Market Position:
The 2009 Kia Sorento represents the second generation of Kia's mid-size SUV, aiming to compete with established players in the segment by offering a blend of utility, comfort, and value, often with a focus on features and refinement.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, and Hyundai Santa Fe, offering a different styling and feature set, often at a more accessible price point.
Key Features:
Available with a powerful 3.8L V6 engine, optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD), three-row seating (in some configurations), a focus on refined interior design and ride quality compared to its predecessor.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Emissions, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair Procedures
Page Count:
Approximately 2500+ pages (estimated for a comprehensive service manual of this era and scope)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, searchable)
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD/RWD), Braking System (ABS, EBD), Steering System, Suspension (Front & Rear), Electrical System (Charging, Starting, Lighting, Accessories), Climate Control (HVAC), Body & Chassis, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Wiring Diagrams
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Service, Fluid Changes (Transmission, Coolant, Brake), Belt Replacement, Diagnostics and Troubleshooting, Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Testing and Replacement, HVAC System Service, Body Panel Repair, Emissions Control System Service
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance to in-depth component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly. Includes diagnostic procedures, specifications, and torque values.
Primary Engine:
3.8L V6 Lambda G6CU
Horsepower:
Approximately 262 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 260 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel System:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), EEV (Electronic Evaporative Emission Control)
Engine Layout:
V6, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 87.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic (Sportmatic with Shiftronic)
Optional Transmission:
N/A for 3.8L model, primarily automatic
Features:
Electronically controlled with overdrive, lock-up torque converter, Sportmatic manual shifting mode.
Fluid Type:
Kia SPIII or equivalent (check manual for exact spec)
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.0-8.0 Liters (check manual for exact capacity)
Overall Length:
Approximately 188.4 inches (4785 mm)
Overall Width:
Approximately 74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Overall Height:
Approximately 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 114.2 inches (2900 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 120.4 cu ft (3409 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
Approximately 10.0 cu ft (283 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
Approximately 32.1 cu ft (909 L)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
Approximately 74.2 cu ft (2099 L)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 4365 - 4623 lbs (1980 - 2097 kg), varies by drivetrain and trim
Towing Capacity:
Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2WD and 4WD models)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2009 model year)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS)
Passive Features:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, active front head restraints, 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Infotainment System:
Optional touch-screen navigation system, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, auxiliary audio input, SiriusXM Satellite Radio readiness.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking sensors (optional), rearview camera (integrated with navigation system on some trims).
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free calling (optional), USB port (on some trims).
Comfort Features:
Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats (optional), power driver's seat, steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
Engine Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Severe conditions may require shorter intervals.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km), or as indicated by maintenance schedule and driving conditions.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years thereafter.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, API SM or higher (check manual for specific viscosity index improver requirements)
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol-based, HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant (e.g., Kia Long Life Coolant)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues:
Potential for oil consumption in some engines, possible wear on suspension components due to weight, occasional issues with power steering systems, HVAC blower motor resistor failures, and infotainment system glitches (though less common in this specific year/model).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.0 US quarts (5.7 Liters) with filter change (check dipstick for accurate level)
Brand Heritage:
Kia, as a South Korean automobile manufacturer, has a history of producing affordable and increasingly sophisticated vehicles, gaining global recognition for value and improving quality.
Model Evolution:
The 2009 Sorento marked a significant redesign from the first generation, moving to a unibody construction (car-based platform) from a body-on-frame (truck-based), offering a more refined driving experience and improved fuel economy, alongside updated styling and interior features.
Production Location:
Hwasung Plant, South Korea
Production Years For Generation:
2009-2013
Recognitions:
The 2009 Kia Sorento was recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as a Top Safety Pick, highlighting its strong performance in crash testing.
Ratings:
Generally received favorable reviews for its value proposition, improved interior quality, and a more car-like driving experience compared to its predecessor.
