Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
17 RecallsThese are official manufacturer recalls ordered by NHTSA for safety defects. If you own this vehicle, contact your dealer immediately for free repairs.
Kia America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
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.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC249
Recall Date: Sep 19, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016 Sedona and Sorento vehicles. The vehicles may have been manufactured with faulty automatic transmission shift lever assembly components, preventing the shift lever from locking, which can allow the vehicle to rollaway.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC246
Recall Date: Aug 10, 2022
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC172
Recall Date: Dec 19, 2018
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC142
Recall Date: Nov 30, 2016
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured March 3, 2016 to March 21, 2016. The driver's seatback frame may have been produced with inadequate weld joints and, as a result, the seatback may not function as designed in the event of a rear-end collision.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC140
Recall Date: Oct 24, 2016
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sorento vehicles. A component of the rear suspension may not be properly welded.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC137
Recall Date: Jun 29, 2016
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured October 23, 2014, to December 10, 2014. The affected vehicles have a front passenger seat belt whose buckle latch assembly may prevent the front passenger from fastening the seat belt.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC123
Recall Date: Jul 14, 2015
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to January 29, 2015. Due to an improperly soldered component in the accelerator pedal assembly, the driver may not be able to accelerate the vehicle.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC115
Recall Date: Feb 13, 2015
Consumer Complaints
1.5K ComplaintsKia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
DRIVING HOME FROM DINNER WITH A FRIEND, WE PROCEED ON TO INTERSECTION. WE HEAR A LOUD SOUND, WE FIND OUT ONCE CAR HAS STOPPED WE NOTICE THAT THERE NO LONGER ANY OIL IN ENGINE. CALL FOR A TOW, AND FIND OUT THAT OUR ENGINE HAD BLOWN A ROD. NOTICED THAT ARE OTHER OWNERS WITH SAME ISSUE. CAR IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING TOWED FROM MY MECHANIC TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP.
Corrective Action:
DRIVING HOME FROM DINNER WITH A FRIEND, WE PROCEED ON TO INTERSECTION. WE HEAR A LOUD SOUND, WE FIND OUT ONCE CAR HAS STOPPED WE NOTICE THAT THERE NO LONGER ANY OIL IN ENGINE. CALL FOR A TOW, AND FIND OUT THAT OUR ENGINE HAD BLOWN A ROD. NOTICED THAT ARE OTHER OWNERS WITH SAME ISSUE. CAR IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING TOWED FROM MY MECHANIC TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP.
Additional Notes:
DRIVING HOME FROM DINNER WITH A FRIEND, WE PROCEED ON TO INTERSECTION. WE HEAR A LOUD SOUND, WE FIND OUT ONCE CAR HAS STOPPED WE NOTICE THAT THERE NO LONGER ANY OIL IN ENGINE. CALL FOR A TOW, AND FIND OUT THAT OUR ENGINE HAD BLOWN A ROD. NOTICED THAT ARE OTHER OWNERS WITH SAME ISSUE. CAR IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING TOWED FROM MY MECHANIC TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP.
Mfg Campaign: 11509445
Recall Date: Feb 28, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
My car has 65,000.00. I keep the oil and filter maintained every 7,500 miles. I was driving the other day and went to exhilarate and my car starting shacking and made a loud bang, smoke came out everywhere. I was able to make it to the side of the road before it died. No check engine light, no oil heat indicator came on. I looked under the hood and there was oil everywhere. I have now been told by a Kia dealership where I had the car towed that I had a catastrophic engine failure.
Corrective Action:
My car has 65,000.00. I keep the oil and filter maintained every 7,500 miles. I was driving the other day and went to exhilarate and my car starting shacking and made a loud bang, smoke came out everywhere. I was able to make it to the side of the road before it died. No check engine light, no oil heat indicator came on. I looked under the hood and there was oil everywhere. I have now been told by a Kia dealership where I had the car towed that I had a catastrophic engine failure.
