2011 KIA SORENTO

8 recalls, 2,077 complaints - 313 TSBs - 4/5 safety rating

ENGINE

Defect Description

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2011 Sorento vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.

Consequence

A fire increases the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will install Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 9, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC291.

79,812 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE

Defect Description

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may... Read more

Consequence

An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2... Read more

1,730,192 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured October 19, 2009, to January 31, 2013. In the affected vehicles, if excessive force is applied to the gear shift lever, the brake-shift interlock mechanism may chip or crack allowing the transmissio... Read more

Consequence

Without requiring the brake to be pressed, the vehicle may be unintentionally shifted out of Park, allowing it to roll, which may result in a crash.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake-shift interlock mechanism, free of charge. The recall began on November 9, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC124.

377,062 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

Defect Description

Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 201... Read more

Consequence

Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead... Read more

Remedy

Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.

980,377 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors Corporation

EQUIPMENT

Defect Description

CURT MANUFACTURING IS RECALLING CERTAIN TOW PACKAGE WIRING HARNESSES, PART NUMBER 56024, THAT CONNECT TOW VEHICLE LIGHTING CIRCUITS TO TRAILER LIGHTING CIRCUITS SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 THROUGH 2011 HYUNDAI VERACRUZ AND KIA SORENTO VEHICLES. THE UNITS ARE NOT WATER-TIGHT AND MOISTURE... Read more

Consequence

WITHOUT THE CIRCUIT PROTECTION, THE MODULE CAN OVERHEAT POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.

Remedy

CURT MANUFACTURING WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE TOW PACKAGE WIRING HARNESS. THE REMEDY WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 17, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CURT MANUFACTURING AT 1-715 831-8713.

2,398 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: CURT MFG. INC.

POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT

Defect Description

KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 SORENTO 2WD VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS AND 2.4L ENGINES MANUFACTURED FROM THE START OF PRODUCTION THROUGH MAY 22, 2010. THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT MAY SUFFER FROM NOISE AND EXCESSIVE WEAR DUE TO A MISALIGNMENT OF THE INTERMEDIATE SHAFT WITH ... Read more

Consequence

DAMAGE TO THE TRANSMISSION MAY CAUSE LOSS OF MOTIVE POWER, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE RIGHT SIDE OUTPUT GEAR AND INTERMEDIATE SHAFT FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MAY 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA AT 1-800-333-4542.

12,690 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

Defect Description

KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 SORENTO VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 14, 2010, THROUGH OCTOBER 4, 2010. SOME OF THE REAR BRAKE CALIPERS MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY MACHINED.

Consequence

AS A RESULT, BRAKE FLUID WILL LEAK, FOLLOWED BY ILLUMINATION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT INDICATING THE BRAKE FLUID LEVEL IS LOW AND SHOULD BE CHECKED, THEN A SOFT OR SPONGY BRAKE PEDAL FEEL, AND IF NOT SERVICED, REDUCED BRAKING POWER WHICH COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR CALIPERS AND REPLACE IT IF NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 10, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-333-4542.

7,697 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

Defect Description

KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 SOUL AND MODEL YEAR 2011 SORENTO VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 7, 2009 THROUGH JULY 30, 2010. A LIMITED NUMBER OF WIRING HARNESSES SUPPLIED BY JCI AND USED FOR THE LIGHTING IN THE KIA SOUL VEHICLE'S ADVANCED LIGHTING SPEAKERS, LOCATED IN THE FRONT DOO... Read more

Consequence

WHEN THE LIGHTS ARE ILLUMINATED UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, AN ELECTRICAL SHORT MAY OCCUR THAT CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESSES FOR THE LIGHTS IN THE KIA SOUL VEHICLE'S ADVANCED LIGHTING SPEAKERS, AND THE WIRING HARNESS FOR THE KIA SORENTO VEHICLE'S INTERIOR ACCENT ILLUMINATION. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 13, 2010. OWNERS ... Read more

35,185 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: KIA MOTORS CORPORATION

Complaint Statistics

2,077 total complaints 70 crashes 76 fires 84 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	244
POWER TRAIN	233
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	230
STRUCTURE:BODY	227
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	226
AIR BAGS	185
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	91
SERVICE BRAKES	77
STEERING	67
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	62

Incident date: Jun 1, 2026

Nearly 25% of the total time I have owned this Certified Pre-Owned vehicle (146 out of 564 days), it has been non-functional and in the shop — roughly 1 out of every 4 days of ownership. I am a [XXX} with a [XXX] child, and I purchased this vehicle as a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Porsche — expect... Read more

Incident date: Jul 8, 2026

I have paid for this vehicle, but the dealer won't release it to me due to the open recall (NHTSA Recall Number 26V-366). Neither Honda nor the dealer has given me any sense of when this will be resolved. I don't know how many owners fit this scenario, i.e. vehicle purchased, but not delivered due t... Read more

Incident date: Jul 8, 2026

Catastrophic engine failure while traveling 40 mph. Dealership diagnosed as cylinder walls being scorched and rods blown through. No warning signs existed - just had a loud thud before the check engine light started flashing and grinding sound started coming from engine.

