🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2009

Trim Levels Covered:

EX, SX, LX (all trims)

Generation:

Second Generation (UM)

Chassis Code:

XM

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2009 Kia Sorento (XM) represented Kia's second-generation mid-size SUV, aiming for increased refinement, improved fuel efficiency, and a more sophisticated design to compete effectively in a segment populated by established players like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Edge. This ETM is crucial for technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts working on this specific generation.

Competitive Analysis:

Compared to its predecessor, the 2009 Sorento featured a unibody construction (monocoque chassis) replacing the body-on-frame design, which significantly improved handling, ride comfort, and safety. This shift brought it in line with most modern SUVs in its class. The availability of both V6 engines offered a balance of power and efficiency for its segment.

Key Features:

The ETM is designed to aid in the diagnosis of complex electrical and electronic issues, which are increasingly prevalent in modern vehicles. It provides the granular detail necessary to pinpoint faults in systems such as engine management, powertrain control, safety systems (ABS, ESC, airbags), and comfort electronics, which are critical for efficient and accurate repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Electrical systems, engine performance, transmission, chassis, body electrical, HVAC, infotainment, safety systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for OEM ETMs of this era)

Manual Type:

Electronic Troubleshooting Manual (ETM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Control Module (ECM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Airbag System (SRS), Body Control Module (BCM), Instrument Cluster, Audio System, Navigation System, HVAC Controls, Power Windows, Power Locks, Lighting Systems, Keyless Entry, Immobilizer, Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC)

Procedures Included:

Wiring diagrams, circuit descriptions, component locations, diagnostic flowcharts, pinout data, signal tracing, troubleshooting procedures for specific DTCs, testing procedures for sensors and actuators, component identification

Technical Depth:

In-depth diagnostic and troubleshooting for electrical and electronic systems. Focuses on identifying faults, understanding circuit behavior, and providing step-by-step diagnostic routines. Assumes a good understanding of automotive electrical principles and the use of diagnostic tools (e.g., multimeters, oscilloscopes).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire document.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine 3.3L:

Lambda II G6DF V6

Displacement 3.3L:

3.3 Liters (3342 cc)

Cylinders 3.3L:

6

Valvetrain 3.3L:

DOHC, 24 valves (4 per cylinder)

Bore X Stroke 3.3L:

92.5 mm x 82.9 mm

Compression Ratio 3.3L:

10.5:1

Horsepower 3.3L:

235 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 3.3L:

230 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery 3.3L:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type 3.3L:

Unleaded Regular 87 Octane

Engine Management 3.3L:

Kia ECM (likely Bosch or Continental system)

Optional Engine 3.8L:

Lambda G6DA V6

Displacement 3.8L:

3.8 Liters (3778 cc)

Cylinders 3.8L:

6

Valvetrain 3.8L:

DOHC, 24 valves (4 per cylinder)

Bore X Stroke 3.8L:

96.0 mm x 87.0 mm

Compression Ratio 3.8L:

10.4:1

Horsepower 3.8L:

262 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque 3.8L:

260 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery 3.8L:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type 3.8L:

Unleaded Regular 87 Octane

Engine Management 3.8L:

Kia ECM (likely Bosch or Continental system)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-Speed Automatic Transmission (FWD or AWD)

Optional Transmission:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (primarily with 3.3L engine, less common)

Transmission Features:

Electronic control with adaptive shift logic, manual shift mode (Sportmatic), lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy at highway speeds.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

SP-IV (Kia genuine or equivalent)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.9 quarts (7.5 liters) for a complete fill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.4 inches (4785 mm)

Width:

74.2 inches (1885 mm)

Height:

68.1 inches (1730 mm)

Wheelbase:

108.3 inches (2750 mm)

Ground Clearance:

7.2 inches (183 mm)

Passenger Volume:

148.6 cu ft (4208 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

9.1 cu ft (258 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

30.3 cu ft (858 liters)

Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:

74.2 cu ft (2101 liters)

Curb Weight Est:

4000 - 4400 lbs (1814 - 2000 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) with proper equipment

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Rollover Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

IIHS Frontal Offset Score:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Score:

Good

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC)

Passive Safety Features:

Front dual-stage airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, side curtain airbags (all rows), active front headrests, 3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Available CD player with MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, auxiliary audio input jack, optional navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, and rear-seat entertainment system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Rear parking sensors, rearview camera (optional on some trims).

Connectivity Features:

Auxiliary audio input, USB port (on later models/packages), Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming. The ETM would cover wiring and diagnostic procedures for these systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions). Consult the owner's manual for severe driving conditions.

Engine Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed or at approximately 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal conditions. This is a critical diagnostic area for an ETM.

Coolant Replacement:

First replacement at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 10 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SN/ILSAC GF-5 5W-20 synthetic blend or full synthetic. Refer to owner's manual for exact fill capacity and weight recommendation based on temperature.

Engine Coolant:

Hyundai/Kia Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Known Issues General:

Early models of this generation sometimes experienced issues related to the electronic throttle control, catalytic converter failures (more common with the 3.3L), and potential water intrusion into the rear tail light assemblies. Electrical gremlins affecting various sensors and modules are often the focus of ETMs.

Known Issues Transmission:

Some reports of rough shifting or transmission warning lights, often tied to TCM software updates or sensor issues (e.g., input/output speed sensors) which the ETM would help diagnose.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, has grown significantly since its founding in 1944. Initially producing motorcycle parts, Kia entered the automotive market in the 1960s and has become known for offering value-oriented vehicles with improving quality and design.

Model Evolution:

The first generation Kia Sorento (2002-2009) was a body-on-frame SUV. The second generation, introduced for the 2009 model year (though often referred to as the 2010 model in some markets due to late introduction), underwent a significant redesign. It transitioned to a unibody chassis, shared the platform with the Hyundai Santa Fe, and adopted a more car-like driving experience and styling. This generation also introduced the more powerful 3.8L V6 engine option.

Production Locations:

Primary manufacturing for the XM Sorento was at Kia's Hwaseong plant in South Korea.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The 2009 Sorento received generally positive reviews for its improved handling, comfortable ride, and spacious interior compared to its predecessor. It was often praised for offering a good value proposition in the mid-size SUV segment.