2003 KIA SORENTO
1 recalls, 421 complaints - 42 TSBs
05V353000 Aug 4, 2005
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Defect Description
CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE A FUEL LEAK FROM FUEL TUBES NEAR THE FUEL TANK DUE TO AN INTERFERENCE FIT WITH THE VEHICLE FLOOR PANEL.
Consequence
FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE A SECTION OF THE FUEL LINE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 10, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.
Complaint Statistics
421 total complaints
13 crashes 3 fires 17 injuries 1 deaths
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 46 |
| ENGINE | 43 |
| FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 34 |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 33 |
| STEERING | 24 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 20 |
| AIR BAGS | 18 |
| SUSPENSION | 13 |
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING | 12 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM | 11 |
VISIBILITY/WIPER
Mar 20, 2025
Incident date: Jan 1, 2025
I was driving my car like usual and I almost reached home and my windshield vipers stopped working. I parked my car and checked it and the wipers are not working.
ENGINE
Oct 1, 2019
Incident date: Jun 15, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. THE VEHICLE STALLED AND LOST MOTIVE POWER WHILE DRIVING THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED FOR HIS SAFETY WHEN THE VEHICLE STALL THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT IT WAS RELATED TO THE FUEL SYSTEM WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE SPUTTERED AND STA... Read more
ENGINE
Aug 30, 2019
Incident date: Aug 29, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED THAT SMOKE CAME FROM OUT OF THE VENTS. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER ON THE SHOULDER AND EXITED THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE SPARKS COMING FROM THE ENGINE AND THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WE... Read more
Crash
ENGINE
May 13, 2019
Incident date: May 10, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORRENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT A 'SNOW' WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AS WELL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FO... Read more
ENGINE
Apr 26, 2019
Incident date: Apr 11, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RPMS WOULD NOT GO OVER 4,000 AND SMOKE APPEARED FROM THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SPEED WOULD NOT EXCEED 40 MPH AND THE ENGINE WAS DRAINING THE OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PEAK KIA (5077 S WADSWORTH BLVD, LITTLETON, CO... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Nov 6, 2018
Incident date: Oct 2, 2018
WHEN PUMPING GAS THERE IS A SUDDEN SPEWING OF GASOLINE OUT OF THE TANK AND ALL OVER ME. I MANAGED SEVERAL TIMES TO GET A FEW GALLONS IN BY PUMPING SLOWLY BUT THE NEXT DAY THE GAS GAGE READS EMPTY AND HAS ACTUALLY RUN OUT OF GAS SEVERAL TIMES! SO NOT ONLY AM I HAVING A PROBLEM PUTTING GAS IN, IT IS I... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
May 16, 2018
Incident date: Mar 1, 2018
AFTER PURCHASING CAR FROM PRIVATE SELLER I DISCOVERED THAT WHEN TRYING TO PUMP GAS, MY FUEL SPRAYS BACK OUT ALL OVER MYSELF, MY VEHICLE, AND THE GROUND. HAVE EVEN HAD IT SPRAY INTO MY EYES. DID RESEARCH AND SAW THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON OCCURRENCE FOR THIS YEAR/MAKE/MODEL. I BELIEVE ITS A FIRE AND ... Read more
1 injured
AIR BAGS
Jan 29, 2018
Incident date: Dec 8, 2017
TAKATA RECALL. MY CAR WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION DUE TO A PROBLEM WITH ONE OF THE AIRBAGS. THE CAR HASN'T BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT BUT THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON AND I'M TOLD IT WILL NOT INFLATE. I WAS TOLD TO CHECK FOR RECALLS.
