2020 KIA SORENTO

1 recalls, 191 complaints - 82 TSBs - 5/5 safety rating

TRAILER HITCHES

Defect Description

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris a... Read more

Consequence

A 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 inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia cu... Read more

70,887 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.

Complaint Statistics

191 total complaints 13 crashes 6 fires 18 injuries 1 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	30
ENGINE	27
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	25
POWER TRAIN	23
SERVICE BRAKES	12
STEERING	9
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING	6
AIR BAGS	6
VISIBILITY/WIPER	5
LANE DEPARTURE: BLIND SPOT DETECTION	3

Incident date: Aug 31, 2026

While driving my 2020 Kia Sorento on the freeway at highway speed, the panoramic sunroof suddenly shattered without warning. There was a very loud explosive sound that startled and frightened me while I was driving. I was not aware of anything striking the sunroof immediately before it shattered, an... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Feb 1, 2026

The contact owns a 2020 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side air bag warning light remained illuminated while an occupant was seated in the front passenger’s seat. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that there were no recalls or warranty as... Read more

Incident date: Jul 31, 2026

My 2020 Kia Sorento stalled and shut off while driving and eventually stopped working completely, requiring it to be towed to a Kia dealership. The dealership first replaced the starter and then the high-pressure fuel pump, but the vehicle still would not operate. After further diagnosis, I was info... Read more

Incident date: Jul 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2014 Fleetwood Excursion Motorhome built on a 2014 Freightliner XC-S Straight Rail Rear Engine Motor Home Chassis. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and making a turn, the motorhome made an abnormal sound. The contact later discovered that the two brack... Read more

Incident date: Jul 12, 2026

Purchased used 6/12/2026 at 188,882 miles from a franchised Chevrolet dealer. The integrated trailer brake system master fuse and passenger-side turn signal fuse were blown at delivery. When the fuses were replaced, the trailer brake system faulted and the failure disabled the ABS, traction control,... Read more

Incident date: Jul 12, 2026

I was slowing down, actively pressing the brake pedal to bring the vehicle to a full stop. As the car decelerated to what my senses and perception registered as a full stop, I pressed the “P” (Park) button while keeping my foot on the brake pedal. I felt the physical click of the “P” button... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jul 12, 2026

Incident date: Jun 15, 2026

The contact owns a 2014 Buick Lacrosse. The contact stated that after the vehicle was turned off, residual electrical power activated in the vehicle. The power windows and sunroof remained operational, and the instrument panel remained activated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, who diagnose... Read more

Incident date: May 27, 2026

Auto Idle Stop (AIS) system fail to restart: The engine fails to restart on its own after a complete stop at a traffic light or intersection with the Auto Start/Stop function engaged, putting the driver in dangerous and panic situation.

Incident date: May 27, 2026

The bolt holding the hatchback piston that opens the trunk in place snapped and the piston went through the gap between the hatchback and the roof

Incident date: May 27, 2026

Incident date: May 19, 2026

I have a Hyundai Sonata 2017 one year after I bought the car I started having acceleration problems. I have had the throttle changed and the valve gasket cover repaired. On April 15, 2026 the check engine light came on. On April 29th I got theta 2 emissions update installed at Hyundai Auburn, Al. I ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 1, 2026

The contact owns a 1966 Ford Mustang equipped with Nexen Tires, Tire Line: N’Priz, Tire Size: P195/75R14, DOT Number: 1BE4X. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the sidewall of the tire had failed and the sidewall tire had unexpectedly swell. The cause of the failure had not yet been determin... Read more

Incident date: Apr 1, 2026

I purchased my 2024 Land Rover Discovery new in March of 2024. In October of 2025, I found a large amount of water leaking through my windshield. Land Rover had my vehicle from October 2025 until April 2026. When it was returned to me it had mold in that had to be remidate3d and now my screen is sta... Read more

Incident date: Feb 1, 2026

My cars breaks failed by a vacuum pump failer and I almost died on the a hill going home

Incident date: Nov 20, 2025

While driving down the road 70 MPH the transmission suddenly downshifting from 6th gear to a much lower gear causing the rear wheels to briefly lock up causing a skid safety issue... at the same time, the speedometer dial swings downward to the left like a sudden deceleration, then seems to catch up... Read more

