2018 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 2018 Kia Sorento problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Kia Sorento 2018, several common problems have been reported:
- Squeaking Noises from Suspension:
Some Sorento models have experienced squeaking noises from the suspension, typically around 5,000 miles. Excessive noise is usually a sign of bushing issues on the shocks or struts. If this occurs on newer cars, the parts are usually replaced under warranty. If out of warranty, the repair can cost around $200.
- Low Airflow from A/C System:
Another common problem reported is low airflow from the A/C system at approximately 30,000 miles. Owners have identified loose refrigerant pipes on some models as the cause. Replacing these pipes can cost around $400, depending on local labor rates.
- Recalls:
The 2018 Kia Sorento has three recalls, including issues with the tow hitch harness, steering column, and airbag inflator. The most serious recall involves the tow hitch harness, which may short circuit and potentially cause a fire. Kia offers free replacements for affected models. Other recalls address the steering column and airbag inflator, which Kia will also fix.
These problems are in line with common issues found in SUVs of similar age, with relatively lower repair costs as the vehicle ages. It's essential for Kia Sorento 2018 owners to address these issues promptly to ensure the longevity and safety of their vehicles.
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.
How many miles will a 2018 Kia Sorento last?
According to CoPilotSearch.com, Kia vehicles are expected to last 200,000 miles. However, no vehicle will stand the test of time without proper routine maintenance.
Is there a recall on 2018 Kia Sorento?
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
Is a 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.
2018 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 problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Kia Sorento vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2018 Kia Sorento
The NHTSA has received 175 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Kia Sorento. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-08
- VIN: 5XYPHDA55JG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: file:///var/mobile/Library/SMS/Attachments/00/00/8030235A-F1B0-40D7-BDF6-CAB347299F91/MC-10235412-0001.pdf Recall on lights should be added. Mine did this. Had it fixed
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 5XYPHDA56JG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: All exterior lights and interior lights are turned off while driving. Exterior “running” lights turn on by themself.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-15
- VIN: 5XYPGDA39JG
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Vehicle engine set off a failure code P1326 and went into a full limp mode. This code is related to the knock sensor picking up the crankshaft pounding against the bearings. It is a known issue with the original engine small oil ports. Brought my vehicle to a Kia dealership and their diagnostic procedure was to replace the sensor and reflash the ECM. My problem is, ever since they did that, the knock sensor has not gone off and no codes are being generated. Engine is knocking worse than before. I believe they reset the parameters to a level that basically is making the knock sensor useless. They are buying time and mileage in hopes the engine out lasts the warranty. It is a manipulation of factory settings and fraud causing the consumer future issues.
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- VIN: 5XYPHDA58JG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving my 2018 Kia Sorento up a hill going about 40 mph. It suddenly lost power and I had to pull over. No lights showed up on the dash warning me anything was wrong. I was draining oil like crazy and it was all over the engine. I had it towed to a mechanic and then the dealership. A bolt from inside the engine blew and tore a hold in the valve and head gasket. That’s all I know now. I had purchased my vehicle pre owned certified, and Kia is not honoring the warranty even with extended warranties. This happened at 87,000 miles. I have seen other reports of Kia Sorentos having issues with their engines. Please help.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-10
- VIN: 5XYPH4A54JG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Car won't start system doesn't recognize key. And when I use the other key ams drive the car doesn't recognize the key and keeps showing No key I'm vehicle
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
- VIN: 5XYPGDA36JG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine was consuming large amounts of oil, attempted to conduct oil consumtion test per Kia request was unable to complete due to volume of oil consumption . Engine locked up after kia telling me they couldnt help me since the oil consumtion test couldnt be completed.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-29
- VIN: 5XYPG4A3XJG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Trunk latch stopped working.
