Kia Sorento problems
The Kia Sorento (Korean: 기아 쏘렌토, romanized: Gia Sorento) is a series of automobiles manufactured by the South Korean manufacturer Kia since 2002 through four generations. Initially a compact SUV built on a body-on-frame chassis, the second-generation Sorento transitioned to a larger car-based platform which placed it into the mid-size crossover SUV class, and has been developed alongside the Hyundai Santa Fe.
First generation (BL; 2002)
2002–2006
Debuting in February 2002, the first generation Sorento was a traditional truck-based body-on-frame SUV. All American Sorentos also came with dual front airbags and dual side-curtain airbags in the front and rear. An optional four-wheel drive system with low range received praise for adding to the vehicle's off-road ability.
It had two transmission options, a 5-speed manual or 4- and 5-speed automatic (pre-2005 models have a 4-speed automatic, whilst 2005 Sorentos came with a 5-speed tip-tronic style automatic). First generation Sorentos are equipped with a Hyundai-manufactured 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 engine producing 192 hp (143 kW) at 5500 rpm, and 217 lb⋅ft (294 N⋅m) of torque at 3,000 rpm. Common features of the first generation Sorento were 4-wheel disc brakes (standard on all models), optional anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a 21.1-gallon (79.9 litres) fuel tank.
There were two trim levels available for the Sorento: either the base LX or the up-level EX. Both models included an AM/FM stereo with a single-disc CD player and an eight-speaker audio system, dual front airbags and front and rear side-impact SRS airbags (side-impact front and rear SRS airbags for North American-market models ONLY), cloth seating surfaces, a power-adjustable front driver's seat, air conditioning, power door locks and windows, tinted windows, aluminum-alloy wheels, keyless entry, wood interior trim accents, a split-folding second-row rear bench seat, and monotone exterior paint as standard equipment. Features such as satellite radio (on later models), leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, a ten-speaker premium audio system, cassette and CD players, an in-dash CD changer, power front bucket seats, seventeen-inch (17") aluminum-alloy wheels, a power sunroof, two-tone exterior paint, and a security system were available regardless of trim level choice.
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Kia Sorento model years
Common Kia Sorento problems
Based on complaints from Kia Sorento owners, several common problems have been reported with these vehicles. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Coolant Leak:
- Problem: The coolant overflow bottle is prone to cracking along the seams, leading to overheating, coolant loss, or wet patches under the vehicle.
- Solution: To address this issue, owners need to replace the coolant overflow bottle and top up the coolant.
- Crankshaft Bolt Breaks:
- Problem: A known issue in the Sorento is the breakage of the crankshaft bolt, causing warning lights, starting problems, and potential crankshaft detachment.
- Solution: Owners should remove the broken bolt and replace it with a new one to resolve this issue.
- Automatic Gearbox Problems:
- Problem: The automatic gearbox may jump out of gear due to issues with the electric plugs underneath the box.
- Solution: Disconnect, clean, and re-grease the electric plugs under the box to fix this problem, which is not as complex as it may seem.
- Black Smoke/Loss of Power:
- Problem: Black smoke from the exhaust and loss of power during acceleration indicate failing intercooler hoses, a common issue in the Sorento.
- Solution: Replacement of the intercooler hoses is necessary to address this problem.
- Grinding Noise When Driving:
- Problem: A rubbing or grinding noise while driving can be concerning.
- Solution: Replacement of the transmission box can resolve this issue.
- Doors Not Opening:
- Problem: Difficulty opening doors from the outside due to a broken spring inside the locking device.
- Solution: Replacement of the broken spring inside the locking device is required to fix this issue.
- Engine Failure:
- Problem: Catastrophic engine failure, often occurring around the 115,000-mile mark, has been reported by many Sorento drivers.
- Solution: Replacement of the engine is the only option to address this common problem.
- Clunk Noise When Reversing:
- Problem: A clunking noise while reversing indicates worn CV joints.
- Solution: Replacement of the CV joints is necessary to eliminate this noise.
- Car Shifts Out of Park:
- Problem: The car shifts out of park on its own, especially on inclines, due to a fragile brake-shift interlock mechanism.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty mechanism is required to prevent the car from rolling.
- Seat Belt Not Latching:
- Problem: Malfunctioning seat belt locking mechanism poses a safety risk.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat belt locking mechanism is essential for proper functionality and safety.
These common problems with the Kia Sorento highlight various issues that owners may encounter, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and prompt repairs to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safety.
What is the main problem with Kia Sorento?
The common issues include engine problems, electrical problems, airbag problems, seat belt problems, lights problems, and body/paint problems. The worst issue that plagues these Kia Sorento models is engine failure. This occurs when most consumers have accumulated an average of 62,000 miles.
