🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2009

Generation:

XM (Second Generation)

Platform Code:

XM

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, Active Lifestyles, Those Seeking Versatility and Value

Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Hyundai Santa Fe

Design Philosophy:

Kia's 'Tiger Nose' grille evolution, bolder styling, improved aerodynamics

Interior Design:

Modern dashboard layout, improved material quality, enhanced comfort and ergonomics

Powertrain Options:

Introduction of a more powerful V6 engine option, refined 4-cylinder engine

Safety Advancements:

Improved structural rigidity, enhanced airbag systems, introduction of electronic stability control (ESC) as standard

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Focus:

Comprehensive Repair and Service

Total Pages:

1601

Type:

Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission

Chassis:

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

Body:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Glass, HVAC System

Electrical:

Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, SRS (Airbag) System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replacements

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Diagnosis

Repair:

Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair

Specifications:

Torque Specifications, Gapping Specifications, Clearance Measurements, Diagnostic Data

Depth:

Detailed Diagnostic and Repair Procedures, System Overviews, Component Function Descriptions, Wiring Diagrams, Exploded Views

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Searchability:

Typically Searchable Text (OCR)

Quality Description:

High-Resolution Images and Text, Suitable for Printing

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

Theta II (2.4L GDI - market dependent, likely MPI for US 2009)

Engine Description 1:

2.4-liter Inline 4-cylinder MPI

Displacement 1:

2359 cc

Bore 1:

86.7 mm

Stroke 1:

100.0 mm

Compression Ratio 1:

10.5:1 (approx.)

Horsepower 1:

175 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System 1:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Valvetrain 1:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves

Fuel Type 1:

Unleaded Gasoline

Emission Control 1:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors

Engine Code 2:

Lambda (3.5L V6)

Engine Description 2:

3.5-liter V6 MPI

Displacement 2:

3470 cc

Bore 2:

92.0 mm

Stroke 2:

87.1 mm

Compression Ratio 2:

10.4:1 (approx.)

Horsepower 2:

276 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)

Torque 2:

248 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel System 2:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Valvetrain 2:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

Fuel Type 2:

Unleaded Gasoline

Emission Control 2:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-Speed Automatic (with manual shift mode)

Optional Transmission:

N/A (6-speed auto was standard across most trims)

Transmission Features:

Electronically Controlled Transmission, Lock-up Torque Converter, Sequential Manual Shifting

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent

Transmission Fluid Capacity Approx:

7.8 Liters (1.73 US gallons) - dry fill

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4690 mm (184.6 in)

Width:

1890 mm (74.4 in)

Height:

1710 mm (67.3 in) - without roof rails

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Ground Clearance:

184 mm (7.2 in)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

387 Liters (13.7 cu ft) - 5 seat configuration

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

N/A (for 5-seat config) or ~150-200 Liters (approx. for 7-seat config with 3rd row up)

Curb Weight Approx:

1720 kg - 1900 kg (3792 lbs - 4189 lbs) depending on engine and drivetrain

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:

Approx. 2420 kg - 2570 kg (5335 lbs - 5666 lbs)

Towing Capacity Unbraked:

750 kg (1653 lbs)

Towing Capacity Braked:

2000 kg (4409 lbs) - market dependent

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 (5x4.5 inches)

Tire Sizes:

Commonly 235/60R18, 235/55R19 (market/trim dependent)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

4 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger) - 2009 Model Year (US Spec)

NHTSA Side Crash Rating:

5 Stars (All Rows) - 2009 Model Year (US Spec)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Not explicitly awarded Top Safety Pick for 2009, but received good ratings in many categories.

Electronic Stability Control Esc:

Standard

Anti Lock Braking System ABS:

Standard

Electronic Brake Force Distribution Ebdf:

Standard

Brake Assist Bas:

Standard

Traction Control System TCS:

Standard

Airbag System:

Front Dual Airbags, Front Side Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags (3rd row coverage on 7-seat models)

Seatbelts:

3-point Seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters (all rows)

Active Head Restraints:

Available on some trims

Body Structure:

Reinforced body structure, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Optional upgrades included satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, and premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity).

Navigation System:

Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trim levels.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear parking sensors and rearview camera.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Bluetooth Connectivity:

Optional, typically included with upgraded audio or navigation systems.

Keyless Entry:

Standard on most trims, optional remote keyless entry.

Power Features:

Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors standard; power driver's seat and liftgate available on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

7,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require shorter intervals (e.g., 3,750 miles or 3 months).

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles or 24 months, or as needed based on driving environment.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as needed.

Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) or 7 years, then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months thereafter.

Spark Plug Replacement 4Cyl:

Typically 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped plugs (check specific plug type).

Spark Plug Replacement V6:

Typically 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped plugs (check specific plug type).

Timing Belt Or Chain:

This generation (XM) uses timing chains for both engines, which are generally designed to last the life of the engine and do not have a scheduled replacement interval unless issues arise.

Engine Oil Spec 4Cyl:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (check owners manual for exact specification).

Engine Oil Spec V6:

SAE 5W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (check owners manual for exact specification).

Coolant Type:

Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green or Blue, depending on region and production date), or equivalent HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Engine Issues Theta Ii:

Some reports of excessive oil consumption in certain Theta II engines, though often related to specific manufacturing batches and later model years. Regular oil level checks are recommended.

Transmission Issues:

Occasional reports of rough shifting or transmission slippage, often addressable with fluid service or software updates.

Suspension Wear:

As with many crossovers, wear on control arm bushings and ball joints can occur with higher mileage, leading to steering looseness or noise.

HVAC Issues:

Blend door actuator failures can cause HVAC temperature control issues.

Electrical Gremlins:

Less common, but sporadic electrical faults can sometimes be attributed to module issues or harness problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, initially as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts. Evolved into an automotive manufacturer, becoming South Korea's oldest maker of motor vehicles.

Sorento 1St Gen:

First generation Sorento (2002-2009) was a body-on-frame SUV, positioned as a more affordable alternative to established brands.

Sorento 2Nd Gen Introduction:

The 2009 model year marked the introduction of the second generation (XM), a significant departure with a move to a unibody platform, enhancing ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency.

Design Changes 2Nd Gen:

Sleeker, more car-like styling, introduction of available 7-seat configuration, improved interior and features.

Production Location:

Hwasung, South Korea; also assembled in other Kia plants globally (e.g., Gwangmyeong, South Korea)

Xm Generation Production:

2009-2014

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Kbb Best Deals:

Kia Sorento often cited for its value proposition and competitive pricing, potentially earning 'Best Value' or 'Best Deals' accolades from publications like Kelley Blue Book in its segment.

Motorweek Drivers Choice:

The second-generation Sorento received positive reviews for its improved dynamics and features, potentially leading to 'Driver's Choice' awards from automotive critics.

Safety Certifications:

Meets all US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).