Incident date: Jul 8, 2026

I bought my car last Feb and didn't know there was a recall on it was never told I have had shutter problems with it as well as sticking in gear when parked it ide high then battery jus goes dead get a jump n the check engine light comes on n have no reverse this hasn't been safe to drive my sister... Read more

Incident date: Apr 18, 2026

The engine randomly shut off while driving down the interstate and wouldn’t start back up. The car had the recall “remedy” done to it. Inspection and thicker oil. The only warning I got was to restart the engine after it shut off. My safety was compromised by breaking down on a main interstate... Read more

Incident date: Jan 9, 2026

The vehicle experienced an overheating condition immediately after being picked up from dealership service on April 11, 2026. Within a short distance of driving, a warning appeared and the vehicle became unsafe to operate, requiring it to be pulled over and towed. The dealership later stated that c... Read more

Incident date: Jan 9, 2026

While driving at a low speed (approx. 5–10 mph), the front passenger-side lower ball joint suffered a catastrophic structural shear without warning. This caused the wheel assembly to collapse outward and the CV axle to pull out of the transmission. The failure caused a complete loss of steering co... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Feb 12, 2026

The failure involved the engine (6.2L L87 V8), specifically suspected internal components such as the crankshaft and/or connecting rods, as identified in a current recall. The vehicle is currently located at Dennis GM in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and is available for inspection. On March 9, while ... Read more

Incident date: Feb 12, 2026

Gets stuck in 3rd and 5th gears randomly, on the interstate it will get stuck and won’t shift, we believe it is a lead frame issue, in town it won’t down shift out of third, we can turn it off and on and it can jump from first to third gear while not moving, sometimes it runs just fine, it does ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 8, 2026

Issue: Hyundai recall denial for paint peeling defect My vehicle qualifies for the Hyundai paint-peeling recall, and the paint deterioration matches the defect described by Hyundai. Despite this, Hyundai has denied my recall repair twice. Approximately 2 1/2 years before the recall was issued, I ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 26, 2026

Brake Light, ABS Light, and Traction Control Light lit up on dash. Took car to dealership and the issue was diagnosed as a faulty ABS module. This is MOPAR part 68160269AB, which is discontinued. I was also told that there were no after-market options, and that programming a used one might not work.... Read more

Incident date: Jan 26, 2026

Incident date: Jan 2, 2026

As the owner of a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe, I am currently experiencing persistent issues with the instrument cluster going dark and a severely malfunctioning GM 6.2L L87 engine. In November of the previous year, I encountered a sudden and alarming loss of engine power while traveling on a multilane hi... Read more

Incident date: Jan 6, 2026

I am submitting this supplemental statement regarding my previously filed complaint involving a 2022 Jeep Wrangler. On November 8, 2025, I was involved in a crash that resulted in bodily injury, including head, neck, and back pain, and required post-accident inspection and towing. Despite the natur... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Nov 17, 2025

My ESC, ABS, and check engine lights have been on for months due to this recall that has no fix.

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

The contact’s son owns a 2017 Triumph Street Twin. The contact stated that whenever the motorcycle was started, the RPM increased and the engine revved while in a standalone position. The contact stated that once the motorcycle was placed in a straight position and the handlebars were straight, th... Read more

Incident date: Oct 20, 2025

I hit a bumb and my engine started smoking and then airbag triggered on both driver and passenger side

Incident date: Oct 16, 2025

At engine idle with vehicle parked or driving in heavy traffic, exhaust fumes are entering the passenger compartment. I am not aware of any apparent exhaust leak. The fumes seem to be entering by way of the fresh air intake. I have confirmed CO readings with 2 different detection devices. If the veh... Read more

Incident date: Oct 16, 2025

Every two months I have to change the bulb for the break lights. It burns out fast. Not only is it burning out fast but its melting and takes several days for pry the melted material out. Also smells like something is going to catch fire with this. This started over a year ago but I didnt know i c... Read more

