2015 KIA SORENTO

3 recalls, 964 complaints - 298 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

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

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles previously recalled under recall 20V-519. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Consequence

An electrical short in the HECU increases the risk of a fire while parked or driving.

Remedy

Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will install a new multi-fuse, and inspect the HECU for leaks, replacing the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 2, 2021. This... Read more

440,370 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

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

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.

Consequence

If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may co... Read more

440,370 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pi... Read more

Consequence

A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.

71,653 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

Complaint Statistics

964 total complaints 52 crashes 14 fires 50 injuries 1 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	273
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	104
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	78
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	73
STRUCTURE:BODY	65
POWER TRAIN	56
STEERING	42
AIR BAGS	38
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	31
SERVICE BRAKES	31

Incident date: Mar 28, 2026

The headlights are so dim that I could not see at night. I am forced to drive with the fog lights on for any amount of visibility. I recently replaced the headlights with factory replacements and now the connectors going into the back have failed and power only makes it to the lights when Mercury is... Read more

Incident date: Mar 28, 2026

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an Auto Zone auto parts store. The contact was notified of an open recall. The dealer was made aware of the failure by phone. The contac... Read more

Incident date: Dec 2, 2024

Vehicle: 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 I was the driver and sole occupant of my 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 and was wearing my seat belt. I was traveling westbound on [XXX], shortly after passing [XXX], when I was involved in a three-vehicle collision. The first vehicle stopped abruptly, resulting in the collision.... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jul 8, 2026

Spark plugs, fuel injectors, cylinders and cylinder walls, pistons, oxygen sensor. Our safety was put at risk because the vehicles "reduced performance" was triggered and it affected the acceleration of the vehicle. The Volvo dealership was able to reproduce the issue because of the engine misfires.... Read more

Incident date: Jul 8, 2026

Incident date: Jun 5, 2026

The screens (odometer and center entertainment console) both went blank while driving on the highway today. I had brought the vehicle in for the previous recall to have the update installed to prevent this problem.

Incident date: Jun 1, 2026

I'm using my door as normal, The door catch breaks off. My door sounds like it's going to fall off and my window is inoperable. I figure out there is a hinge recall. I take it to the dealer the dealer tells me it's going to be about a month to get the door in. The dealer has my car for 31 days The d... Read more

Incident date: Jun 7, 2026

I was involved in an accident while using Tesla FSD. Driving down the freeway my car hydroplaned and spun out and hit another car. My son who was with me said to me that it seemed the car was going a bit fast for the conditions.

Crash

Incident date: Jun 7, 2026

According to Toyota the exact same engine that is in my vehicle has a recall on it. However, since my vehicle has also had a hybrid system installed my engine is not covered. Basically, because the hybrid system offers the engine power relief there saying that the engine is okay which is not true. ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 7, 2026

My X7’s front differential went bad at 50k miles. I paid over 100k for a vehicle of this caliber to have something like this fail and have to pay 8k with no help from BMWNA. I’ve been a loyal customer with bmw having owned over 5 bmw vehicles in the past. And for me to get treated like this is ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 5, 2026

The forward collision/emergency brake engages when it is not needed, necessary or appropriate, and even when the brake pedel is already being pressed. I have adjusted the sensitivity of the emergency braking and forward collision system and I still have this issue.

Incident date: May 5, 2026

El problema es exactamente en el tanque de la gasolina, se está saliendo la gasolina en la unión de la manguera de llenado con el tanque de gasolina. Esto representa un riesgo no solo para mi seguridad sino también para cualquier persona.

Incident date: Aug 4, 2025

I noticed that my passenger side headlight was out but no warning was given in the dashboard. If I hadn’t noticed that the ‘round the corner’ lights were not working it might have taken me a while to figure it out presenting a safety issue

Incident date: Mar 31, 2026

The brakes make a squealing noise when backing up and this has been reported on many 2025 enclaves. There is also a repeated clicking noise after turning the vehicle off.

Incident date: Apr 15, 2025

Headlight DRL Failure - it's safety issue. this is known issue with defenders but when I contacted local dealer in Atlanta area, they refused to replace it without me paying $3200.

Incident date: Mar 31, 2026

I am submitting this complaint to report serious safety, usability, and infrastructure-related issues concerning my Hyundai NEXO hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. The vehicle has become unsafe and practically unusable due to multiple technical problems, lack of service support, and the widespread unavaila... Read more

Incident date: Feb 18, 2026

2022 Silverado 1500 6.2L total engine failure, replacement needed

Incident date: Feb 18, 2026

Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to file a safety complaint regarding the second-row seat controls in a Genesis GV80. Specifically, I have experienced a potentially dangerous issue involving the automatic seat-folding mechanism being activated unintentionally. In our vehicle, the button used to mov... Read more

Incident date: Mar 17, 2026

We have been waiting for almost two years for the traction control and ads break repair. When will something be done about this recall not being repaired?