Additional Notes:
My car has 65,000.00. I keep the oil and filter maintained every 7,500 miles. I was driving the other day and went to exhilarate and my car starting shacking and made a loud bang, smoke came out everywhere. I was able to make it to the side of the road before it died. No check engine light, no oil heat indicator came on. I looked under the hood and there was oil everywhere. I have now been told by a Kia dealership where I had the car towed that I had a catastrophic engine failure.
Mfg Campaign: 11509330
Recall Date: Feb 27, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STRUCTURE:BODY
Potential Consequences:
PAINT IS PEELING OFF THE HOOD AND WINDSHELD AREAS
Corrective Action:
PAINT IS PEELING OFF THE HOOD AND WINDSHELD AREAS
Additional Notes:
PAINT IS PEELING OFF THE HOOD AND WINDSHELD AREAS
Mfg Campaign: 11509187
Recall Date: Feb 26, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I have maintained my 2016 Kia Sorento EX with oil changes, spark plugs and fluid changes regularly. Within the past year or so I have noticed that shortly after oil changes my oil levels would drop significantly. There were no signs of leaks (no oil on the ground and inspected to see where it could be possibly going.) Nothing was found as to where the oil was going. This has happened more frequently than not. Recently after an oil change, my family and I took the car on a small road trip (Mass to Rhode Island.) The engine failed without warning. Took the SUV to a mechanic. My SUV was diagnosed as having no compression and now I need a new engine. After research of my hefty bill I have found that this is a very dangerous and frequent issue that a lot of consumers have faced with the same make and model of my SUV. I have read numerous of threads, news articles and reviews of the 2016 KIA Sorento EX and all have exact issue. Excessive oil consumption, no warnings and same/similar repair costs. I have looked into recalls and surprisingly this is not one of them. This is clearly a defective part(s) on Kia and should not be a cost to the consumer. This is not something that is normal wear and tear. This is a huge concern. I got my car second hand at 61k in 2018. Now I have 124k on the engine and its completely failed. Please look into this. With inflation, still making monthly payments on this vehicle, pandemic who can really afford throwing 6,500.00 towards a new engine. Now I face losing my job because of an unreliable car.
Corrective Action:
I have maintained my 2016 Kia Sorento EX with oil changes, spark plugs and fluid changes regularly. Within the past year or so I have noticed that shortly after oil changes my oil levels would drop significantly. There were no signs of leaks (no oil on the ground and inspected to see where it could be possibly going.) Nothing was found as to where the oil was going. This has happened more frequently than not. Recently after an oil change, my family and I took the car on a small road trip (Mass to Rhode Island.) The engine failed without warning. Took the SUV to a mechanic. My SUV was diagnosed as having no compression and now I need a new engine. After research of my hefty bill I have found that this is a very dangerous and frequent issue that a lot of consumers have faced with the same make and model of my SUV. I have read numerous of threads, news articles and reviews of the 2016 KIA Sorento EX and all have exact issue. Excessive oil consumption, no warnings and same/similar repair costs. I have looked into recalls and surprisingly this is not one of them. This is clearly a defective part(s) on Kia and should not be a cost to the consumer. This is not something that is normal wear and tear. This is a huge concern. I got my car second hand at 61k in 2018. Now I have 124k on the engine and its completely failed. Please look into this. With inflation, still making monthly payments on this vehicle, pandemic who can really afford throwing 6,500.00 towards a new engine. Now I face losing my job because of an unreliable car.
Additional Notes:
I have maintained my 2016 Kia Sorento EX with oil changes, spark plugs and fluid changes regularly. Within the past year or so I have noticed that shortly after oil changes my oil levels would drop significantly. There were no signs of leaks (no oil on the ground and inspected to see where it could be possibly going.) Nothing was found as to where the oil was going. This has happened more frequently than not. Recently after an oil change, my family and I took the car on a small road trip (Mass to Rhode Island.) The engine failed without warning. Took the SUV to a mechanic. My SUV was diagnosed as having no compression and now I need a new engine. After research of my hefty bill I have found that this is a very dangerous and frequent issue that a lot of consumers have faced with the same make and model of my SUV. I have read numerous of threads, news articles and reviews of the 2016 KIA Sorento EX and all have exact issue. Excessive oil consumption, no warnings and same/similar repair costs. I have looked into recalls and surprisingly this is not one of them. This is clearly a defective part(s) on Kia and should not be a cost to the consumer. This is not something that is normal wear and tear. This is a huge concern. I got my car second hand at 61k in 2018. Now I have 124k on the engine and its completely failed. Please look into this. With inflation, still making monthly payments on this vehicle, pandemic who can really afford throwing 6,500.00 towards a new engine. Now I face losing my job because of an unreliable car.