Incident date: Sep 27, 2025

At a stop light vehicle will turn off and nothing electrical will work. It will have to be restarted, While turning at low speeds the electronic steering completely stops working and almost hit another car. All electrical power failure until modules reset then will start. This all happens randomly s... Read more

Incident date: Aug 28, 2025

Rear camera stopped working years ago. Will only work briefly after collision warning alert goes off which goes off randomly even when there are no other vehicles in the area

Incident date: Aug 28, 2025

Engine Overheated lights on dash HECU ABS ADAS CRUISE CONTROL TIRE SENSOR WINDOW DID NOT WORK CORRECTLY AUTO DIMMER RADIO BLANKS OUT WATER PUMP WENT OUT TOW TRUCK DAMAGED MY CAR. I WAS NOT AWARE OF ANY DAMAGES UNTIL I WAS ACCUSED BY DEALERSHIP I HIT SOMETHING AS I DID NOT. I HAVE WITNESSES N PICTURE... Read more

Incident date: Aug 28, 2025

Incident date: Sep 9, 2025

NHTSA Campaign #: 16V244000 Passenger airbag off

Incident date: Sep 9, 2025

In the interior of the car on the passenger side there are water droplets. The droplet has no smell. There is no evidence of pooling water when I opened the glove compartment. I felt as far a I could behind the glove compartment for moistener, I couldn’t feel any. However I just purchased new wint... Read more

Incident date: Aug 10, 2025

Airbags did not deploy at impact.

Crash

Incident date: May 26, 2025

Ive got this vehicle on 5/12/2025 and all of this need to be done CATALYTIC CONVERTER REPLACEMENT. DURING INSPECTION FOUND LOUD EXHAUST ON STARTUP. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION FOUND BANK 1 CATALYTIC CONVERTER CRACKED CAUSING EXHAUST LEAK. BOTH EXHAUST FRONT PIPES DAMAGED AS WELL(BROKEN MOUNTING BRACKET... Read more

Incident date: Apr 7, 2025

The contact owns a 2022 Chevrolet Equinox. The contact stated that while driving out of a parking lot, the vehicle lost motive power, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed and the contact was informed that the fuel pump module had failed... Read more

Incident date: Apr 7, 2025

According to TESLA service, my two "lateral links" for the front wheels need to be replaced. They sent us photos of the issue and it looks like one of the fasteners for one of the lateral links was missing (1 of two fasteners) If the other fastener failed/fell out the car could easily steer out of ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 6, 2025

We have had spark plugs fixed twice in the past 4 months and they keep faltering. Both mechanics changed them

Incident date: Aug 20, 2025

The truck randomly loses power, sometimes after rounding a corner, getting into turn lane, or over a speedbump the accelerator is dead for 1-2 seconds and the truck does not move forward. It has left me in a precarious position in the middle of the road with on coming traffic.

Incident date: Aug 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Genesis GV80. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the horn independently activated. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. In addition, the driver's side door had to be unlocked, and additional tasks were performed to disable the hor... Read more

Incident date: Aug 20, 2025

Incident date: Jun 28, 2025

Radio needed replacement, transmission was replaced under lease contract, Rack & Pinion replaced, Steering & Suspension R/F Axle replacement needs to be done, part is on back order until September 2025-This is very dangerous. There should be recalls on the above is the part is on back order there a... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2015 Ford Flex. The contact state that while driving on two occasions at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle lost power steering functionality and the steering wheel became very stiff. The "Power Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed. During the first failure, the contact pulle... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2025

NHTSA Recall notice 25V280. Polestar is trying to charge $800 to tow the vehicle to get this recall because their OTA update never came to the car. I contacted support and they never mentioned this until I tried to set up the tow to get it taken to the service center. Now customer support is not res... Read more

Incident date: Jul 1, 2025

The contact owns a 2002 Chrysler 300M. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the front driver's seat back fractured. The contact stated that upon sitting in the front driver's seat, the seat back collapsed and landed on the rear seat. The contact attempted to adjust the seat however,... Read more

Incident date: Jun 17, 2023

Complete rear tire assembly came loose from the unibody frame from rust. Not a drop of rust on the body of the car.Thank god we weren’t on the highway. they told me it was unfixable.Thank you Honda.And the recall stopped at 2011? Honda obviously doesn’t care about safety and human life.

