Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
12 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 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 2017 Sorento vehicles equipped with 3.3L engines. The engine crankshaft may have been improperly heat treated and may fail.
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: SC153
Recall Date: Sep 21, 2017
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
Consumer Complaints
894 ComplaintsKia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Smell of oil burning on exhaust manifold. Inspected by dealer service and found oil leaks at head gasket at rear cylinder bank. Dealer service instructed me not to drive vehicle any further and provided a loaner vehicle. Continued driving with oil leak could have resulted in engine fire. Vehicle is not drivable at present and is at dealer awaiting repairs. I am in possession of a letter from Kia to owners of these vehicles that the head gaskets are a known issue and Kia has extended the warranty on this engine.
Corrective Action:
Smell of oil burning on exhaust manifold. Inspected by dealer service and found oil leaks at head gasket at rear cylinder bank. Dealer service instructed me not to drive vehicle any further and provided a loaner vehicle. Continued driving with oil leak could have resulted in engine fire. Vehicle is not drivable at present and is at dealer awaiting repairs. I am in possession of a letter from Kia to owners of these vehicles that the head gaskets are a known issue and Kia has extended the warranty on this engine.
Additional Notes:
Smell of oil burning on exhaust manifold. Inspected by dealer service and found oil leaks at head gasket at rear cylinder bank. Dealer service instructed me not to drive vehicle any further and provided a loaner vehicle. Continued driving with oil leak could have resulted in engine fire. Vehicle is not drivable at present and is at dealer awaiting repairs. I am in possession of a letter from Kia to owners of these vehicles that the head gaskets are a known issue and Kia has extended the warranty on this engine.
Mfg Campaign: 11581875
Recall Date: Apr 9, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Corrective Action:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Additional Notes:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Mfg Campaign: 11581073
Recall Date: Apr 4, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
SUSPENSION
Potential Consequences:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Corrective Action:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Additional Notes:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Mfg Campaign: 11581073
Recall Date: Apr 4, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Corrective Action:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Additional Notes:
I purchased 2017 Kia Sorento in 2020. I have to put 2 quarts of oil in it once a week. I noticed it around 2022. I get the oil changed on the regular. The engine is starting to rattle, and my oil light does not indicate when the oil is low. So, I have to check it constantly. The under-carriage rattles excessively. I've taken the suv to dealership and they are telling me that they cannot find anything wrong with it. I am at a loss. Plus, I am still paying a note on the suv.
Mfg Campaign: 11581073
Recall Date: Apr 4, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The knock sensor/glow circuit relay failed The car stopped accelerating on the freeway with me and my family in the car. The car was serviced at a Kia dealership and they confirmed that it was the knock sensor which is on recall just not for my cars year. There was no symptoms or warning signs or problems prior to the failure. It happened on the spot.
Corrective Action:
The knock sensor/glow circuit relay failed The car stopped accelerating on the freeway with me and my family in the car. The car was serviced at a Kia dealership and they confirmed that it was the knock sensor which is on recall just not for my cars year. There was no symptoms or warning signs or problems prior to the failure. It happened on the spot.
Additional Notes:
The knock sensor/glow circuit relay failed The car stopped accelerating on the freeway with me and my family in the car. The car was serviced at a Kia dealership and they confirmed that it was the knock sensor which is on recall just not for my cars year. There was no symptoms or warning signs or problems prior to the failure. It happened on the spot.
Mfg Campaign: 11580549
Recall Date: Apr 1, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I purchased a 2017 kia sorento in 2017. Moved to mississippi in 2018. Never received a recall notice on the engine of my car. Engine blew last month for the exact reason of the recall. Mechanic had to inform me of the recall. Kia is not honoring the recall or the warranty. They are wanting to charge me for any work.
Corrective Action:
I purchased a 2017 kia sorento in 2017. Moved to mississippi in 2018. Never received a recall notice on the engine of my car. Engine blew last month for the exact reason of the recall. Mechanic had to inform me of the recall. Kia is not honoring the recall or the warranty. They are wanting to charge me for any work.
Additional Notes:
I purchased a 2017 kia sorento in 2017. Moved to mississippi in 2018. Never received a recall notice on the engine of my car. Engine blew last month for the exact reason of the recall. Mechanic had to inform me of the recall. Kia is not honoring the recall or the warranty. They are wanting to charge me for any work.
