2003 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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Common 2003 Kia Sorento problems
Based on the information gathered from the sources provided, here are the common problems reported by owners of the 2003 Kia Sorento:
- Faulty Doors: Owners have complained that the doors of the 2003 Sorento may not open when accessed from the outside. Additionally, those using the child-lock feature have faced frustrations due to faulty door handles.
- Headlight Bulbs Burning Out: Many consumers reported premature burning out of headlight bulbs in the 2003 Sorento, particularly in models from 2002 to 2009. Some accounts mentioned that components of the headlights were also melted, requiring replacement bulbs at a cost of $100 to $600.
- Vibrations/Noises from A/C Compressor: The A/C compressor in the 2003 Sorento, especially in models from 2002 to 2009, has been prone to failure, leading to vibrations and noises. This issue can impact the overall driving experience and comfort of the vehicle .
These problems highlight some of the key issues faced by owners of the 2003 Kia Sorento. Addressing these issues promptly and ensuring proper maintenance can help mitigate potential costly repairs and ensure a smoother driving experience.
How many miles can a 2003 Kia Sorento last?
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.
What is the biggest 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.
Are there any recalls on the 2003 Kia Sorento?
2003 Kia Sorento Recalls
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE A FUEL LEAK FROM FUEL TUBES NEAR THE FUEL TANK DUE TO AN INTERFERENCE FIT WITH THE VEHICLE FLOOR PANEL.
Is the Kia Sorento a reliable car?
Quality and Reliability 81.0/100
The 2024 Kia Sorento has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100.
2003 Kia Sorento car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Sorento problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Engine problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Kia Sorento vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Kia Sorento
The NHTSA has received 307 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Kia Sorento. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Kia Sorento vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-15
- VIN: KNDJC733X35
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. THE VEHICLE STALLED AND LOST MOTIVE POWER WHILE DRIVING THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED FOR HIS SAFETY WHEN THE VEHICLE STALL THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT IT WAS RELATED TO THE FUEL SYSTEM WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE SPUTTERED AND STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO SEVERAL INDEPENDENT MECHANICS WHERE THE FUEL PUMP WAS REPLACED, A TUNE UP WAS PERFORMED, THE CAMSHAFT SENSOR, AND TIMING BELT WAS ALSO REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT STATED WAS CONCERNED THAT THE FUEL SYSTEM WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. LAKESHORE KIA, 330 E HOWZE BEACH RD #2, SLIDELL, LA 70461, (888) 220-8645, WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED NOR INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-29
- Crash: 1
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE CAME FROM OUT OF THE VENTS. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER ON THE SHOULDER AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE SPARKS COMING FROM THE ENGINE AND THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND TOWED AWAY. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000. TH VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-05-10
- VIN: KNDJD733535
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORRENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT A 'SNOW' WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS WELL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 202,699.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-11
- VIN: 5XYKTCA63EG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RPMS WOULD NOT GO OVER 4,000 AND SMOKE APPEARED FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SPEED WOULD NOT EXCEED 40 MPH AND THE ENGINE WAS DRAINING THE OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PEAK KIA (5077 S WADSWORTH BLVD, LITTLETON, CO 80123, (303) 904-7800) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED AN OIL CHANGE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO CALL THE DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 56,300. *DT
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-02
- VIN: KNDJC733335
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN PUMPING GAS THERE IS A SUDDEN SPEWING OF GASOLINE OUT OF THE TANK AND ALL OVER ME. I MANAGED SEVERAL TIMES TO GET A FEW GALLONS IN BY PUMPING SLOWLY BUT THE NEXT DAY THE GAS GAGE READS EMPTY AND HAS ACTUALLY RUN OUT OF GAS SEVERAL TIMES! SO NOT ONLY AM I HAVING A PROBLEM PUTTING GAS IN, IT IS IMMEDIATELY DRAINING OR LEAKING OUT!
