🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2009

Engine Variant:

3.8L V6

Engine Code Common:

G6DA

👋 Introduction

Market Position Description:

The 2009 Kia Sorento (XM generation) was positioned as a mid-size SUV offering a blend of capability, comfort, and value, competing with vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Edge. The 3.8L V6 engine provided strong performance for its class.

Competitive Analysis Notes:

This manual addresses the specific needs of owners and technicians working on a popular and robust SUV, providing the necessary technical data to maintain its performance and longevity against its direct competitors of the era.

Key Features Notes:

The 2009 Sorento 3.8L V6 model is characterized by its comfortable ride, available third-row seating (on some configurations), and capable powertrain, making it a versatile family vehicle. This manual is crucial for its upkeep.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Description:

Comprehensive repair and service information for the 2009 Kia Sorento with the 3.8L V6 engine, covering all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems.

Page Count:

1577

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

3.8L V6 (G6DA), including lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emission control, and engine management systems.

Transmission:

5-speed automatic transmission (e.g., H-Matic) service, including hydraulic control, torque converter, and electronic controls.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, drive shafts, axles, and transfer case (if applicable).

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (e.g., MacPherson strut), rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, EBD, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) systems, brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor service.

Steering:

Power assisted steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, and steering column service.

Electrical:

Complete electrical system, including battery, charging system, starter, lighting, body control modules, power windows, door locks, and infotainment system wiring diagrams.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and climate control modules.

Body:

Body panels, doors, hoods, tailgates, bumpers, interior trim, and related hardware.

Chassis:

Frame, unibody structure, and mounting points.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures, including oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, and belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, and common fault code explanations.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems, including engine disassembly/reassembly, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, and electrical component replacement.

Disassembly Reassembly:

Complete instructions for the removal and installation of all vehicle components.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, essential for diagnosing electrical faults.

Depth:

Extremely comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and specifications for professional technicians.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Digital PDF format, optimized for viewing and printing. Text is generally searchable, allowing for quick access to specific information.

Print Quality Notes:

Designed for clear reproduction when printed. High-resolution diagrams and text ensure readability.

Binding Type Equivalent:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type Equivalent:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

3.8 Liters (3778 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 87.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 valves (4 valves per cylinder)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Horsepower Peak:

Approx. 262 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Peak:

Approx. 260 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Type Recommended:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

21.1 gallons (79.9 liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-Speed Automatic (H-Matic)

Transmission Fluid Spec:

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

Transmission Type Optional:

N/A for this specific 3.8L configuration (Manual transmission typically paired with 3.3L or lower trims)

Transmission Features:

Sequential manual shifting mode (Sportmatic), electronic control unit for shift logic.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 188.5 inches (4788 mm)

Width:

Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

Approx. 67.3 inches (1709 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 110.2 inches (2800 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 7.2 inches (183 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 31.4 cubic feet (889 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 12.4 cubic feet (351 liters) (if equipped with 3rd row)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4300 - 4500 lbs (1950 - 2041 kg), depending on configuration (AWD, trim).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 5700 - 5900 lbs (2585 - 2676 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) (check specific model and local regulations)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

5-Star (for driver and front passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5-Star (for driver and rear passenger)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (Good ratings in frontal offset, side impact, and rear crash tests for the 2009 model year).

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

Passive Safety Features:

Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags (for all rows), active front head restraints, 3-point seat belts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features Common:

Standard audio system with CD player, AM/FM radio, and auxiliary input. Higher trims may include an upgraded sound system, steering wheel audio controls, and in-dash CD changer.

Driver Assistance Features Common:

Cruise control. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were not common on this model year; features like parking sensors or rearview cameras were often optional or part of accessory packages.

Connectivity Features Common:

Auxiliary audio input jack. Bluetooth hands-free calling was not standard on most 2009 models but could be found on higher trims or as an aftermarket addition.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect every 5,000 miles (8,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

At 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 48 months. Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil Spec:

SAE 5W-20, API SN/SM or ILSAC GF-4/GF-5 certified. Capacity: Approx. 6.5 quarts (6.2 liters) with filter.

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for Kia specified coolant type (e.g., PS-Coolant).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for exact specification).

Common Issues:

Some reported issues include occasional HVAC blower motor failure, potential for ABS sensor faults, and some reports of engine oil leaks (e.g., valve cover gaskets). The manual provides diagnostic procedures for these and other potential problems.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Notes:

Kia, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, has a history of producing reliable and value-oriented vehicles. The Sorento, introduced in 2002, marked Kia's entry into the mid-size SUV segment, quickly becoming a popular model globally.

Model Evolution Notes:

The 2009 Sorento represents the second generation (XM) of the model, which debuted in late 2009 for the 2010 model year. The 2009 model is a carry-over from the first generation platform, featuring the robust 3.8L V6 engine as a top powertrain option.

Production Location:

Primary production for the North American market was in West Point, Georgia, USA, and also in Gwangmyeong, South Korea.

Production Years For Generation:

First Generation (JC): 2002-2009 (with facelift in 2006). The 2009 model year is the final year of this generation.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Notes:

While specific awards for the 2009 model year are less prominent, the Sorento generation generally received positive reviews for its value, comfort, and utility. The IIHS Top Safety Pick award for this year highlights its safety credentials.