Incident date: Feb 6, 2024

All cameras went out on the F350 with a blue screen there’s a recall on this but my truck is not included and needs to be expanded.

Incident date: Jan 15, 2026

While driving on the interstate at 70mph the vehicle’s fuel injectors failed causing the vehicle to lose power suddenly.

Incident date: Mar 1, 2020

Coolant Intrusion caused my engine to be blown.

Incident date: Jan 3, 2025

The contact owns a 2023 Ford Transit. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V860000 (POWER TRAIN). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the gear shifter independently shifted from drive(D) to reverse(R). The contact stated that before the failure occ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 30, 2026

The heads up display and dashboard display go black while driving. Sometimes it flickers on and off repeatedly which is very distracting while driving. When it is off, I cannot see speed, fuel, etc. A recall was issued for this problem, however my vehicle VIN was not included in the recall, meaning... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2023

Description of the Problem: •Component/system that failed: The engine starter, which is subject to an open recall issued September 23, 2025. The starter was not replaced during a service visit. The vehicle no longer exists due to the fire, but the VIN and service records are available for inspecti... Read more

Fire

Incident date: Sep 1, 2023

Fire

Incident date: Feb 2, 2026

The sliding door lock actuator froze there was an extended warranty on them for 10 years or 100,000 miles. Mine went out at 129,000

Incident date: Jan 13, 2026

On 12/22/2025, my fiancé and I purchased a 2022 Ford Bronco Sport from LaFontaine Ford in Lansing, MI. During the initial purchase, we were not aware of any recalls or vehicle defects with the Bronco Sport. Roughly one month later, the check engine light came on, and after a thorough vehicle insp... Read more

Incident date: Feb 4, 2026

2018 Kia Sorento 2.4 GDI. In late 2024 a Kia dealer performed an oil-consumption test and confirmed the engine was burning excessive oil. In Feb 2025 the engine long block was replaced. Within about 4,000 miles the vehicle began setting P1326 warnings, misfiring, losing power, and struggling to clim... Read more

Incident date: Jan 23, 2026

The contact owned a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that while making a left-hand turn, the wheels on the vehicle failed to follow the trajectory of the movement and failed to function as intended, and moved toward the curb. The vehicle came to a stop when it hit the curb. It was unkno... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Aug 24, 2020

Transfercase fluid eaking observed at 38000 +- miles, this could lead to a binded transfercase thus damage transmission permanently

Incident date: Aug 24, 2020

The contact owns a 2021 Ford Escape. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V467000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and 25V829000 (Structure); however, the parts for the recall repairs were not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 24, 2020

The contact owns a 2025 Hyundai Tucson. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at various speeds, the imminent crash braking failed to function as intended. The first time that the failure occurred, the contact's wife was driving in the rain, and a beeping sound was coming from the vehic... Read more

Incident date: Jan 22, 2026

The contact's mother owns a 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The contact stated that the vehicle was difficult to start. Additionally, the transmission had failed to shift to drive, and the vehicle failed to turn off as needed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, but the cause of the failure could not be ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 13, 2026

Brake system sets a high tone pitch indicating failure accompanied by all Brake, ABS, PS, Traction Control Lights. This is an know failure for Hybrid systems. It can occur completely random, while driving without notice. Complete brake pressure is lost with exception of a hard feel to the pedal that... Read more

Incident date: Jan 13, 2026

The contact owns a 2022 Ford Bronco Sport. While driving approximately 50 MPH, the contact received an alert indicating that the engine was overheating, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact pulled over and became aware that the coolant reservoir was empty. Upon opening the ho... Read more

Incident date: Nov 5, 2025

2018 TOYOTA CAMRY at times vehicle engine will run under engine Temperature, and other times, Vehicle will overheat. This is intermittent issue and is Not all the time. When vehicle is shut down. For 5, 10 minutes, It seems to work fine again for a week or two, and then starts to act up again. Toyot... Read more

Incident date: Nov 5, 2025

COMBINED FORMAL & SUPPLEMENTAL COMPLAINT – UPDATED WITH VIDEO EVIDENCE DISCLOSURE To: Florida Division of Motorist Services – Consumer Complaint Division Attn: Dealer Licensing & Compliance Section [XXX] Via Online Portal: [XXX] Date: November 09, 2025 Re: Misrepresentation in Sale of 2024 Tes... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Nov 5, 2025

I was sold a 2024 Hyundai Sonata SEL and while driving on the road multiple times the car completely shut off. By this all lights inside AND outside the car turned off (Headlights, interior lights and all) car was still rolling and I pulled over each time as all systems rebooted. It claimed that all... Read more

Incident date: Oct 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2013 Ford Edge. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, the rearview camera displayed a blank screen and was glitching. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the rearview camera needed to be replaced. T... Read more

