2023 Kia Sorento hybrid 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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Common 2023 Kia Sorento hybrid problems
The 2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid has been praised for its safety features, technology, and performance, but there are some common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most common issues is the lack of a sunglass holder and the fact that the vents do not seem sturdy enough for clip-on accessories. Additionally, the piano black interior finish areas retain fingerprints and scratches very easily, which can be frustrating for owners who prefer a clean and polished interior.
Another issue that some owners have reported is a problem with the hybrid system. The engine may shut off while driving, causing the car to switch to electric mode. This can be a significant issue, as the battery may drain quickly, leaving the driver stranded. In some cases, this issue has been traced back to an auxiliary fuel pump failure, which can be resolved by replacing the pump. However, in other cases, the issue may be more complex, involving corrupt data being sent to the hybrid system, which can cause the engine to shut off unexpectedly.
Some owners have also reported issues with the hybrid battery system. Within a week of purchase, some owners have received multiple error messages related to the battery management system and the hybrid battery. In some cases, this has required a replacement of the hybrid battery, which can be a significant expense. This issue is particularly concerning because the Sorento Hybrid is a new model, and it is unclear whether Kia has fully worked out all of the kinks in the hybrid battery system.
Finally, some owners have reported issues with the transition from a stop to acceleration. There may be a hesitation when transitioning from a stop to acceleration, which can be frustrating for drivers. Additionally, there may be times when the driver wants to slow down to a crawl but not fully stop, and the car may stop on its own instead of creeping. This issue may be related to the software and could potentially be resolved with a software update.
In summary, while the 2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid is a popular and well-regarded vehicle, there are some common problems that owners have reported. These include issues with the lack of a sunglass holder and sturdy vents, problems with the hybrid system and battery, and issues with the transition from a stop to acceleration. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to consider them when making their purchasing decision.
What is the most common 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.
How long does the Kia Sorento hybrid battery last?
between 3 to 5 years
Your 2022 Kia Sorento Hybrid battery will typically last between 3 to 5 years, but that can change heavily depending on weather conditions type of battery, battery size, and driving habits.
Does Kia Sorento have transmission problems?
Transmission Problems
Some drivers reported significant jerking while shifting gears. Depending on what is causing the issue with the transmission, there are some cases where a software update resolves the issue.
Is Kia hybrid a reliable car?
We expect the 2024 Sportage Hybrid will have about average reliability when compared to the average new car. This prediction is based on data from 2023 models.
2023 Kia Sorento hybrid complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2023 Kia Sorento hybrid.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2023 Kia Sorento hybrid recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2023 Kia Sorento hybrid.
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Sorento, Sorento Hybrid, and Sorento Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) vehicles. The mounting clips for the rearview camera may break, which can cause the rearview camera image not to appear properly on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A rearview camera that does not properly display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera housing, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 27, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC280.
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: TRAILER HITCHES
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
- Consequence: A 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 inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Negative 2023 Kia Sorento hybrid car reviews
Positive 2023 Kia Sorento hybrid car reviews
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You've got some really nice features at a great price! I'm so glad to hear that your driving experience has been great.
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I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my experience with the Sorento hybrid. While I found it to be a nice option, I did notice some design flaws that may not work for everyone. For example, the third seat is not very spacious and may only be suitable for small children. Additionally, the rear space is quite minimal. Another issue that I encountered was that the passenger side seat only has manual controls in both the S and EX trim, which seems like an oversight. Overall, I have decided to pass on this vehicle due to these concerns. Thank you for considering my feedback.
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I get 42 mpg on my Sorento Hybrid. People need to learn how to drive without putting the pedal to the metal every time they stop and go.
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The car drove nicely, but it would greatly benefit from a new dash panel similar to the ones found in the Telluride and Sportage. I particularly like the idea of having one panorama panel instead of one that looks like a tablet awkwardly stuck in the middle.
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The third row seats are a bit tight, so sitting in them for a long trip might be tough.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2023 Kia Sorento hybrid problems:
2023 Kia Sorento, Any common problems? : r/KiaSorento
Nov 30, 2022 ... Now they are replacing brake rotors and pads - approved by KIA under warranty. Also a rattle in the right rear. Find the engine a bit noisy.
2023 Kia Sorento Hybrid Ex AWD shifting hard randomly | Kia Forum
Dec 25, 2023 ... It has been random; I saw others have problems on non-hybrid 21-22; however, that is a different transmission. Perhaps software; I have the ...
WARNING: Kia HAS NOT fixed the Sorento DCT issues for the 2023 ...
Aug 11, 2023 ... So let me hyper-optimize this for Google so people who have this problem can find this post more easily: 2023 Kia Sorento Transmission issues ...
2023 Kia Sorento Problems, Issues & Top Complaints | Have a ...
Nov 28, 2023 ... Components and systems they mention include the engine, structure, visibility, forward collision avoidance, and lane departure. There are also a ...
Other years of Kia Sorento hybrid
Are you having problems with your 2023 Kia Sorento hybrid?
Alvah Herzog 2024-11-06
As you may have read in another review, there is a recurring issue with the 'refill inverter fluid'. Additionally, the message 'Check hybrid system. Stop Car' may appear, even though there is nothing wrong with the car. It seems that extreme temperatures, such as the heat here in Florida, can cause some issues. I have also heard that cold weather can cause problems. However, if you live in a temperate climate year-round, you should be fine. Another minor inconvenience is that Android Auto sometimes has trouble connecting to phones when they are on the wireless cell phone charger. It works much better if the phone is placed in the cupholder.
Tevin Muller 2024-10-24
When you come to a stop, the acceleration can be quite uneven.
Hipolito Flatley 2024-07-09
The cargo room may be small, but the real issue is with the AC. It can be quite uncomfortable for passengers in the back, especially those in the second and third rows, even when the AC is at maximum capacity.
Abraham Lind 2024-05-25
"Refill Inverter Coolant" and no one seems to know what to do to fix it. Have talked to a couple dealers about this and they say its ok to drive. It is annoying and I (or anyone that owns one) should have to see on their display when driving. Not so sure I will keep it long or recommend one to anyone who might ask me.
Kim Tremblay 2024-02-16
The gear shifting has been a bit challenging with my vehicle, even though it only has 3k miles on it. At times, it is difficult to engage the gear with the dial. Recently, I encountered an issue where the vehicle would not move forward or backward, and the screen kept prompting me to fasten my seatbelt and check if the back gate was closed. After double-checking everything, I had to restart the vehicle a few times to release the park and move it. Overall, I believe there is room for improvement with this equipment. However, I remain confident in my ability to operate it effectively.