Mfg Campaign: 11580080
Recall Date: Mar 29, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
On January 26th, 2024, the 2017 Kia Sorento was parked outside in an uncovered parking lot (in the rain) for about 8 hours with the ignition off when suddenly the tow hitch harness caught fire and I saw the smoke coming from the car. The fire department was called and we were able to put the fire out with a fire extinguisher before they arrived. Once they arrived, I notified the fire department of the open recall and they were able to pull the fuse to reduce the risk of future fires. I had been into the dealership since the recall was announced and had numerous services performed, but they did not remove the fuse at that time. I had also called a local Kia dealership in December about having the recall remedied, but they were unable to fit me in until mid February. After the fire was extinguished and the fuse had been pulled, I had the vehicle towed to the nearest Kia dealership and contacted them. Since then, the dealership has indicated they cannot work with me and I must work through corporate Kia, but they have not been forthcoming about fixing the recalled issue, repairing the fire damage, or returning my car for nearly 60 days now. I have been back and forth with both email and phone calls with Kia and still haven't even received a date I can expect my car back or information about a loaner/rental car.
Corrective Action:
On January 26th, 2024, the 2017 Kia Sorento was parked outside in an uncovered parking lot (in the rain) for about 8 hours with the ignition off when suddenly the tow hitch harness caught fire and I saw the smoke coming from the car. The fire department was called and we were able to put the fire out with a fire extinguisher before they arrived. Once they arrived, I notified the fire department of the open recall and they were able to pull the fuse to reduce the risk of future fires. I had been into the dealership since the recall was announced and had numerous services performed, but they did not remove the fuse at that time. I had also called a local Kia dealership in December about having the recall remedied, but they were unable to fit me in until mid February. After the fire was extinguished and the fuse had been pulled, I had the vehicle towed to the nearest Kia dealership and contacted them. Since then, the dealership has indicated they cannot work with me and I must work through corporate Kia, but they have not been forthcoming about fixing the recalled issue, repairing the fire damage, or returning my car for nearly 60 days now. I have been back and forth with both email and phone calls with Kia and still haven't even received a date I can expect my car back or information about a loaner/rental car.
Additional Notes:
On January 26th, 2024, the 2017 Kia Sorento was parked outside in an uncovered parking lot (in the rain) for about 8 hours with the ignition off when suddenly the tow hitch harness caught fire and I saw the smoke coming from the car. The fire department was called and we were able to put the fire out with a fire extinguisher before they arrived. Once they arrived, I notified the fire department of the open recall and they were able to pull the fuse to reduce the risk of future fires. I had been into the dealership since the recall was announced and had numerous services performed, but they did not remove the fuse at that time. I had also called a local Kia dealership in December about having the recall remedied, but they were unable to fit me in until mid February. After the fire was extinguished and the fuse had been pulled, I had the vehicle towed to the nearest Kia dealership and contacted them. Since then, the dealership has indicated they cannot work with me and I must work through corporate Kia, but they have not been forthcoming about fixing the recalled issue, repairing the fire damage, or returning my car for nearly 60 days now. I have been back and forth with both email and phone calls with Kia and still haven't even received a date I can expect my car back or information about a loaner/rental car.
Mfg Campaign: 11579332
Recall Date: Mar 25, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
While driving our 2017 Kia Sorento, it began exhibiting power struggles. Something was just wrong, but we didn't know what. There were no signs on the dashboard. No sensors, symbols, lights, no sounds, no leaks, nothing. Figuring it was just our imagination or whatever, because we continually have issues with this vehicle, we continued driving (looking back at it now, we know it wasn't as powerful as it should have been). One day we start it up and it begins knocking, and viciously. Checking the oil, we notice it's dry. Bone dry. We were terrified at that point because we know, that's not a good sign. We take it to diagnosed (700$) to be told the engine is seized, a rod in the engine is bent and put a hole in the engine. Oil and fluids everywhere. Like I previously stated, there were no signs. No symptoms. Nothing to question. The oil was seeping through the system and going out my exhaust. My car is still under a loan. It was only 6 years old when it experienced engine failure and completely died (won't even start). 146K miles. I now have to spend thousands if I want to continue owning this vehicle. It breaks my heart.