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- VIN: 5XYPGDA33JG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: My 2018 Kia Sorento sticks and when pushing the gas and the RPM jumps up. The car also stalls out and then turns right back on. It shakes and makes a funny noise as well.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- VIN: 5XYPGDA35JG
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have a 2018 Kia Sorento that I absolutely love. As of late, I have noticed that 1,000 to 1,200 miles after my oil changes- I am getting my engine oil light on, on the dash. Upon checking, again after only 1,200 miles after an oil change- my engine oil was completely gone. The dipstick was almost bone dry. I took my vehicle in to have an oil leak test, because I instantly thought I had a leak due to that being an excessive amount of oil missing. However, there is no leak. It passed the leak test, and there is also no oil in my driveway. Upon talking to the Kia dealership this is apparently a very known, and prominent issue with this vehicle. I am "out of warranty" with Kia- so I am unable to file a claim with them to have this repaired. This is unacceptable for them to know that this is an ongoing issue, and they are not standing behind their products. I have thankfully purchased an extended warranty with an outside agency, that I am filing a claim for. However they will only cover the issue at Kia if the "engine oil consumption test identifies the failure" From what the service man said to me, from Kia- the two "failures" that they have, are either needing to have a combustion chamber cleaning done, or an entire new engine dropped in. Both of which leave me without a vehicle for WEEKS. As a mother with young children, and also a mother that works and has a one vehicle home- this leaves me needing to rent a car for however long that may take. Looking into this further I have seen that Kia Sorentos with the GDI motor (like mine) from NEWER years, have a recall on their engines for a very similar case and very similar situations with them burning excessive oil in their vehicles. I strongly think that the lower year makes and models need to be investigated, as well. I absolutely think that my vehicle needs to be included in this recall as I have gotten and maintained every single oil change, and service needed to my vehicle since I have purchased it in 2020.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-29
- VIN: 5XYPGDA53JG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine had catastrophic failure without warning. No warning lights or performance issues. 110K miles on it. Well taken care of and taken in for oil changes at regular intervals 6K-8K.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- VIN: 5XYPG4A33JG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TRUNK OPEN SIGNAL NOT TURNING OFF AND TRUNK WON’T CLOSE. DEALER SAID ITS THE TRUNK LATCH THAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
- VIN: 5XYPG4A35JG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Oil leak was diagnosed as bad oil pressure switch that is under extended warranty for certain Kia Sorento models with GDI system, but not my car.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-08
- VIN: 5XYPHDA58JG
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: To Whom It May Concern, I hope this message reaches someone who values the sanctity of human life. Today, while driving home, my husband experienced a terrifying incident: the brakes on our car completely failed. Thanks to my husband’s quick thinking and driving skills, he narrowly avoided a potentially catastrophic accident. We immediately took the car to a local mechanic, who informed us that the issue was due to a BRAKE BOOSTER failure. This was the first time we had ever heard of such a part, and the mechanic explained that it was highly unusual for this component to fail, indicating that it may be defective. Although this car is a 2018, it only has 50K miles on it. My husband is retired, and I work from home, so this is very unusual. Upon further research, I discovered that the Kia Sportage had a recall for this very issue. Additionally, I found numerous complaints dating back to 2005 concerning the sudden loss of brakes in Kia Sorentos, specifically due to defective brake boosters. It is deeply concerning that this issue was not addressed with a recall for Sorentos as well. This defect poses a serious risk to drivers, and I fear it’s only a matter of time before someone loses their life because of it. We contacted Kia’s Customer Service to report the issue and expressed our concern that lives are at stake due to this defect. However, instead of addressing our concerns, we were told the part wasn’t covered under warranty, and two customer service agents even hung up on us when we persisted. This is a grave and dangerous defect that demands immediate attention. Numerous complaints about this issue exist, and it’s clear that the brake booster in Kia Sorentos needs to be recalled before it causes a tragedy. Please take this matter seriously and help ensure that this issue is addressed to prevent any further risks to drivers. Thank you, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- VIN: 5XYPG4A52JG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The engine seized as we were driving onto the freeway. Everything just stopped. The car had to be pushed to the side of the road. It failed to restart. When we checked the dipstick, it was completely dry and starting to burn on the bottom. There was no visible signs of an oil leak. There were no lights or other notifications that the car was out of oil. We were lucky the car wasn't hit and someone seriously injured or killed. The car had to be towed to our home. Kia Corporate Office was closed. The Kia dealership said I could have it towed at my expense and have it looked at when they had time the following week. It was just under 100K miles A different Kia dealership offered to give me $5000 towards a trade-in on a new car. That was half the trade-in value, but I couldn't be without a car. When I inquired three weeks later about what the service department found out was wrong with the car, I was told they hadn't even looked at it and would probably just use it for spare parts.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-27
