🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2011

Engine:

3.5L V6

Engine Code Primary:

G6DC (3.5L Lambda II V6)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, Hyundai Santa Fe

Seating Capacity:

Available in 5-seater and 7-seater configurations

Drivetrain:

Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD)

Design Philosophy:

Emphasizes a balance of utility, comfort, and modern styling for family use.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Estimated Page Count:

2500+

Audience:

Primarily professional technicians, with adequate data for skilled DIY mechanics

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Transmission (Automatic)

Chassis:

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

Electrical:

Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Lighting Systems, HVAC Controls, Audio System, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Navigation System, Instrument Cluster, SRS (Airbag) System, Wiper & Washer Systems

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks & Replacements, Belt Inspections & Replacement

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Component Testing, Wiring Diagrams

Repair Rebuild:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Service, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair

Diagnostic Tools:

Includes procedures for using OBD-II scanners and specialized Kia diagnostic equipment (e.g., GDS)

Specifications Tolerances:

Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and diagnostic parameters

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content

Printability:

Printable pages

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

Lambda II 3.5L V6

Displacement:

3.5 liters (3,470 cc)

Configuration:

60-degree V6

Valve Train:

DOHC, 24 valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 87.1 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.4:1

Horsepower:

276 hp @ 6,300 rpm

Torque:

248 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)

Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Timing System:

Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic Converter, Oxygen Sensors, PCV System

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Automatic

Optional Transmission:

N/A (Standard for 3.5L)

Transmission Control:

Electronic control with Shiftronic (manual shift mode)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia ATF SP-IV (or equivalent Dexron VI)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.7 quarts (8.2 liters) for overhaul

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4,690 mm (184.6 in)

Width:

1,890 mm (74.4 in)

Height:

1,745 mm (68.7 in) (with roof rails)

Wheelbase:

2,700 mm (106.3 in)

Ground Clearance:

184 mm (7.2 in)

Curb Weight FWD:

Approx. 1,930 kg (4,255 lbs)

Curb Weight AWD:

Approx. 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 2,620 kg (5,776 lbs)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.1 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 34.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 79.0 cu ft

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 (5x4.5 inches)

Standard Wheel Size:

18-inch alloy

Standard Tire Size:

235/60R18

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Resistance:

4/5 stars (AWD model)

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Good in front, side, and rear impact tests (typically for this generation)

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard (ESC)

Traction Control:

Standard (TCS)

Anti-Lock Braking System:

Standard (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH child seat anchors

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available with touch-screen infotainment systems, often including navigation, Bluetooth, USB ports, and auxiliary audio input.

Audio System Options:

Standard 6-speaker audio, optional Infinity premium audio system

Rearview Camera:

Available on higher trim levels, often integrated with infotainment screen.

Parking Assist:

Available rear parking sensors on some trims.

Bluetooth Connectivity:

Standard on most trims for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Aux Ports:

Standard for device charging and audio input.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe duty); 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal duty)

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km)

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km)

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per severe duty schedule

Coolant Replacement:

Initial change at 60,000 miles (96,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20, API SN (or equivalent ILSAC GF-5)

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (e.g., Kia Super Long Life Coolant)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Engine Potential Issues:

Infrequent reports of oil consumption, potential for carbon buildup in direct injection engines (though this 3.5L is MPI, it's a general V6 consideration for maintenance).

Transmission Potential Issues:

Some owners report occasional rough shifting or delayed engagement, often resolvable with fluid service. Transmission cooler line leaks have also been noted on some models.

Suspension Potential Issues:

Wear of control arm bushings and strut mounts over time, leading to noise or handling degradation.

Electrical Potential Issues:

Battery drain issues, particularly if accessories are left on or due to parasitic draw from modules. Occasional failure of power window motors.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Origins:

Founded in South Korea, Kia has grown into a global automotive manufacturer known for value and design.

Sorento Generation:

Second Generation (UM) - 2011-2015

Design Changes From Previous Gen:

Transitioned from a body-on-frame SUV to a unibody crossover construction, improving ride comfort and handling.

Assembly Locations:

Hwaseong, South Korea; West Point, Georgia, USA (for North American market)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

Generally received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, contributing to its appeal as a family vehicle.

Konsumen Reports Ratings:

Ratings varied by year and specific features, but generally positioned as a competent and value-oriented offering.