STEERING
Nov 23, 2017
Incident date: Nov 8, 2017
TAKATA RECALL THE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY BOLT KEEPS COMING LOSE AND THIS CAUSES THE STEERING WHEEL TO BECOME STIFF. THIS HAPPENED IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC AND HAD TO GET IT TOWED TO A FRIENDS HOUSE. CURRENTLY THE CAR IS NOT DRIVEABLE FOR OVER TWO WEEKS.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Nov 6, 2017
Incident date: Oct 1, 2017
MY 2003 KIA SORENTO DRIVES FOR 15 MINUTES AND STALLS OUT. I WAIT 5 MIN AND IT'LL START AND DRIVE FOR A BLOCK OR 2AND CONTINUES TO THAT UNTIL I GET IT TOWED HOME
POWER TRAIN
Nov 6, 2017
Incident date: Oct 1, 2017
MY 2003 KIA SORENTO DRIVES FOR 15 MINUTES AND STALLS OUT. I WAIT 5 MIN AND IT'LL START AND DRIVE FOR A BLOCK OR 2AND CONTINUES TO THAT UNTIL I GET IT TOWED HOME
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Nov 6, 2017
Incident date: Oct 1, 2017
MY 2003 KIA SORENTO DRIVES FOR 15 MINUTES AND STALLS OUT. I WAIT 5 MIN AND IT'LL START AND DRIVE FOR A BLOCK OR 2AND CONTINUES TO THAT UNTIL I GET IT TOWED HOME
ENGINE
Oct 26, 2017
Incident date: Oct 23, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE ENGINE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER AND CRANKSHAFT BOLT FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, BUT THE FAILURE RECU... Read more
ENGINE
Jun 29, 2017
Incident date: Jun 14, 2017
ENGINE CRANK SHAFT HAS BROKEN FOUR TIME , AIR COMPRESSER TWO TIME
SUSPENSION
Mar 21, 2017
Incident date: Mar 5, 2017
RUST AND CORROSION REAR AXLE BRACKET AND TRAILING ARM MOUNT. REAR AXLE BRACKET BROKE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Mar 20, 2017
Incident date: Mar 19, 2017
THE 2003 KIA SORENTO HAS A PROBLEM WITH EXTENSIVE FRAME RUSTING, TO THE POINT WHERE SOME OWNERS HAVE HAD THE SUSPENSION DETACH FROM THE FRAME. ONE OWNER IN PARTICULAR HAS HAD ISSUES WITH THE GAS TANK NEEDING TO BE REPLACED, AND KIA MOTORS REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE PROBLEM. THEY BUILT THE CAR,... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Mar 20, 2017
Incident date: Mar 19, 2017
THE 2003 KIA SORENTO HAS A PROBLEM WITH EXTENSIVE FRAME RUSTING, TO THE POINT WHERE SOME OWNERS HAVE HAD THE SUSPENSION DETACH FROM THE FRAME. ONE OWNER IN PARTICULAR HAS HAD ISSUES WITH THE GAS TANK NEEDING TO BE REPLACED, AND KIA MOTORS REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE PROBLEM. THEY BUILT THE CAR,... Read more
SUSPENSION
Mar 20, 2017
Incident date: Mar 19, 2017
THE 2003 KIA SORENTO HAS A PROBLEM WITH EXTENSIVE FRAME RUSTING, TO THE POINT WHERE SOME OWNERS HAVE HAD THE SUSPENSION DETACH FROM THE FRAME. ONE OWNER IN PARTICULAR HAS HAD ISSUES WITH THE GAS TANK NEEDING TO BE REPLACED, AND KIA MOTORS REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THE PROBLEM. THEY BUILT THE CAR,... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Mar 18, 2017
Incident date: May 28, 2014
VEHICLE BROKE DOWN IN TRAFFIC. FROZE UP,STALLED. LOSS OF STEERING. HAD IT TOWED TO SHOP & WAS TOLD THE CRANK SHAFT SENSOR & RELATED PARTS TO THE CRANK SHAFT HAD TO BE REPLACED. COST FOR TOWING & REPAIRS WERE OVER $700.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Mar 13, 2017
