🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

KIA

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2012

Engine Code:

GDI 2.4L

Vin Digit 8 Engine:

1

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size SUV

Positioning:

Versatile family SUV offering seating for up to seven passengers, positioned as a strong value proposition in its class.

Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, Chevrolet Equinox.

Features 2012:

Optional third-row seating, available All-Wheel Drive (AWD), panoramic sunroof, UVO infotainment system (later availability), improved fuel efficiency over previous generation.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 2012 KIA Sorento GDI 2.4L.

Pages:

Estimated 2000-3000 pages (typical for full factory service manuals, though exact number not provided).

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable Digital File (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection, emissions control.

Engine Management:

ECU diagnosis, ignition system, fuel system operation, sensor functions, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

Transmission:

Automatic transmission service, overhaul, diagnosis, electronic control module.

Drivetrain:

Front and rear drive shafts, differentials, hubs, CV joints, transfer case (if applicable).

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, ABS, EBD, brake fluid, caliper, rotor, pad replacement, hydraulic systems.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater, climate control operation, refrigerant, component diagnosis.

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, trim, bumpers, paint codes.

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, upholstery, interior trim panels, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts).

Diagnostic Tools:

Procedures for using scan tools, specific diagnostic equipment.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement).

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuilds and transmission overhauls.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical systems, including sensor testing.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, pressure specifications.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing individual components (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump).

Depth:

Factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Detail Level:

Includes detailed schematics, exploded views, torque values, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF allowing for quick information retrieval.

Quality:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and text (assumed for a professional service manual).

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2359 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

88.0 mm x 97.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Horsepower:

175 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection with Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)

ECU Type:

Electronic Control Unit (ECU), specific part number varies by production date and region.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed automatic transmission

Transmission Fluid Type:

ATF SP-IV (Genuine KIA or equivalent)

Type:

N/A (2.4L typically paired with auto)

Features:

Sportmatic manual shift mode, lock-up torque converter.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.4 inches (4785 mm)

Width:

74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

66.1 inches (1679 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.5 inches (2755 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 140.0 cu ft (145.1 cu ft with sunroof)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.0 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 39.6 cu ft

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 74.2 cu ft

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700 - 4000 lbs (1680 - 1815 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5100 - 5300 lbs (2313 - 2404 kg)

Towing Capacity:

2,000 lbs (907 kg) standard, 3,500 lbs (1588 kg) with optional towing package

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars (2012 Model)

Active Features List:

Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Downhill Brake Control (DBC) (on AWD models).

Passive Features List:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (for all rows), active front headrests, LATCH child seat anchors, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional UVO (Your Voice) infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/Auxiliary audio inputs, available navigation system, SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rearview camera (optional), parking sensors (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth hands-free phone system, USB and auxiliary input jacks.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (severe conditions), or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal conditions) - refer to manual for specific details.

Air Filter Replacement Interval:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions.

Engine Coolant Replacement Interval:

First replacement at 60,000 miles or 48 months, then every 30,000 miles or 24 months thereafter.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Every 60,000 miles or 48 months (severe conditions), or 100,000 miles or 72 months (normal conditions) - consult manual for definitive guidance.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, Blue or Pink color (specific KIA coolant recommended)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to manual (often ATF SP-III or specific power steering fluid)

Known Issues List:

Potential for oil consumption in some 2.4L GDI engines (especially earlier models of this generation), occasional issues with catalytic converter efficiency, possible wear on suspension components (bushings, control arms) due to vehicle weight and usage, and potential for water intrusion into the cabin through seals.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

KIA Motors, a South Korean automobile manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944, initially as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycles. It entered the automotive market in the late 1960s and has grown into a globally recognized brand known for value and reliability.

Generation 2012:

This 2012 model represents the second generation (KM) of the KIA Sorento, which was significantly redesigned from its truck-based predecessor to a unibody construction, improving ride comfort and fuel efficiency.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Hwasung Plant).

Production Years Generation:

2009-2015

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

While specific awards for the 2012 Sorento 2.4L are not prominently listed, the second-generation Sorento generally received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.