Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder.
Key Features
Manual Advantage:
Official licensing ensures accuracy and comprehensive coverage, superior to generic third-party manuals.
Software Benefit:
Instant access, easy navigation, search functionality, and portability compared to bulky printed manuals.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Language:
English
Format:
Software (Digital Download)
Page Count
Estimated Page Equivalent:
Comprehensive (Equivalent to over 2000 pages of traditional printed content)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing system (belt/chain), seals and gaskets.
Engine Management:
Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control systems (EGR, EVAP), sensors and actuators, idle control.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission internal components, clutch operation, gear shifting mechanisms, service and overhaul procedures.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission operation, valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, transmission fluid cooler, service and overhaul.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, drive axles, CV joints, differentials, transfer case (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, sway bar), rear suspension (multi-link, shock absorbers, springs, trailing arms), wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column, steering wheel alignment.
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, horn.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control unit, cabin air filter.
Electronic control unit with adaptive shift logic.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
187.9 inches (4773 mm)
Width:
74.4 inches (1890 mm)
Height:
67.5 inches (1715 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.5 inches (2705 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Approx Gasoline AWD:
4400 - 4600 lbs (2000 - 2087 kg)
Curb Weight Approx Diesel AWD:
4500 - 4700 lbs (2041 - 2132 kg)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind 3Rd Row:
7.5 cu ft (0.21 m³)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
30.5 cu ft (0.86 m³)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
76.9 cu ft (2.18 m³)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
4-Star
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
4-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc brakes with ABS)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)
Traction Control:
Optional (Electronic Stability Control - ESC - not widely available on early models)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Standard (Dual front airbags)
Airbags Side:
Optional (Front side-impact airbags, optional front and rear side curtain airbags)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD audio system with 6 speakers. Optional upgraded Infinity audio system available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional DVD-based navigation system available on premium trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors available.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack for portable music players.
Bluetooth:
Not typically available on this model year.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plugs Gasoline 3.5L:
Replace every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with original equipment iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Gasoline 3.5L:
This engine utilizes a timing *chain*, not a belt, which is designed to last the life of the engine but requires inspection for noise or wear.
Timing Belt Diesel 2.5L:
This engine utilizes a timing *chain*, not a belt, designed for longevity. Inspection is recommended during major services.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) under normal driving conditions. Replace every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) under severe driving conditions (towing, dusty environments).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Capacity Gasoline 3.5L:
5.1 quarts (4.8 liters) with filter change. API SN or newer, SAE 5W-30 recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity Diesel 2.5L:
7.6 quarts (7.2 liters) with filter change. API CJ-4 or CK-4, SAE 5W-40 recommended.
Coolant:
Asian vehicle-specific Long Life Coolant (OAT), typically pink or red. Capacity: 8.7 quarts (8.2 liters) for V6.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check reservoir cap). Flush every 2-3 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent. Check level regularly.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Kia SP-III or equivalent. Capacity: 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters) for fill.
Known Issues
Engine 3.5L V6 Common:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, front crankshaft seal; occasional misfires due to ignition coil failure; timing chain noise if not maintained.
Engine 2.5L Crdi Common:
EGR system clogging, turbocharger issues (wastegate actuator), injector problems leading to rough running.
Transmission Automatic:
Harsh shifting, slipping, or delayed engagement can indicate fluid degradation or valve body issues.
Suspension Components:
Premature wear of ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings due to vehicle weight and typical SUV usage.
Electrical Glitches:
Occasional issues with power window regulators, door lock actuators, and instrument cluster illumination.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History Context:
Kia, a South Korean automaker, established itself with smaller vehicles before expanding into SUVs and larger segments.
Model Evolution
Sorento Generation 1 Start:
First generation Sorento (2002-2009) introduced as a traditional body-on-frame SUV.
Sorento Generation 1 Facelift:
The 2007 model year represents a mid-cycle refresh (facelift) for the first generation, featuring updated styling and potentially minor mechanical revisions.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Hwaseong, South Korea; also assembled in Malaysia and Indonesia for specific markets.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Award Mention:
Received good ratings in IIHS frontal offset crash tests, indicating good structural integrity.
Ratings
Fuel Economy Rating V6:
EPA estimated MPG: 16 city / 21 highway (AWD).
Fuel Economy Rating Diesel:
EPA estimated MPG: 18 city / 24 highway (AWD).
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.