Incident date: Jul 1, 2009
WHILE FUELING UP THE SORENTO, THE FUEL SPIT OUT EVERY TIME EVEN WHILE FUELING AT SLOW SPEEDS. VERY FRUSTRATING , AND DANGEROUS, ESPECIALLY WHEN THE FUEL GETS ON MY SKIN & CLOTHES, THE VEHICLE, AND AT TIMES LEAVES A HUGE PUDDLE ON THE GROUND WHICH COULD BE A FIRE HAZARD. THE DEALERSHIP WAS CONTACTE... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Feb 13, 2017
Incident date: Oct 1, 2016
WHEN I PUMP GAS INTO MY CAR, THE FUEL SPITS BACK OUT AT ME. I HAVE TO PUMP REAL SLOW FOR THIS NOT TO HAPPEN. THIS IS DANGEROUS, GAS GETS ON MY HANDS AND CAR,I HAVE TO CARRY SOAP AND WATER TO WASH THIS OFF OF MY CAR. I CALLED ABOUT THIS AND WAS TOLD BECAUSE MY CAR VIN # WAS NOT ON THE THEIR LIST THE... Read more
ENGINE
Jan 25, 2017
Incident date: Oct 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. IN ADDITION, WHEN THE CONTACT INSERTED FUEL IN THE VEHICLE, FUEL SPEWED OUT THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jan 25, 2017
Incident date: Oct 15, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED AND STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. IN ADDITION, WHEN THE CONTACT INSERTED FUEL IN THE VEHICLE, FUEL SPEWED OUT THE FUEL TANK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jan 4, 2017
Incident date: Sep 3, 2016
TAKATA RECALL...REAR SUSPENSION ALWAYS ROTS OUT. THE SUB FRAME IS BAD.
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jan 4, 2017
Incident date: Sep 3, 2016
TAKATA RECALL...REAR SUSPENSION ALWAYS ROTS OUT. THE SUB FRAME IS BAD.
ENGINE
Jul 31, 2016
Incident date: Jul 30, 2016
WHILE UNDER MOTION ON HIGHWAY AT 65+ MPH, LOST POWER STEERING DUE TO CRANK SHAFT BOLT AND PULLEY FAILURE, RESULTING IN COMPLETE LOSS OF ACCESSORY FUNCTIONS.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jul 21, 2016
Incident date: May 1, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHEN REFUELING THE VEHICLE, FUEL EJECTED OUT OF THE REFUELING HOLE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 101,300.
AIR BAGS
Jul 14, 2016
Incident date: Aug 3, 2015
AIR BAGS COIL SPRING HAS BEEN REPLACED 4 TIMES. THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT IS ALWAYS ON AND KIA REFUSES TO FIX THE PROBLEM. I DON'T KNOW IF THE AIR BAGS WILL DEPLOY IN CASE OF A ACCIDENT. THIS IS BEEN A PROBLEM FROM THE DAY I PURCHASE THE CAR. I DON'T KNOW THE MAKER OF THE AIR BAG SISTEM.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jun 25, 2016
Incident date: May 3, 2016
EVERY TIME I HAVE TO FILL THE GAS TANK ON MY KIA SORENTO 2003 IT SHOOTS BACK THE GASOLINE LIKE A PROYECTILE. IT TAKES AN ETERNITY TO FILL THE GAS TANK IF YOU DON'T WANT TO HAVE GAS ALL OVER YOU. I HAVE EVEN BEING KICKED OUT OF SOME SERVICE STATIONS BECAUSE SPILING SO MUCH GAS IS A HAZARD. IS THERE... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jun 25, 2016
Incident date: Jun 17, 2016
THE DRIVER DOOR CANNOT BE OPENED FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE. I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH KIA SORENTOS.
