Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
9 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 Motors, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento and 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
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: SC250
Recall Date: Oct 11, 2022
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 Motor America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Sorento and 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.
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: SC214
Recall Date: Jul 8, 2021
Consumer Complaints
242 ComplaintsKia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
Transmission failed at 3200 miles leaving my family stranded. Car was completely disabled abruptly. Luckily I was able to find people to push my car to a safe location until my tow arrived. This was very scary given the fact I had my three children inside.
Corrective Action:
Transmission failed at 3200 miles leaving my family stranded. Car was completely disabled abruptly. Luckily I was able to find people to push my car to a safe location until my tow arrived. This was very scary given the fact I had my three children inside.
Additional Notes:
Transmission failed at 3200 miles leaving my family stranded. Car was completely disabled abruptly. Luckily I was able to find people to push my car to a safe location until my tow arrived. This was very scary given the fact I had my three children inside.
Mfg Campaign: 11435660
Recall Date: Oct 6, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the engine was vibrating abnormally. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer. The dealer set an appointment however, the vehicle had not yet been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 500. Consumer would like to withdrawal the complaint.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the engine was vibrating abnormally. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer. The dealer set an appointment however, the vehicle had not yet been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 500. Consumer would like to withdrawal the complaint.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the engine was vibrating abnormally. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer. The dealer set an appointment however, the vehicle had not yet been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 500. Consumer would like to withdrawal the complaint.
Mfg Campaign: 11435704
Recall Date: Oct 6, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Power train operation is erratic and unpredictable. I have have experienced the same problems of other reports (loss of power when turning, jerking/rough shifts, cruise control issues) with the addition of this: when stopping the vehicle in a smooth controlled fashion, it suddenly has a boost of acceleration at 1-2 mph which requires extra brake pedal pressure to keep from impacting the car ahead.
Corrective Action:
Power train operation is erratic and unpredictable. I have have experienced the same problems of other reports (loss of power when turning, jerking/rough shifts, cruise control issues) with the addition of this: when stopping the vehicle in a smooth controlled fashion, it suddenly has a boost of acceleration at 1-2 mph which requires extra brake pedal pressure to keep from impacting the car ahead.
Additional Notes:
Power train operation is erratic and unpredictable. I have have experienced the same problems of other reports (loss of power when turning, jerking/rough shifts, cruise control issues) with the addition of this: when stopping the vehicle in a smooth controlled fashion, it suddenly has a boost of acceleration at 1-2 mph which requires extra brake pedal pressure to keep from impacting the car ahead.
Mfg Campaign: 11435707
Recall Date: Oct 6, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
Power train operation is erratic and unpredictable. I have have experienced the same problems of other reports (loss of power when turning, jerking/rough shifts, cruise control issues) with the addition of this: when stopping the vehicle in a smooth controlled fashion, it suddenly has a boost of acceleration at 1-2 mph which requires extra brake pedal pressure to keep from impacting the car ahead.
Corrective Action:
Power train operation is erratic and unpredictable. I have have experienced the same problems of other reports (loss of power when turning, jerking/rough shifts, cruise control issues) with the addition of this: when stopping the vehicle in a smooth controlled fashion, it suddenly has a boost of acceleration at 1-2 mph which requires extra brake pedal pressure to keep from impacting the car ahead.
Additional Notes:
Power train operation is erratic and unpredictable. I have have experienced the same problems of other reports (loss of power when turning, jerking/rough shifts, cruise control issues) with the addition of this: when stopping the vehicle in a smooth controlled fashion, it suddenly has a boost of acceleration at 1-2 mph which requires extra brake pedal pressure to keep from impacting the car ahead.
Mfg Campaign: 11435707
Recall Date: Oct 6, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
The transmission is failing after only 6000 miles. The vehicle suddenly and without warning will stop functioning, this happens while driving. The vehicle comes out of drive gear while still running and leaves driver with no ability to move out of traffic. This has happened numerous times over the last few weeks. After researching online it became evident that this is a common problem with the 2021 Kia Sorento. Many consumers complaining of the same thing. My wife was almost rear ended Saturday when the vehicle jumped out of gear and she was unable to get it out of traffic. These vehicles pose a very high risk and probability of causing accidents.
