Kia Sorento problems

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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.

photo of Kia Sorento car production

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Kia Sorento model years

kia sorento 2024 photo
Sorento 2024
Kia

9

1

13

4.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2023 photo
Sorento 2023
Kia

68

2

17

4.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2022 photo
Sorento 2022
Kia

120

5

27

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2021 photo
Sorento 2021
Kia

0

3

22

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2020 photo
Sorento 2020
Kia

58

1

15

4.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2019 photo
Sorento 2019
Kia

259

2

29

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2018 photo
Sorento 2018
Kia

175

3

15

4.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2017 photo
Sorento 2017
Kia

627

4

23

4.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2016 photo
Sorento 2016
Kia

1047

8

25

4.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2015 photo
Sorento 2015
Kia

665

3

18

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2014 photo
Sorento 2014
Kia

903

6

28

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2013 photo
Sorento 2013
Kia

929

5

29

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2012 photo
Sorento 2012
Kia

839

5

26

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2011 photo
Sorento 2011
Kia

1472

8

22

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2010 photo
Sorento 2010
Kia

3

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2009 photo
Sorento 2009
Kia

53

3

20

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2008 photo
Sorento 2008
Kia

213

3

24

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2007 photo
Sorento 2007
Kia

153

4

21

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2006 photo
Sorento 2006
Kia

242

1

27

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2005 photo
Sorento 2005
Kia

307

0

30

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2004 photo
Sorento 2004
Kia

220

0

22

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia sorento 2003 photo
Sorento 2003
Kia

307

1

23

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.

Kia Sorento

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

  1. Jerrod Mitchell 2024-11-27

    Vehicle year: 2006

    This Kia has had a multitude of issues, including electrical problems, brake and headlight malfunctions, and a check engine light that keeps coming on. Despite having only 67k miles, it has already been in the shop 21 times for repairs, including a new transmission, brakes replaced three times, u-joints, and a persistent vibration on the floorboard. Unfortunately, Kia has not taken responsibility for these issues and has not provided adequate support. As a result, I have retained an attorney to address this dangerous situation. I am confident in my decision to never purchase another Kia vehicle again.

  2. Jacinto Davis 2024-11-27

    Vehicle year: 2021

    I strongly advise against purchasing the new Sorento SX XLine. Despite being able to drive it for a day, on the second day, all the safety equipment, including the Blind Spot, stopped working. The dashboard is lit up with warning lights, including the ABS light. When applying the brakes to stop, they vibrate excessively and produce a loud noise, which is concerning.

  3. Justus Reinger 2024-11-18

    Vehicle year: 2015

    The vehicle boasts good power, however, the short wheelbase may cause some instability on the highway. The steering may require frequent correction. Overall, the vehicle's performance is commendable.

  4. Issac Little 2024-11-16

    Vehicle year: 2004

    If you enjoy off-roading, this is a great vehicle to have fun with. It has been very reliable for me, with 70000 miles and still going strong. I did have one issue where the crank position sensor broke and left me stranded, but KIA was quick to send a tow vehicle and help me out within 30 minutes. The 4wd low is incredibly powerful and I have no problem keeping up with the big boys. I only wish there were more performance parts available.

  5. Emerson Jakubowski 2024-11-14

    Vehicle year: 2006

    This vehicle has been back to the Kia dealership multiple times because it dies overnight in the garage or the driveway. Despite replacing sensors and being told the problem was fixed, it still persists. Have you considered consulting with a lawyer to see if you can use the 'lemon law' to return this vehicle?

Latest positive Kia Sorento car reviews

  1. Lafayette Beahan 2024-11-28

    Vehicle year: 2016

    I recently traded in my 2013 Sorento for the redesigned 2016 EX V-6 and I must say, it's an outstanding vehicle. It's quiet, has plenty of power, and excellent handling. I am definitely keeping this one. I also own a 2011 Kia Optima EX that is fully loaded and I absolutely love it. I traded in my Hyundai XG 350L for it and have put 79,000 miles on it with no problems. I plan to continue buying Kia's. In fact, I have had this vehicle for 10 months now and have driven 14800 miles and I am still completely satisfied. It gets around 26 city/30 highway and I have no complaints. The extra alarms like the back up warning and cars in your blind spots are very nice features. I would definitely buy another Kia.

  2. Spencer Casper 2024-11-25

    Vehicle year: 2005

    Working around some of the most exotic automobiles in the industry, I still get excited every time I climb in my '06 Kia Sorento. With a value package that includes more standard features than any of the competition, quality ratings handed down from Kia's parent company - up and coming Hyundai, an unheard-of 60K mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, industry-leading 100K mile powertrain warranty, unique styling dubbing the Sorento as the 'baby Lexus RX 300', and a price that will turn your head, buyers remorse is a thing of the past. I love the fact that you don't see too many Sorentos on the road. Everyone keeps asking me what it is, or thinks I'm driving an exotic!

  3. Jayde Gislason 2024-11-25

    Vehicle year: 2007

    I am confident in my assessment that the Sorento is a great vehicle. However, it is concerning that the rotors had to be replaced at less than 15000 miles and again at less than 28000 miles, despite my careful braking habits. Additionally, I have noticed some hesitation in speed and acceleration during stop-and-go situations, which can be alarming. While I have been told that this is due to the vehicle's computer adjusting to my driving style, I believe it is important to address these issues to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Despite these concerns, I remain overall satisfied with the Sorento.

  4. Ryley Murazik 2024-11-25

    Vehicle year: 2021

    You've owned this car for about 3 months now and it's been a great experience so far. The interior is absolutely beautiful and the turbo provides plenty of power. It drives like a dream and the captain chairs and wood grain interior were the main reasons for your purchase. Although it doesn't have a homelink rear mirror, seat selector, or display on the windshield, it's still a very stylish car that gets compliments all the time. The 3rd row is a nice feature to have, even though it's more suitable for small kids. Overall, it's been a great purchase and you're very happy with it.

  5. Troy Collier 2024-11-24

    Vehicle year: 2007

    You have a very nice car! It's really fast and powerful, and comfortable for long drives. The ride is smooth and the audio system is great. It may be a little thirsty, but overall it sounds like a fantastic ride!

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