Incident date: Nov 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2014 Ram 1500. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the steering wheel became stiff, and the vehicle failed to turn as intended. The contact stated that the message "Service Power Steering System" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the... Read more

Incident date: Nov 20, 2025

The electric power steering system has now completely failed and the steering is fully locked/stiff at all times. The vehicle cannot be safely driven or operated. The issue began as intermittent loss of power steering assist and progressed to total failure without warning. Steering now requires ext... Read more

Incident date: Dec 31, 1969

Started the car to go to work and the check engine light came on, I stop started flashing and wouldn’t turn off. Message says there is a malfunction with the hybrid system and to visit Mazda dealer. I had to drive it to work, so it drove fine. But the lights never went off.

Incident date: Mar 3, 2026

The ADAS is not working properly. Adaptive cruise control, emergency assist, lane departure, active front assist, distance warning, traffic sign recognition, adaptive light, etc. are all not working. The check engine light is illuminated, the key fob would not open car (not a battery issue) and the ... Read more

Incident date: Mar 3, 2026

Incident date: Mar 6, 2026

Subject: Escalation of Unresolved Case – Request for NHTSA Assistance Dear NHTSA, For several months, I have been dealing with an unresolved issue regarding my Hyundai vehicle. On February 18th, I was told the supervisor of my case manager at Hyundai Motor America would contact me within 5 to 10... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2026

I leased a 2023 Ioniq 6 electric car on September 2023. Since leasing the vehicle, the vehicle has been towed four times for the same problem, the parking brake malfunctions rendering the vehicle unusable. I have multiple photos and videos documenting this. This has happened either after parking th... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2026

My sunroof shattered. No other vehicles were near me and after hearing a very loud bang, I pulled over to check to see of something hit my car. All looked fine, but I did not look at the top of my car until about a week later due to hearing wind sounds. I then assumed something must have fell ou... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2026

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 Hyundai Sonata. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. The contact stated that the mileage on the title was discovered to be 98,000. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 99,00... Read more

Incident date: Feb 19, 2026

Engine Failed after driving 121 miles on Highway from Austin to Sealy. As I exited the Hwy. The motor quit, and would not start. It was stranded in a turn lane at the exit. Tow truck has to remove car from road and tow to dealership where they diagnosed the engine failure

Incident date: Dec 31, 2025

The front passenger air bag sensor turns off either before we begin driving or while the vehicle is in motion. The manual says that if you have a seat cushion or are not in the position for the sensor to "see" you, it may turn off. I have a bad back, and I need my 2-inch seat cushion for long trips,... Read more

Incident date: Jan 19, 2026

I am filing a safety complaint regarding a Chicco NextFit car seat. The anchor tab on my child’s car seat has become visibly stressed and appears to be failing after only two years of normal use. This is extremely concerning as this component is critical to properly securing the seat and ensuring ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 19, 2026

The cluster instrument panel stopped working. It is a part that has been recalled. It was taken to the local jeep dealer and they confirmed the issue. Apparently, my jeep has not been added to the recall list yet. I also reported the issue directly to Chrysler back when it first happened.

Incident date: Jan 19, 2026

2021 Toyota Camry Transmission failure. On November 28th, 2025, my car started doing a hard shudder. I pulled over, then turned my car off. When I started my car back up, it would only drive in reverse but not forward. I had my car towed to a Toyota dealership and explained to the man at the front d... Read more

Incident date: Jan 13, 2026

Today 13 Feb 2026, around 3pm I was following traffic it was slow (5 miles an hour) and the traffic light turned red so I pushed on my brake to stop the car and it surged forward I pushed down on the brake again and the my vehicle stopped. Lucy I was travel a couple car lengths behind the vehicle... Read more

Incident date: Jan 13, 2026

Tiny specks in the windshield between laminate decreases visibility when in sunlight

Incident date: Nov 22, 2025

I have had my car in the service department twice and continue to have the same issue. I am scheduled to have the car in the shop again on 2-19-26. For several months! After stopping and starting, my car stalls for a few seconds and then takes off. Yesterday, the car stalled while crossing the ... Read more