Corrective Action:
The transmission is failing after only 6000 miles. The vehicle suddenly and without warning will stop functioning, this happens while driving. The vehicle comes out of drive gear while still running and leaves driver with no ability to move out of traffic. This has happened numerous times over the last few weeks. After researching online it became evident that this is a common problem with the 2021 Kia Sorento. Many consumers complaining of the same thing. My wife was almost rear ended Saturday when the vehicle jumped out of gear and she was unable to get it out of traffic. These vehicles pose a very high risk and probability of causing accidents.
Additional Notes:
The transmission is failing after only 6000 miles. The vehicle suddenly and without warning will stop functioning, this happens while driving. The vehicle comes out of drive gear while still running and leaves driver with no ability to move out of traffic. This has happened numerous times over the last few weeks. After researching online it became evident that this is a common problem with the 2021 Kia Sorento. Many consumers complaining of the same thing. My wife was almost rear ended Saturday when the vehicle jumped out of gear and she was unable to get it out of traffic. These vehicles pose a very high risk and probability of causing accidents.
Mfg Campaign: 11435306
Recall Date: Oct 3, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
In traffic at a stop either needing to make a turn or just accelerate forward, when passing over an uneven surface (pothole, sidewalk curb from exiting a business), the accelerator does not respond to the pressure being applied and the vehicle barely moves even with pedal nearly to the floor (like crawls 1-2MPH), the traction control light blinks, to get across the intersection or junction and then it suddenly performs as if nothing happened. This is very dangerous as the vehicle is almost practically stalled and all you can see is oncoming traffic approaching. It is very hard to replicate but occurs at the most unfortunate times. The vehicle was just at its' first service appointment where I escalated the issue to the service department. They claimed they could not replicate, but they knew what I was describing and said there was nothing they could do. I also asked if they could ride with me so I can try to replicate it, but they declined. However; this is a safety concern.
Corrective Action:
In traffic at a stop either needing to make a turn or just accelerate forward, when passing over an uneven surface (pothole, sidewalk curb from exiting a business), the accelerator does not respond to the pressure being applied and the vehicle barely moves even with pedal nearly to the floor (like crawls 1-2MPH), the traction control light blinks, to get across the intersection or junction and then it suddenly performs as if nothing happened. This is very dangerous as the vehicle is almost practically stalled and all you can see is oncoming traffic approaching. It is very hard to replicate but occurs at the most unfortunate times. The vehicle was just at its' first service appointment where I escalated the issue to the service department. They claimed they could not replicate, but they knew what I was describing and said there was nothing they could do. I also asked if they could ride with me so I can try to replicate it, but they declined. However; this is a safety concern.
Additional Notes:
In traffic at a stop either needing to make a turn or just accelerate forward, when passing over an uneven surface (pothole, sidewalk curb from exiting a business), the accelerator does not respond to the pressure being applied and the vehicle barely moves even with pedal nearly to the floor (like crawls 1-2MPH), the traction control light blinks, to get across the intersection or junction and then it suddenly performs as if nothing happened. This is very dangerous as the vehicle is almost practically stalled and all you can see is oncoming traffic approaching. It is very hard to replicate but occurs at the most unfortunate times. The vehicle was just at its' first service appointment where I escalated the issue to the service department. They claimed they could not replicate, but they knew what I was describing and said there was nothing they could do. I also asked if they could ride with me so I can try to replicate it, but they declined. However; this is a safety concern.
Mfg Campaign: 11430618
Recall Date: Aug 26, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Engine stall while sitting in red light twice in one month. I had to put vehicle in park and restart the vehicle to get the vehicle moving.
Corrective Action:
Engine stall while sitting in red light twice in one month. I had to put vehicle in park and restart the vehicle to get the vehicle moving.
Additional Notes:
Engine stall while sitting in red light twice in one month. I had to put vehicle in park and restart the vehicle to get the vehicle moving.
Mfg Campaign: 11428052
Recall Date: Aug 6, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
I am having trouble with traction control on my 2021 SX Xline... when turning it comes on suddenly resulting in power loss and no ability to accelerate. This has happened four times since purchasing the vehicle. I nearly got hit when it happened twice last night trying to get home. It is dry here - no water or rain. The vehicle was in smart mode, has awd and the traction control lights flickered on and off on and off right before the problem happens.
Corrective Action:
I am having trouble with traction control on my 2021 SX Xline... when turning it comes on suddenly resulting in power loss and no ability to accelerate. This has happened four times since purchasing the vehicle. I nearly got hit when it happened twice last night trying to get home. It is dry here - no water or rain. The vehicle was in smart mode, has awd and the traction control lights flickered on and off on and off right before the problem happens.
