Market Position:
Mid-size Crossover SUV (CUV), positioned as a family-oriented vehicle with optional third-row seating and AWD capability.
Competitive Analysis:
Competes with vehicles such as the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Edge, Chevrolet Traverse, and Hyundai Santa Fe.
Key Features:
The 2012 Sorento represents the second generation, offering improved styling, a more refined interior, and enhanced safety features. The 2.4L GDI engine provides a balance of performance and fuel efficiency for its class.
Coverage Areas:
All mechanical, electrical, body, and systems repairs and diagnostics.
Body And Trim:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, interior trim removal/installation, bumper replacement.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Systems Covered:
Engine (mechanical and electronic), Transmission (automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (ABS/ESC), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), Climate Control, Body & Exterior, Interior Components, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine servicing, troubleshooting, repair procedures, component replacement, diagnostic flowcharts, torque specifications, disassembly and reassembly instructions, electrical component testing, body repair, emission control systems.
Engine Mechanical Procedures:
Engine assembly/disassembly, piston/ring inspection, cylinder head removal/installation, camshaft timing, valve clearance adjustment, crankshaft/bearing inspection.
Transmission Procedures:
Transmission fluid drain/fill, filter replacement, valve body diagnosis, seal replacement, torque converter removal/installation.
Brake System Procedures:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, ABS component testing, hydraulic line inspection.
Electrical System Procedures:
Battery testing/replacement, starter motor/alternator service, lighting system diagnosis, fuse/relay identification and testing, wiring harness repair, diagnostic scan tool usage.
Suspension Steering Procedures:
Strut/shock absorber replacement, ball joint/tie rod end service, power steering system diagnosis, wheel alignment specifications.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhaul.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on using OBD-II scanners, oscilloscope interpretation for sensor signals, and Kia-specific diagnostic software procedures.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive torque values for critical fasteners across all major components.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, color-coded electrical schematics for all systems, aiding in complex electrical troubleshooting.
Standard Transmission:
6-Speed Automatic with Sportmatic Sequential Shift Control
Optional Transmission:
N/A for 2.4L GDI in this market
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, torque converter lock-up clutch.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.7 US quarts (7.3 liters) for a complete fluid exchange.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for 2012 model year, may vary by specific configuration)
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
Passive Features:
Front dual-stage airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags for all rows, active front headrests.
Standard Tire Size:
P235/60R18
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
Infotainment Features:
Available touch-screen navigation, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, USB/iPod integration, premium audio system (Infinity).
Driver Assistance Features:
Backup camera, rear parking sensors (optional), cruise control.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth, USB port, Auxiliary audio input.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions recommend 3,750 miles (6,000 km).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs typically last up to 105,000 miles (169,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant synthetic motor oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based, long-life coolant, typically pink (e.g., Kia Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia ATF SP-IV (or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent DEXRON III/VI ATF)
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 (for AWD models, front/rear)
Known Issues:
Some reports of excessive oil consumption in early 2.4L GDI engines (though less common than Theta II engines), potential for brake pad wear, and occasional HVAC system issues. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures for all such potential problems.
Brand Heritage:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles, known for its progressive design and value-oriented offerings.
Model Evolution:
The Sorento debuted in 2002 as a body-on-frame SUV. For the second generation (2010-2015), it transitioned to a unibody platform, becoming a more car-like crossover SUV, which significantly improved ride comfort and handling. The 2012 model year continued this refined approach.
Production Location:
Hwasung Plant, South Korea
Generation:
Second Generation (2010-2015)