🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Sportage

Model Code:

SL

Year:

2012

Engine Code:

G 2.0 T-GDI

Vin Prefix:

K

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Kia Sportage (SL) is a compact crossover SUV that competes in a highly contested segment. The G 2.0 T-GDI engine variant offers a balance of performance and efficiency, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and versatile vehicle.

Competitors:

Key competitors for the 2012 Kia Sportage include the Hyundai ix35 (platform sibling), Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Kuga, Nissan Qashqai, and Mazda CX-5.

Features:

The Sportage (SL) is known for its stylish design, practical interior, comfortable ride, and the availability of all-wheel drive. The 2.0 T-GDI engine provides a significant performance upgrade over naturally aspirated variants.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete factory service and repair information for the Kia Sportage (SL) 2012 G 2.0 T-GDI.

Pages:

Varies by specific manual, typically 1500-3000+ pages for a complete factory service manual.

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual (FSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF), with potential for printable sections.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust systems, engine management (ECM), ignition system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission (likely 6-speed), including diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, and torque converter.

Drivetrain:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, drive shafts, and CV joints.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (e.g., MacPherson struts, multi-link), steering system, wheel alignment.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake pad replacement, rotor servicing, brake bleeding procedures.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, body control modules (BCM), fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics, power distribution.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, component replacement.

Body And Trim:

Exterior and interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement, body panel repair, bumper replacement.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system diagnosis and repair, seatbelt mechanisms, pre-tensioners.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance procedures, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacements.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical diagnosis using wiring diagrams.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for major and minor components, including engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service.

Diagnosis:

Detailed diagnostic strategies, using scan tools, interpreting diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), pressure testing, electrical continuity testing.

Disassembly And Assembly:

Comprehensive instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearance specifications, pressure specifications, and other critical data.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Typically provided as a PDF file, allowing for easy searching, bookmarking, and printing of individual pages or sections. High-resolution diagrams and images are crucial.

Quality:

High-quality digital reproduction of original factory documents, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

Theta II 2.0 T-GDI

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection

Displacement:

1998 cc (2.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

Approximately 261 hp @ 6000 rpm (Varies slightly by market and tune)

Torque:

Approximately 269 lb-ft (365 Nm) @ 1850-3000 rpm (Varies slightly by market and tune)

Injection Type:

Direct Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Recommended Octane:

Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended for optimal performance)

Coolant Type:

IAT (Inorganic Additive Technology) or OAT (Organic Additive Technology) type coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for specific OEM part number (e.g., Kia Long Life Coolant).

Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 5W-30 API SM/SN or ILSAC GF-4/GF-5. Always verify with the specific owner's manual or service bulletin.

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change. Refer to manual for exact capacity.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed automatic transmission (e.g., A6LF1 or similar).

Optional Transmission:

Manual transmission options may exist in certain markets but are less common for the T-GDI variant.

Features:

Tiptronic/Shiftronic manual override, lock-up torque converter for improved fuel economy.

Fluid Type:

SP-IV or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). Refer to manual for specific Kia part number (e.g., Kia Genuine ATF SP-IV).

Capacity:

Approximately 7.5 US quarts (7.1 Liters) for a complete fluid change. Refer to manual for precise capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 4,440 mm (174.8 inches)

Width:

Approximately 1,800 mm (70.9 inches)

Height:

Approximately 1,645 mm (64.8 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2,640 mm (103.9 inches)

Passenger Volume:

Approximately 97.1 cubic feet (2,749 Liters)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approximately 31.5 cubic feet (892 Liters)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approximately 66.4 cubic feet (1,880 Liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,450 - 3,650 lbs (1,565 - 1,655 kg) depending on drivetrain (FWD/AWD).

Towing Capacity:

Varies by market, typically around 2,000 lbs (907 kg) with trailer brakes.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall:

Likely rated 4 or 5 stars in NHTSA crash tests (check specific model year and configurations).

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

May have achieved IIHS Top Safety Pick status in certain years.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Esp:

Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP), often coupled with Traction Control System (TCS).

Ebs:

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Airbags:

Front dual airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.

Child Anchors:

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Base models may feature a simple audio system with CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims often include a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, and optional navigation.

Driver Assistance:

Features typically include ABS, EBD, ESP, and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC). Reverse parking sensors and a rearview camera may be optional on certain trims.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB and auxiliary audio inputs are common. Uvo infotainment system may be available on later models or higher trims.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. For severe driving conditions, consider every 3,750 miles (6,000 km).

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed or approximately every 24,000 - 30,000 miles (40,000 - 50,000 km).

Cabin Air Filter:

Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Inspect periodically. Replacement interval varies; consult manual. Typically recommended around 60,000 - 100,000 miles (100,000 - 160,000 km) under normal conditions, or sooner for severe usage.

Spark Plugs:

Replace approximately every 60,000 - 75,000 miles (100,000 - 120,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs. Verify with manual for specific plug type and interval.

Coolant Replacement:

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

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Refer to manual for precise specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific type; typically a hydraulic fluid compatible with Kia systems.

Engine Reliability:

The G 2.0 T-GDI engine can be sensitive to fuel quality. Carbon buildup on intake valves can occur over time, potentially leading to performance issues. Regular proper maintenance is key.

Transmission Issues:

Early models of the 6-speed automatic transmission sometimes experienced issues with solenoid operation or torque converter lock-up. Proper fluid maintenance is critical.

Suspension Components:

Worn front struts or suspension bushings can lead to increased noise and degradation of ride quality over time.

Electrical Systems:

Occasional reports of minor electrical glitches, such as power window motor failures or HVAC control module issues, are not uncommon for vehicles of this age. Refer to the manual for detailed electrical troubleshooting.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Kia, a South Korean automotive manufacturer, has a history dating back to 1944. It has grown significantly in global market share, known for offering value-packed vehicles with improving quality and design.

Generation:

The SL generation of the Sportage (2010-2015) represented a significant redesign, moving to a more car-like unibody construction from previous body-on-frame models. It adopted Kia's signature 'tiger-nose' grille and a more contemporary European-influenced design, largely penned by Peter Schreyer.

Production Period:

The SL generation was produced from 2010 to 2015. The 2012 model falls within this generation.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing locations include South Korea (Hwaseong) and Slovakia (Žilina).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While specific major awards for the 2012 model year are not widely publicized, the Sportage (SL) generation generally received positive reviews for its styling, value, and improved driving dynamics compared to its predecessors.

Safety Ratings:

As mentioned in the safety section, it likely achieved good safety ratings from agencies like NHTSA and IIHS, contributing to its market appeal.

Certifications:

Standard certifications for emission control and safety compliance in its target markets.