Additional Notes:
I am having trouble with traction control on my 2021 SX Xline... when turning it comes on suddenly resulting in power loss and no ability to accelerate. This has happened four times since purchasing the vehicle. I nearly got hit when it happened twice last night trying to get home. It is dry here - no water or rain. The vehicle was in smart mode, has awd and the traction control lights flickered on and off on and off right before the problem happens.
Mfg Campaign: 11427847
Recall Date: Aug 5, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Potential Consequences:
The transmission failed entirely after 3,738 miles, disabling the car. Fortunately, the vehicle was parked when the transmission failed. Loss of power while actively driving could result in serious risk, crashes or death. Upon completion of repairs, Kia Van Nuys self-reported to me that at least 4-5 2021 Kia Sorrento were currently in for repair with the same issue of transmission failure after only 3,000 - 4,000 miles.
Corrective Action:
The transmission failed entirely after 3,738 miles, disabling the car. Fortunately, the vehicle was parked when the transmission failed. Loss of power while actively driving could result in serious risk, crashes or death. Upon completion of repairs, Kia Van Nuys self-reported to me that at least 4-5 2021 Kia Sorrento were currently in for repair with the same issue of transmission failure after only 3,000 - 4,000 miles.
Additional Notes:
The transmission failed entirely after 3,738 miles, disabling the car. Fortunately, the vehicle was parked when the transmission failed. Loss of power while actively driving could result in serious risk, crashes or death. Upon completion of repairs, Kia Van Nuys self-reported to me that at least 4-5 2021 Kia Sorrento were currently in for repair with the same issue of transmission failure after only 3,000 - 4,000 miles.
Mfg Campaign: 11427631
Recall Date: Aug 3, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Rough idle when waiting on intersection due to red light. possible knocking sounds each and every time engine turns off due to stop & go feature or when I turn the key off. It's been happening since middle of March..
Corrective Action:
Rough idle when waiting on intersection due to red light. possible knocking sounds each and every time engine turns off due to stop & go feature or when I turn the key off. It's been happening since middle of March..
Additional Notes:
Rough idle when waiting on intersection due to red light. possible knocking sounds each and every time engine turns off due to stop & go feature or when I turn the key off. It's been happening since middle of March..
Mfg Campaign: 11427491
Recall Date: Aug 2, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Potential Consequences:
On Monday 7/26/2021 I heard a popping sound and discovered that the windshield of my 2021 Kia Sorento SX sustained an approximate 2–3 inch starburst sized crack that proceeded to spread overnight while parked in the garage. The crack increased to about 6 inches long. The crack is topmost more on the driver’s side, initiating a pinpoint exactly on the edge of the middle black patterned grid directly to the left of the rear view mirror mounting. While inspecting the crack this morning , running my fingers along the damage glass both inside and out, I could not feel any divots. The glass to the touch was as smooth as silk. I am concerned about the possibility of a factory defect due to the recall of 2019 Kia Telluride windshields. This car is only 6 months old.
Corrective Action:
On Monday 7/26/2021 I heard a popping sound and discovered that the windshield of my 2021 Kia Sorento SX sustained an approximate 2–3 inch starburst sized crack that proceeded to spread overnight while parked in the garage. The crack increased to about 6 inches long. The crack is topmost more on the driver’s side, initiating a pinpoint exactly on the edge of the middle black patterned grid directly to the left of the rear view mirror mounting. While inspecting the crack this morning , running my fingers along the damage glass both inside and out, I could not feel any divots. The glass to the touch was as smooth as silk. I am concerned about the possibility of a factory defect due to the recall of 2019 Kia Telluride windshields. This car is only 6 months old.
Additional Notes:
On Monday 7/26/2021 I heard a popping sound and discovered that the windshield of my 2021 Kia Sorento SX sustained an approximate 2–3 inch starburst sized crack that proceeded to spread overnight while parked in the garage. The crack increased to about 6 inches long. The crack is topmost more on the driver’s side, initiating a pinpoint exactly on the edge of the middle black patterned grid directly to the left of the rear view mirror mounting. While inspecting the crack this morning , running my fingers along the damage glass both inside and out, I could not feel any divots. The glass to the touch was as smooth as silk. I am concerned about the possibility of a factory defect due to the recall of 2019 Kia Telluride windshields. This car is only 6 months old.