Mfg Campaign: 11508727
Recall Date: Feb 23, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, there was an abnormally loud sound and then a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the vehicle was stalling with the oil warning light illuminated. The contact then saw smoke coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was inoperable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle remained with the independent mechanic awaiting the repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, there was an abnormally loud sound and then a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the vehicle was stalling with the oil warning light illuminated. The contact then saw smoke coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was inoperable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle remained with the independent mechanic awaiting the repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving approximately 65 MPH, there was an abnormally loud sound and then a knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The contact stated that the vehicle was stalling with the oil warning light illuminated. The contact then saw smoke coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was inoperable. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle remained with the independent mechanic awaiting the repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11508761
Recall Date: Feb 23, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
For several months I drove the vehicle and kept smelling like something was burning. I took the vehicle to my mechanic they said they didn't find anything. This smell continued and I began to notice my oil was low so I added a quart. Well it then became routine for me to check my oil in between changes. Everytime I would check it was low so I'd add a quart. Eventually while driving home from the store my vehicle began making a noise, the next day it was brought to the mechanic who told me pretty much the engine was going. (This was an engine knock due to over consumption of oil causing) at no point did my oil light come on and stay on nor did the engine light appear for the knock sensor system. I contacted the local Kia dealership ego told me to let it run in my driveway until the engine blew. I did not feel comfortable doing this so I let the vehicle sit. The day I went to trade the Kia in I was driving in congested traffic and without warning the engine light flashed and I immediately lost all power leaving me stuck in congested traffic.
Corrective Action:
For several months I drove the vehicle and kept smelling like something was burning. I took the vehicle to my mechanic they said they didn't find anything. This smell continued and I began to notice my oil was low so I added a quart. Well it then became routine for me to check my oil in between changes. Everytime I would check it was low so I'd add a quart. Eventually while driving home from the store my vehicle began making a noise, the next day it was brought to the mechanic who told me pretty much the engine was going. (This was an engine knock due to over consumption of oil causing) at no point did my oil light come on and stay on nor did the engine light appear for the knock sensor system. I contacted the local Kia dealership ego told me to let it run in my driveway until the engine blew. I did not feel comfortable doing this so I let the vehicle sit. The day I went to trade the Kia in I was driving in congested traffic and without warning the engine light flashed and I immediately lost all power leaving me stuck in congested traffic.
Additional Notes:
For several months I drove the vehicle and kept smelling like something was burning. I took the vehicle to my mechanic they said they didn't find anything. This smell continued and I began to notice my oil was low so I added a quart. Well it then became routine for me to check my oil in between changes. Everytime I would check it was low so I'd add a quart. Eventually while driving home from the store my vehicle began making a noise, the next day it was brought to the mechanic who told me pretty much the engine was going. (This was an engine knock due to over consumption of oil causing) at no point did my oil light come on and stay on nor did the engine light appear for the knock sensor system. I contacted the local Kia dealership ego told me to let it run in my driveway until the engine blew. I did not feel comfortable doing this so I let the vehicle sit. The day I went to trade the Kia in I was driving in congested traffic and without warning the engine light flashed and I immediately lost all power leaving me stuck in congested traffic.
Mfg Campaign: 11508502
Recall Date: Feb 22, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
This is an update to a report/complaint #115-6142 that I filed on 2/7/2023 regarding my 2016 KIA Sorento needing a new engine. I have since spoken with a dealer, a family-owned auto repair shop, who subsequently spoke with a parts store in Denver and another dealer. It was reported to me that KIA has discontinued the sale and/or manufacture of engines for 2015-2017 KIA Sorentos because of many many complaints from owners who had the same problems I had with mine...needing a new engine for a non-very-old car. KIA obviously knows of the problems but have yet to initiate a recall. I'm about to start proceedings for a Class Action Suit. Stay tuned.
