🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Mohave

Model Years Covered:

2009, 2010

Generation:

HM (First Generation)

Chassis Code:

HM

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Kia Mohave (known as Borrego in some markets) was positioned as Kia's large, body-on-frame SUV, designed to compete in the rugged and capable SUV segment. It targeted buyers looking for towing capacity, off-road potential, and a spacious interior, often compared to American full-size SUVs.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against vehicles like the Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT, GMC Envoy XL, Ford Explorer, Toyota 4Runner, and Jeep Grand Cherokee, offering a unique blend of Kia's value proposition with traditional SUV capabilities. The Mohave aimed to provide a robust alternative in a segment increasingly dominated by unibody crossovers.

Key Features:

Body-on-frame construction, available V8 engine (in some markets), substantial towing capacity, spacious three-row seating, rear-wheel-drive bias with available four-wheel-drive, robust exterior styling, and a focus on utility and durability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioner, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle, and more.

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive)

Manual Type:

Official Full Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU), Fuel System (Injection and Delivery), Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Emission Control System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain (Front Axle, Rear Axle, Differentials, Drive Shafts), Brakes (Hydraulic, ABS, Parking Brake), Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Power Steering, Wheels and Tires, Electrical System (Power Distribution, Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio, Navigation), Body Control Module (BCM), Climate Control (HVAC), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Chassis and Frame, Interior Trim, Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Wipers.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step repair and service procedures, diagnostic troubleshooting guides, maintenance schedules, component removal and installation, adjustments, inspections, fluid changes, component testing, wiring diagram interpretation, technical specifications, torque values, fastener tightening sequences.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting with wiring diagrams, and bodywork repairs. Suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, designed for clear printing of hundreds of pages, including detailed photos and illustrations.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF) - printable and accessible electronically

Paper Type:

Not applicable to digital format, but designed to be printed on standard paper.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

For the 2009-2010 model years, primarily featured a 3.8L Lambda V6 engine. In select markets (like North America as the Kia Borrego), a 4.6L Tau V8 engine was also available.

3.8L V6 Performance:

Approx. 276 horsepower @ 6000 rpm, 267 lb-ft torque @ 4500 rpm (Specifications may vary by market and specific tuning).

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed automatic transmission (for the 3.8L V6).

Optional Transmission:

6-speed automatic transmission (often paired with the 4.6L V8 engine in specific markets).

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, advanced shift logic for smooth performance and fuel efficiency, manual shift mode (Sportmatic in Kia terminology).

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Dimensions:

Length: Approx. 199.2 inches, Width: Approx. 77.8 inches, Height: Approx. 70.7 inches (Specifications can vary slightly).

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,500 - 5,000 lbs (depending on configuration and drivetrain).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Varied by market and specific test year. Typically performed well in frontal and side impact tests due to its robust construction. Full ratings would be found in specific market safety reports.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) (availability dependent on trim level and market).

Passive Features:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags for all three rows, active front headrests, three-point seatbelts for all occupants, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available with premium audio systems, CD player, MP3 compatibility, auxiliary input jacks, and optional navigation systems. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming was also available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

While early models focused on core SUV capabilities, available features could include rear parking sensors, a rearview camera (on later models or as an option), and cruise control. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) common in modern vehicles were largely absent in these early models.

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary audio input, USB port (on later production runs or higher trims), Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone calls and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Typical intervals include: Oil and Filter Change: Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months. Air Filter: Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Cabin Air Filter: Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles. Spark Plugs: Replace around 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on type. Transmission Fluid: Inspect regularly, change every 50,000 - 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Coolant: Flush and replace every 30,000 - 60,000 miles. Brake Fluid: Flush and replace every 2-3 years. Drive Belt: Inspect regularly, replace as needed (typically 60,000-100,000 miles).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SM or higher, ILSAC GF-4 or higher. Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to owner's manual for precise recommendation based on climate). Capacity: Approx. 6.5-7 quarts for 3.8L V6.

Common Issues:

While generally considered robust, some common issues reported include potential for premature wear on certain suspension components (e.g., ball joints, control arm bushings), occasional electrical glitches related to sensors or modules, and for higher mileage vehicles, potential transmission issues if maintenance intervals are not adhered to. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system or interior trim durability.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Kia, a South Korean automobile manufacturer, has a history of producing a diverse range of vehicles. The Mohave represents Kia's push into the more traditional, rugged SUV segment, showcasing their expanding engineering capabilities beyond smaller cars and crossovers.

Model Evolution:

The Kia Mohave (HM) was first introduced in 2008 as a 2009 model year vehicle (or 2008/2009 in some markets) and was the brand's first large, body-on-frame SUV. It was designed to offer substantial towing and off-road capability. Its production run was relatively short, concluding around 2016, and it was replaced conceptually by larger unibody SUVs in Kia's global lineup. The Mohave nameplate was revived in some markets for a redesigned, larger SUV later.

Production Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea at Kia's Hwaseong plant.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While specific major 'awards' for the Mohave in its initial years might be limited compared to more established competitors, it was often noted for its value proposition and robust build quality for its price point in the large SUV segment. In specific markets, it received positive reviews for its performance characteristics and utility.