Mfg Campaign: 11426962
Recall Date: Jul 29, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, the contact noticed that the exhaust started to leak. The contact also stated that the engine was overheating. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not yet diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was relating the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 21V519000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 7,911.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, the contact noticed that the exhaust started to leak. The contact also stated that the engine was overheating. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not yet diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was relating the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 21V519000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 7,911.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle, the contact noticed that the exhaust started to leak. The contact also stated that the engine was overheating. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not yet diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was relating the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 21V519000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 7,911.
Mfg Campaign: 11426095
Recall Date: Jul 23, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL
Potential Consequences:
KIA's manual gives instructions on two different ways (having two is a bit odd) to disengage their adaptive cruise control (KIA's name for it is Smart Cruise Control). Neither works. It is not possible to disengage SCC and use regular cruise control. This has been brought to the attention of the dealer from where the car was purchased (who has been working with us non-stop) as well as by me to KIA via their website. The dealer's service department has inspected it and cannot find a way to disengage the SCC. (Other safety features built into the car can be turned off). KIA is balking at finding a fix. I cannot use cruise control in this car without also accepting the SCC feature. I find it dangerous unless it is what I want engaged. I prefer to be in control of my vehicle and do not want the car adjusting my speed for me. If I'm approaching a vehicle and signal to pass, but first get to close to the vehicle I wish to pass according to the vehicle's software, the car slows down as I move into a passing lane. Even if I have plenty of room for someone who may already be in that lane, my vehicle slowing down until the camera and software determine it's 'safe' again poses a problem. I can give other examples, but am sure you get the idea. Suffice to say, other brands of vehicles have a way to disengage adaptive cruise control features. KIA's manual states it can be disengaged, but as stated, those directions do not work. KIA needs to make this right. Since I need to give a date next, please realize this has been ongoing since our purchase on April 30, 2021.
Corrective Action:
KIA's manual gives instructions on two different ways (having two is a bit odd) to disengage their adaptive cruise control (KIA's name for it is Smart Cruise Control). Neither works. It is not possible to disengage SCC and use regular cruise control. This has been brought to the attention of the dealer from where the car was purchased (who has been working with us non-stop) as well as by me to KIA via their website. The dealer's service department has inspected it and cannot find a way to disengage the SCC. (Other safety features built into the car can be turned off). KIA is balking at finding a fix. I cannot use cruise control in this car without also accepting the SCC feature. I find it dangerous unless it is what I want engaged. I prefer to be in control of my vehicle and do not want the car adjusting my speed for me. If I'm approaching a vehicle and signal to pass, but first get to close to the vehicle I wish to pass according to the vehicle's software, the car slows down as I move into a passing lane. Even if I have plenty of room for someone who may already be in that lane, my vehicle slowing down until the camera and software determine it's 'safe' again poses a problem. I can give other examples, but am sure you get the idea. Suffice to say, other brands of vehicles have a way to disengage adaptive cruise control features. KIA's manual states it can be disengaged, but as stated, those directions do not work. KIA needs to make this right. Since I need to give a date next, please realize this has been ongoing since our purchase on April 30, 2021.
Additional Notes:
KIA's manual gives instructions on two different ways (having two is a bit odd) to disengage their adaptive cruise control (KIA's name for it is Smart Cruise Control). Neither works. It is not possible to disengage SCC and use regular cruise control. This has been brought to the attention of the dealer from where the car was purchased (who has been working with us non-stop) as well as by me to KIA via their website. The dealer's service department has inspected it and cannot find a way to disengage the SCC. (Other safety features built into the car can be turned off). KIA is balking at finding a fix. I cannot use cruise control in this car without also accepting the SCC feature. I find it dangerous unless it is what I want engaged. I prefer to be in control of my vehicle and do not want the car adjusting my speed for me. If I'm approaching a vehicle and signal to pass, but first get to close to the vehicle I wish to pass according to the vehicle's software, the car slows down as I move into a passing lane. Even if I have plenty of room for someone who may already be in that lane, my vehicle slowing down until the camera and software determine it's 'safe' again poses a problem. I can give other examples, but am sure you get the idea. Suffice to say, other brands of vehicles have a way to disengage adaptive cruise control features. KIA's manual states it can be disengaged, but as stated, those directions do not work. KIA needs to make this right. Since I need to give a date next, please realize this has been ongoing since our purchase on April 30, 2021.
