)

Engine Displacement Variant 1:

3497 cc (213 cu in)

Engine Configuration Variant 1:

V-configuration, 6 cylinders, 24 valves

Engine Codes Optional:

G4CS (2.4L DOHC Inline-4 - primarily for specific export markets)

Horsepower Variant 1:

Approximately 195-200 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque Variant 1:

Approximately 217-220 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Timing Mechanism:

Timing Belt (G6CU V6)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Variant 1:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (4-speed Overdrive)

Transmission Type Variant 2:

5-speed Manual Transmission (for specific markets/trims)

Drivetrain Options:

Available in 2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive) and 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4675 mm (184.1 in)

Width:

Approx. 1830 mm (72.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1745 mm (68.7 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2710 mm (106.7 in)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)

Cargo Volume:

Variable depending on seat configuration, typically substantial for its class

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1800-2000 kg (3968-4409 lbs) depending on configuration

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good (for the first generation, though specific year ratings may vary)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good (for the first generation, though specific year ratings may vary)

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable or Good (depending on specific testing and equipment for the first generation)

Traction Control:

Available (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Available (ESC/ESP - often on higher trims or optional)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Airbags Front:

Dual Frontal Airbags (Driver and Passenger)

Airbags Side:

Optional (Side Curtain Airbags, Front Side Airbags depending on trim)

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio systems with subwoofer and more speakers

Navigation:

Rarely offered as standard, but optional factory or aftermarket navigation systems might be available on higher trims.

Parking Sensors:

Optional on certain higher trims

Auxiliary Input:

Typically not standard; aftermarket solutions for AUX or USB connectivity are common.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most trims

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control depending on trim level

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific driving conditions)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (refer to manual based on driving conditions)

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 1 year

Spark Plug Replacement G6Cu:

Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type)

Timing Belt Replacement G6Cu:

Highly critical; typically around 60,000-90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Consult manual for exact interval to prevent catastrophic engine damage.

Engine Oil Capacity G6Cu:

Approx. 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) with filter change

Engine Oil Viscosity G6Cu:

SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type, pre-mixed or concentrate

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Engine G6Cu Timing Belt:

Timing belt tensioner and idler pulley failure can lead to belt slippage or breakage, causing severe engine damage. Regular replacement is critical.

Transmission Auto:

Occasional shifting issues or delayed engagement; regular fluid and filter changes are recommended.

Suspension Front:

Wear in front ball joints and control arm bushings can lead to noise and steering issues.

Exhaust System:

Rust and corrosion on exhaust components, particularly in areas with harsh winters.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origins:

Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea, founded in 1944, known for evolving from bicycle manufacturing to vehicles

First Generation Launch:

Introduced globally starting in late 2000 for the 2001 model year, with the 2004 model representing a significant point in its early lifecycle.

Platform:

Built on a body-on-frame chassis shared with the Hyundai Santa Fe (first generation) and Kia Carnival minivan.

Assembly Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Hwaseong plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards First Gen:

Achieved good safety ratings in various crash tests by organizations like IIHS and NHTSA, contributing to its market appeal.

Value Proposition:

Consistently praised for its value proposition, offering substantial utility and features for its price point compared to established competitors.