Corrective Action:
This is an update to a report/complaint #115-6142 that I filed on 2/7/2023 regarding my 2016 KIA Sorento needing a new engine. I have since spoken with a dealer, a family-owned auto repair shop, who subsequently spoke with a parts store in Denver and another dealer. It was reported to me that KIA has discontinued the sale and/or manufacture of engines for 2015-2017 KIA Sorentos because of many many complaints from owners who had the same problems I had with mine...needing a new engine for a non-very-old car. KIA obviously knows of the problems but have yet to initiate a recall. I'm about to start proceedings for a Class Action Suit. Stay tuned.
Additional Notes:
This is an update to a report/complaint #115-6142 that I filed on 2/7/2023 regarding my 2016 KIA Sorento needing a new engine. I have since spoken with a dealer, a family-owned auto repair shop, who subsequently spoke with a parts store in Denver and another dealer. It was reported to me that KIA has discontinued the sale and/or manufacture of engines for 2015-2017 KIA Sorentos because of many many complaints from owners who had the same problems I had with mine...needing a new engine for a non-very-old car. KIA obviously knows of the problems but have yet to initiate a recall. I'm about to start proceedings for a Class Action Suit. Stay tuned.
Mfg Campaign: 11508563
Recall Date: Feb 22, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
P1336, limp mode suddenly lost power while driving on the freeway. They need to taker of this issue, I’m not the only one with this problem! I’d almost crash!!
Corrective Action:
P1336, limp mode suddenly lost power while driving on the freeway. They need to taker of this issue, I’m not the only one with this problem! I’d almost crash!!
Additional Notes:
P1336, limp mode suddenly lost power while driving on the freeway. They need to taker of this issue, I’m not the only one with this problem! I’d almost crash!!
Mfg Campaign: 11508571
Recall Date: Feb 22, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STRUCTURE:BODY
Potential Consequences:
Tailgate proximity sensor failed.
Corrective Action:
Tailgate proximity sensor failed.
Additional Notes:
Tailgate proximity sensor failed.
Mfg Campaign: 11508331
Recall Date: Feb 21, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
1. Local neighborhood mechanic (s) after many checks determined head gasket blown and unable to repair. Requires complete NEW engine. Car has 120k. Good condition no other major mechanical issues. Shop estimate is $10,000 to repair. 2. Gear shift won’t budge - must use a flat head screw driver to shift gears 3. Passenger front door sticks and has trouble opening door. Was shown this video about issues and thought I was only one having but I have several of the issues listed here.never even tried to fix #2 & 3 bc with kids and all didn’t have extra money. Bought car brand new. Only owner. I am looking for guidance on how to proceed cause this is like a punch in face 10k to fix! https://youtu.be/Suv945jAcfo
Corrective Action:
1. Local neighborhood mechanic (s) after many checks determined head gasket blown and unable to repair. Requires complete NEW engine. Car has 120k. Good condition no other major mechanical issues. Shop estimate is $10,000 to repair. 2. Gear shift won’t budge - must use a flat head screw driver to shift gears 3. Passenger front door sticks and has trouble opening door. Was shown this video about issues and thought I was only one having but I have several of the issues listed here.never even tried to fix #2 & 3 bc with kids and all didn’t have extra money. Bought car brand new. Only owner. I am looking for guidance on how to proceed cause this is like a punch in face 10k to fix! https://youtu.be/Suv945jAcfo
Additional Notes:
1. Local neighborhood mechanic (s) after many checks determined head gasket blown and unable to repair. Requires complete NEW engine. Car has 120k. Good condition no other major mechanical issues. Shop estimate is $10,000 to repair. 2. Gear shift won’t budge - must use a flat head screw driver to shift gears 3. Passenger front door sticks and has trouble opening door. Was shown this video about issues and thought I was only one having but I have several of the issues listed here.never even tried to fix #2 & 3 bc with kids and all didn’t have extra money. Bought car brand new. Only owner. I am looking for guidance on how to proceed cause this is like a punch in face 10k to fix! https://youtu.be/Suv945jAcfo
