Kia Sorento phev 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 phev model years
Common Kia Sorento phev problems
The Kia Sorento PHEV is a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners:
- Acceleration Delay: Some owners have reported a delay in acceleration when coming out of a stop, which can be disconcerting and potentially dangerous in certain situations. This issue has been documented in non-hybrid Sorentos and fixed with a TSB, but it has not been addressed in the PHEV version.
- Weird Brake Force Application: A few owners have reported a sudden increase in brake force when slowing down at certain speeds, which can be unexpected and potentially dangerous. This issue has been attributed to the balance between regenerative braking and friction braking, but Kia has not yet released any software updates to address it.
- Charging Issues: Some owners have reported slow charging times, even on Level 2 chargers, and issues with USB ports staying on when the car is off but charging. These issues can be inconvenient and may require owners to take extra steps to ensure their vehicles are charged properly.
- Software and App Issues: Owners have reported issues with the Kia app, including scheduling charging failures and problems with the real-charged percentage display. These issues can be frustrating and may require owners to find alternative solutions to manage their vehicle's charging.
- Design Flaws: Some owners have reported design flaws, such as an unusual rotary shift dial that makes it difficult to shift the car to neutral without power, and the lack of a shift lock release feature. These issues can be significant safety concerns and may require owners to take extra precautions when dealing with breakdowns or accidents.
- Customer Service and Warranty Issues: Some owners have reported difficulties in getting their vehicles repaired under warranty, with long wait times for parts and poor communication from dealers and customer service. These issues can be frustrating and may require owners to be proactive in advocating for themselves to get their vehicles fixed.
While these issues are concerning, it's important to note that the Kia Sorento PHEV has also received positive reviews from many owners, who appreciate its versatility, efficiency, and overall value. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider them when making their purchasing decisions.
What is the problem with the Sorento plug-in hybrid?
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid and 2022 Sorento Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. In the event of a crash, the front driver-side and/or passenger-side seat belt pretensioner(s) may explode upon deployment.
What is the biggest problem with Kia Sorento?
Engine problems, electricity problems, airbag problems, seat belt problems, light problems, and body/paint problems are some of the most common ones. Engine problems are the worst thing to happen to these Kia Sorento types. This happens after most customers have driven an average of 62,000 miles.
What is the battery life of the Kia Sorento PHEV?
The Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid is, in some ways, in a class of its own. It's a three-row SUV, which is hardly unique. But this version of the Sorento has a hybrid powertrain with a battery pack that you can charge to give you about 32 miles of all-electric range before the gas engine fires up.
How many miles does the Kia Sorento Plug-in Hybrid last?
32 miles
The Sorento gets an EPA-estimated 70 MPG-equivalent in combined city/highway driving and has an all-electric range of 32 miles. This Kia's battery can be fully charged in just under 3.5 hours with a Level 2 public charger or a 240-volt connection in your home.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Sorento phev years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Sorento phev cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Kia Sorento phev model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Sorento phev model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Sorento phev years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Sorento phev car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Sorento phev , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Trailer hitches problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Sorento phev vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Sorento phev . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Sorento phev vehicles.
List of Kia Sorento phev complaints
Kia Sorento phev 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-11
- VIN: KNDRMDLH1N5
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV. The contact stated the upon starting the vehicle, an abnormally loud revving sound was coming from the engine while the vehicle was idling. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle hesitated upon the depression of the accelerator pedal while traveling at various speeds. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was initially taken to Seelye Kia of Battle Creek (791 W Dickman Rd, Battle Creek, MI 49037) where the contact was informed that the acceleration issue was normal vehicle operation due to the Hybrid feature. The vehicle was then taken to another dealer where the contact was provided the same issue as the dealer. The contact stated that the hesitation had worsened and had become more frequent. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The vehicle was not repaired and remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.
Kia Sorento phev 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2022-11-28
- VIN: KNDRJDLH0N5
- Components: TRAILER HITCHES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V703000 (Trailer Hitches) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Kia Sorento phev 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2022-04-10
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-28
- VIN: KNDRMDLH2N5
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV. The contact stated that upon depression of the accelerator pedal, the vehicle would hesitate without warning. The contact also stated that while attempting to park the vehicle, the gear shifter remained stuck in neutral(N) and the vehicle could not be moved or turned off. The contact called the dealer and had the vehicle towed to the dealer. A diagnostic test was performed; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The manufacturer had also been notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 500.
Latest 5 recalls Kia Sorento phev
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the Kia Sorento phev.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Sorento phev 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-08-31
- 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.
- Model: Kia Sorento phev 2022
- Report Received Date: 2023-01-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2022 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) vehicles. The fuel tank may have been improperly molded, which can result in a fuel leak.
- Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Deales will inspect and replace the fuel tank, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 22, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC261.
- Model: Kia Sorento phev 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-09-19
- 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.
- Model: Kia Sorento phev 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-06-23
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid and 2022 Sorento Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. In the event of a crash, the front driver-side and/or passenger-side seat belt pretensioner(s) may explode upon deployment.
- Consequence: An exploding seat belt pretensioner can project metal fragments into the vehicle, striking vehicle occupants and resulting in injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will secure the seat belt pretensioners with a cap, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC241. This recall expands and replaces NHTSA recall number 22V-127. Vehicles already repaired under the previous recall will need to have the new remedy completed.
- Model: Kia Sorento phev 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-03-04
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2022 Sorento Hybrid and Sorento Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. In the event of a crash, the front driver-side and/or passenger-side seat belt pretensioner(s) may explode upon deployment.
- Consequence: An exploding seat belt pretensioner can project metal fragments into the vehicle, striking vehicle occupants and resulting in injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the seatbelt pretensioner(s), free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 3, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC231. This recall is replaced by NHTSA recall number 22V-447. Vehicles already repaired under this recall will need to have the new remedy completed.
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