Families, individuals seeking versatility and utility
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors 2004:
Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Nissan Murano, Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Key Features
Body Style:
Body-on-frame construction (earlier models) transitioning to unibody (later models, though 2004 is often considered borderline or early unibody depending on specific global market implementation)
Seating Capacity:
Typically 7-passenger (available in 5-passenger configurations)
Drivetrain Options:
Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Towing Capacity:
Varies by engine and configuration, typically up to 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg)
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Regions Covered:
Global (USA, Europe, Asia, etc. specific regional variations may exist within the manual)
Full Factory Level (covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures)
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Fully searchable text
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable pages
Image Resolution:
High-resolution illustrations and diagrams
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code Usdm:
G6CU (3.5L V6)
Engine Displacement Liters:
3.5
Engine Type:
V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Cam), 24 valves
Bore X Stroke Mm:
91.0 x 88.0
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1
Performance
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 195-200 hp @ 5500 rpm (USDM)
Torque Lb Ft:
Approx. 217-220 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (USDM)
Fuel System
Fuel Induction:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type Recommended:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Variants
Alternative Engine Usdm:
2.7L V6 (less common, primarily in base models or specific markets)
Alternative Engine Global:
2.5L Diesel (VM Motori R425, common in European markets)
5-speed Manual Transmission (less common in US market)
Features
AWD System:
Electronically Controlled All-Wheel Drive System (for AWD models)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 75W-90 or GL-4 80W-90 gear oil
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Mm:
4675
Width Mm:
1890
Height Mm:
1785
Wheelbase Mm:
2755
Front Track Mm:
1605
Rear Track Mm:
1600
Ground Clearance Mm:
Approx. 200-210
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
Approx. 1800-1950 (varies by trim and drivetrain)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
Approx. 2600-2750
Cargo
Cargo Volume Liters Behind 3Rd Row:
Approx. 340
Cargo Volume Liters Behind 2Nd Row:
Approx. 900
Cargo Volume Liters Behind 1St Row:
Approx. 2100+
Wheels Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels
Standard Tire Size Usdm:
235/70R16 or 245/65R17
Bolt Pattern:
5x139.7 (5x5.5 inches)
Center Bore Mm:
92.7
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4/5 stars (in some configurations)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4/5 stars (in some configurations)
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Acceptable (typical for its era)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) became more common in later model years, may be optional or absent on early 2004 models
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Front Impact Airbags
Airbags Side:
Available Side Curtain Airbags (for all rows)
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters for front seats
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Base AM/FM/CD player; optional premium sound systems available
Navigation:
Optional aftermarket or dealer-installed navigation systems were available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors on some higher trims
Connectivity
Aux Input:
Typically not standard, often requires aftermarket integration for auxiliary audio input.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Engine Oil Change Interval Km Miles:
7,500 km / 4,500 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change
Air Filter Replacement Interval Km Miles:
30,000 km / 18,000 miles or 24 months
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval Km Miles:
15,000 km / 9,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Km Miles:
100,000 km / 60,000 miles (for iridium-tipped plugs)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Change Interval Km Miles:
90,000 km / 54,000 miles or 72 months (under normal driving conditions)
Brake Fluid Change Interval Years:
2-3 years
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type Viscosity:
API SJ or higher, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol-based, Pre-diluted Asian Red or equivalent (e.g., Asian Long Life)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
DEXRON III or equivalent ATF
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Common Issues Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets), occasional EGR valve issues, timing belt wear (on models equipped with timing belts rather than chains)
Common Issues Transmission:
Hesitation or rough shifting in automatic transmissions, premature wear of torque converter clutches in some cases
Common Issues Suspension:
Front suspension clunks (worn ball joints, control arm bushings), premature wear of sway bar links
Common Issues Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, blower motor resistor failure
Common Issues HVAC:
HVAC system blower fan failure, AC compressor clutch issues
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, established in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles.
Model Evolution
Sorento Introduction:
The Sorento was first introduced globally in 2002 as a 2003 model year vehicle, marking Kia's entry into the mid-size SUV segment.
First Generation Jc:
The first generation (JC) Sorento was characterized by its traditional body-on-frame construction (similar to trucks) and rugged SUV styling, later transitioning to a unibody platform for improved ride comfort and handling in subsequent iterations.
Production
Production Start Year:
2002
First Generation Production Years:
2002-2009
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea; also assembled in other Kia facilities worldwide.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Initial Reception:
The first-generation Sorento was generally well-received for its value proposition, offering a spacious and capable SUV at a competitive price point.
IIHS Top Safety Pick Designation:
The 2004 Sorento did not typically receive the highest 'Top Safety Pick' designations from IIHS, reflecting the safety standards of its era for SUVs.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied; some years and components were noted for issues, while others performed adequately. The manual is crucial for addressing common wear items.