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jun 21, 2016
Incident date: Jun 20, 2016
WHILE DRIVING I HEARD A CLUNK AND A THE CAR BEGAN ROLLING SIDE TO SIDE. I LIMPED TO A MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD THAT THE FRAME WHERE THE SUSPENSION AND ALL PARTS CONNECT WAS RUSTED OUT. FRAME REPAIR SAID THIS CAN NOT BE FIXED AS THE FRAME IS RUSTED OUT. WHERE THE STABILIZER AND SUSPENSION CONNECTS. TEH ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jun 21, 2016
Incident date: Jun 20, 2016
WHILE DRIVING I HEARD A CLUNK AND A THE CAR BEGAN ROLLING SIDE TO SIDE. I LIMPED TO A MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD THAT THE FRAME WHERE THE SUSPENSION AND ALL PARTS CONNECT WAS RUSTED OUT. FRAME REPAIR SAID THIS CAN NOT BE FIXED AS THE FRAME IS RUSTED OUT. WHERE THE STABILIZER AND SUSPENSION CONNECTS. TEH ... Read more
STEERING
Jun 21, 2016
Incident date: Jun 20, 2016
WHILE DRIVING I HEARD A CLUNK AND A THE CAR BEGAN ROLLING SIDE TO SIDE. I LIMPED TO A MECHANIC AND WAS TOLD THAT THE FRAME WHERE THE SUSPENSION AND ALL PARTS CONNECT WAS RUSTED OUT. FRAME REPAIR SAID THIS CAN NOT BE FIXED AS THE FRAME IS RUSTED OUT. WHERE THE STABILIZER AND SUSPENSION CONNECTS. TEH ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
May 31, 2016
Incident date: May 24, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE STATIONARY, THE VEHICLE SPEWED FUEL ONTO THE GROUND WHEN FUEL WAS BEING ADDED. THIS ISSUE RECURRED REGARDLESS OF THE AMOUNT OF FUEL BEING ADDED TO THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE FAILURE M... Read more
ENGINE
Mar 28, 2016
Incident date: Mar 19, 2016
THE CRANKSHAFT BOLT SUPPORTING THE TIMING SPROCKET AND BALANCE PULLEY SNAPPED AGAIN FOR THE THIRD TIME. RIGHT NOW THE VEHICLE IS IN THE THE KIA DEALER SERVICE CENTER TO REPLACE IT. ONCE AGAIN THEY ARE ASKING FOR A RIDICULOUS AMOUNT OF MONEY TO FIX. LAST BOLT LASTED 4,000 MILES BEFORE IT SNAPPED WHIL... Read more
SUSPENSION
Mar 22, 2016
Incident date: Mar 20, 2016
TAKATA RECALL REAR FRAME CROSS MEMBER RUSTED OUT.
ENGINE
Feb 3, 2016
Incident date: May 23, 2014
WHILE DRIVING ON ROUTE 495 NORTH IN MASSACHUSETTS BETWEEN EXITS 7 AND 8, MY KIA SORENTO LOST POWER TO THE ENGINE TO THE POINT I HAD TO STOP IN THE BREAKDOWN LANE. NO WARNING OF PRIOR SMELL OR POWER LOSS HAD OCCURRED PRIOR TO THE INCIDENT. TOWED TO TWO DIFFERENT SERVICE STATIONS AND BOTH INFORMED ME ... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Jan 28, 2016
Incident date: Sep 29, 2015
IT IS BEYOND ME HOW KIA MOTORS CAN GET AWAY WITH TELLING A BUNCH OF AUTOMOBILE ENGINEERS, THAT THE PROBLEM WITH THERE VEHICLES SPITTING BACK GASOLINE ONTO A PERSON AND KIA MOTORS TELLING THEM IT'S AN AIR FILTER. I TOOK MY2003 KIA SORENTO BACK TO THE DEALERS THINKING I WAS GOING TO GET A NEW CHARCOAL... Read more
1 injured
ENGINE
Jan 22, 2016
Incident date: May 21, 2014
N/A
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jan 20, 2016
Incident date: Sep 10, 2015
I HAVE FUEL STILL SPITTING OUT OF THE FUEL TANK, EVEN AFTER THE SUPPOSED TANK AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT BY BILL DODGE KIA, SACO, ME. I CAN ONLY TRICKLE FUEL IN THE VEHICLE WITHOUT IT SPITTING BACK OUT ON ME AND THE GROUND. I HAVE ALREADY HAD A BAD RASH DUE TO FUEL SPILLING ON ME WITH SHORTS ON LAST SUM... Read more
1 injured
POWER TRAIN
Dec 30, 2015