Is the Kia Sorento a reliable car?
The 2024 Kia Sorento has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What year did the Kia Sorento have an engine problem?
Engine Failure
For models between 2011 and 2017, the Sorento's engine was known for having some trouble, specifically a faulty head gasket. This led to antifreeze and coolant mixing with the engine oil, which resulted in significant engine damage.
How many years does a Kia Sorento last?
about 13 to 17 years
It is much easier to keep a Kia SUV on the road with the help of an expert. An estimated average lifespan of 200,000 miles equates to about 13 to 17 years on the road. Vehicles tend to drive 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year. A well-maintained Kia SUV could even last 250,000 miles.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Sorento years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Sorento cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Sorento model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Sorento model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Sorento years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Sorento car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Sorento , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Sorento vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sorento model years
A total of 274 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Sorento model years
There were a total of 342 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Sorento model years
There were a total of 337 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Sorento model years
There were a total of 8 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 8669 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Sorento . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Sorento vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Sorento 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5XYRL4LC0NG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, the forward camera was obstructed. The steering over corrected while turned off. The transmission was accelerating and decelerating without application. The collision control engaged without an object in the driving path. The drive-side seat belt randomly unlatched. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, who diagnosed and determined that the transmission and seat belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The manufacturer was contacted, who opened a case but declined to buy back the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 28,660.
Kia Sorento 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5XYPH4A56HG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: While in auto mode my headlights turn on and off randomly. This is very dangerous at night and has happened several times. When the head lights go off I can not see and no one can see me. There is no warning when this happens. The first occurrence was on August 4, 2024. Kia dealers say it has to be happening when I bring it in but the problem is intermittent. Many other owners have stated they have this same problem in online forums. Canada has issued a recall for this problem (Kia Canada: RC184).
Kia Sorento 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5XYKUDA29BG
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: 3 different episodes suv will start by appear warning lights downhill, slippery road, abs, engine , decrease speed, shuts down, tire pressure finally battery dead and rubber smell. I've had it fixed once mentioned it was Altarnator, second time battery, finally third time something electrical or unknown. Total cost now $3000 and my life in danger al 3 times and towec.
Kia Sorento 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5XYKTCA62FG
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 2- 4 MPH on a bumpy driveway, the front end of the vehicle and the steering started shuddering violently. Additionally, the contact had noticed that the steering wheel had become abnormally loose, and there was significant play in the steering wheel. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the contact was informed that the steering coupler had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.
Kia Sorento 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5XYPGDA3XGG
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: This is an ongoing issue, from the day I purchased the car used. The steering sticks and binds when turning to the left; not on an ordinary sharp turn at an intersection, but at highway speeds. Sometimes the steering sticks and must be corrected to avoid going into the opposite lane. Several diagnostic attempts have been made including alignment, recalibration, and replacement of the 4wd coupling. Car still wavers and sticks at speed when turning left. Unknown cause. No codes show. However, at one time, on the display (not the dashboard symbol display, the camera/radio display) a message appeared saying: Mechanism Failure.
Kia Sorento 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5XYRK4JF2RG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,WHEELS
- Summary: Reason is unknown, was driving down road and car yanked to the right cause family to wreck in to a guard rail, no lights appeared before wreck, it was not raining and was not speeding. Clear sunny day. Police report has been made and has made several attempts to contact KIA, car has been in body shop since July. Wreck has happened in July. Car is still at body shop KIA told body shop there was no time line on getting any parts to repair, they do not know if it will be this year.
Kia Sorento 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5XYKT3A68DG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2013 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, there was smoke coming from the engine compartment. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway. After a visual inspection of the engine compartment, the contact became aware that the engine oil was abnormally low and added engine oil to the vehicle. The contact stated that a month later while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the head gasket. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 231,000.
Kia Sorento 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5XYKW4A27DG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The snow white pearl paint on my 2013 Kia Sorento is chipping and peeling off due to a latent effect .. starting at the front bumper .. grill assembly..a pillars .. hood ..roof and is now starting to chip on back latch.