Mfg Campaign: 11508354
Recall Date: Feb 21, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
1. Local neighborhood mechanic (s) after many checks determined head gasket blown and unable to repair. Requires complete NEW engine. Car has 120k. Good condition no other major mechanical issues. Shop estimate is $10,000 to repair. 2. Gear shift won’t budge - must use a flat head screw driver to shift gears 3. Passenger front door sticks and has trouble opening door. Was shown this video about issues and thought I was only one having but I have several of the issues listed here.never even tried to fix #2 & 3 bc with kids and all didn’t have extra money. Bought car brand new. Only owner. I am looking for guidance on how to proceed cause this is like a punch in face 10k to fix! https://youtu.be/Suv945jAcfo
Corrective Action:
1. Local neighborhood mechanic (s) after many checks determined head gasket blown and unable to repair. Requires complete NEW engine. Car has 120k. Good condition no other major mechanical issues. Shop estimate is $10,000 to repair. 2. Gear shift won’t budge - must use a flat head screw driver to shift gears 3. Passenger front door sticks and has trouble opening door. Was shown this video about issues and thought I was only one having but I have several of the issues listed here.never even tried to fix #2 & 3 bc with kids and all didn’t have extra money. Bought car brand new. Only owner. I am looking for guidance on how to proceed cause this is like a punch in face 10k to fix! https://youtu.be/Suv945jAcfo
Additional Notes:
1. Local neighborhood mechanic (s) after many checks determined head gasket blown and unable to repair. Requires complete NEW engine. Car has 120k. Good condition no other major mechanical issues. Shop estimate is $10,000 to repair. 2. Gear shift won’t budge - must use a flat head screw driver to shift gears 3. Passenger front door sticks and has trouble opening door. Was shown this video about issues and thought I was only one having but I have several of the issues listed here.never even tried to fix #2 & 3 bc with kids and all didn’t have extra money. Bought car brand new. Only owner. I am looking for guidance on how to proceed cause this is like a punch in face 10k to fix! https://youtu.be/Suv945jAcfo
Mfg Campaign: 11508354
Recall Date: Feb 21, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Engine lost power over night. No warning lights or other signs prior to it happening prior. One day it was running, the next it wasn't. The starter, battery and all oil etc was changed. After everything has been changed out, the car starts but is not in running condition. A continuous knocking in the engine is heard. Had it professionally diagnosed and was told the engine is bad. There is only 69k miles and no problems prior whatsoever! I am the 2nd owner and am upset that this has happened.
Corrective Action:
Engine lost power over night. No warning lights or other signs prior to it happening prior. One day it was running, the next it wasn't. The starter, battery and all oil etc was changed. After everything has been changed out, the car starts but is not in running condition. A continuous knocking in the engine is heard. Had it professionally diagnosed and was told the engine is bad. There is only 69k miles and no problems prior whatsoever! I am the 2nd owner and am upset that this has happened.
Additional Notes:
Engine lost power over night. No warning lights or other signs prior to it happening prior. One day it was running, the next it wasn't. The starter, battery and all oil etc was changed. After everything has been changed out, the car starts but is not in running condition. A continuous knocking in the engine is heard. Had it professionally diagnosed and was told the engine is bad. There is only 69k miles and no problems prior whatsoever! I am the 2nd owner and am upset that this has happened.