Incident date: Dec 29, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE GEAR SHIFTED INDEPENDENTLY INTO FOUR WHEEL DRIVE. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO GET IT BACK INTO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE . THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MI... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Dec 22, 2015
Incident date: Nov 3, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE REFUELING, FUEL SPEWED BACK OUT OF THE FILLER NECK WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT FUEL SPLASHED ALL OVER THE FLOOR AND HIS CLOTHES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Dec 21, 2015
Incident date: Jun 17, 2015
WHEN FUELING, AFTER ABOUT 45 SECONDS, GAS SPRAYS BACK UP AND OUT ALL OVER ME AND THE CAR AND THE GROUND. IF THE FUEL PUMP HANDLE IS BARELY DEPRESSED, WHICH PUMPS THE GAS VERY VERY SLOWLY, FUEL WILL BE ACCEPTED. TAKES FOREVER - TIRED OF GAS-SOAKED CLOTHES AND GAS-SOAKED SHOES; TIRED OF SPILLING GAS ... Read more
ENGINE
Dec 17, 2015
Incident date: Dec 15, 2015
CRANKSHAFT BOLT BACKED OUT LOST POWER STEERING BRAKES,KIA IS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM FROM 2002 TO 2009 MANY REPORTS HAVE BEEN FILED,ITS THE MANUFACTURING OF THE BOLT WHICH IS TO SMALL,THEY ARE NOT STANDING BY THIS DEFECT,THERE IS NO PERMENANT FIX FOR THIS AND KIA ISN'T WARNING ANYONE OF THIS PROBLEM W... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 17, 2015
Incident date: Dec 15, 2015
CRANKSHAFT BOLT BACKED OUT LOST POWER STEERING BRAKES,KIA IS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM FROM 2002 TO 2009 MANY REPORTS HAVE BEEN FILED,ITS THE MANUFACTURING OF THE BOLT WHICH IS TO SMALL,THEY ARE NOT STANDING BY THIS DEFECT,THERE IS NO PERMENANT FIX FOR THIS AND KIA ISN'T WARNING ANYONE OF THIS PROBLEM W... Read more
STEERING
Dec 17, 2015
Incident date: Dec 15, 2015
CRANKSHAFT BOLT BACKED OUT LOST POWER STEERING BRAKES,KIA IS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM FROM 2002 TO 2009 MANY REPORTS HAVE BEEN FILED,ITS THE MANUFACTURING OF THE BOLT WHICH IS TO SMALL,THEY ARE NOT STANDING BY THIS DEFECT,THERE IS NO PERMENANT FIX FOR THIS AND KIA ISN'T WARNING ANYONE OF THIS PROBLEM W... Read more
AIR BAGS
Nov 20, 2015
Incident date: Sep 11, 2015
WHEN GO TO SHIFT TRUCK IN DRIVE IT MAKES A CLANK SOUND AND WHEN DRIVING AT A SPEED BETWEEN 65-70 THE TRUCK STARTS VIBRATING, AND WHEN IN REVERSE IT SQUEAKS WHEN BACK UP,AT FIRST MY WIFE IT WAS THE U JOINTS SO WE HAD IT REPLACED BUT IT ALL STARTED HAPPING AGAIN. NEXT OUR BATTERY DIE HAD IT REPLACED W... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Nov 20, 2015
Incident date: Sep 11, 2015
WHEN GO TO SHIFT TRUCK IN DRIVE IT MAKES A CLANK SOUND AND WHEN DRIVING AT A SPEED BETWEEN 65-70 THE TRUCK STARTS VIBRATING, AND WHEN IN REVERSE IT SQUEAKS WHEN BACK UP,AT FIRST MY WIFE IT WAS THE U JOINTS SO WE HAD IT REPLACED BUT IT ALL STARTED HAPPING AGAIN. NEXT OUR BATTERY DIE HAD IT REPLACED W... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Nov 20, 2015
Incident date: Sep 11, 2015
WHEN GO TO SHIFT TRUCK IN DRIVE IT MAKES A CLANK SOUND AND WHEN DRIVING AT A SPEED BETWEEN 65-70 THE TRUCK STARTS VIBRATING, AND WHEN IN REVERSE IT SQUEAKS WHEN BACK UP,AT FIRST MY WIFE IT WAS THE U JOINTS SO WE HAD IT REPLACED BUT IT ALL STARTED HAPPING AGAIN. NEXT OUR BATTERY DIE HAD IT REPLACED W... Read more
ENGINE
Nov 10, 2015
Incident date: Nov 7, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER. THE BRAKE LIGHT AND BATTERY LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART AFTER NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE CRANKSHAFT BOLT NEEDED ... Read more
Showing 50 of 421 complaints.