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-01
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: KNDJD733635
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER PURCHASING CAR FROM PRIVATE SELLER I DISCOVERED THAT WHEN TRYING TO PUMP GAS, MY FUEL SPRAYS BACK OUT ALL OVER MYSELF, MY VEHICLE, AND THE GROUND. HAVE EVEN HAD IT SPRAY INTO MY EYES. DID RESEARCH AND SAW THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON OCCURRENCE FOR THIS YEAR/MAKE/MODEL. I BELIEVE ITS A FIRE AND SAFETY HAZARD AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN RECALLED YEARS AGO!
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-08
- VIN: KNDJC733535
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. MY CAR WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION DUE TO A PROBLEM WITH ONE OF THE AIRBAGS. THE CAR HASN'T BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT BUT THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON AND I'M TOLD IT WILL NOT INFLATE. I WAS TOLD TO CHECK FOR RECALLS.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-11-08
- VIN: KNDJD733935
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY BOLT KEEPS COMING LOSE AND THIS CAUSES THE STEERING WHEEL TO BECOME STIFF. THIS HAPPENED IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC AND HAD TO GET IT TOWED TO A FRIENDS HOUSE. CURRENTLY THE CAR IS NOT DRIVEABLE FOR OVER TWO WEEKS.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-01
- VIN: KNDJC336350
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: MY 2003 KIA SORENTO DRIVES FOR 15 MINUTES AND STALLS OUT. I WAIT 5 MIN AND IT'LL START AND DRIVE FOR A BLOCK OR 2AND CONTINUES TO THAT UNTIL I GET IT TOWED HOME
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-23
- VIN: KNDJD733035
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER AND CRANKSHAFT BOLT FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-14
- VIN: KNDJC733035
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: ENGINE CRANK SHAFT HAS BROKEN FOUR TIME , AIR COMPRESSER TWO TIME
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-05
- VIN: KNDJC733835
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: RUST AND CORROSION REAR AXLE BRACKET AND TRAILING ARM MOUNT. REAR AXLE BRACKET BROKE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS.
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-19
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE 2003 KIA SORENTO HAS A PROBLEM WITH EXTENSIVE FRAME RUSTING, TO THE POINT WHERE SOME OWNERS HAVE HAD THE SUSPENSION DETACH FROM THE FRAME. ONE OWNER IN PARTICULAR HAS HAD ISSUES WITH THE GAS TANK NEEDING TO BE REPLACED, AND KIA MOTORS REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE PROBLEM. THEY BUILT THE CAR, SOLD IT TO PEOPLE, AND WHEN CONSUMERS HAVE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THEIR VEHICLE, THEY (KIA) SAYS THAT THEY'RE NOT RESPONSIBLE. YOU NEED TO EXAMINE THIS, BECAUSE PEOPLE COULD GET KILLED BY OPERATING AN UNSAFE VEHICLE. DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS NOW, BEFORE IT BECOMES THE NEXT PINTO. MAKE KIA FIX THE [XXX] VEHICLES NOW!!! PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-28
- VIN: KNDJC733935
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE BROKE DOWN IN TRAFFIC. FROZE UP,STALLED. LOSS OF STEERING. HAD IT TOWED TO SHOP & WAS TOLD THE CRANK SHAFT SENSOR & RELATED PARTS TO THE CRANK SHAFT HAD TO BE REPLACED. COST FOR TOWING & REPAIRS WERE OVER $700.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-01
- VIN: KNDJC733335
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE FUELING UP THE SORENTO, THE FUEL SPIT OUT EVERY TIME EVEN WHILE FUELING AT SLOW SPEEDS. VERY FRUSTRATING , AND DANGEROUS, ESPECIALLY WHEN THE FUEL GETS ON MY SKIN & CLOTHES, THE VEHICLE, AND AT TIMES LEAVES A HUGE PUDDLE ON THE GROUND WHICH COULD BE A FIRE HAZARD. THE DEALERSHIP WAS CONTACTED AND WILL NOT HELP ME EVEN THOUGH THERE WAS A RECALL ISSUED FOR THE FUEL FILTER, WHICH I MENTIONED.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-01