Incident date: Jun 1, 2019

The contact owns a 2021 Lexus ES250. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V865000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was co... Read more

Incident date: Jun 1, 2019

The contact owns a 2025 Tiffin Wayfarer RV built on a 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 Chassis. The contact stated that the sideview mirrors were vibrating while idling and while driving at various speeds, reducing the visibility of the roadway. The contact stated that the failure was more pronounce... Read more

Incident date: Jun 1, 2019

Incident date: Jun 17, 2023

My KIA Sorrento spontaneously engulfed in flames approximately 200 yards from my home. This is not a vehicle crash the car had flames coming from the vents and floor boards. I was the driver my daughter was the passenger and my granddaughter was in the rear car seat we barely escaped with our lives ... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Jun 2, 2025

Whenever it rains in DFW, vehicle emits a foul/musty odor from the HVAC system. Only happens when it rains. HVAC setting has always been the same, "Lo" temp, AC Mode ON, Recirculation mode ON, fan speed varies. Taken vehicle to two different dealerships and techs unable to duplicate. It doesnt r... Read more

Incident date: Jun 2, 2025

Incident date: Jul 19, 2022

Experienced loss of power steering, loss of brakes

Incident date: Feb 3, 2025

The instrument panel intermittently blacks out while driving. I have taken it back to the dealer twice and they are unable to reproduce the issue. The first time, they said it was a software issue and ran an update, but that did not fix the problem. I found online that this is a known issue so I c... Read more

Incident date: Mar 27, 2025

There was a safety over the air update which happened on Feb 13 2025. After that the vehicle is completely unoperable. After the NHSTA mandated update the car does not shift from Neutral to drivable gear. It's become a brick.

Incident date: Mar 27, 2025

Showing 50 of 2,077 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2011 KIA SORENTO

2011 Kia Sorento SUV 4WD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	3 / 5 ★★★☆☆
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	16.9%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	No
Lane Departure Warning	No

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2011 KIA SORENTO

313 manufacturer communications from 178 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	40
350000 EQUIPMENT	39
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	17
140000 AIR BAGS	16
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	14
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	14
220000 SEATS	12
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING	12

353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2304) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

PITSTOP: AWD SYSTEM CONCERN DUE TO TIRE CIRCUMFERENCE - This Pitstop provides information regarding potential concerns with the All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system due to tire sizes of differing circumference. Some customers may complain of a chat

020000 SUSPENSION

010000 STEERING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition s

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmis

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: BEARING CLEARANCE TESTER (BCT) PROCEDURES - This bulletin provides information regarding test procedure of the Bearing Clearance Tester (BCT) Special Service Tool (SST). The SST comes pre-calibrated from the supp

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI2101Y/Z) - This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in (PI2101) titled "Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU

117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

This bulletin provides information regarding test procedure of the Bearing Clearance Tester (BCT) Special Service Tool (SST). The SST comes pre-calibrated from the supplier however, in some cases, due to variable shop compressor air pressur

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU, WORM GEAR AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar

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

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN - PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN PI2101 - THETA 2.4L MPI - KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM (KSDS) ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI2101) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA ENGINES - 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 bul

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - OWNER LETTER - This document is notice to the 2011 MY Sorento vehicle owners advising them of the Product Improvement Campaign on their vehicles.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - OWNER LETTER - This document is notice to the 2011 MY Sorento vehicle owners advising them of the Product Improvement Campaign on their vehicles.

061610 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM):SOFTWARE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN - PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN PI2101 - THETA 2.4L MPI - KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM (KSDS) ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI2101) - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions on a campaign.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions on a campaign.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - DEALER PRINCIPAL LETTER - This document is the notice to the dealer principals notifying them of the Product Improvement Campaign.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - DEALER SERVICE MANAGER LETTER - This document is notice to the Dealer Service Managers advising them of the Product Improvement Campaign.

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - DEALER SERVICE MANAGER LETTER - This document is notice to the Dealer Service Managers advising them of the Product Improvement Campaign.

350000 EQUIPMENT

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - DEALER SERVICE MANAGER LETTER - This document is notice to the Dealer Service Managers advising them of the Product Improvement Campaign.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - DEALER PRINCIPAL LETTER - This document is the notice to the dealer principals notifying them of the Product Improvement Campaign.