Technical Service Bulletins, 2003 KIA SORENTO
42 manufacturer communications from 25 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 4 |
| 061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 4 |
| 350000 EQUIPMENT | 3 |
| 356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY | 3 |
| 060000 ENGINE (PWS) | 2 |
| 151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY | 2 |
| 090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER | 2 |
| 070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 2 |
TSB_BOD055_R1
Sep 13, 2021
160000 STRUCTURE
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
TSB_BOD055_R1
Sep 13, 2021
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b
PS539
Mar 2, 2018
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
PITSTOP - ENGINE COMPONENT RE-USE GUIDELINES - In general, parts and components removed during engine repairs should be considered serviceable, and should be thoroughly cleaned and transferred to the new engine.
TSB-GEN085R1
Jan 18, 2017
354000 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some example
TSB-GEN085R1
Jan 18, 2017
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners, which are designed to lock into place once fully attached, are utilized in various Kia models and are strictly intended for ?one time use.? Some example
TSB-GEN085
Nov 4, 2016
170000 LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
TSB-GEN085
Nov 4, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB: MANDATORY REPLACEMENT OF LOCKING/SECURITY HARDWARE - By design, certain fasteners utilized in various Kia models are strictly intended for ?one time use?. Though not limited to the following, some examples are: axle shaft nuts with sta
PS443
Apr 4, 2016
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS443
Apr 4, 2016
350000 EQUIPMENT
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS443
Apr 4, 2016
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
TSB - USE OF AFTERMARKET USB CHARGING CABLES IN USB/12V PORTS - This article provides information regarding the use of USB ports and 12V power outlets to connect/charge mobile phones. Customers may experience issues with their head units th
PS233
Jan 17, 2013
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
PITSTOP: UNUSUAL FUEL TRIM VALUES AND/OR MISFIRE CODES AFTER INCORRECT ENGINE REPAIR - THIS OUTLINES THE PROCEDURE TO FOLLOW IF AFTER AN ENGINE REPAIR YOU ENCOUNTER A COMPLAINT RELATING TO MIL ON (DTC P)#)X) WITH A MISFIRE DURING ACCELERATI
PS233
Jan 1, 2013
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
PS233
Jan 1, 2013
350000 EQUIPMENT
SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
PS233
Jan 1, 2013
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.
SC-092
Jan 1, 2012
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
KIA: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. FUEL TANK AIR FILTER REPLACEMENT. *KB
034
Jan 1, 2011
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
KIA: THERE MAY BE ERRATIC SHIFTING, SHIFT SHOCK, AND A MALFUNCTION LIGHT ON WITH STORED TROUBLE CODES. THIS IS CAUSED BY A PROBLEM WITHIN THE TRANSFER MOTOR. *RM
TSB-019
Nov 1, 2010
092300 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:FUEL FILTER
KIA: FUEL TANK AIR FILTER REMINDER. THE AIR FILTER CAN ACCUMULATE DIRT OVER TIME AND NEEDS TO BE MAINTAINED. *RM
TSB-019
Nov 1, 2010
071110 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
KIA: FUEL TANK AIR FILTER REMINDER. THE AIR FILTER CAN ACCUMULATE DIRT OVER TIME AND NEEDS TO BE MAINTAINED. *RM
TSB-068
May 1, 2010
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
KIA: INTERMITTENT MIL ON WITH NO FAULT CODE STORED; INFORMATION ABOUT DTC P1330. PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO CERTAIN VEHICLES. IN AFFECTED VEHICLES AN INTERMITTENT SHORT TO GROUND IN A CIRCUIT ONLY INTENDED FOR TESTING PURPOSES MAY C
TSB-044
Nov 1, 2009
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
