Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size SUV, known for its blend of comfort, practicality, and optional all-wheel drive.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano.
Seating Capacity:
Available in 5- or 7-seat configurations.
Engine Options:
Primarily 2.4L and 3.5L V6 gasoline engines for this model year.
Engine System:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for gasoline engines, including timing, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, and emissions.
Transmission System:
Service and repair for automatic transmissions, including fluid changes, valve body diagnostics, and torque converter procedures.
Drivetrain System:
Covers front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive systems, including differentials, axles, CV joints, and propeller shafts.
Suspension System:
Diagnosis and repair of MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension, including shock absorbers, springs, control arms, and anti-roll bars.
Braking System:
Procedures for hydraulic brake systems, including ABS, EBD, disc brake servicing, caliper replacement, and brake fluid bleeding.
Steering System:
Service and repair for power steering systems, including pump, rack, and linkage.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, and troubleshooting for various electrical circuits, including lighting, power accessories, and starting/charging systems.
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, and ventilation system servicing, including refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, and blower motor.
Body And Chassis:
Procedures for body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, and interior trim removal.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, error code explanations, and component testing procedures.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and complete overhaul for major vehicle systems.
Diagnostics:
Detailed explanations of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), scan tool usage, and component electrical testing.
Depth:
Detailed technical information suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex repairs and diagnostics.
Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic transmission
All Wheel Drive:
Optional Dynamically Selectable All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Kia SPII / SPIII or equivalent (e.g., ATF SP-IV)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 liters (refer to manual for exact fill amount)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 stars
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with specific safety features)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Esc:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front, side-impact, and curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
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.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs: 105,000 miles (168,000 km).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-20 (for 2.4L) and SAE 5W-30 (for 3.5L V6). Check manual for specific grade.
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, extended life (e.g., Hyundai/Kia genuine coolant).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some Theta II engines (particularly the 2.4L) have been associated with increased oil consumption; regular checks and potential engine inspections are advised.
Transmission Hesitation:
Occasional reports of transmission hesitation or rough shifts, often resolvable with a software update or fluid service.
Suspension Noise:
Potential for knocking or clunking noises from suspension components, particularly control arm bushings or sway bar links, with age and mileage.
Kia Overview:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automaker, part of the Hyundai Motor Group, known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs, sedans, and MPVs.
Sorento Generations:
The 2012 model year represents the second generation (XM) of the Kia Sorento, which debuted for the 2009 model year, featuring a unibody construction and a more car-like driving experience compared to its body-on-frame predecessor.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in South Korea (Hwasung) and also assembled in other international locations.