- VIN: KNDJC733335
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN I PUMP GAS INTO MY CAR, THE FUEL SPITS BACK OUT AT ME. I HAVE TO PUMP REAL SLOW FOR THIS NOT TO HAPPEN. THIS IS DANGEROUS, GAS GETS ON MY HANDS AND CAR,I HAVE TO CARRY SOAP AND WATER TO WASH THIS OFF OF MY CAR. I CALLED ABOUT THIS AND WAS TOLD BECAUSE MY CAR VIN # WAS NOT ON THE THEIR LIST THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO FOR ME
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-15
- VIN: KNDJD733X35
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. IN ADDITION, WHEN THE CONTACT INSERTED FUEL IN THE VEHICLE, FUEL SPEWED OUT THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,000.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-03
- VIN: KNDJC733735
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL...REAR SUSPENSION ALWAYS ROTS OUT. THE SUB FRAME IS BAD.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-30
- VIN: KNDJC733035
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE UNDER MOTION ON HIGHWAY AT 65+ MPH, LOST POWER STEERING DUE TO CRANK SHAFT BOLT AND PULLEY FAILURE, RESULTING IN COMPLETE LOSS OF ACCESSORY FUNCTIONS.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-01
- VIN: KNDJD733345
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHEN REFUELING THE VEHICLE, FUEL EJECTED OUT OF THE REFUELING HOLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 101,300.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-03
- VIN: KNDJC733935
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAGS COIL SPRING HAS BEEN REPLACED 4 TIMES. THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT IS ALWAYS ON AND KIA REFUSES TO FIX THE PROBLEM. I DON'T KNOW IF THE AIR BAGS WILL DEPLOY IN CASE OF A ACCIDENT. THIS IS BEEN A PROBLEM FROM THE DAY I PURCHASE THE CAR. I DON'T KNOW THE MAKER OF THE AIR BAG SISTEM.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-17
- VIN: KNDJC733X35
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE DRIVER DOOR CANNOT BE OPENED FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE. I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH KIA SORENTOS.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-03
- VIN: KNDJD733335
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: EVERY TIME I HAVE TO FILL THE GAS TANK ON MY KIA SORENTO 2003 IT SHOOTS BACK THE GASOLINE LIKE A PROYECTILE. IT TAKES AN ETERNITY TO FILL THE GAS TANK IF YOU DON'T WANT TO HAVE GAS ALL OVER YOU. I HAVE EVEN BEING KICKED OUT OF SOME SERVICE STATIONS BECAUSE SPILING SO MUCH GAS IS A HAZARD. IS THERE ANY SAFETY RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM? I HAVE NOT HEARD A WORD FROM KIA.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-20
- VIN: KNDJC733X35
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING I HEARD A CLUNK AND A THE CAR BEGAN ROLLING SIDE TO SIDE. I LIMPED TO A MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD THAT THE FRAME WHERE THE SUSPENSION AND ALL PARTS CONNECT WAS RUSTED OUT. FRAME REPAIR SAID THIS CAN NOT BE FIXED AS THE FRAME IS RUSTED OUT. WHERE THE STABILIZER AND SUSPENSION CONNECTS. TEH CAR ONLY HAS 149,OOO MILES AND IS IN NORTH CAROLINA. I HAVE READ OTHER REPORTS OF A RUSTED OUT SUPPORT FRAME ON THIS SITE. WILL THE MANUFACTURER REPLACE THIS FRAME.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-24
- VIN: KNDJD733045
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE STATIONARY, THE VEHICLE SPEWED FUEL ONTO THE GROUND WHEN FUEL WAS BEING ADDED. THIS ISSUE RECURRED REGARDLESS OF THE AMOUNT OF FUEL BEING ADDED TO THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000.