Mfg Campaign: 11423184
Recall Date: Jul 2, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Potential Consequences:
On Wednesday June 2, 2021 around 12:15pm I was leaving a teacher summer workshop and I started the car as usual, no issues, and proceeded to leave the parking lot to make a right turn onto the street. I was about a mile away from home. As I proceeded to hit the gas the car moved forward into the street then failed to shift into the next gear, which left me stranded with traffic quickly coming up behind me. I turned the wheel really hard to get as close to the curb as possible. I proceeded to press the gas pedal all the way to the floor and nothing happened except high rpms around 3-4k. I looked at the dash to see if there were any warning lights, at the same time I am pressing the gas pedal trying to get the car to move forward. It suddenly moved forward so I merged over to the left lane, with traffic coming up behind me, and it happened again. It failed to shift into the next gear and seemed to be stuck. I am moving forward about 1-2 mph. I stop in traffic and within 15 seconds it caught second gear and moved forward and I was able to make it to the middle lane. The Sorento started to act normal, shifting gears and moving forward, so I proceeded towards the light to make a left-hand turn. I waited until all the oncoming traffic passed by to make my left-hand turn, then I hit the accelerator and it lurched forward and wouldn’t shift into the next gear, it just continued to rev to 4k. I’m coasting along at about 1-2mph trying to get through the intersection so I don’t get hit by another car. I move the shifter into a different gear to see if it would catch and it didn’t. I continue pressing the gas pedal and it all of a sudden lurched forward and started acting like normal. I was about a half mile from home at this point. The car acted like normal and I was watching the dash to see if any warning lights were illuminated, no lights every appeared on the dash. Dealer can't replicate issue.
Corrective Action:
On Wednesday June 2, 2021 around 12:15pm I was leaving a teacher summer workshop and I started the car as usual, no issues, and proceeded to leave the parking lot to make a right turn onto the street. I was about a mile away from home. As I proceeded to hit the gas the car moved forward into the street then failed to shift into the next gear, which left me stranded with traffic quickly coming up behind me. I turned the wheel really hard to get as close to the curb as possible. I proceeded to press the gas pedal all the way to the floor and nothing happened except high rpms around 3-4k. I looked at the dash to see if there were any warning lights, at the same time I am pressing the gas pedal trying to get the car to move forward. It suddenly moved forward so I merged over to the left lane, with traffic coming up behind me, and it happened again. It failed to shift into the next gear and seemed to be stuck. I am moving forward about 1-2 mph. I stop in traffic and within 15 seconds it caught second gear and moved forward and I was able to make it to the middle lane. The Sorento started to act normal, shifting gears and moving forward, so I proceeded towards the light to make a left-hand turn. I waited until all the oncoming traffic passed by to make my left-hand turn, then I hit the accelerator and it lurched forward and wouldn’t shift into the next gear, it just continued to rev to 4k. I’m coasting along at about 1-2mph trying to get through the intersection so I don’t get hit by another car. I move the shifter into a different gear to see if it would catch and it didn’t. I continue pressing the gas pedal and it all of a sudden lurched forward and started acting like normal. I was about a half mile from home at this point. The car acted like normal and I was watching the dash to see if any warning lights were illuminated, no lights every appeared on the dash. Dealer can't replicate issue.
Additional Notes:
On Wednesday June 2, 2021 around 12:15pm I was leaving a teacher summer workshop and I started the car as usual, no issues, and proceeded to leave the parking lot to make a right turn onto the street. I was about a mile away from home. As I proceeded to hit the gas the car moved forward into the street then failed to shift into the next gear, which left me stranded with traffic quickly coming up behind me. I turned the wheel really hard to get as close to the curb as possible. I proceeded to press the gas pedal all the way to the floor and nothing happened except high rpms around 3-4k. I looked at the dash to see if there were any warning lights, at the same time I am pressing the gas pedal trying to get the car to move forward. It suddenly moved forward so I merged over to the left lane, with traffic coming up behind me, and it happened again. It failed to shift into the next gear and seemed to be stuck. I am moving forward about 1-2 mph. I stop in traffic and within 15 seconds it caught second gear and moved forward and I was able to make it to the middle lane. The Sorento started to act normal, shifting gears and moving forward, so I proceeded towards the light to make a left-hand turn. I waited until all the oncoming traffic passed by to make my left-hand turn, then I hit the accelerator and it lurched forward and wouldn’t shift into the next gear, it just continued to rev to 4k. I’m coasting along at about 1-2mph trying to get through the intersection so I don’t get hit by another car. I move the shifter into a different gear to see if it would catch and it didn’t. I continue pressing the gas pedal and it all of a sudden lurched forward and started acting like normal. I was about a half mile from home at this point. The car acted like normal and I was watching the dash to see if any warning lights were illuminated, no lights every appeared on the dash. Dealer can't replicate issue.