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

140000 AIR BAGS

WARRANTY EXTENSION PROGRAM - This document is the notice to the vehicle owners, advising them of the Warranty Extension on the Occupant Detection System Sensor Pad to fifteen (15) years with unlimited mileage, starting from the date the ve

220000 SEATS

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

140000 AIR BAGS

220000 SEATS

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

220000 SEATS

WARRANTY EXTENSION PROGRAM - This document is the notice to dealer parts and service managers, advising them of the Warranty Extension on the Occupant Detection System Sensor Pad to fifteen (15) years with unlimited mileage, starting from

140000 AIR BAGS

350000 EQUIPMENT

WARRANTY EXTENSION PROGRAM - This document is the notice to dealer principals, advising them of the Warranty Extension on the Occupant Detection System Sensor Pad to fifteen (15) years with unlimited mileage, starting from the date the veh

220000 SEATS

140000 AIR BAGS

350000 EQUIPMENT

140000 AIR BAGS

WARRANTY EXTENSION PROGRAM - This document is the Question and Answer document regarding the Warranty Extension on the Occupant Detection System Sensor Pad to fifteen (15) years with unlimited mileage, starting from the date the vehicle wa

220000 SEATS

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

350000 EQUIPMENT

PITSTOP - BRAKE CALIPER LEAK INSPECTION - This PITSTOP provides information related to a brake caliper fluid/oil substance found on some Kia vehicles, due to possible excess assembly oil applied during assembly.

034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER

063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

These SKUs are Exhaust Manifolds with Catalytic Converters. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory due to a loss of CARB certification. These SKUs can no longer be sold as they do not meet CARB standards, but part

063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: - TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requ

220000 SEATS

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: OCCUPANT DETECTION SYSTEM (ODS) SENSOR PAD REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the front passenger Occupant Detection System (ODS) Sensor Pad on 2011-2015MY Sorento (XMa) vehicles produc

160000 STRUCTURE

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: STEERING GEAR YOKE PLUG AND ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the steering gear box yoke plug and assembly on

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of the Motor D

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN TSB084_R3: PARTIAL REPAIR OF C-MDPS MOTOR, ECU AND/OR STEERING COLUMN HOUSING - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information regarding the partial repair of t

140000 AIR BAGS

WTY003_OWNER: This document is the owner notification letter advising the owners of the warranty extension on the 2011-2015 My Sorento Airbag Clock Spring Assembly.

350000 EQUIPMENT

WTY003_OWNER: This document is the owner notification letter advising the owners of the warranty extension on the 2011-2015 My Sorento Airbag Clock Spring Assembly.

140000 AIR BAGS

This document is a Request for Reimbursement Form sent to the owners along with the notification letter to be used if the customer has paid for repairs to the airbag clock spring assembly.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This document is a Request for Reimbursement Form sent to the owners along with the notification letter to be used if the customer has paid for repairs to the airbag clock spring assembly.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

TSB: HALOGEN LOW BEAM BULB CONNECTOR REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the halogen low beam bulb connector on some 2011 - 2013MY Sorento (XMa) vehicles, produced from October 24, 2009 through January 31, 2013, wh

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT FORM - WTY012 ??A?A? 2011-2013 MY SORENTO HEADLAMP LOW BEAM CONNECTOR WIRING HARNESS NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY EXTENSION

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT FORM - WTY012 ??A?A? 2011-2013 MY SORENTO HEADLAMP LOW BEAM CONNECTOR WIRING HARNESS NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY EXTENSION

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Dear Kia Sorento Owner - Kia Motors America, Inc. takes pride in providing you with high quality and dependable vehicles. In order to maintain these standards, Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage, to all owners of 201

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Q & A - 2011-2013 MY SORENTO HEADLAMP LOW BEAM CONNECTOR NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY EXTENSION

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Q & A - 2011-2013 MY SORENTO HEADLAMP LOW BEAM CONNECTOR NEW VEHICLE LIMITED WARRANTY EXTENSION

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Attention: All Kia Parts & Service Managers - Kia Motors America, Inc. is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage to all owners of the 2011-2013 MY Kia Sorento vehicles, produced from October 24, 2009 through January 31, 2013, f

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Attention: All Dealer Principals - Kia Motors America, Inc. is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage to all owners of the 2011-2013 MY Kia Sorento vehicles, produced from October 24, 2009 through January 31, 2013, for the halo

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

DEALER COMMUNICATION - RECENT KIA MEDIA REPORTS, OCTOBER 26 2018 UPDATE - Dear Kia Retailer, We wrote to you in late August to provide you with an update regarding news reports regarding non-collision fires in Kia vehicles and NHTSA?s annou

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

DEALER COMMUNICATION - RECENT KIA MEDIA REPORTS - Dear Kia Retailer, You and your customers may have seen recent media reports regarding thermal incidents in Kia vehicles or NHTSA?s announcement of the opening of a Defect Petition for fire

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

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.