Mfg Campaign: 11508172
Recall Date: Feb 20, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
2016 Kia Sorento LX which was regularly serviced and well taken care of completely shut off while I was commuting to school on a notoriously dangerous stretch of road. I was in disbelief when the mechanic diagnosed our vehicle as a complete engine failure with 122,000 miles. I thought things couldn’t be any worse until I had the trauma of interacting with Kia “customer service” and I use that term very lightly. I had never owned a Kia before and I naively thought this well known manufacturer would back their product. HA. Instead, I was insensitively told I was “out of luck” and worse yet incriminated to an extent when I didn’t have oil change receipts from the past going on 4 years of financing the vehicle during a hysterical phone ordeal (on hold for 45 minutes- I was in the shower when he finally picked up, didn’t rinse my hyaluronic acid exfoliator off and burned my face). I explained to him that the mechanic described the issue as “the bolts are walking off of the engine block, it’s a known KIA issue” - to which he ironically vehemently denied any knowledge of. So not only was I lied to but patronized days before Christmas. I tearfully pleaded with him to help me in some way because this is my only vehicle and I’m counting on it to commute to school everyday, I graduate in the Spring. Kia did not care. Where is my sorento now? The garage. We had GAP coverage so they required the engine be completely tore apart and sent out - our mechanic stated the bolts were so badly warped and wore a machinist would be unable to work with them and fire was clearly on the horizon based on the dangerous conditions. FIRE. I have a 14, 5, 4 and 3 year old who are almost always with me. My children could have been killed. So worse than this inconvenience is the blatant lack of regard for human life. To add insult to injury I guess insurance companies are tired of taking the brunt of Kia’s incompetent craftsmanship so they are only covering half of the cost, I must pay $5,000.
Corrective Action:
2016 Kia Sorento LX which was regularly serviced and well taken care of completely shut off while I was commuting to school on a notoriously dangerous stretch of road. I was in disbelief when the mechanic diagnosed our vehicle as a complete engine failure with 122,000 miles. I thought things couldn’t be any worse until I had the trauma of interacting with Kia “customer service” and I use that term very lightly. I had never owned a Kia before and I naively thought this well known manufacturer would back their product. HA. Instead, I was insensitively told I was “out of luck” and worse yet incriminated to an extent when I didn’t have oil change receipts from the past going on 4 years of financing the vehicle during a hysterical phone ordeal (on hold for 45 minutes- I was in the shower when he finally picked up, didn’t rinse my hyaluronic acid exfoliator off and burned my face). I explained to him that the mechanic described the issue as “the bolts are walking off of the engine block, it’s a known KIA issue” - to which he ironically vehemently denied any knowledge of. So not only was I lied to but patronized days before Christmas. I tearfully pleaded with him to help me in some way because this is my only vehicle and I’m counting on it to commute to school everyday, I graduate in the Spring. Kia did not care. Where is my sorento now? The garage. We had GAP coverage so they required the engine be completely tore apart and sent out - our mechanic stated the bolts were so badly warped and wore a machinist would be unable to work with them and fire was clearly on the horizon based on the dangerous conditions. FIRE. I have a 14, 5, 4 and 3 year old who are almost always with me. My children could have been killed. So worse than this inconvenience is the blatant lack of regard for human life. To add insult to injury I guess insurance companies are tired of taking the brunt of Kia’s incompetent craftsmanship so they are only covering half of the cost, I must pay $5,000.
Additional Notes:
2016 Kia Sorento LX which was regularly serviced and well taken care of completely shut off while I was commuting to school on a notoriously dangerous stretch of road. I was in disbelief when the mechanic diagnosed our vehicle as a complete engine failure with 122,000 miles. I thought things couldn’t be any worse until I had the trauma of interacting with Kia “customer service” and I use that term very lightly. I had never owned a Kia before and I naively thought this well known manufacturer would back their product. HA. Instead, I was insensitively told I was “out of luck” and worse yet incriminated to an extent when I didn’t have oil change receipts from the past going on 4 years of financing the vehicle during a hysterical phone ordeal (on hold for 45 minutes- I was in the shower when he finally picked up, didn’t rinse my hyaluronic acid exfoliator off and burned my face). I explained to him that the mechanic described the issue as “the bolts are walking off of the engine block, it’s a known KIA issue” - to which he ironically vehemently denied any knowledge of. So not only was I lied to but patronized days before Christmas. I tearfully pleaded with him to help me in some way because this is my only vehicle and I’m counting on it to commute to school everyday, I graduate in the Spring. Kia did not care. Where is my sorento now? The garage. We had GAP coverage so they required the engine be completely tore apart and sent out - our mechanic stated the bolts were so badly warped and wore a machinist would be unable to work with them and fire was clearly on the horizon based on the dangerous conditions. FIRE. I have a 14, 5, 4 and 3 year old who are almost always with me. My children could have been killed. So worse than this inconvenience is the blatant lack of regard for human life. To add insult to injury I guess insurance companies are tired of taking the brunt of Kia’s incompetent craftsmanship so they are only covering half of the cost, I must pay $5,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11508033
Recall Date: Feb 19, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
Would not shift out of park Dealership repair cost $1000 - told “not part of transmission so not under the warranty “ - now reading online and on recall site lever and linkage column shift issue but now dealership says “not the same” but reading lots of Kia owners reporting same problem? Should be a recall!!