Mfg Campaign: 11420331
Recall Date: Jun 9, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
On Wednesday June 2, 2021 around 12:15pm I was leaving a teacher summer workshop and I started the car as usual, no issues, and proceeded to leave the parking lot to make a right turn onto the street. I was about a mile away from home. As I proceeded to hit the gas the car moved forward into the street then failed to shift into the next gear, which left me stranded with traffic quickly coming up behind me. I turned the wheel really hard to get as close to the curb as possible. I proceeded to press the gas pedal all the way to the floor and nothing happened except high rpms around 3-4k. I looked at the dash to see if there were any warning lights, at the same time I am pressing the gas pedal trying to get the car to move forward. It suddenly moved forward so I merged over to the left lane, with traffic coming up behind me, and it happened again. It failed to shift into the next gear and seemed to be stuck. I am moving forward about 1-2 mph. I stop in traffic and within 15 seconds it caught second gear and moved forward and I was able to make it to the middle lane. The Sorento started to act normal, shifting gears and moving forward, so I proceeded towards the light to make a left-hand turn. I waited until all the oncoming traffic passed by to make my left-hand turn, then I hit the accelerator and it lurched forward and wouldn’t shift into the next gear, it just continued to rev to 4k. I’m coasting along at about 1-2mph trying to get through the intersection so I don’t get hit by another car. I move the shifter into a different gear to see if it would catch and it didn’t. I continue pressing the gas pedal and it all of a sudden lurched forward and started acting like normal. I was about a half mile from home at this point. The car acted like normal and I was watching the dash to see if any warning lights were illuminated, no lights every appeared on the dash. Dealer can't replicate issue.
Corrective Action:
On Wednesday June 2, 2021 around 12:15pm I was leaving a teacher summer workshop and I started the car as usual, no issues, and proceeded to leave the parking lot to make a right turn onto the street. I was about a mile away from home. As I proceeded to hit the gas the car moved forward into the street then failed to shift into the next gear, which left me stranded with traffic quickly coming up behind me. I turned the wheel really hard to get as close to the curb as possible. I proceeded to press the gas pedal all the way to the floor and nothing happened except high rpms around 3-4k. I looked at the dash to see if there were any warning lights, at the same time I am pressing the gas pedal trying to get the car to move forward. It suddenly moved forward so I merged over to the left lane, with traffic coming up behind me, and it happened again. It failed to shift into the next gear and seemed to be stuck. I am moving forward about 1-2 mph. I stop in traffic and within 15 seconds it caught second gear and moved forward and I was able to make it to the middle lane. The Sorento started to act normal, shifting gears and moving forward, so I proceeded towards the light to make a left-hand turn. I waited until all the oncoming traffic passed by to make my left-hand turn, then I hit the accelerator and it lurched forward and wouldn’t shift into the next gear, it just continued to rev to 4k. I’m coasting along at about 1-2mph trying to get through the intersection so I don’t get hit by another car. I move the shifter into a different gear to see if it would catch and it didn’t. I continue pressing the gas pedal and it all of a sudden lurched forward and started acting like normal. I was about a half mile from home at this point. The car acted like normal and I was watching the dash to see if any warning lights were illuminated, no lights every appeared on the dash. Dealer can't replicate issue.