Corrective Action:
While driving our 2017 Kia Sorento, it began exhibiting power struggles. Something was just wrong, but we didn't know what. There were no signs on the dashboard. No sensors, symbols, lights, no sounds, no leaks, nothing. Figuring it was just our imagination or whatever, because we continually have issues with this vehicle, we continued driving (looking back at it now, we know it wasn't as powerful as it should have been). One day we start it up and it begins knocking, and viciously. Checking the oil, we notice it's dry. Bone dry. We were terrified at that point because we know, that's not a good sign. We take it to diagnosed (700$) to be told the engine is seized, a rod in the engine is bent and put a hole in the engine. Oil and fluids everywhere. Like I previously stated, there were no signs. No symptoms. Nothing to question. The oil was seeping through the system and going out my exhaust. My car is still under a loan. It was only 6 years old when it experienced engine failure and completely died (won't even start). 146K miles. I now have to spend thousands if I want to continue owning this vehicle. It breaks my heart.
Additional Notes:
While driving our 2017 Kia Sorento, it began exhibiting power struggles. Something was just wrong, but we didn't know what. There were no signs on the dashboard. No sensors, symbols, lights, no sounds, no leaks, nothing. Figuring it was just our imagination or whatever, because we continually have issues with this vehicle, we continued driving (looking back at it now, we know it wasn't as powerful as it should have been). One day we start it up and it begins knocking, and viciously. Checking the oil, we notice it's dry. Bone dry. We were terrified at that point because we know, that's not a good sign. We take it to diagnosed (700$) to be told the engine is seized, a rod in the engine is bent and put a hole in the engine. Oil and fluids everywhere. Like I previously stated, there were no signs. No symptoms. Nothing to question. The oil was seeping through the system and going out my exhaust. My car is still under a loan. It was only 6 years old when it experienced engine failure and completely died (won't even start). 146K miles. I now have to spend thousands if I want to continue owning this vehicle. It breaks my heart.
Mfg Campaign: 11579088
Recall Date: Mar 23, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
The steering has at times become sticky for lack of s better term. Turning the wheel, even slightly, feels hard to turn and then will release and cause slight over-correcting. It feels like something is preventing the steering column from turning and then it will let go and turn freely. When this happens it will happen repeatedly on the same outing and is not just a one time occurrence.
Corrective Action:
The steering has at times become sticky for lack of s better term. Turning the wheel, even slightly, feels hard to turn and then will release and cause slight over-correcting. It feels like something is preventing the steering column from turning and then it will let go and turn freely. When this happens it will happen repeatedly on the same outing and is not just a one time occurrence.
Additional Notes:
The steering has at times become sticky for lack of s better term. Turning the wheel, even slightly, feels hard to turn and then will release and cause slight over-correcting. It feels like something is preventing the steering column from turning and then it will let go and turn freely. When this happens it will happen repeatedly on the same outing and is not just a one time occurrence.
Mfg Campaign: 11578349
Recall Date: Mar 19, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Corrective Action:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Additional Notes:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Mfg Campaign: 11577409
Recall Date: Mar 14, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Potential Consequences:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Corrective Action:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Additional Notes:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Mfg Campaign: 11577409
Recall Date: Mar 14, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS
Potential Consequences:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Corrective Action:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Additional Notes:
On March 14, 2024 at approximately 11:40, while driving on a private driveway, which had no other cars or pedestrians on or near it, my vehicle performed its own emergeny braking effort to bring the car to a stop. The standard KIA Emergency Braking warking text displayed on the dashboard declaring the incident. However, no other vehicles or pedestrians were in hundreds of feet of the vehicle or presented a potential obstical that may be crossing in front of the vehcile.The car was traveling approximately 25 MPH and came to a complete stop. It felt as though the engine had frozen and all the wheels locked.
Mfg Campaign: 11577409
Recall Date: Mar 14, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
When driving my Kia the steering wheel is sticking. At first it was just ever now and then. But now it it’s happening everyday. There is a recall for 2018 models doing the same thing. I pretty sure this is the same part and should be covered under the recall.
Corrective Action:
When driving my Kia the steering wheel is sticking. At first it was just ever now and then. But now it it’s happening everyday. There is a recall for 2018 models doing the same thing. I pretty sure this is the same part and should be covered under the recall.
