🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2004

Platform Code:

First Generation (JC)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV / Crossover

Usp:

Affordable capability, spacious interior, strong value proposition for its class

Competitors 2004:

Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Nissan Pathfinder

Vehicle Type:

Body-on-frame SUV

Seating Capacity:

Typically 7-seater configuration available

Drivetrain Options:

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

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Page Count:

N/A (Digital Document)

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Emission Control

Drivetrain:

Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case, Drive Shafts, Axles, Differentials

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (Front & Rear), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Body Electrical System, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Instrument Panel, Lighting, Audio System, HVAC Controls, SRS Airbag System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Glass, Exterior Trim

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Changes, Tune-ups

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Brake Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing Procedures

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics

Depth:

Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to in-depth component overhaul and diagnosis)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically Searchable Text

Printability:

Printable

Quality:

High-Resolution (consistent with original manufacturer manuals)

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Gasoline:

G6 (2.5L V6 DOHC MPI)

Engine Code Diesel:

D4EA (2.9L I4 CRDi Turbo Diesel)

Horsepower G6:

Approx. 168 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque G6:

Approx. 173 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Horsepower D4Ea:

Approx. 145 hp @ 3800 rpm

Torque D4Ea:

Approx. 223 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm

Fuel Delivery G6:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Delivery D4Ea:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDi) Turbocharged

Displacement G6:

2.5 Liters (2497 cc)

Displacement D4Ea:

2.9 Liters (2902 cc)

Cooling Type:

Liquid-Cooled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Gasoline:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (M5AF3)

Transmission Type Gasoline Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (45RFE / A5S310R)

Transmission Type Diesel:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (M5AF3)

Transmission Type Diesel Optional:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (45RFE / A5S310R)

4Wd System:

Part-time 4WD system with electronic transfer case engagement (on applicable trims)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 186.4 inches (4735 mm)

Width:

Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

Approx. 67.5 inches (1715 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 112.4 inches (2855 mm)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 4250 lbs (1928 kg) (V6 FWD)

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 4750 lbs (2154 kg) (Diesel 4WD)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

Typically 3 Stars (Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger) and 4 Stars (Side Driver, Side Rear Passenger) - Varies by configuration and test year.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) available on select trims

Airbags:

Front-seat airbags, available side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners for front occupants

💡 Technology Features

Audio System Features:

AM/FM stereo with CD player, available premium sound system, optional cassette player on some early models.

Climate Control:

Manual air conditioning standard, optional automatic climate control

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control on most trims

Auxiliary Input:

Generally not available on this model year; aftermarket solutions may exist.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Gasoline:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (under severe driving conditions), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (under normal driving conditions)

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months

Fuel Filter Replacement Diesel:

Every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or 18 months

Engine Oil Spec Gasoline:

API SL or higher, SAE 5W-30 (or SAE 10W-30 if operating temperatures are consistently above -10°C / 14°F)

Engine Oil Spec Diesel:

API CG-4 or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on climate)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water (e.g., ZIC Coolant G-11 or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 gear oil

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid

Common Issues Overview:

Early models might experience issues related to transfer case (if 4WD), catalytic converter, and some electrical components. Diesel engines may require specific maintenance for turbocharger and fuel system components.

Diesel Specific Issues:

Potential for injector issues, turbocharger wear, and EGR valve clogging if maintenance is neglected.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automobile manufacturer, established in 1944. Known for its value-oriented vehicles and growing global presence.

Sorento Genesis:

First generation Sorento (JC) launched in 2002 globally, entering the North American market for the 2003 model year. Positioned as a more rugged, body-on-frame SUV option.

Production Location:

South Korea (primarily Kia's Hwasung Plant)

Production Years First Gen:

2002-2009

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Overview:

While specific awards for the 2004 model year are not widely publicized, the Sorento was generally well-received for its value and utility upon its introduction. Often cited as a budget-friendly alternative in its segment.