Additional Notes:
On Wednesday June 2, 2021 around 12:15pm I was leaving a teacher summer workshop and I started the car as usual, no issues, and proceeded to leave the parking lot to make a right turn onto the street. I was about a mile away from home. As I proceeded to hit the gas the car moved forward into the street then failed to shift into the next gear, which left me stranded with traffic quickly coming up behind me. I turned the wheel really hard to get as close to the curb as possible. I proceeded to press the gas pedal all the way to the floor and nothing happened except high rpms around 3-4k. I looked at the dash to see if there were any warning lights, at the same time I am pressing the gas pedal trying to get the car to move forward. It suddenly moved forward so I merged over to the left lane, with traffic coming up behind me, and it happened again. It failed to shift into the next gear and seemed to be stuck. I am moving forward about 1-2 mph. I stop in traffic and within 15 seconds it caught second gear and moved forward and I was able to make it to the middle lane. The Sorento started to act normal, shifting gears and moving forward, so I proceeded towards the light to make a left-hand turn. I waited until all the oncoming traffic passed by to make my left-hand turn, then I hit the accelerator and it lurched forward and wouldn’t shift into the next gear, it just continued to rev to 4k. I’m coasting along at about 1-2mph trying to get through the intersection so I don’t get hit by another car. I move the shifter into a different gear to see if it would catch and it didn’t. I continue pressing the gas pedal and it all of a sudden lurched forward and started acting like normal. I was about a half mile from home at this point. The car acted like normal and I was watching the dash to see if any warning lights were illuminated, no lights every appeared on the dash. Dealer can't replicate issue.
Mfg Campaign: 11420331
Recall Date: Jun 9, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Purchased vehicle new on 4/7/21 Had an issue on 4/15/21(NHTSA CLAIM# 11408325) - Sons Kia advised that it was just a loose battery terminal cable. Pleaded with them to replace cable for possible short to no avail. On 6/6/21 - the car wouldnt open with key or UVO application - called KIA Roadside Assistance twice and couldnt get anyone. After a couple of hours, the car finally had power and let me in. While driving home, on the interstate, I was going 60 mph. I tried to speed up, but the car wouldnt let me and the RPM stayed at 2(2000). When I got off the exit, I slowed down to turn. When I went to push gas, it didnt want to accelerate. It finally accelerated after a couple tries. Additionally, I noticed when speeding up and slowing down - I hear clicks when the gears change. I dropped the automobile off at Calavan Kia in Lithia Springs, GA. Waiting on a service advisor to call.
Corrective Action:
Purchased vehicle new on 4/7/21 Had an issue on 4/15/21(NHTSA CLAIM# 11408325) - Sons Kia advised that it was just a loose battery terminal cable. Pleaded with them to replace cable for possible short to no avail. On 6/6/21 - the car wouldnt open with key or UVO application - called KIA Roadside Assistance twice and couldnt get anyone. After a couple of hours, the car finally had power and let me in. While driving home, on the interstate, I was going 60 mph. I tried to speed up, but the car wouldnt let me and the RPM stayed at 2(2000). When I got off the exit, I slowed down to turn. When I went to push gas, it didnt want to accelerate. It finally accelerated after a couple tries. Additionally, I noticed when speeding up and slowing down - I hear clicks when the gears change. I dropped the automobile off at Calavan Kia in Lithia Springs, GA. Waiting on a service advisor to call.
Additional Notes:
Purchased vehicle new on 4/7/21 Had an issue on 4/15/21(NHTSA CLAIM# 11408325) - Sons Kia advised that it was just a loose battery terminal cable. Pleaded with them to replace cable for possible short to no avail. On 6/6/21 - the car wouldnt open with key or UVO application - called KIA Roadside Assistance twice and couldnt get anyone. After a couple of hours, the car finally had power and let me in. While driving home, on the interstate, I was going 60 mph. I tried to speed up, but the car wouldnt let me and the RPM stayed at 2(2000). When I got off the exit, I slowed down to turn. When I went to push gas, it didnt want to accelerate. It finally accelerated after a couple tries. Additionally, I noticed when speeding up and slowing down - I hear clicks when the gears change. I dropped the automobile off at Calavan Kia in Lithia Springs, GA. Waiting on a service advisor to call.
Mfg Campaign: 11419918
Recall Date: Jun 7, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Corrective Action:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Additional Notes:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Mfg Campaign: 11408325
Recall Date: Apr 15, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Corrective Action:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Additional Notes:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Mfg Campaign: 11408325
Recall Date: Apr 15, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Corrective Action:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Additional Notes:
ONLY HAD CAR 8 DAYS WITH 500 MILES. WENT TO PULL AWAY FROM STOP SIGN AND CAR CUT OFF. WHEN ATTEMPTED TO RESTART, CAR ADVISED TO PLACE IN PARK FIRST. ONCE PLACED IN PARK AND PRESSED START BUTTON - ALL SYSTEMS WENT DEAD. SPARKS CAME FROM GROUNDING CABLE UNDER HOOD. WHEN GROUNDING CABLE WAS ADJUSTED, CAR STARTED TURNING ON AND OFF RANDOMLY. AFTER WAITING TWO HOURS FOR TOW TRUCK, WAS ABLE TO ADJUST GROUND CABLES WELL ENOUGH TO DRIVE HOME. SUBSENQUENTLY, CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP.