Kia Sorento 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: KNDRHDLG4N5
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle's oil was changed at Transitowne Kia of West Seneca, NY on 10/19/24 with 19,576 on the odometer. During the oil change, a Kia multi-point inspection was performed. No leaks or other concerns were found. On [XXX] with around 19,596 on the odometer while driving on [XXX] the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of power accompanied by grinding noises coming from the engine. This was followed by the check engine light flashing and the low oil indicator illuminating. I pulled over and found that a massive amount of oil was rapidly pouring out from beneath the vehicle. Vehicle was towed back to Transitowne Kia who on 10/21/24 diagnosed the issue as a failure to the oil pressure setting unit. Transitowne Kia replaced an oil plug and alleges the issue is unrelated to the oil change. They further allege the vehicle's engine is functioning fine following their complete engine diagnostic testing and the vehicle is ready to be picked up. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Kia Sorento 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: 5XYPG4A50GG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I am having an issue with my Kia headlights when on dim. The lights are so dim I am afraid to drive the car at night because I am scared I will hit a person, animal or object. I am replacing light bulbs frequently. Cars are flashing their lights at me (when I need to drive at night) because of the dimness. I took my car to a Kia dealer and they could not diagnosis the problem. They advised to replace the entire headlight assembly with a cost of $2,600.00. I am on Social Security and can't afford to have the repair made. I have read a lot of complaints of other Kia lighting issues. I feel a recall should be made immediately due to the seriousness of the issue.
Kia Sorento 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5XYKW4A28CG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Kia Sorento 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5XYPGDA37KG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Delamination of my pearl white paint started occurring at 44,000 miles on my 2019 Kia Sorento. Now at 54,000 miles it's gotten worse and continues to expand. Occurring on the hood and the roof.
Kia Sorento 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5XYKT3A66FG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: While driving my 2015 Kia Sedona, was at a stop sign and began making a left turn. Half way thru the intersecion the vehicle just stopped running. I managed to get half off the 2-lane road, blocking half off the road with traffic coming both ways. I was there approximately 45 before the tow truck came to tow the car to the mechanic's shop where he confirmed the problem was a common problem with the 2015 Kia Sedona. There was absolutely no warning that the vehicle was going to become incapacitated, no warning lights or messages prior to the failure.
Kia Sorento 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 5XYKU4A77EG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact's wife owned a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 33-35 MPH, the air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact's passenger side fender hit a pole, the vehicle continued to a hill, and the vehicle's front passenger side crashed into a utility pole where the vehicle came to a stop. The contact mentioned the first pole that was crashed into was very close to the roadway. The contact stated that the steering wheel air bag deployed, but deployed partially. The contact sustained a concussion, left arm burn, swollen left knee, and foot injuries that required medical attention via the hospital which confirmed the contact had a mild concussion. An ambulance provided medical attention on the scene but the contact declined to be transported to the hospital however took himself to the hospital a couple of days after the impact. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a lot where it was deemed totaled. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Kia Sorento 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 5XYPH4A55KG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have a 2019 Kia Sorento EX V6 with 65,000 miles. Recently started smelling fuel and had someone look at it. I was told there is a fuel leak above the left side of the tank in the evaporative line. No accidents. This should never happen on a vehicle for no reason. NO system Failure. No malfunction. Yes, it is available upon request. NO inspections by insurance or police. No warning lights. Safety could potentially be at risk since fuel is exposed!!!!!
Latest 5 recalls Kia Sorento
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 70 recalls for different components of the Kia Sorento.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Sorento 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-04-23
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024 Sorento vehicles. The motor driven power steering (MDPS) wiring harness may be incorrectly assembled, which can result in a loss of power steering assist.
- Consequence: A loss of power steering assist increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair, or replace the MDPS wiring harness as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 7, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC309.
- Model: Kia Sorento 2011
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-21
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2011 Sorento vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
- Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will install Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 9, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC291.
- Model: Kia Sorento 2011
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Sorento 2012
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
- Model: Kia Sorento 2013
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Latest negative Kia Sorento car reviews
Latest positive Kia Sorento car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2024
Your car is great, but it doesn't have wireless Android Auto.
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Vehicle year: 2011
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to let you know that I bought the SUV 8 years ago and it has been amazing. I've only had to replace the tires and do basic maintenance during the entire time I've owned the car. It's truly a great car for the money!
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Vehicle year: 2008
I live in Cleveland, Ohio and I was looking for a 4x4 vehicle. The Sorento has been a dream in the snow. I've never felt so safe driving it, even at 55 mph on a snow-covered highway. The 3.3L engine is amazing, with a great rumbling sound when you turn the ignition. When idling, the car is so quiet you might think it's off. And when you floor it, you'll be blowing by other drivers who get startled (LOL). The price, warranty, and quality are unbeatable. Although I did experience the passenger airbag sensor light issue once, overall, the vehicle is a joy to drive.
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Vehicle year: 2019
Travelling has never been easier! This vehicle offers a smooth and safe ride, with comfortable seats and a V6 engine that shifts seamlessly. The Harmon Kardon surround sound stereo is top-notch, even better than most home systems. While the third row may be a bit tight, it's still a great option in a pinch. The huge sunroof keeps the interior light and airy, and the smart cruise and lane assist features are incredibly helpful. With plenty of space for all your belongings, this SUV is a great choice. I compared it to other SUVs in the same category, and the V6 engine is by far the smoothest and quietest of the group. Don't just take my word for it - take it for a test run and compare for yourself. I'm confident you'll agree with me!