Corrective Action:
Would not shift out of park Dealership repair cost $1000 - told “not part of transmission so not under the warranty “ - now reading online and on recall site lever and linkage column shift issue but now dealership says “not the same” but reading lots of Kia owners reporting same problem? Should be a recall!!
Additional Notes:
Would not shift out of park Dealership repair cost $1000 - told “not part of transmission so not under the warranty “ - now reading online and on recall site lever and linkage column shift issue but now dealership says “not the same” but reading lots of Kia owners reporting same problem? Should be a recall!!
Mfg Campaign: 11507785
Recall Date: Feb 17, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Traveling from Cheyenne, WY to Houston, TX my SUV overheated without warning and bubbling coolant sprayed everywhere. I was 200 miles south of Pueblo, CO in the middle of nowhere in New Mexico. I then had my SUV towed to the Kia dealership in Pueblo, CO and was informed I needed a total engine replacement. I decided to have my car towed to the Kia dealership here in Cheyenne, WY. I was told 2 bolts were stripped which caused engine failure and overheating "Kia used a bolt thread that fails to grip the block with enough force and overheating is a common scenario. This is a known Kia manufacture defect". I have always maintained my SUV and had regular service performed because I never wanted to be stranded on the side of the road. I am requesting KIA step up and help cover some or all of these expenses due to it being a known manufacture defect. I have not heard from Kia since my case was opened six weeks ago. The Kia dealership here in Cheyenne, WY indicated there have been over 20 cars at their service department alone with this issue.
Corrective Action:
Traveling from Cheyenne, WY to Houston, TX my SUV overheated without warning and bubbling coolant sprayed everywhere. I was 200 miles south of Pueblo, CO in the middle of nowhere in New Mexico. I then had my SUV towed to the Kia dealership in Pueblo, CO and was informed I needed a total engine replacement. I decided to have my car towed to the Kia dealership here in Cheyenne, WY. I was told 2 bolts were stripped which caused engine failure and overheating "Kia used a bolt thread that fails to grip the block with enough force and overheating is a common scenario. This is a known Kia manufacture defect". I have always maintained my SUV and had regular service performed because I never wanted to be stranded on the side of the road. I am requesting KIA step up and help cover some or all of these expenses due to it being a known manufacture defect. I have not heard from Kia since my case was opened six weeks ago. The Kia dealership here in Cheyenne, WY indicated there have been over 20 cars at their service department alone with this issue.
Additional Notes:
Traveling from Cheyenne, WY to Houston, TX my SUV overheated without warning and bubbling coolant sprayed everywhere. I was 200 miles south of Pueblo, CO in the middle of nowhere in New Mexico. I then had my SUV towed to the Kia dealership in Pueblo, CO and was informed I needed a total engine replacement. I decided to have my car towed to the Kia dealership here in Cheyenne, WY. I was told 2 bolts were stripped which caused engine failure and overheating "Kia used a bolt thread that fails to grip the block with enough force and overheating is a common scenario. This is a known Kia manufacture defect". I have always maintained my SUV and had regular service performed because I never wanted to be stranded on the side of the road. I am requesting KIA step up and help cover some or all of these expenses due to it being a known manufacture defect. I have not heard from Kia since my case was opened six weeks ago. The Kia dealership here in Cheyenne, WY indicated there have been over 20 cars at their service department alone with this issue.
Mfg Campaign: 11507831
Recall Date: Feb 17, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
My wife was driving the vehicle and the engine locked up because it had burned through all the oil in the vehicle. There was no warning lights to let us know it had low oil. The vehicle is available for inspection. My son was also in the car as well. I had the vehicle towed to my local machanical shop. The owner of the shop was the person that notified me of the engine default.