Mfg Campaign: 11408325
Recall Date: Apr 15, 2021
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Potential Consequences:
I'VE HAD VEHICLE FOR APPROXIMATELY TWO MONTHS AND TWO DAYS. INTERMITTENT ISSUE WHERE VEHICLE FAILS TO ACCELERATE WHEN MAKING A TURN AFTER STOPPING (NO VEHICLE IN FRONT) OR ACCELERATING FORWARD AFTER A STOP (STOP LIGHT WITH VEHICLE IN FRONT). ISSUE OCCURRED FIRST ON 20 FEB 21 AND AGAIN ON 23 MAR 23. VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED 23 JAN 21. ISSUE SO FAR APPEARS TO OCCUR MONTHLY AROUND THE SAME TIME OF THE MONTH. ISSUE NOT EASY TO REPLICATE. CONCERNED THAT ISSUE COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AS VEHICLE LITERALLY ACCELERATES ABOUT 1-2MPH AND WHEN OUT OF "DANGER ZONE" ACCELERATION PICKS UP. VERY SCARY. REFER TO THIS FORUM THREAD - IT APPEARS A COUPLE OTHER PEOPLE MAY BE HAVING A SIMILAR ISSUE. HTTPS://WWW.KIA-FORUMS.COM/THREADS/SPORADIC-ISSUE-NO-ACCELERATION-FROM-STOP.350565/
Corrective Action:
I'VE HAD VEHICLE FOR APPROXIMATELY TWO MONTHS AND TWO DAYS. INTERMITTENT ISSUE WHERE VEHICLE FAILS TO ACCELERATE WHEN MAKING A TURN AFTER STOPPING (NO VEHICLE IN FRONT) OR ACCELERATING FORWARD AFTER A STOP (STOP LIGHT WITH VEHICLE IN FRONT). ISSUE OCCURRED FIRST ON 20 FEB 21 AND AGAIN ON 23 MAR 23. VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED 23 JAN 21. ISSUE SO FAR APPEARS TO OCCUR MONTHLY AROUND THE SAME TIME OF THE MONTH. ISSUE NOT EASY TO REPLICATE. CONCERNED THAT ISSUE COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AS VEHICLE LITERALLY ACCELERATES ABOUT 1-2MPH AND WHEN OUT OF "DANGER ZONE" ACCELERATION PICKS UP. VERY SCARY. REFER TO THIS FORUM THREAD - IT APPEARS A COUPLE OTHER PEOPLE MAY BE HAVING A SIMILAR ISSUE. HTTPS://WWW.KIA-FORUMS.COM/THREADS/SPORADIC-ISSUE-NO-ACCELERATION-FROM-STOP.350565/
Additional Notes:
I'VE HAD VEHICLE FOR APPROXIMATELY TWO MONTHS AND TWO DAYS. INTERMITTENT ISSUE WHERE VEHICLE FAILS TO ACCELERATE WHEN MAKING A TURN AFTER STOPPING (NO VEHICLE IN FRONT) OR ACCELERATING FORWARD AFTER A STOP (STOP LIGHT WITH VEHICLE IN FRONT). ISSUE OCCURRED FIRST ON 20 FEB 21 AND AGAIN ON 23 MAR 23. VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED 23 JAN 21. ISSUE SO FAR APPEARS TO OCCUR MONTHLY AROUND THE SAME TIME OF THE MONTH. ISSUE NOT EASY TO REPLICATE. CONCERNED THAT ISSUE COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT AS VEHICLE LITERALLY ACCELERATES ABOUT 1-2MPH AND WHEN OUT OF "DANGER ZONE" ACCELERATION PICKS UP. VERY SCARY. REFER TO THIS FORUM THREAD - IT APPEARS A COUPLE OTHER PEOPLE MAY BE HAVING A SIMILAR ISSUE. HTTPS://WWW.KIA-FORUMS.COM/THREADS/SPORADIC-ISSUE-NO-ACCELERATION-FROM-STOP.350565/
Mfg Campaign: 11404916
Recall Date: Mar 25, 2021
Need Legal Help?
Featured Attorneys
Barry Edzant
Edzant Price LLC
Valencia, CA • 36 yrs
Focus: Lemon Law, Personal Injury