🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Generation Code:

XM

Model Year:

2012

Engine Variant:

3.5L V6 DOHC

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families seeking a versatile and spacious SUV with a focus on value and practicality.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Traverse.

Standard Features 2012:

Third-row seating, available AWD, robust V6 engine option, competitive pricing.

Value Proposition:

Offers significant interior space and a powerful engine at a more accessible price point compared to some competitors.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Interior, Exterior, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair

Total Pages:

Hundreds

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (Printable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (injection), intake and exhaust systems, timing system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system, ECU (Engine Control Unit) operation, sensors, actuators, emissions control systems.

Transmission Automatic:

Transmission assembly, torque converter, valve body, internal components, electronic controls, fluid maintenance, diagnostics, removal and installation.

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle, drive shafts, universal joints, differentials, CV joints, hub bearings.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints), rear suspension (multi-link, shock absorbers, springs), alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system (hydraulic pump, steering rack, hoses), steering column, wheel alignment.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid specifications, procedures for pad and rotor replacement, bleeding.

Electrical Body:

Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), power windows, power locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, fuses, relays.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant, procedures for servicing and charging.

Body Interior:

Seats, upholstery, dashboard, door panels, trim, airbags, seat belts, interior component removal and installation.

Body Exterior:

Bumpers, fenders, hood, doors, tailgate, glass, mirrors, exterior trim, paint codes, panel replacement.

Chassis Frame:

Frame construction, subframes, structural components, rust prevention, underbody protection.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical schematics, component testing procedures.

Major Repairs:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper replacement, power steering pump replacement, timing belt/chain service.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, sensor resistance checks, actuator actuation tests, ECU diagnosis.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, diagnostic data (e.g., sensor readings, voltage values), resistance values, wiring color codes.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls. Includes detailed explanations, diagrams, and step-by-step procedures for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Printability:

High-resolution, optimized for printing individual pages or entire manual. Clear diagrams and legible text.

Binding Recommendation:

Comb binding or professional coil binding recommended for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Recommended Paper:

Durable, heavyweight paper (e.g., 24lb or higher) for workshop use.

Text Search:

Fully searchable text content for quick access to specific information.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G6CU (likely reference for 3.5L Lambda II V6)

Engine Type:

3.5L (3470 cc) V6 Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) - Note: The product name specifies DOHC, and GDI became more common, but the V6 often used MPI or GDI depending on region/specific configuration. For 2012 Sorento XM with 3.5L, it's typically MPI. DOHC is accurate for valve configuration.

Horsepower:

Approximately 276 hp @ 6300 rpm (for US spec models)

Torque:

Approximately 248 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (for US spec models)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) depending on market.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, Octane Rating 87 or higher recommended

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 87.0 mm (approximate)

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1 (approximate)

Valve Train:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic (A6LF1 or similar)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for this engine/model year combination (Typically standard 6-speed auto for 3.5L V6)

Drive Modes:

Sportmatic (Driver-selectable manual shifting mode)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification/part number)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.7 quarts (8.2 liters) for a complete refill, 3.7 quarts (3.5 liters) for a drain and fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4755 mm (187.2 in)

Width:

1885 mm (74.2 in)

Height:

1755 mm (69.1 in) (with roof rails)

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 8.1 inches (205 mm)

Seating Capacity:

7 passengers (2+3+2 configuration)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.5 cu ft (297 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 33.2 cu ft (940 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 75.5 cu ft (2139 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,370 - 4,564 lbs (1,982 - 2,070 kg) depending on configuration (FWD/AWD).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5,776 - 5,986 lbs (2,620 - 2,715 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) when properly equipped.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)

Standard Wheel Size:

18-inch alloy wheels

Standard Tire Size:

235/60R18

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

5-Star Overall Safety Rating (for 2012 model year in most configurations)

IIHS Ratings:

Good ratings in frontal offset, side impact, and rear crash tests by IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for comparable models.

Active Safety Systems:

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

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (all rows), active front headrests, three-point seatbelts for all occupants.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touchscreen audio system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/auxiliary inputs, satellite radio. Premium audio system options.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rearview camera (often standard on higher trims or optional), parking sensors (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for device charging and media playback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (under normal driving conditions); Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (under severe driving conditions). Refer to owner's manual for precise intervals.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles or 1 year.

Spark Plugs:

Replace every 60,000 miles (Long-life iridium-tipped plugs).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace based on driving conditions (e.g., 60,000-100,000 miles for severe conditions). Check manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-20, API SM/SN, ILSAC GF-4/GF-5 compliant. Capacity approx. 5.9 quarts (5.6 liters).

Coolant:

Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Green), a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water. Capacity approx. 9.5 quarts (9.0 liters).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Issues:

Potential for oil consumption in some V6 engines, occasional transmission shift hesitation, battery drain issues, minor interior trim rattles. The manual will provide specific diagnostic and repair procedures for these and other potential problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia Heritage:

Kia Motors Corporation is a South Korean automotive manufacturer, part of the Hyundai Motor Group, known for producing reliable and value-oriented vehicles.

Sorento Evolution:

The Sorento was initially launched as a body-on-frame SUV, but the second generation (XM, 2010-2015) transitioned to a unibody platform, offering improved ride comfort, handling, and fuel efficiency, positioning it more as a crossover.

Production Years:

2010-2015 (XM Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

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

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Design Awards:

The XM Sorento received accolades for its design and improved styling compared to its predecessor.

Consumer Ratings:

Generally positive consumer reviews highlighting value, space, and comfort. The manual will assist in maintaining these aspects.