Additional Notes:
When driving my Kia the steering wheel is sticking. At first it was just ever now and then. But now it it’s happening everyday. There is a recall for 2018 models doing the same thing. I pretty sure this is the same part and should be covered under the recall.
Mfg Campaign: 11577457
Recall Date: Mar 14, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Me and my family were traveling on the interstate on a rainy December 10, 2024 and my engine started to lose power. I was driving approximately 75-77 mph when my car started losing power. No lights or warnings! I tried to give more gas but nothing happened. It then started to jerk as it was still losing power. I was able to safely exit the highway before the vehicle completely stopped. I tried to restart the car but it wouldn’t stay on. By then the engine light was on. I was 50 miles from home and had to call a tow truck to pick up the vehicle as well as a family member to pick us up from the side of the interstate. The vehicle was towed 50 miles to my local mechanic. On that Monday, he checked the Sorento and told me the motor was gone! He stated he could tell by the spark plugs that it had been burning oil. This was a total shock being that I had previously taken my vehicle to the Kia dealership in June of 2023 because the car was burning oil. I had checked my vehicle in between services to find out no oil was in it. The Kia dealership performed an oil consumption test. Their findings were there wasn’t anything wrong with the rate the vehicle was burning oil. Which now I find hard to believe once the engine failed. I had purchased the extended warranty which covered me until 100,000 miles. Of course my engine failed at 100,399. But I feel those extra 399 miles were from taking my vehicle back and forth to the Kia dealership for the consumption test which obviously they didn’t perform correctly or just didn’t want to admit it was something wrong because I live approximately 75 miles from the dealership. Kia is supposed to be the best but I definitely think otherwise after this. After calling Kia they were no help and this seems to be a common issue with 2017 Kia Sorentos.
Corrective Action:
Me and my family were traveling on the interstate on a rainy December 10, 2024 and my engine started to lose power. I was driving approximately 75-77 mph when my car started losing power. No lights or warnings! I tried to give more gas but nothing happened. It then started to jerk as it was still losing power. I was able to safely exit the highway before the vehicle completely stopped. I tried to restart the car but it wouldn’t stay on. By then the engine light was on. I was 50 miles from home and had to call a tow truck to pick up the vehicle as well as a family member to pick us up from the side of the interstate. The vehicle was towed 50 miles to my local mechanic. On that Monday, he checked the Sorento and told me the motor was gone! He stated he could tell by the spark plugs that it had been burning oil. This was a total shock being that I had previously taken my vehicle to the Kia dealership in June of 2023 because the car was burning oil. I had checked my vehicle in between services to find out no oil was in it. The Kia dealership performed an oil consumption test. Their findings were there wasn’t anything wrong with the rate the vehicle was burning oil. Which now I find hard to believe once the engine failed. I had purchased the extended warranty which covered me until 100,000 miles. Of course my engine failed at 100,399. But I feel those extra 399 miles were from taking my vehicle back and forth to the Kia dealership for the consumption test which obviously they didn’t perform correctly or just didn’t want to admit it was something wrong because I live approximately 75 miles from the dealership. Kia is supposed to be the best but I definitely think otherwise after this. After calling Kia they were no help and this seems to be a common issue with 2017 Kia Sorentos.
Additional Notes:
Me and my family were traveling on the interstate on a rainy December 10, 2024 and my engine started to lose power. I was driving approximately 75-77 mph when my car started losing power. No lights or warnings! I tried to give more gas but nothing happened. It then started to jerk as it was still losing power. I was able to safely exit the highway before the vehicle completely stopped. I tried to restart the car but it wouldn’t stay on. By then the engine light was on. I was 50 miles from home and had to call a tow truck to pick up the vehicle as well as a family member to pick us up from the side of the interstate. The vehicle was towed 50 miles to my local mechanic. On that Monday, he checked the Sorento and told me the motor was gone! He stated he could tell by the spark plugs that it had been burning oil. This was a total shock being that I had previously taken my vehicle to the Kia dealership in June of 2023 because the car was burning oil. I had checked my vehicle in between services to find out no oil was in it. The Kia dealership performed an oil consumption test. Their findings were there wasn’t anything wrong with the rate the vehicle was burning oil. Which now I find hard to believe once the engine failed. I had purchased the extended warranty which covered me until 100,000 miles. Of course my engine failed at 100,399. But I feel those extra 399 miles were from taking my vehicle back and forth to the Kia dealership for the consumption test which obviously they didn’t perform correctly or just didn’t want to admit it was something wrong because I live approximately 75 miles from the dealership. Kia is supposed to be the best but I definitely think otherwise after this. After calling Kia they were no help and this seems to be a common issue with 2017 Kia Sorentos.