106200 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

TSB - DRIVESHAFT SERVICEABILITY - This bulletin has been revised most recently to include additional information. This bulletin provides information regarding axle shaft serviceability for Kia vehicles equipped with a six-speed automatic tr

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

TSB - IDENTIFYING HEAD UNIT SOFTWARE VERSION FOR DIRECT EXCHANGE - This bulletin provides the procedure on how to identify and record the head unit software level on various head unit platforms and generations.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: TPMS SENSOR POSITION - When diagnosing TPMS-related DTCs, make sure you are investigating the correct sensor. The TPMS positioning from the manufacturer may be different from the positioning shown on a KDS.

036500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:WHEEL SPEED SENSOR

TSB: REAR WHEEL SPEED SENSOR HOUSING COVER INSPECTION AND/OR REPLACEMENT (SC148) - VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN - This bulletin provides the procedure on how to inspect, clean and seal or, if necessary, replace the rear wheel speed sensor (WS

251000 ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL:AUTOMATIC (ASC)

Showing 100 of 313 bulletins.

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.

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2016

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... hen the investigation was opened, ODI had received 13 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) related to reports of loss of motive power. In an information request letter dated November 30, 2023, ODI requested technical information and failure data relating to the alleged defect in the subject MY 2016-2017 Kia Sorento as well as several peer vehicle populations which share the 3.3 L engine. In its February 26, 2024, response to ODI’s information request, Kia provided 2022 customer complaints (including techline and field reports) and 1738 warranty claims representing 2411 unique vehicles within the subject vehicle population. Of the customer complaints provided by Kia, they identified only 53 unique allegations of a loss of motive power resulting from the alleged defect. Kia determined that the remaining reports were minor vehicle drivability or engine performance issues. ODI reviewed the information provided by Kia, along with additional VOQs submitted to NHTSA following the opening of the investigation. When eliminating duplicative reports across the data sources, the total number of allegations of loss of motive power relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles is 77, representing an incident report rate of 59 per 100,000 vehicles. The MY 2016 Kia Sorento exhibited both the highest overall complaint rate and loss of motive power report rate across all subject and peer vehicle populations, representing an incident report rate of 102 per 100,000 vehicles. Across all data sources, there are no allegations of crashes or fires relating to the alleged defect. The one injury incident reflected in the failure summary table above is related to a consumer who was reportedly burned (minor burn requiring medical attention) while attempting to remove the coolant reservoir cap following a loss of motive power event. In their response to ODI, Kia described that if the threads of a head bolt hole in the subject engine becomes damaged, the clamping force between the cylinder head and engine block can decrease in the area of the affected head bolt. Kia’s assessment of the alleged defect is that when the failure occurs, drivers are provided with numerous warning signs prior to a potential loss of motive power event. According to Kia, potential warning signs associated with this failure include coolant leak/consumption or noticeable coolant odor, engine oil leak/consumption, engine temperature gauge rising to “H” (hot), check engine light illuminating, engine cooling fan remaining on following the engine being shut off, HVAC system not functioning properly, unusual engine noise, difficulty starting the vehicle, and smoke/condensation emitting from the engine compartment or exhaust. Through both its review of the information provided by Kia and outreach to consumers, ODI confirmed that there is reasonable detectability present in the vast majority of occurrences of the alleged defect. To mitigate the alleged defect, Kia increased the engagement depth of the head bolt threads for all subject engines, beginning in May 2017. ODI’s analysis of the failure data demonstrates that this corrective action correlates with a much lower incident report rate for engines produced following the change (8 per 100,000 vehicles for the MY 2018-2020 Kia Sorento). In December 2023, Kia launched extended warranty campaign WTY035 covering failures associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Through its investigation, ODI identified the following peer vehicle populations, which were produced prior to the corrective action and exhibit failure rates comparable to the subject vehicles: MY 2014-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2015-2016 Kia Sedona, and MY 2014-2017 Kia Cadenza equipped with the 3.3 L engine. Through discussions with ODI during the investigation, Kia decided to launch extended warranty campaign WTY039 in May 2024, which covers these peer vehicle populations through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Based on analysis of the failure data indicating a low incident report rate of loss of motive power for the alleged defect, and in consideration of the warning signs which frequently occur from head gasket and/or head bolt failure in the subject engines, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2015