2003 Kia Sorento recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2003 Kia Sorento.
- Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE A FUEL LEAK FROM FUEL TUBES NEAR THE FUEL TANK DUE TO AN INTERFERENCE FIT WITH THE VEHICLE FLOOR PANEL.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE A SECTION OF THE FUEL LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 10, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
Negative 2003 Kia Sorento car reviews
Positive 2003 Kia Sorento car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you were pleasantly surprised with the interior room and luxury of your car, even after buying it with 15,000 miles. While the performance could be better, it's still satisfactory for everyday driving. It's great to hear that you get lots of compliments on your car! I can understand why you're excited to buy a 2008 Sorento with its entirely new and exciting styling.
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I bought this car used and have been happy with it. It has the smoothest ride of an SUV I have ever experienced. The backseat is very roomy for a smaller SUV. However, I have noticed that the lights burn out quite frequently, which can be frustrating. I have been pulled over for it before, so it's important to check your lights for proper working order on a daily basis to avoid any issues. Overall, I highly recommend this car for its comfortable ride and spacious interior.
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I installed a higher cranking amp battery and haven't had to replace any lights since. At 99400 miles, the rear U-joint caused vibrations at higher speeds, but it was fully replaced under warranty. In fact, KIA replaced the entire driveshaft and support bushing, along with all related parts, for free. These reports stating bad warranty are incorrect. KIA is a great brand! Another car with the same equipment would cost over $30,000.00, compared to $20,000.00 for a new 09 Sorento. It's a great car, fun to drive with a sure feeling and great pickup. The only drawback is that it's not easy on gas.
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At 6'4
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You made a great choice in buying this car! Although it was poorly maintained when you bought it, you were able to fix it up with some basic maintenance like changing the brakes and tires, some bulbs, oil change, and spark plugs. The car now runs like new and you haven't had any major problems with it. You even managed to fix an A/C leak yourself! It's impressive how you were able to take care of the car and keep it running smoothly.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Kia Sorento problems:
Common Problems With '03 Sorento | Kia Forum
Apr 6, 2006 ... I bought my 2003 Kia Sorento EX late, last summer with about 53,000 miles on it. I noticed a clunking in the drivetrain and took it into the ...
2003 Kia Sorento Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 2003 Kia Sorento? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 Kia Sorento.
2003 Kia Sorento Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2003 Kia Sorento? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2003 Kia Sorento Reliability - Consumer Reports
FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE. Read Recall Details. Summary:.
2003 Kia Sorento | Read Owner Reviews, Prices, Specs
Very common problem in these Sorento is the crank sensor. I love the space, and comfort it provides. I dislike how much gas I go thru in a very short trip. Also ...
Other years of Kia Sorento
Are you having problems with your 2003 Kia Sorento?
Ethan Weber 2025-09-05
I bought my 2003 Kia Sorento EX 4x4 automatic brand new in 2003. As the original owner, I took great care of it, which is the main reason it lasted 130k miles. Even after 130k miles, all the rubber suspension bushings looked like new condition! I've since sold the Sorento in favor of a Toyota 4Runner because I wanted something more rugged and durable. The 4Runner is a true SUV and fits my needs perfectly. With the proper wet traction tires, the Sorento feels very safe and controlled in the rain. It is spacious inside, with plenty of cargo room. As a used vehicle, the first generation Sorento is a great bargain. Just make sure the timing belt and water pump have been replaced. The engine has considerable low end torque so it appears fast for 190 HP. I highly recommend getting Bilstein shocks, they are the BEST shocks! The BIG Achilles heel for the Sorento is the CRANK SHAFT PULLEY BOLT. There is a recall due to it being weak. If it breaks or timing belt breaks, either can destroy the engine. There is a new, stronger crank shaft bolt replacement. MAKE SURE this has been replaced and if not sure than factor that into your after purchase expense, and replace it right away!If you're considering a Kia Sorento from this era, it's important to talk to Kia service to determine the cost of any necessary replacements. This includes the timing belt, water pump, crankshaft pulley bolt, and drive belts, if they haven't already been replaced recently. Additionally, it's