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Vehicle year: 2014
Hi there! I really like my Sorento (LX FWD), but I have one small issue with it. The eco tires that come with it are not great in the snow, which can be a problem in the snowbelt. I would recommend getting AWD if you live in an area with a lot of snow. However, I solved the problem by putting on some winter tires, and now everything is great again! The Sorento has a lot of room and cargo space, which is really handy for camping or moving. I'm getting around 25mpg, which I'm really happy with given the size of the vehicle. The ride is smooth and comfortable, and the interior materials are high-quality and soft to the touch. The IP and center stack are very legible and easy to use, and the heated seats work really well. Overall, I would definitely recommend this SUV as a solid choice for anyone looking for a soft roader with lots of cargo space. Just keep in mind that the eco tires might not be great in the snow. Update: I've put 40K miles on it, and while the MPGs have dropped a bit, everything else seems to be holding up really well. There are no new squeaks or creaks to report, and the interior materials still look like new. The backup parking sensors have been a bit finicky over the past 2 years, but that's a minor issue. I had a rear control or sway arm replaced under warranty, but other than that, there haven't been any issues or failures. I just replaced the front brakes at 41k miles, but the rears still have some life left in them. Update: I've put 55K miles on it now, and I did have a transmission issue where the doors didn't unlock when I put it into Park sometimes. On a road trip, the gear indicator on the dash disappeared. However, the dealer replaced the shift interlock under warranty, and everything has been fine since then. I also had both rear brake calipers seize up within 6 months of each other, but those were replaced under warranty along with the rotors and pads.That's unusual to happen at 55,000 miles. Thanks for the update at 67k miles. It's concerning to hear about the 2.4l engine failures and class action lawsuits that have come forth. My wife's 2013 Optima with that drivetrain, which is the same as in this Sorento, unfortunately died while she was driving on the expressway in rush hour traffic 2 months ago at around 72k miles. It was definitely not safe. Hopefully, we won't suffer the same fate.
Are you having problems with your Kia Sorento?
Adonis Cremin 2025-08-14
Vehicle year: 2015
With only 130,000 miles on the clock, the engine unexpectedly exploded and caught fire while driving on the Interstate. Despite the engine shutting down completely, I was able to safely move off the road. I am currently awaiting a prognosis.
Chad Gaylord 2025-08-12
Vehicle year: 2009
Initially, the SUV was functioning well, but later we encountered issues with the transmission. Despite taking it to Kia multiple times, they were unable to identify any problems. However, other places' machines detected a transmission issue. After several attempts, Kia finally claimed to have fixed the problem, but unfortunately, the issue persists. Currently, Kia is unable to identify any problems with the vehicle.
Ford Schumm 2025-08-11
Vehicle year: 2011
Performs well, although the ride can be a little bumpy. The springs in the driver's seat popped in the second year, but overall it's still the best value among the cars we looked at. We may have saved around 5K and it handles just as well as the others. The interior is nice, but the fabric on the seats stains pretty easily unless you upgrade. It's been a very reliable car, especially after taking care of the recall items. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
Justice Bergnaum 2025-08-08
Vehicle year: 2011
Our Kia Sorento (EX V6) required a transmission replacement at 15,000 miles (not the recalled version), and the electrical panels were replaced at 25k miles. Although there was a mysterious popping noise in the axel, it was unfortunately left un-repaired as the issue could not be identified. Additionally, an interior component broke prior to 36k, which was supposed to be covered under warranty. However, the local dealer network refused to repair it, claiming it was not a factory defect but rather 'broken'. While we did not cause the damage, customers have limited recourse if the dealer network performs the evaluation and further damages the part. Overall, it is important to note that Kia corporate and the Kia dealers may appear unreliable and unresponsive to multiple mechanical flaws.
Durward O'Conner 2025-08-06
Vehicle year: 2021
I purchased this vehicle when it had only 2400 miles on it. Unfortunately, after driving it for only 400 miles, the engine light came on and the car started sputtering. I took it to the dealership, but the code on the app could not be found. The mechanic suggested that it might be due to forcing gas during pumping, rounding to the nearest dollar, as this issue occurred shortly after getting gas. At 3800 miles, while passing a car in sport mode, the vehicle redlined during passing. Thankfully, it came down when I stepped on the brake. However, two days later, the car wouldn't go into gear even though it started. I had to tow it to Kia, where they informed me that the transmission needed to be replaced with a new one. I noticed that there were two other reviews with similar issues for this line of Kia vehicles. I'm wondering if this is a common issue with this line, and if more people have experienced it but haven't posted about it. Additionally, I'm concerned that the dealer might have known about the transmission issue and sold the car anyway.