🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2012

Engine Variant:

2.4L GDI

Vin Prefix:

For 2012 Sorento, VIN starts with KNA

Engine Code:

Theta II GDI (G4KC)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Crossover SUV

Target Audience:

Families, individuals seeking versatility and comfort in an SUV

Competitors:

Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Murano

Gvwr:

Approximately 5,335 lbs (2417 kg) for 2WD models; 5,512 lbs (2500 kg) for AWD models (Varies slightly by configuration)

Wheelbase:

109.4 inches (2779 mm)

Body Styles:

2WD and AWD configurations, available in 5 and 7-seater configurations (though 7-seater availability with the 2.4L engine may be limited/dependent on market)

Trim Levels:

LX, EX, EX-Luxury (Trim availability may vary by region)

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, as per industry standard for this type of manual)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500+ pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level service manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (GDI), ignition system, exhaust system, engine control system (ECM/PCM), emissions control

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (A6MF1/A6LF2 - 6-speed) - removal, installation, internal components, service, troubleshooting, fluid specifications

Drivetrain:

Front wheel drive (FWD) and All wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive shafts, differentials, transfer case (if applicable for AWD)

Suspension:

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

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake system bleeding, component replacement, hydraulic system

Steering:

Power steering system (electric or hydraulic), steering column, steering gear, alignment

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), power distribution, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, climate control modules

Body:

Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, glass, interior trim, exterior trim, body repair, welding specifications, rust prevention

Interior:

Seats, airbags, seat belts, interior lighting, dashboard, console, door panels, sound insulation

Restraints:

Airbag system, SRS module, seat belt pre-tensioners, diagnostic procedures

Diagnostics:

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, diagnostic procedures for all major systems

Maintenance:

Recommended maintenance schedule, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, diagnostic flowcharts

Repair:

Detailed repair instructions for all major components and systems, including torque specifications, special tool requirements, and assembly/disassembly procedures

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures

Adjustment:

Wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment, door alignment

Replacement:

Component replacement for all major systems (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, brake pads, suspension components)

Depth Level:

Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts

Diagnostic Capability:

Comprehensive diagnostic procedures, including symptom-to-cause analysis and electrical schematics for troubleshooting

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed and accurate electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, including component locations and wire colors

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Text-searchable (assuming it's a professionally produced digital manual)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable pages

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Theta II GDI (G4KC)

Displacement:

2.4 liters (2359 cc)

Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 valves

Fuel Delivery:

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Bore X Stroke:

3.62 x 3.84 inches (92.0 x 97.0 mm)

Horsepower:

175 hp @ 6,000 rpm

Torque:

169 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm

Redline:

Approx. 6,500 rpm (subject to confirmation in manual)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended, higher octane may improve performance)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

17.4 gallons (66 liters)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SM or higher)

Engine Oil Capacity:

4.8 quarts (4.5 liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Codes:

A6MF1 (FWD), A6LF2 (AWD)

Shift Modes:

Driver-selectable manual shift mode (Sportmatic)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV (or equivalent specified in manual)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.8 quarts (7.4 liters) for dry fill (check manual for precise capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.4 inches (4785 mm)

Width:

74.2 inches (1885 mm)

Height:

66.5 inches (1689 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.4 inches (188 mm) (subject to variation)

Wheelbase:

109.4 inches (2779 mm)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x114.3 mm (5x4.5 inches)

Wheel Size:

17, 18, or 19-inch alloy wheels (depending on trim)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.6 cubic feet (300 liters) (7-seater)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 40.0 cubic feet (1133 liters) (7-seater)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 75.0 cubic feet (2124 liters) (7-seater)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,737 - 4,003 lbs (1695 - 1815 kg) (Varies by configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) with the 2.4L engine (check manual for specific trailer brake requirements and load limits)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Likely 5-star overall rating (based on 2012 model year trends and Sorento's typical safety performance). Specific rating to be confirmed in manual/official sources.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Ebd:

Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution

Esc:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Hill Start Assist:

Likely available on certain trims

Airbags:

Front advanced airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and third row), driver's knee airbag

Seat Belts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters

Child Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Upper Tether Anchors for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available touch-screen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/auxiliary inputs. Specific system varies by trim level.

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker audio, optional Infinity premium audio system with subwoofer.

Rearview Camera:

Available rearview camera

Parking Sensors:

Available rear parking sensors

Bluetooth:

Standard Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming

Usb Aux:

Standard USB and auxiliary input ports

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes. Always consult the manual for definitive intervals).

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles / 48,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 15,000 miles / 24,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Iridium-tipped spark plugs, typically replaced at 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed or according to severe duty schedule (typically every 60,000 miles / 96,000 km for normal service).

Coolant Type:

Antifreeze/Coolant, Ethylene Glycol type (Long-life, P-HOAT type - refer to manual for specific Kia specification, e.g., MS 591-08 or equivalent).

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 9.2 quarts (8.7 liters) (check manual)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to manual, likely specific power steering fluid or ATF SP-III/SP-IV for some Kia models.

Engine Issues:

Some reports of oil consumption in Theta II engines, potential carbon buildup in GDI systems needing cleaning, occasional issues with the GDI fuel injectors.

Transmission Issues:

Some users reported occasional rough shifting or transmission control module (TCM) software updates needed. Early models might have specific known issues that the manual would address.

Suspension Issues:

While generally robust, like any vehicle, suspension components (struts, bushings) can wear over time, especially with high mileage or harsh driving conditions.

Electrical Issues:

Infrequent reports of battery drain or issues with certain sensors or modules; the manual's diagnostic section would be crucial here.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

South Korea

Brand Philosophy:

Kia has evolved significantly, focusing on design, quality, and value, often offering a compelling alternative to established brands.

First Generation:

Launched in 2004 (as a body-on-frame SUV, later transitioning).

Second Generation:

Launched for the 2009 model year. This generation marked a significant shift to a unibody platform, improving ride comfort and handling, and becoming a true crossover SUV. The 2012 model falls within this second generation.

Production Plant:

Hwasung Plant, South Korea (primary production location)

Production Years For Gen 2:

2009-2013

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

The 2012 Sorento typically earned good safety ratings from IIHS (Top Safety Pick) and NHTSA, reflecting its robust construction and safety features. Specific awards should be checked against official sources.

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Likely achieved 'Top Safety Pick' status from the IIHS for the 2012 model year. Manual would detail specific crashworthiness features.