🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sorento

Year:

2006

Generation:

Second Generation (UN)

Chassis Code:

UN

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2006 Kia Sorento was positioned as a mid-size, body-on-frame SUV, offering a blend of capability, space, and value. It competed in a segment with rivals like the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander (though the Highlander was unibody, it competed on size and features), and Chevrolet TrailBlazer.

Target Demographic:

Families and individuals seeking a versatile, capable SUV with a focus on value and utility.

Competitive Analysis:

The Sorento's key selling points included its powerful V6 engine options, available V8 (in some markets, though not standard for 2006 in North America), robust towing capacity, and a more affordable price point compared to some Japanese and American competitors. Its body-on-frame construction offered a traditional SUV feel and durability.

Key Features:

The 2006 Sorento, representing the second generation, transitioned to a unibody construction for improved ride comfort and handling. It offered spacious seating for up to seven passengers in some configurations and a more refined interior than its predecessor.

Available Drivetrains:

Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) options available.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Repair, Wiring Diagrams

Page Count:

Extensive (Software; equivalent to thousands of printed pages)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Source Type:

Official Factory Service Manual (digitized/software format)

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download/Online Access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECU/ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Starting System, Charging System, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Transfer Case (if applicable), Front Axle, Rear Axle, Driveshafts, Differential, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Power Steering, Brakes (Front & Rear), ABS System, Traction Control System, Cruise Control, Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, Wiper/Washer System, Audio System, HVAC System, SRS Airbag System, Power Windows, Power Locks, Security System, Keyless Entry, Instrument Cluster, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II)

Body And Chassis:

Body structure, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, interior trim, chassis components, frame (if applicable to specific components), exhaust system mounting.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal & Installation, Component Repair & Overhaul, Electrical System Diagnosis, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Brake System Service, Suspension Alignment, Steering System Repair, Engine Tune-Up, Transmission Service, Emissions Control System Service, Air Conditioning Service, Body Panel Repair, Upholstery Care, Interior Component Service, Exterior Trim Service, Wheel & Tire Service, Safety System Calibration

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Provides extensive lists of DTCs with descriptions, possible causes, and diagnostic flowcharts for efficient troubleshooting of engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, and body control modules.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, component-level wiring diagrams for all major vehicle systems, including power distribution, ground points, signal paths, and connector views, crucial for electrical diagnostics.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle, essential for proper assembly and safety, especially for engine, transmission, suspension, and brake components.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter replacements to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced electrical diagnostics, and detailed troubleshooting scenarios. Includes factory specifications, torque values, and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software Application (typically executable or web-based portal)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format allows for on-screen viewing; printable sections available)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

3.5L V6 (G6CU)

Horsepower:

200 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

217 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Economy Mpg:

Approximately 16 MPG City / 21 MPG Highway (3.5L V6 Automatic, FWD - EPA estimates for 2006 model)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Engine Code:

G6CU (for 3.5L V6)

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Bore X Stroke:

93.0 mm x 82.7 mm (3.66 in x 3.26 in)

Compression Ratio:

9.6:1

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Regular Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (Less Common in North America)

Transmission Fluid Type:

Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (Refer to manual for exact specification)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios available within the manual's transmission section

📐 Dimensions

Length:

188.4 in (4785 mm)

Width:

74.4 in (1890 mm)

Height:

67.7 in (1720 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.3 in (2700 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4,300 - 4,600 lbs (1950 - 2087 kg), varies by trim and drivetrain

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard

Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:

Approximately 39.4 cu ft (1115 L)

Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:

Approximately 12.4 cu ft (351 L)

Seating Capacity:

5 or 7 passengers (depending on configuration)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

4-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for models equipped with side airbags)

Active Safety Features:

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

Tire Pressure Monitoring System:

Available on higher trims

Passive Safety Features:

Front Airbags, Side-Curtain Airbags (Optional/Trim Dependent), Seatbelt Pretensioners

Seat Belts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Standard AM/FM/CD stereo, optional Infinity audio system, available DVD entertainment system (trim dependent).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control

Connectivity Features:

Auxiliary input jack for audio devices (on some models)

🔧 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 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

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

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (refer to manual)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per manual recommendations

Coolant Flush:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years

Engine Oil Type:

API SM/SN, ILSAC GF-4 or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (refer to manual for specific ambient temperature range)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change for 3.5L V6

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol Based, Long Life Coolant (Antifreeze/Coolant) - Pink/Red color (OEM Kia Coolant or equivalent meeting specifications)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Refer to owner's manual, typically ATF Dexron III or equivalent

Common Issues:

Interior trim rattling, minor electrical gremlins (window regulators, door locks), potential for brake wear, occasional HVAC blower motor issues. Early models of the second generation sometimes experienced concerns with ABS sensors. Oil consumption could be a factor in higher mileage vehicles.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Kia Motors, established in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. The company has grown significantly, evolving from producing motorcycles and trucks to becoming a major global player in passenger cars and SUVs, known for its value proposition and improving quality.

Model Evolution:

The 2006 Sorento marks the introduction of the second generation, a significant redesign from the first generation (which was a body-on-frame SUV). This generation adopted a unibody construction, shared with the Hyundai Santa Fe platform, offering a more car-like driving experience, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety.

Production Period:

2006-2009 (Second Generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea