🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2008

Generation:

XM (Second Generation)

Production Code:

Refer to VIN for specific production details

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size SUV / Crossover

Key Competitors:

Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Ford Edge, Hyundai Santa Fe, Chevrolet Equinox

Practicality:

Known for its spacious interior, optional third-row seating (in some configurations), and family-friendly features.

Value Proposition:

Offers a strong balance of features, space, and value for its class.

Purpose:

Essential resource for diagnosing and repairing electrical and electronic system faults on the 2008 Kia Sorento.

Advantage:

Provides specific, manufacturer-level diagnostic procedures and wiring information not typically found in general repair manuals.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

All trims (EX, SX)

Page Count:

Not specified, but typical for ETMs is 1000+ pages

Manual Type:

Electronic Troubleshooting Manual (ETM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Electrical Systems:

Comprehensive coverage of all electrical systems, including wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and troubleshooting procedures.

Powertrain Control:

Detailed troubleshooting for Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), and related sensors and actuators.

Chassis Systems:

Troubleshooting for Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and all related sensors and control modules.

Body Electronics:

Diagnosis of body control modules (BCM), interior/exterior lighting, power windows, door locks, mirrors, and comfort systems.

HVAC System:

Troubleshooting for climate control, A/C system, and related electronic components and actuators.

Infotainment System:

Diagnostic information for audio, navigation, and communication systems.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for pinpointing electrical faults and component failures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed and accurate wiring schematics for all vehicle circuits.

Component Locations:

Illustrations and diagrams showing the precise location of all electrical components, modules, fuses, and relays.

Pinpoint Testing:

Methodologies for testing individual wires, connectors, and components.

Troubleshooting Charts:

Systematic approaches to diagnosing symptoms based on diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and observed issues.

Depth Level:

Advanced, focusing on diagnosing and repairing electrical and electronic system failures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Print Quality:

High resolution for clear viewing of diagrams and text. Printable.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G6DB (Lambda)

Engine Type:

3.3L DOHC V6 with Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

Bore X Stroke:

92.5 mm x 87.1 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 242 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 227 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine Code:

G6DA (Lambda)

Engine Type:

3.8L DOHC V6 with Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

Bore X Stroke:

96.0 mm x 87.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

Approx. 260 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 250 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

ECM Type:

Manufacturer specific ECU, diagnostic capabilities via OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic transmission

Optional Transmission:

N/A (standard for all engines and trims in this generation)

Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, adaptive shift logic.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia SPIII Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.3 quarts (7.9 liters) - check manual for exact amount based on service procedure.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 188.4 inches (4785 mm)

Width:

Approx. 74.4 inches (1890 mm)

Height:

Approx. 68.3 inches (1735 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 110.0 inches (2794 mm)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 121.7 cubic feet (3446 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approx. 10.0 cubic feet (283 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approx. 37.1 cubic feet (1051 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

Approx. 75.1 cubic feet (2127 liters)

Curb Weight Min:

Approx. 4144 lbs (1880 kg) for 3.3L models

Curb Weight Max:

Approx. 4332 lbs (1965 kg) for 3.8L AWD models

Towing Capacity:

Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) with factory tow package.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

5-Star (for driver and passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5-Star (for front and rear passengers)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (2008 model year)

Traction Control:

Standard

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard (ESC)

ABS:

Standard 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS

Airbags Front:

Dual front airbags

Airbags Side:

Front seat-mounted side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Side-curtain airbags for all rows

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Available features included AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio systems, with optional navigation and premium audio systems (e.g., Infinity).

Driver Assistance Features:

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

Connectivity Options:

Auxiliary input jack for audio devices, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity (optional on some trims).

Headlight Type:

Halogen headlights, with optional Xenon HID headlights on higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,000 to 12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Consult the owner's manual for specific recommendations.

Engine Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km), or as needed based on air quality.

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 to 30,000 miles (24,000 to 48,000 km), or as needed.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect regularly. Replace every 60,000 to 100,000 miles (96,000 to 160,000 km), or as per severe driving conditions. Refer to the ETM for precise guidelines.

Spark Plugs:

Typically iridium spark plugs, good for up to 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-20 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic Motor Oil

Engine Oil Capacity:

3.3L V6: Approx. 5.7 quarts (5.4 liters) with filter; 3.8L V6: Approx. 6.0 quarts (5.7 liters) with filter. Always verify with dipstick.

Coolant Type:

Asian Red Long-Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent meeting MS-9769 spec)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid

Electrical Gremlins:

Common for older vehicles, the ETM is crucial for diagnosing intermittent electrical issues, faulty sensors, or module communication failures.

Powertrain Control Module:

Potential issues with PCM software or hardware, requiring diagnostic scans and possible reprogramming or replacement. ETM guides this process.

ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:

Common failure point leading to ABS and ESC warning lights. ETM details testing and replacement.

HVAC Actuator Failure:

Blend door actuators can fail, affecting temperature control. ETM provides diagnostic steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automotive manufacturer.

First Generation Start:

The first generation Kia Sorento (SM) was introduced in 2002.

Second Generation Introduction:

The second generation (XM) Sorento, as covered by this manual, debuted for the 2009 model year in most markets, but the 2008 model year information often bridges the gap or refers to late production models of the first generation in some regions. This manual specifically targets the 2008 model with the new engine options that often indicate an early transition to the second generation platform, or a specific market release for the 2008 model year incorporating elements of the next generation.

Platform Change:

The second generation (XM) transitioned to a unibody construction, differing from the body-on-frame of the first generation, offering improved ride comfort and handling.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in South Korea, with other global assembly plants.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Award 2008:

Recognized as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for the 2008 model year.

Reliability Rating:

Consumer reliability ratings vary. The ETM is essential for proactive maintenance and early detection of potential issues.