worth discussing the crankshaft pulley bolt recall with Kia. nnUPDATE: Six months after I sold the Sorento, I realized how stiff and harsh the suspension springs were compared to my current 4Runner. While you'll feel every bump and pothole with the first-generation Sorento, the trade-off is precise, controlled steering. The Sorento doesn't wander or weave and tracks straight on the road, even in a torrential downpour. If you prioritize safety and handling over ride comfort, the first-generation Sorento is the perfect choice for you. nnIt's worth noting that the new Bilstein shocks I installed enhanced the precise, accurate steering without compromising ride quality. The very stout and stiff stock Sorento suspension springs are what cause the harsher ride. In contrast, my 4Runner has less precise steering than the Sorento, but the trade-off is a smooth and comfortable ride. Ultimately, it's a trade-off between precise, tight handling and stiff suspension with a harsher ride, or a pillowy soft ride and mushy handling. Some newer vehicles have what is called
Werner Haley 2025-09-02
I have been a mechanic for several years and have personally maintained my cars and those of my family for over 35 years. Although I was initially hesitant about owning an off-make like Kia, we inherited one with 90k miles and decided to give it a try. Unfortunately, this vehicle has had a high cost of ownership compared to any car I have owned. In the first six months alone, I spent more on it than on my '99 Civic over the entire 15 years that I owned it. The list of issues includes problems with the brakes, electronics, alignment, engine gaskets, primary electric, climate control, and interior finishes. I had to replace all brake calipers and resurface/grind rotors, which lasted about 5k miles before they warped again. Despite following recommended wheel torques, I think the rotors are made from flimsy, untempered sheet metal. The braking system causes the vehicle to steer poorly, requiring more effort when slowing to turn into a driveway, parking lot, or intersection. The interior materials are also cheap, with the carpeting in the cargo area splitting and the zippers peeling away from the rest of the materials during routine cleaning/vacuuming. Both key fobs malfunctioned, running down the battery after cycling the door locks overnight. The radio is also not great, with the FM band picking up only 5-10 stations in the area for about a mile before they fade out, while the AM band sounds like a Geiger counter in a fallout zone. The engine is designed such that oil remains against the gaskets in the upper end, which causes them to become brittle and shrink, filling the interior with choking oily fumes over time. The plastic (non-repairable) inlet port on the radiator broke and required replacement. I have had to replace headlight bulbs twice, and the engine coil packs began to blow one after the other over the course of a week, requiring replacement of the entire set, as well as associated components.The air conditioner compressor in my '03 Kia Sorento began to leak, which required specialized repair and sealing materials. Over the past year, the cost of materials alone has come out to about $4 per mile. Additionally, the fuel economy is abysmal, hovering between 15.5 and 17.5 miles per gallon, which is worse than an Escalade, Navigator, or Expedition. Overall, I was not satisfied with the performance, reliability, or value of my Kia Sorento. Although the trade-in value was less than the amount spent on it, I was glad to get rid of it. As a result, I will not be purchasing another Kia in the future.
Barton Morissette 2025-08-17
This car/suv has had some issues during my ownership, including the replacement of the AC/fan/heating unit for $1100 at 30,000 miles, power steering failure at 34,000 miles costing $800, and frequent headlight replacements that can be time-consuming. Additionally, the engine experienced a dropped valve with a bent camshaft at 72,000 miles. It is important to keep an eye on the belts and timing belts as they may need to be replaced more frequently. The car's fuel efficiency could be improved, and it may experience some rattling and poor idling. It is recommended to check the oil every 800 miles as it may need to be topped up. When accelerating, the car may stay in 4th gear at 5,000rpm and 88mph, and in semi-auto mode, upshifting may not be possible with the 5-speed transmission.
Marvin Stark 2025-07-13
Although the experience with the previous KIA vehicle was not satisfactory, we decided to give the brand another chance with a 2003 Kia Spectra. Unfortunately, we have encountered some issues with this one as well.
Elian Gislason 2025-06-07
Hey there! I just wanted to give you a heads up about the warranty on the Kia. It's important to note that the 10-Year 100,000 mile warranty may not cover everything you might expect it to. Sometimes the dealer may need to explain why a certain issue isn't covered. Just keep that in mind when making your decision to purchase this vehicle. Don't let the warranty be the deciding factor, but rather focus on the other great features of the car!