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... little warning to the driver. Mr. James based this request on his own experience and data found in NHTSA?s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database. NHTSA reviewed the material cited by the petitioner, information submitted by Kia, NHTSA?s testing, and other pertinent information in NHTSA databases.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-002 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed an analysis that included evaluation of the petitioner?s vehicle, searches of ODI complaints from vehicle owners, non-dealer field reports, manufacturers? supplemental information relating to design of the component, and component testing performed by ODI.On December 16, 2021, ODI and Kia North America performed a joint inspection on the petitioner?s vehicle. ODI and Kia agreed the OPS was leaking oil and observed oil in the crevices atop the engine block. The vehicle received a new replacement OPS and was delivered back to the petitioner. The original part that was removed from the subject vehicle was retained by ODI for further analysis.As of December 30, 2022, for the MY 2015-2017 Kia Sorento population of 161,519 vehicles with 3.3L engine, NHTSA reviewed internal data and has identified no consumer complaints or field reports in its database, with unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), citing engine failure or stalling related to the petition?s allegation of defective OPS. When combined with the supplemental warranty and technical analysis from the manufacturer, field report and customer complaint data in response to the Information Request letter sent, NHTSA identified no unique VINs alleging engine failure or stalls caused by OPS leaking on the subject vehicles named in the petition.On April 4, 2022, the Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) performed testing of the petitioner?s component (OPS) based on testing protocol consistent with Kia?s specifications for the subject vehicle. The testing involved the petitioner?s original OPS in a controlled system to replicate the subject vehicle?s oil pressure, flow, and temperature. VRTC determined that a vehicle would have to miss more than a dozen oil change intervals to reach low engine oil capacity. Testing also revealed the OPS would operate, as manufacturer intended, illuminating the vehicle?s MIL to alert the driver of lower oil pressure.In April of 2022, Kia North America issued a warranty extension that extended the coverage of the Oil Pressure Switch from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles on MY 2014-2018 Sorento, MY 2014-2016 Cadenza, and MY 2015-2018 Sedona vehicles, all equipped with the 3.3L Lambda engine. The extended warranty coverage includes diagnosis, repair, and applies to customers experiencing engine oil leaking from the engine or if the engine oil pressure warning light stays illuminated after the engine is turned on.After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, testing performed by VRTC, technical information provided by Kia, the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that an engine failure due to the alleged defect is likely and does not warrant a formal investigation. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be publiRead more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011

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... hich were submitted under request for confidentiality), Kia Motor America (Kia) provided design details of the headlight system showing that each headlight circuit is independently powered by the Smart Junction Box (SJB), a power control module. Kia claimed that the design minimizes the chance of both headlights failing simultaneously due to a headlight connector defect, a component located downstream of the SJB. Kia also advised that the SJB contains a safety feature designed to monitor power consumption for each headlight circuit; if excessive current is being demanded by either headlight the SJB will open the circuit (i.e., stop supplying current). Lastly Kia presented testing showing that the maximum headlight connector temperature achieved prior to the SJB opening the circuit was below the autoignition temperature of the plastic material the connector housing is made of, which Kia maintains eliminates the potential for a fire originating from an electrically overheated headlight connector. In its review of all available data, ODI determined that the majority of both VOQ and Kia customer complaints (1,339 reports in total) involved the loss or dimming of a single low beam headlight assembly caused primarily by a poor or overheated connector terminal located at the headlight. In some cases the failures were momentary in nature (i.e., flickering) with the headlights coming back on without driver intervention. A minority of VOQs and Kia complaints (the 196 Other reports) alleged simultaneous (and persistent) loss of both low beam headlights, and in most cases the driver was able to take an action (e.g., toggle the headlight switch, or use the ON rather than the AUTO setting on the headlight switch) to reinstate the low beam headlights. The high beam headlights were not seen to be affected and were available for drivers to use as alternate lighting.ODI did not identify any crashes or injuries, nor any fire incidents caused by a headlight related defect. While some VOQ and Kia reports alleged or indicated a fire occurrence, the incidents were found to involve melting or smells/odors due to thermal overheating of the plastic headlight connector housing, rather than an open flame fire.ODI notes that in April 2019, Kia initiated a 10 years/unlimited mileage warranty extension program to replace the headlight connector for MY 2011-2013 Sorento vehicles.Based on this analysis, a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time, and ODI is closing the investigation. This does not constitute a finding by the Agency that a safety-related defect is not present; the Agency will take further action if warranted by additional information received.The reference (ODI) numbers for the VOQs cited above are included in the downloadable version of this closing resume available at NHTSA.gov.Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2011