- VIN: 5XYPG4A33JG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine is burning oil. Engine only has 116,000 miles on all maintenance has been kept up to date - has never missed an oil change, only ever used full-synthetic. Should not be consuming this amount of oil. Also dash board lights pertaining to engine or oil never come on.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-24
- VIN: 5XYPHDA52JG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On multiple occasions our headlights will turn on by themselves without the car being on: for example while we are sleeping in the middle of the night we get a call from our neighbor that our car lights are on. Also while driving at night they will turn off by themselves. On all occasions the light are in AUTO mode, meaning the lights should turn on/off themselves when necessary but only when the key is in the car and the car is on
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-19
- VIN: 5XYPG4A39JG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Car is burning 3/4 a quart of every 1,000 miles
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-12
- VIN: 5XYPHDA18JG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 79 MPH, the oil warning light illuminated, and he observed a burning oil odor emanating from the engine compartment. The vehicle was pulled to the side of the road and inspected. The contact observed condensation under the front of the vehicle and no oil on the dipstick. Additionally, another vehicle pulled to the side of the road and reported that condensation from the vehicle sprayed onto the windshield and hood of their vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the turbo feed line assembly needed to be replaced due to corrosion and a hole. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
- VIN: 5XYPG4A50J
- Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while approaching a stop, the brake pedal was depressed, and the driver noticed that the check Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System and Check Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer on three occasions, where it was diagnosed that the sensors needed to be replaced and the system cleared. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for the A/C recharge and the contact was informed about unknown codes that were retrieved. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.
TRAILER HITCHES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-09
- Components: TRAILER HITCHES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the front headlights and rear taillights stopped working without warning. The contact also stated that the instrumental panel became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed. The contact was informed by the technician that the failure was likely a short circuit since the headlight bulbs had burned out. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V703000 (Trailer Hitches) and related the recall to the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not provided.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-02
- VIN: 5XYPG4A3XJG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: On May 1, 2024, I noticed my 2018 Kia Sorento making a knocking sound and smoking heavily from the back exhaust. I turned it off, thinking it might be overheating, and planned to check it the next day. On May 2, 2024, while taking my daughter to school, the vehicle was knocking but no indicator lights were displayed, the main display screen suddenly showed an engine control system issue, and the car spoke and said to take the vehicle to the closest service center I immediately headed to the Kia service center. About 2-3 miles into the drive, the car shut down completely on the interstate. I managed to coast to a stop on the access road but was still partially on the road, so I called for a tow. The police later helped me move the car further off the road because I was a hazard for Morning rush hour traffic. After waiting for three hours, the tow truck took me to the Kia dealership, where the mechanic found that the engine had seized. Kia refused to repair the damage, citing that I hadn't done a KSDS recall. The repairs are estimated to cost over $7000 needing long block replacement from hole in block (KSDS requirements not met). I was not aware of any issues with my car, as I had not been informed about a KSDS recall or any suggestions regarding it. I feel this situation put me in danger, first with the potential fire hazard and then being stranded on the highway and nearly struck in multiple occasions. . I currently have no working vehicle, and Kia is not taking responsibility for these engine issues but my make and model has no listed recall. I am not considered a part of the KSDS recall therefore I also get no claims to the millions awarded to others due to this recall.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-02
- VIN: 5XYPGDA31JG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: My vehicle is consuming a lot of oil. At my previous oil change I mentioned this to the dealer as I had to put in 5 quarts of oil. The oil canister light came on which I believed was just warning me to my upcoming oil change but my dipstick indicated otherwise when I checked. The light would only come on when I made turns in the road. It did not stay on consistently. As I was driving my engine sounded bad and I was worried something more was wrong which is why I checked the oil. When I brought it in for the oil change, the service advisor said they would check for leaks which was not located. I asked them to set my oil change for 3k miles instead of the 5k miles they have been setting it as I was worried about engine damage. The oil canister light came on recently once again (still only when I take turns on the road) with still 1100 miles left in the current oil change and when I checked there was no oil in the engine reflected on the dipstick. I gradually added oil and had to add 5 quarts of oil once again. I set up an appointment for further investigation but I fear that by the time they run their tests my vehicle will surpass any warranty. I’m currently at 77700 miles. This much oil consumption is not normal and I shouldn’t have to keep a constant stock of oil available to fill up every 2k miles. I understand a little bit of oil but having to add 5 quarts of oil at a given time is way too much.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-24