KIA: ECM UPGRADE WITH TP SENSOR REPLACEMENT-MIL ON WITH DTC P2135/P0638. INFORMATION RELATED TO ECM SOFTWARE AND TP SENSOR UPGRADE ON SOME VEHICLES WITH 2.7L ENGINES WHICH MAY EXPERIENCE A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED WITH
TSB-044
Nov 1, 2009
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
KIA: ECM UPGRADE WITH TP SENSOR REPLACEMENT-MIL ON WITH DTC P2135/P0638. INFORMATION RELATED TO ECM SOFTWARE AND TP SENSOR UPGRADE ON SOME VEHICLES WITH 2.7L ENGINES WHICH MAY EXPERIENCE A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED WITH
KT-2008120901
Dec 9, 2008
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
KIA: HEAD LIGHT BULB LIFE CONCERN. THERE MAY BE CONCERNS OF SHORT HEADLAMP BULB LIFE IN VEHICLES. A NEW RESISTIVE WIRE HARNESS HAS BEEN INTRODUCED TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF THE LOW BEAM BULBS. *PE
KT-2008120901
Dec 9, 2008
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
KIA: HEAD LIGHT BULB LIFE CONCERN. THERE MAY BE CONCERNS OF SHORT HEADLAMP BULB LIFE IN VEHICLES. A NEW RESISTIVE WIRE HARNESS HAS BEEN INTRODUCED TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF THE LOW BEAM BULBS. *PE
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
123000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
KT-2008082201
Aug 28, 2008
053000 PARKING BRAKE:INDICATOR LIGHT
KIA: ALL MODELS. ARTICLE PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATING TO THE IMPROVED DURABILITY OF BULB LIFE FOR REAR COMBINATION BULB; REAR STOP LAMP/TAIL LAMP BULB UTILIZED ON MULTIPLE KIA MODELS. *PE
073
May 1, 2008
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
SORENTO ICV REPLACEMENT. *NJ
072
Jul 1, 2007
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
CRANKSHAFT BOLT REPLACEMENT. *KB
013
Apr 1, 2007
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR W/ 3.5L ENGINES. *KB
92
Jan 1, 2006
063110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CRANKCASE (PCV)
CRANKSHAFT BOLT TORQUE. *TT
029
Apr 1, 2005
140000 AIR BAGS
THIS BULLETIN PROVIDES INFORMATION RELATED TO REPLACEMENT OF THE AIR BAG DIAGNOSTIC UNIT (ADU). SOME OWNERS MAY COMPLAIN OF THE SRS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATION RESULTING IN ONE OR MORE SEAT TRACK POSITION SENSOR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DT
85
Jan 1, 2005
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
2003-2005 CLOCKS NOT HOLDING TIME OR RESETTING - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS. *TT
006
Dec 1, 2004
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
ENHANCED DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR FOR P0446/P2422. *TT
031
May 1, 2003
162800 STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD
HOOD ANTI-CORROSION TREATMENT. *TT
010103
Feb 14, 2003
151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
SUBJECT REGARDING THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT WIRE HARNESS. *JB
029
Jan 1, 2003
151400 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO INSPECT AND REPOSITION THE DRIVER SEAT BELT BUCKLE WIRE HARNESS. *TT
025
Jan 1, 2003
350000 EQUIPMENT
RATTLE NOISE FROM THE JACK COMPARTMENT WHEN DRIVING ON ROUGH ROAD SURFACES. *TT
010
Dec 1, 2002
010000 STEERING
ELECTRONIC POWER STEERING (EPS) LOGIC CHANGE TO IMPROVE STEERING FEEL. *TT
54
Jan 1, 2002
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION ON THE NEW 2003 KIA SORENTO. *TT
54
Jan 1, 2002
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SUBJECT REGARDING SORENTO HIGHLIGHTS. *TT
54
Jan 1, 2002
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SUBJECT REGARDING ACCESSORIES FOR THE 2003 SORENTO. *TT
54
Jan 1, 2002
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SUBJECT REGARDING 2003 SORENTO TRAINING. *TT
NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA SORENTO
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
PE23019
Opened: Nov 13, 2023 , Closed: Jul 23, 2024
Loss of Motive Power