Corrective Action:
My wife was driving the vehicle and the engine locked up because it had burned through all the oil in the vehicle. There was no warning lights to let us know it had low oil. The vehicle is available for inspection. My son was also in the car as well. I had the vehicle towed to my local machanical shop. The owner of the shop was the person that notified me of the engine default.
Additional Notes:
My wife was driving the vehicle and the engine locked up because it had burned through all the oil in the vehicle. There was no warning lights to let us know it had low oil. The vehicle is available for inspection. My son was also in the car as well. I had the vehicle towed to my local machanical shop. The owner of the shop was the person that notified me of the engine default.
Mfg Campaign: 11507868
Recall Date: Feb 17, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I was driving down the interstate going 80mph when all of the sudden the vehicle lost power. I had to dodge traffic and cross over into another lane to get to the side of the road I’m lucky I made it and nobody was hurt.
Corrective Action:
I was driving down the interstate going 80mph when all of the sudden the vehicle lost power. I had to dodge traffic and cross over into another lane to get to the side of the road I’m lucky I made it and nobody was hurt.
Additional Notes:
I was driving down the interstate going 80mph when all of the sudden the vehicle lost power. I had to dodge traffic and cross over into another lane to get to the side of the road I’m lucky I made it and nobody was hurt.
Mfg Campaign: 11507395
Recall Date: Feb 15, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
My headlights go completely out, pitch black, going over 50mph, several times now. I have turned them off the automatic setting as this has happened more than 5 times over the past year. Everything out front goes black including fog lamps, meeting cars, not meeting cars, lights, no lights on the roadway, no rhyme or reason. No warning lights, no sensors covered. My children have been in the car everytime but once. Nobody knows what's going on with it as it happens intermittently and no codes appear.
Corrective Action:
My headlights go completely out, pitch black, going over 50mph, several times now. I have turned them off the automatic setting as this has happened more than 5 times over the past year. Everything out front goes black including fog lamps, meeting cars, not meeting cars, lights, no lights on the roadway, no rhyme or reason. No warning lights, no sensors covered. My children have been in the car everytime but once. Nobody knows what's going on with it as it happens intermittently and no codes appear.
Additional Notes:
My headlights go completely out, pitch black, going over 50mph, several times now. I have turned them off the automatic setting as this has happened more than 5 times over the past year. Everything out front goes black including fog lamps, meeting cars, not meeting cars, lights, no lights on the roadway, no rhyme or reason. No warning lights, no sensors covered. My children have been in the car everytime but once. Nobody knows what's going on with it as it happens intermittently and no codes appear.
Mfg Campaign: 11507485
Recall Date: Feb 15, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Smelled something burning. Pulled over and noticed smoke coming from under hood. Called the fire department. It was fully engulfed by the time they got there. Pictures of it burning are available. The vehicle is a total loss. Police report taken today 2-9-2023. Insurance company being notified. No warning lamps. No check engine light. No inspections made yet.
Corrective Action:
Smelled something burning. Pulled over and noticed smoke coming from under hood. Called the fire department. It was fully engulfed by the time they got there. Pictures of it burning are available. The vehicle is a total loss. Police report taken today 2-9-2023. Insurance company being notified. No warning lamps. No check engine light. No inspections made yet.
Additional Notes:
Smelled something burning. Pulled over and noticed smoke coming from under hood. Called the fire department. It was fully engulfed by the time they got there. Pictures of it burning are available. The vehicle is a total loss. Police report taken today 2-9-2023. Insurance company being notified. No warning lamps. No check engine light. No inspections made yet.
Mfg Campaign: 11506372
Recall Date: Feb 9, 2023
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
My engine needed to be replaced after they said it overheated and was beyond repair.
Corrective Action:
My engine needed to be replaced after they said it overheated and was beyond repair.
Additional Notes:
My engine needed to be replaced after they said it overheated and was beyond repair.
Mfg Campaign: 11506203
Recall Date: Feb 8, 2023
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Valencia, CA • 36 yrs
Focus: Lemon Law, Personal Injury