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5XYPG4A38JG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle lost all power while depressing the accelerator pedal without warning. The contact also stated that white smoke began to emit from underneath the hood of the vehicle. Upon inspection of the vehicle, the contact saw flames coming from underneath the vehicle as oil began to leak from the vehicle. The flames eventually dissipated and authorities were not called to the scene. Due to the failure, the vehicle was towed initially to the contact's home and later to the dealer. Once in the dealer's possession, the contact was informed that there was a hole in the engine block which had led to engine failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but had yet to offer any assistance. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer and had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-02
- VIN: 5XYPG4A54JG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle seems to be stalling when you stop and then try to pull out. It takes minutes to accelerate after stopping.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- VIN: 5XYPG4A31JG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle started knocking. We took it to Kia and they share saying we needed an upgrade part that is on a safety”notice” and not a recall. It’s to prevent engine failure. They refuse to put in the part because they said the engine is already failing. They said we need to pay 6k. The best part is that we took the vehicle in last year (2023) for the hitch and the anti theft upgrade and KIA didn’t tell us about this feel part. Why wouldn’t we get the free upgrade on the engine???? They are not telling consumers and it doesn’t come up when you search by VIN.
2018 Kia Sorento recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2018 Kia Sorento.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
- Consequence: If the steering column separates, it can cause a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cowl crossbar, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC167.
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.
- Consequence: If the component detaches during deployment, it may enter the passenger compartment and be a projectile within the vehicle cabin, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall began on December 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC159.
Negative 2018 Kia Sorento car reviews
Positive 2018 Kia Sorento car reviews
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The Sorento is an outstanding SUV, especially for the price. I'm so glad I chose it! The infotainment system is the best we've seen, and it's so easy to use with Apple Carplay/Android Auto. The interior is luxurious and the ride is quiet. The adaptive cruise control and safety technology are great features. It's also easy to maneuver in urban parking lots due to its small footprint. While the steering and handling may not be sporty, it's still a great car. The third row access could be better, and the fuel economy is poor, especially compared to the wagon I had before. It's a handsome car, but not the most exciting to look at. Although Kia doesn't have the same reputation as a luxury brand, the Sorento is close enough in quality that it wasn't worth an extra 20k for a different brand. We test drove an Audi Q7, Volvo XC90, and Mazda CX-9, but ultimately decided on the Sorento. The Volvo is a beautiful car, but the Kia drives better and has a better infotainment system and controls. The Mazda is sexier than the Kia, but it has some reliability issues and weaker technology, and no Apple Carplay. Now that I have Apple Carplay, I will never own a car without it again! My wife also disliked the heads up display in the Mazda. In terms of fuel economy, we live in a hilly urban area where we get 9 mpg city, but on the highway, if I set cruise control to 70 mph, I get 26-28 mpg.
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In January 2018, I compared the average consumer ratings on Edmunds for midsize SUVs with at least 20 ratings in the 2017 model year. The Sorento, Santa Fe, and CX-9 topped the list at 4.6, while several other popular models fell in a narrow 4.1-4.3 range. Although there is often little relationship between consumer ratings and expert reviews of the same vehicle, it's safe to say that the current Sorento has been well received by the owners who submitted reviews to Edmunds. And this satisfaction mirrors my own. I love my 2018 Sorento for its high-quality interior, quiet ride, excellent safety technology, superior warranty, peppy V6 on regular gas, Android Auto, and thoughtful touches throughout (e.g., AC outlet). While some competitors may be roomier, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this vehicle. By the way, I did replace the front and rear Kia badges with the more stylish “K” logo displayed on Kias sold in Korea. UPDATE 9/12/20 -- Although I still love my 2018 Sorento, I want to make you aware that Kia seems to have a problem with the 2019 model. Currently, Edmunds consumer ratings of the Sorento have dropped from 4.5 in both '17 and '18 to 3.9 for the 2019 model year. However, ratings of the 2020 model seem to be rebounding. UPDATE 10/5/20 -- If you're curious about how the Edmunds consumer ratings of popular 2018 midsize SUVs have fared after a couple of years on the road, I can tell you that the average ratings of Traverse, Acadia, Enclave, Explorer, Pilot, XT5, and Grand Cherokee are unimpressive at 3.3-3.8, while Forrester, Outlander, Durango, Murano, Sorento, and Santa Fe score well at 4.4-4.5. CX-9 leads the league with 4.6. All vehicles have at least 24 ratings.Variations in sample size and other factors require caution when interpreting small differences.