Mfg Campaign: 11577129
Recall Date: Mar 13, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I lost power from the engine while going up a mountain in Georgia. Thought we were going to run off a cliff due to engine failure. We were at about a 45 degree incline going up a mountain. Car stopped due to loss of compression. Family of 3 were 6 feet from edge of cliff when this happened. If breaks failed we would have crashed for sure down the cliff. Total loss of power. It was misfiring per Service department at Halls Service Center in Knoxville , Tn said, Compression in 2 and 3 cylinders were at 60 and 90 PSI. 1 and 4 compression were at 115 and 150. Car is drinking oil like water. Regular maintenance was always completed. Car is available for inspection if needed. I did get a check engine lite on my dash but only after the incident. Other than what the auto service department mentioned above no one else has inspected the vehicle.
Corrective Action:
I lost power from the engine while going up a mountain in Georgia. Thought we were going to run off a cliff due to engine failure. We were at about a 45 degree incline going up a mountain. Car stopped due to loss of compression. Family of 3 were 6 feet from edge of cliff when this happened. If breaks failed we would have crashed for sure down the cliff. Total loss of power. It was misfiring per Service department at Halls Service Center in Knoxville , Tn said, Compression in 2 and 3 cylinders were at 60 and 90 PSI. 1 and 4 compression were at 115 and 150. Car is drinking oil like water. Regular maintenance was always completed. Car is available for inspection if needed. I did get a check engine lite on my dash but only after the incident. Other than what the auto service department mentioned above no one else has inspected the vehicle.
Additional Notes:
I lost power from the engine while going up a mountain in Georgia. Thought we were going to run off a cliff due to engine failure. We were at about a 45 degree incline going up a mountain. Car stopped due to loss of compression. Family of 3 were 6 feet from edge of cliff when this happened. If breaks failed we would have crashed for sure down the cliff. Total loss of power. It was misfiring per Service department at Halls Service Center in Knoxville , Tn said, Compression in 2 and 3 cylinders were at 60 and 90 PSI. 1 and 4 compression were at 115 and 150. Car is drinking oil like water. Regular maintenance was always completed. Car is available for inspection if needed. I did get a check engine lite on my dash but only after the incident. Other than what the auto service department mentioned above no one else has inspected the vehicle.
Mfg Campaign: 11576976
Recall Date: Mar 12, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
AIR BAGS
Potential Consequences:
The airbag light stays on and the Tunersville NJ dealership charged me $169 for a diagnostic of the problem. The error code was a B1448 OC sensor MAT defect and they need to replace the cushion because the Occupant Detection System (ODS) Sensor Pad is located inside the seat and quoted me around $2000 to replace it. I was told by the dealership that if the passenger mat detection is not working then the airbag will not work if an accident happens. I found that Kia Sorento from 2011- 2015 has the same issue and the company replaced it without a charge and extended the warranty for this airbag sensor to 15 yr with unlimited miles. This is a known defect for Kia corporation and they don't address this issue until somebody gets hurt in an accident and the airbag malfunctions.
Corrective Action:
The airbag light stays on and the Tunersville NJ dealership charged me $169 for a diagnostic of the problem. The error code was a B1448 OC sensor MAT defect and they need to replace the cushion because the Occupant Detection System (ODS) Sensor Pad is located inside the seat and quoted me around $2000 to replace it. I was told by the dealership that if the passenger mat detection is not working then the airbag will not work if an accident happens. I found that Kia Sorento from 2011- 2015 has the same issue and the company replaced it without a charge and extended the warranty for this airbag sensor to 15 yr with unlimited miles. This is a known defect for Kia corporation and they don't address this issue until somebody gets hurt in an accident and the airbag malfunctions.