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... ged shards. The failure summary above shows NHTSA reports identified by the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), and reports submitted by Kia from start of production of the subject MY 2011-2013 Kia Sorento through October 8, 2019, the date of ODI's last request for Kia data.Reports of sunroof failures typically occurred while the vehicle was in motion and often described a loud noise when the fracture occurred. If the sunshade is closed when the sunroof fractures, the particles are contained, otherwise the particles can drop into the passenger compartment.Reported injuries generally were minor in nature, such as nicks and cuts that often occurred when complainants were cleaning-up glass particles post-incident. No crash incidents have been identified, and complaints display a declining trend since 2014.During EA14-002, ODI requested and obtained failure data for the subject vehicles, the MY 2014 Sorento (which used a similar sunroof from a different supplier), and other peer Kia products (Optima and Sportage).ODI also requested and obtained failure data for peer vehicles produced by Hyundai, Ford, Nissan, and Volkswagen and failure reports through a General Order NHTSA issued to 13 OEMs (including Kia) in April 2016.This produced a significant volume of data upon which ODI bases this closing. NHTSA's Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) also conducted testing on the subject sunroofs in an attempt to better understand potential hazards.In its responses to ODI, Kia states it has continuously monitored sunroof failure allegations throughout this investigation, and that the only consistently identified cause is external impact from foreign objects. Kia notes that the sunroof complies with the applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for glazing, and that it has not identified a manufacturing defect or assembly process error despite significant investigative efforts. Kia maintains that the field data supports its conclusion that an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety does not exist, citing a comparatively moderate failure rate, low injury risk posed by tempered glass, and the lack of an identified defect mechanism. Kia further notes it has received no reports of crashes due to driver distraction related to roof failure events, nor is NHTSA aware of any such reports.NHTSA's April 2016 General Order requested data on vehicles with panoramic glass sunroofs greater than 0.5 square meters in area. The response identified 97 distinct models produced over 11 model years totaling some 10 million vehicles. Over 4,000 sunroof fractures were reported (none of which alleged a crash due to driver distraction) forming a high to low frequency continuum by model.While the subject vehicles were at the high end of the spectrum, they were not the highest.Through its analysis of the information obtained to date, ODI has not identified sufficient evidence of a safety-related defect in the subject sunroof. This includes the absence of any suggestive trends by region, seasonality, date of production, or vehicle age, together with the minor nature of the alleged injuries and the lack of crash allegations in the subject or any of the peer vehicles. Accordingly, the investigation is closed. ODI will take further actions if warranted by new evidence. The reference numbers for the ODI failure reports cited above, as well as additiRead more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2011

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... act the driver, and the resulting glass particles which enter the passenger compartment may injure occupants.To date, ODI has received a total of 26 reports of sunroof breakage on the subject vehicles. Of those, 24 occurred while the vehicle was in motion.There were also four (4) injury incident reports for minor cuts/scratches. Kia submitted a total of 123 field incidents related to sunroof breakage in response to ODI's information request. Of this number, ODI identified 78 unique vehicle identification numbers (VINs), with 9 matching ODI complaint vehicles.Sixty of the submitted reports occurred while the vehicle was in motion.Fourteen (14) of the submitted reports alleged minor cuts/scratches from falling glass.Kia also submitted a total of 101 warranty and goodwill claims for sunroof replacement, of which 86 unique VINs were identified.Kia stated in its response that their field inspections identified only one potential cause for the sunroof breakage - external impacts from rocks or other foreign objects encountered while the vehicle was in motion.In the other instances, no evidence of a defect was found, however, Kia's inspection results were inconclusive as to a cause for the breakage.Kia advises that the Sorento sunroofs also have a greater surface area than many other vehicles, potentially making them more susceptible to road debris strikes.While ODI recognizes that the Sorento may be more at risk due to its larger impact area, the rate of ODI reported incidents is concerning.Thus, the investigation has been upgraded toan Engineering Analysis (EA14-002) to further analyze the scope, frequency, and consequence of these failures.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10345933, 10410440, 10432904, 10453957, 10466987, 10478778, 10492886, 10502219, 10508983, 10514388, 10531972, 10534883, 10553341, 10555931, 10556212, 10562460, 10562516, 10563779, 10564555, 10567351, 10568629, 10572959, 10575487, 10583122, 10583626, 10584650Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

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

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2007

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

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2007

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 (current)	8	2,077
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	1	421	View

Other KIA Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
SPORTAGE	165	6,601	View
SEDONA	118	3,350	View
OPTIMA	100	10,128	View
TELLURIDE	70	2,186	View
SOUL	66	7,233	View
SOUL EV	62	50	View
SORENTO HYBRID	62	159	View
FORTE	56	3,494	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2011 KIA SORENTO

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2011 KIA SORENTO

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2011 KIA SORENTO

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA SORENTO

KIA SORENTO - All Years Overview

KIA SORENTO - Year by Year

Other KIA Models