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Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with your 2018 Kia Sorento with us. It sounds like you've had to replace a few things like the brakes, tires, and windshield sprayer, but it's great to hear that Kia gave you a lifetime warranty on the engine. I'm also glad to hear that you're impressed with the quality of the interior. It's understandable that you're concerned about the engine using oil, but it's good to know that your brother's engine was replaced and given a million mile warranty. Thanks again for sharing your thoughts with us!
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We purchased our Sorento brand new and have enjoyed it, although we have experienced some issues. Unfortunately, we have had a recurring electrical problem since the first year of ownership. We have taken it to the dealer around 10 times, and although they have kept it for a week on some occasions to isolate the problem, it still persists. The error message does not appear as frequently, but it still occurs. Currently, we are experiencing some A/C problems and have taken it to the dealer for the third time. They suspect a freon leak but have been unable to locate it. During the last visit, they added a dye to the freon. The car is currently at the dealership. While it is disappointing to have experienced so many issues with a brand new car, we still have a fondness for it. It was exactly what we wanted when we purchased it. If the issues cannot be resolved, we may have to consider other options.
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You'll love the infotainment panel - it's really good! Plus, the warranty is excellent. Did you know that you can display Google Maps from your phone on the screen? It's so convenient!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2018 Kia Sorento problems:
2018 Kia Sorento Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jan 3, 2023 ... Very reliable vehicle with no major engine problems. However, 3rd row seat does not get much ventilation from ac. Design of 2nd row seat could ...
2018 Kia Sorento Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2018 Kia Sorento? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
2018 Sorento Engine Seized | Kia Forum
Sep 16, 2022 ... Hello everyone, I have a 2018 Kia Sorento. The last oil change done was June 29th, 2022 by a local oil change place that always does mine.
Common Q&A: Kia Sorento 2018 Engine Problems
Jun 18, 2021 ... Hello, I'll be happy to help you out with this, and sorry you're having this problem. It sounds like the SUV is in limp mode where it won't go ...
Compiling common problems... | Kia Forum
Aug 8, 2022 ... Otherwise, trouble free but also only 35,000 miles. 2018 Sorento FWD LX 3.3L V6. Located Tucson, AZ.
Other years of Kia Sorento
Are you having problems with your 2018 Kia Sorento?
Rod Romaguera 2024-11-06
I purchased an 18 Sorento SX V6 AWD from a Kia dealer in April 20 with 11,000 miles. The dealer and Kia's website both stated that it had a towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. Due to COVID, I was not able to test the towing capacity until August 2021 when I towed a 21ft pontoon weighing 2300 lbs back to my cottage, which is 2.5 hours away. Unfortunately, I struggled the entire way and had to use the manual selector to keep the car in 4th gear up small inclines at around 4000rpm and 5th gear on level highways. If I tried to put it in 6th gear, the car would slow down to 50mpg/80kms. I was disappointed as I could never see my V6 Sorento pulling 5000 lbs. My mechanic even warned me that if I had gone another 2-3 hours, it might have taken out the engine and/or transmission. I hope Kia tests the towing capacity on a real highway with a real load in the future.
Dan Lynch 2024-09-22
The car exhibited poor shifting between 35 and 45 mph, and slipped out of gear while in park in the driveway. Additionally, a high speed steering alert was triggered at 55 mph. The doors shut with a loud thump that shook the car. Based on these issues, I would not purchase this car again.
Ernesto Fisher 2024-06-29
Hi there! We've had to bring our Kia Sorento in for a few different issues now. We never seem to have any problems with our other car though. Do you have any suggestions on how we can prevent these issues in the future?
Arnold Schamberger 2024-04-25
It seems like you had some issues with your Teck, particularly with the transmission gears. I hope your experience with your Nissan is better!