On November 13, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23-019) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power relating to head gasket and/or head bolt failure in Model Year (MY) 2016-2017 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the 3.3 L Lambda II engine. W... Read more
DP21002
Opened: Nov 12, 2021 , Closed: Jun 26, 2023
Engine Oil Pressure Switch Leak
In a letter dated September 30, 2021, Mr. Gerald James (the petitioner) requested that NHTSA conduct an investigation of the Model Year (MY) 2015-2017 Kia Sorento equipped with 3.3L V6 ?Lambda? engines for ?severe oil leaks? from the oil pressure switch (OPS) that could ?lead to engine failure? with... Read more
PE20008
Opened: Jun 1, 2020 , Closed: Jan 25, 2022
Headlight Failure
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE) based on seventy-four Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reporting headlight failures on model year (MY) 2011-2013 KIA Sorento vehicles.In its response to ODI's June 25, 2020, information request letter (portions of w... Read more
EA14002
Opened: May 12, 2014 , Closed: Jan 15, 2021
Panoramic Glass Sunroof Breakage
The investigation focused on spontaneous breakage (fracture) of the panoramic sunroof (sunroof) on MY 2011-2013 Kia Sorento vehicles. The sunroof is constructed of tempered glass (often referred to as ?safety glass?), which, when broken, crumbles into granular chunks rather than splintering into jag... Read more
PE13035
Opened: Oct 21, 2013 , Closed: May 21, 2014
Panoramic Sunroof Breakage
On October 21, 2013 the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE13-035 in order to further examine claims that the sunroof would spontaneously break on 2011-2013 Kia Sorento vehicles.The majority of these claims occurred while the vehicle was in motion.Glass shattering while driving may distr... Read more
PE10023
Opened: Jul 12, 2010 , Closed: Dec 21, 2011
Fuel Spill During Refueling
Complaints allege that while refueling the vehicle, fuel can spill out or spit back from the fuel filler port on model year (MY) 2003 Kia Sorento vehicles (subject vehicles).Consumers report that the spilled fuel can splash on the person fueling the vehicle, or on the side of the vehicle and the gro... Read more
EA09017
Opened: Nov 19, 2009 , Closed: Sep 26, 2011
Air Bag Occupant Classification System
The Sorento's front passenger air bag may be turned off when an adult is seated in the passenger seat. The front passenger air bag is designed to be turned off in limited circumstances including when children and small adults are seated in the front passenger seat, there is a child restraint in that... Read more
PE09034
Opened: Jul 17, 2009 , Closed: Nov 30, 2009
AIR BAG OCS
KIA REPORTS THAT FOR VEHICLES BUILT PRIOR TO THE SOFTWARE UPDATE OF 11/27/2007, THE VEHICLES CAN IMPROPERLY CLASSIFY AN ADULT AS A CHILD RESTRAINT SEAT AND THUS ILLUMINATE THE AIRBAG OFF WARNING LIGHT AND SUPPRESS THE FRONTAL PASSENGER AIRBAG.ON MAY 12, 2009, KIA LAUNCHED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETI... Read more
KIA SORENTO - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the KIA SORENTO across all model years (2003, 2026).
79
Total Recalls
14,060
Total Complaints
8
Investigations
576
Reported Crashes
486
Reported Fires
14
Reported Deaths
KIA SORENTO - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 2 | 8 | View |
| 2025 | 3 | 128 | View |
| 2024 | 2 | 57 | View |
| 2023 | 3 | 208 | View |
| 2022 | 6 | 290 | View |
| 2021 | 4 | 367 | View |
| 2020 | 1 | 191 | View |
| 2019 | 2 | 632 | View |
| 2018 | 3 | 340 | View |
| 2017 | 4 | 1,041 | View |
| 2016 | 8 | 1,635 | View |
| 2015 | 3 | 964 | View |
| 2014 | 6 | 1,379 | View |
| 2013 | 5 | 1,298 | View |
| 2012 | 5 | 1,208 | View |
| 2011 | 8 | 2,077 | View |
| 2010 | 2 | 3 | View |
| 2009 | 3 | 79 | View |
| 2008 | 3 | 319 | View |
| 2007 | 4 | 224 | View |
| 2006 | 1 | 382 | View |
| 2005 | 0 | 457 | View |
| 2004 | 0 | 341 | View |
| 2003 (current) | 1 | 421 |