Incident date: Oct 21, 2025

I was shifting into reverse but the gear slipped back into drive. I didn't react in time and I drove through a wooden fence. The car was damaged but no one, including myself, was hurt

Crash

Incident date: Oct 1, 2025

Initially, the component that was failing was the rear wiper blade. The wiper blade would not perform a proper rotation. It wouldn’t move at all when I would turn the switch, but anytime the car was unlocked or locked. The door was open or closed the blade would move. A few days later, one reverse... Read more

Incident date: Jun 1, 2022

The contact owns a 2017 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the wiring harness located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle had failed... Read more

Incident date: Mar 12, 2025

This has occurred multiple times but while driving in the rain the wipers will stop on the middle of the swipe for a couple seconds and then start moving again. It is terrifying since a few seconds of zero visibility when it is raining with no wipers could cause me to run off the road or run into on... Read more

Incident date: Jul 6, 2025

1.The vehicle does not recognize it's in park periodically and will not shut off 2. Thermostat housing and thermostat failure 3. Tint covered chrome on exterior of body peeling off Only had the car 3 weeks Currently at dealership repairing thermostat out of pocket

Incident date: Mar 29, 2025

The highway driving assist in my vehicle turns off without warning. It’s having control of the steering and speed but randomly even when the hands are on the steering it switches off with no warning. Because it has control on the steering it tries to adjust even if we are to move it a little, But ... Read more

Incident date: Aug 9, 2025

My engine has been burning through oil very fast, it is only 6 years old. I have to put oil in it approx 3 times before another oil change is due. My mechanic suggested I see if there were any recalls but there are none. I have no lights on or any other issues.

Showing 50 of 964 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2015 KIA SORENTO

2015 Kia Sorento SUV AWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	15.5%

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, 2015 KIA SORENTO

298 manufacturer communications from 173 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	47
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	43
350000 EQUIPMENT	30
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	24
060000 ENGINE (PWS)	20
140000 AIR BAGS	14
100000 POWER TRAIN	12
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	11

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2304) - This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Mo

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: OIL PRESSURE SWITCH (OPS) REPLACEMENT - 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 bulletin provi

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

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN OIL PRESSURE SWITCH (OPS) REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information regarding the replacement of the Oil Pressure Switch associated with the 'Warranty Extension Program' (WTY026) on some 2014-2018MY vehicle

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PITSTOP: INJECTOR HARNESS ROUTING FOR PI1802Y/Z AND PI1803Y/Z ENGINE REPLACEMENTS - This bulletin provides information to address a no-start or hard start with poor running condition after engine replacement under PI1802Y/Z or PI1803Y/Z. So

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: REIMBURSEMENT FORM - This document is a Reimbursement Request form for 14-18 MY Sorento customers which was mailed with the customer letter advising them to submit the form if they had paid for repairs for this same matt

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification that Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs that may be necessary to address an Oil Pressure Switch leak in 2014-2018 MY Sorent

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the warranty extension (WTY026).

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers of the warranty extension program for WTY026. Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals of the warranty extension program for WTY026. Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for the repairs related to the O

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA 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. Th

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin are

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

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

140000 AIR BAGS

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

220000 SEATS

140000 AIR BAGS

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

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

140000 AIR BAGS

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

220000 SEATS

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

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT - TSB_PI1802_R2 - Knock Sensor Detection System - ECU Logic Improvement - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margi

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MAINTENANCE REMINDER FEATURE - This bulletin provides information on setting the "Service Interval Reminder" feature available on most Kia vehicles. If the service interval reminder is set, the customer will be i

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z_Rev3) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. - This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z_Rev2) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin p

350000 EQUIPMENT

TSB: PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN : KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM (KSDS) LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1802_R11) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to a software update to

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: WIRING SIGNAL INTERFERENCE CHECK & ENGINE NOISE INSPECTION (SA379) - CLOSED - SUPERSEDED BY PI1802YZ/1803YZ.

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

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previou

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: TSB_R7 - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802W/X) - CLOSED - SUPERSEDED BY PI1802Y/Z.

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

062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: TSB - ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802Y/Z) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin p

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: TSB - REV 10 - KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1802) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. This bulletin provides information related to a software update

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TSB - PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN - KNOCK SENSOR DETECTION SYSTEM - ECU LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (PI1802) Rev.9 - This bulletin provides information related to a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) to install the Knock Sensor Detecti

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DTC P1326 (PI1802W/X) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information.This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previous

114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN - PARTIAL REPAIR OF 4WD COUPLING - This bulletin provides the procedure information regarding the partial repair of the Four Wheel Drive (4WD) Coupling Assembly, Pressure Sensor, Actuator Motor or 4WD harness on s

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

Showing 100 of 298 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 (current)	3	964
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	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

2015 KIA SORENTO

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2015 KIA SORENTO

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2015 KIA SORENTO

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA SORENTO

KIA SORENTO - All Years Overview

KIA SORENTO - Year by Year

Other KIA Models