🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2012

Engine Variant:

2.4L GDI

Engine Code:

Theta II GDI

Platform Code:

XM

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Competitors 2012:

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

Value Proposition:

The 2012 Sorento offered a blend of utility, comfortable ride, and increasing feature content, often at a competitive price point.

Engine Option:

The 2.4L GDI engine provided efficient power for everyday driving.

Seating Capacity:

Available in 5- and 7-passenger configurations.

Drivetrain Options:

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

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Type:

Full Service and Repair

Estimated Pages:

Approx. 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory manuals)

Manual Format Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF (Searchable, Printable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (2.4L GDI Theta II), Fuel System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Engine Control Module (ECM) diagnostics.

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (6-speed A6GF1), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Gearbox overhaul, Fluid specifications, Shifter mechanism.

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System (Power Steering), Braking System (ABS, EBD, ESC), Wheel alignment specifications, Drive Axles.

Electrical:

Body Control Module (BCM), Multiplex Communication System (CAN bus), Lighting System (Headlamps, Tail lamps, Interior), Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Mirrors), Audio System, Instrument Cluster, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses and Relays.

Body & HVAC:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, HVAC System (Air Conditioning, Heater), Seats, SRS Airbag System.

Maintenance:

Routine oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter service, brake fluid replacement, coolant service.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, transmission issues, electrical faults, HVAC problems, braking system anomalies, using OBD-II scan tools, interpreting DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes).

Repair:

Component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter motor, brake pads/rotors, suspension components), Engine overhaul procedures (e.g., cylinder head gasket, timing chain), Transmission rebuild procedures, Body panel repair and replacement, HVAC system component repair.

Component Removal/Installation:

Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major and minor vehicle components.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic flowcharts, component testing procedures, sensor data interpretation, ECM/TCM reprogramming procedures.

Repair Complexity:

Covers from basic DIY maintenance to complex component rebuilds and system diagnostics suitable for professional technicians.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Readability:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and text for clear readability.

Digital Usability:

Accessible on computers, tablets, and smartphones.

Print Usability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder

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

Torque:

169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Regular (87 Octane Recommended)

Engine Control Unit:

ECM (Engine Control Module)

Timing Mechanism:

Timing Chain

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

A6GF1

Optional Transmission:

N/A for 2.4L GDI engine

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled with overdrive, Sequential Sportshift manual shifting capability.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.8 inches (4795 mm)

Width:

74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

68.1 inches (1730 mm)

Wheelbase:

109.4 inches (2780 mm)

Ground Clearance:

7.2 inches (183 mm)

Curb Weight FWD:

3,885 lbs (1762 kg)

Curb Weight AWD:

4,034 lbs (1830 kg)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

9.6 cu ft (272 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

39.0 cu ft (1104 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

74.2 cu ft (2101 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

4/5 Stars (for 2012 models)

IIHS Ratings:

Good in front and side crash tests (varies by test configuration).

Stability Control:

Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC).

Braking Assist:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS).

Airbags:

Front dual-stage airbags, Front side-impact airbags, Full-length side curtain airbags.

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touchscreen audio system with CD/MP3 player, USB/Auxiliary input, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, and satellite radio.

Navigation:

Optional factory-integrated navigation system.

Rearview Camera:

Available rearview camera system.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking assist sensors.

Bluetooth:

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

Usb Aux:

Standard USB and auxiliary input jacks for media devices.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Inspect oil every 3,750 miles (6,000 km).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for Iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 52,500 miles (84,000 km) or 5 years.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (API rating may vary by region/specific requirement; always check manual).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Coolant Type:

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

Engine Issues:

Some reports of oil consumption, carbon buildup in direct injection engines, and potential issues with fuel injectors. The manual would detail diagnostic steps for these.

Transmission Issues:

Occasional rough shifting or hesitation may occur; fluid and filter changes are critical. Manual covers transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics.

Electrical Issues:

Some owners have reported issues with the battery drain or specific sensor malfunctions. Detailed wiring diagrams are essential for diagnosis.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. It has grown significantly into a global automotive brand known for value and improving quality.

Sorento Generation:

The 2012 Sorento represents the second generation (XM), which debuted for the 2011 model year, marking a significant redesign from its body-on-frame predecessor to a unibody construction.

Assembly Location:

Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea (Kia's main plant for this model).

Production Years:

Second Generation (XM): 2010-2015

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Award 2012:

The 2012 Kia Sorento received an IIHS Top Safety Pick award.

Kbb Value Rating:

Historically, Kia vehicles have offered strong value retention relative to some competitors, a factor often noted by automotive critics.

Quality Certification:

While specific certifications for the 2012 model year manual are not applicable, Kia's manufacturing facilities adhere to ISO 9001 quality management standards.