Additional Notes:
The airbag light stays on and the Tunersville NJ dealership charged me $169 for a diagnostic of the problem. The error code was a B1448 OC sensor MAT defect and they need to replace the cushion because the Occupant Detection System (ODS) Sensor Pad is located inside the seat and quoted me around $2000 to replace it. I was told by the dealership that if the passenger mat detection is not working then the airbag will not work if an accident happens. I found that Kia Sorento from 2011- 2015 has the same issue and the company replaced it without a charge and extended the warranty for this airbag sensor to 15 yr with unlimited miles. This is a known defect for Kia corporation and they don't address this issue until somebody gets hurt in an accident and the airbag malfunctions.
Mfg Campaign: 11575962
Recall Date: Mar 7, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
January 14, 2024. I was driving on the highway, up a mountain, when the engine abruptly failed. All dashboard lights came on, including the check engine light. My safety, and the safety of those driving near me, was put at risk because of the sudden decrease in speed. When the car was inspected by a Kia dealership, they confirmed it needed a new engine, but that the engine was not covered, even though there is a long history of these engines failing and needing replacement.
Corrective Action:
January 14, 2024. I was driving on the highway, up a mountain, when the engine abruptly failed. All dashboard lights came on, including the check engine light. My safety, and the safety of those driving near me, was put at risk because of the sudden decrease in speed. When the car was inspected by a Kia dealership, they confirmed it needed a new engine, but that the engine was not covered, even though there is a long history of these engines failing and needing replacement.
Additional Notes:
January 14, 2024. I was driving on the highway, up a mountain, when the engine abruptly failed. All dashboard lights came on, including the check engine light. My safety, and the safety of those driving near me, was put at risk because of the sudden decrease in speed. When the car was inspected by a Kia dealership, they confirmed it needed a new engine, but that the engine was not covered, even though there is a long history of these engines failing and needing replacement.
Mfg Campaign: 11575715
Recall Date: Mar 6, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Engine uses 1 extra galón of oil in between oil changes.
Corrective Action:
Engine uses 1 extra galón of oil in between oil changes.
Additional Notes:
Engine uses 1 extra galón of oil in between oil changes.
Mfg Campaign: 11575584
Recall Date: Mar 5, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
No codes/lights or warnings. Engine started making loud clinking sound randomly, then smoke and car was disabled with oil and metal pieces everywhere in the roadway. Only then was there an engine light on the dash.
Corrective Action:
No codes/lights or warnings. Engine started making loud clinking sound randomly, then smoke and car was disabled with oil and metal pieces everywhere in the roadway. Only then was there an engine light on the dash.
Additional Notes:
No codes/lights or warnings. Engine started making loud clinking sound randomly, then smoke and car was disabled with oil and metal pieces everywhere in the roadway. Only then was there an engine light on the dash.
Mfg Campaign: 11575291
Recall Date: Mar 4, 2024
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I purchased a my 2017 Sorento, it had 40,000 miles, it had a knock to it when I would first get started in the morning, took it to get check twice, told nothing was wrong, at 59,700 I took back and it needed a new transmission, then at 98,000 it needs another transmission, so after two transmission, plus changed 6 fuel injectors, all new spark plugs, now the engine is gone. I also have a 2014 Sorento that’s still rolling and never needed any major work. This car has been problems since I purchased it. It has to be a recall on this car. Something is not right. It’s sitting in the shop again and I can’t afford to fix it.
Corrective Action:
I purchased a my 2017 Sorento, it had 40,000 miles, it had a knock to it when I would first get started in the morning, took it to get check twice, told nothing was wrong, at 59,700 I took back and it needed a new transmission, then at 98,000 it needs another transmission, so after two transmission, plus changed 6 fuel injectors, all new spark plugs, now the engine is gone. I also have a 2014 Sorento that’s still rolling and never needed any major work. This car has been problems since I purchased it. It has to be a recall on this car. Something is not right. It’s sitting in the shop again and I can’t afford to fix it.
Additional Notes:
I purchased a my 2017 Sorento, it had 40,000 miles, it had a knock to it when I would first get started in the morning, took it to get check twice, told nothing was wrong, at 59,700 I took back and it needed a new transmission, then at 98,000 it needs another transmission, so after two transmission, plus changed 6 fuel injectors, all new spark plugs, now the engine is gone. I also have a 2014 Sorento that’s still rolling and never needed any major work. This car has been problems since I purchased it. It has to be a recall on this car. Something is not right. It’s sitting in the shop again and I can’t afford to fix it.
Mfg Campaign: 11574985
Recall Date: Mar 1, 2024
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Valencia, CA • 36 yrs
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