Incident date: Nov 22, 2025

While driving vehicle downshifted with no warning and went into neutral. Was driving on a busy street. Was not able to shift back into drive. When car stops was not able to put it into park. No previous warning of anything wrong. No engine light, battery etc. illuminated on the dash. Earlier that da... Read more

Incident date: Jan 8, 2026

It has been 7months since I bought my truck. STILL I have an open safety recall that hasn’t been fixed since no parts are available. I live in the Midwest and bought a ram truck just for the snow and conditions. I’ve been stuck more this winter than ever due to this abs recall. It takes away tra... Read more

Incident date: Jan 19, 2026

We are currently experiencing single-digit temperatures here in Pittsburgh. I placed my vehicle in “defrost” mode, and while it did clear the windshield, it also caused the glass to crack. I contacted Tesla and brought the vehicle in for an assessment, at which point I was informed the damage wo... Read more

Incident date: Oct 31, 2025

This is a second formal supplemental complaint. Vann York Honda sold this car as new, but a Honda America provided Carfax proved it was a prior personal use vehicle. The car has catastrophic phantom braking, causing a physical friction rash on my skin. Multiple witnesses are now afraid to ride in th... Read more

1 injured

Incident date: Feb 7, 2025

The contact owns a 2024 Honda CR-V. The contact stated that while attempting to park in a parking space, the vehicle suddenly accelerated and crashed into a 2012 Cadillac in front of her. There were no reported injuries, fire, air bag deployment, or police report filed. There were no warning lights... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Dec 23, 2025

The check engine light came on and it would run rough when started. It was determined the number four cylinder head was cracked, allowing antifreeze to leak into the engine block. I bought the car new in January 2019. The problem appeared with under 57,000 actual miles. The car has always been s... Read more

Incident date: Dec 23, 2025

The contact owns a 2025 Toyota Tacoma. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V656000 (POWER TRAIN); 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 manufact... Read more

Incident date: Nov 28, 2025

Automatic emergency braking system phantom braking; Several different times now, on the road; at low speed causing sudden stopping in traffic; after pulling over the emergency stopping system turned off but the transmission locked up in one gear; drive on in a fixed gear and after several miles... Read more

Incident date: Nov 3, 2025

I was driving down a very busy road and with no warning my car lost power. It would turn over but not start back up. I was stuck in the middle of a busy road way causing traffic’s to back up. I had to call the police to sit behind me so I wouldn’t get hit from behind.

Incident date: Dec 24, 2025

My truck is been having a death wobble for years now. It's scary, I changed tires suspension and I still have the issue.

Incident date: Dec 24, 2025

My truck is been having a death wobble for years now. It's scary, I changed tires suspension and I still have the issue.

Incident date: Dec 24, 2025

Recall performed on 2020 Acura TLX 3.5 for rod bearing recall. Crankshaft and bearings were replaced. 24000 miles later, the engine spun a bearing again with all the new internals. All maintenance records were supplied when the car was brought in. Acura is wanting me to pay 40% of the cost for a... Read more

Incident date: Jan 7, 2026

Complete loss of power steering. Service advancetrac light on Hill assist not available 2016 fusion but is not included in the recall. Car was sold to me and is registered in Pennsylvania, the salt belt. Ran scanner got codes U0240 and C102D. Clear codes, immediately get power steering back. Slo... Read more

Incident date: Jan 7, 2026

The Defender is only 2 years old, with 59k miles. Outside of warranty. It is a mild hybrid. Received an emergency electrical fault issue. Car stalled out. Had to get it towed to dealership. Its been with the dealership for a month now, with another month anticipated for the part, a dc convert... Read more

Incident date: Dec 24, 2025

Vehicle was driving normally down the highway then proceeded to shutdown without warning. Suddenly all of the trouble Lights appeared indicatinging engine, transmission, hill assist etc cut on without warning. The van would not drive above 55 mph when turned back on.

Incident date: Dec 24, 2025

I am submitting this complaint due to a serious mechanical failure involving the vehicle’s transmission system. The transmission developed a fluid leak that resulted in a sudden loss of proper hydraulic pressure, causing abrupt and unintended vehicle movement while driving. This malfunction create... Read more

Showing 50 of 191 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2020 KIA SORENTO

2020 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	15.8%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	Optional
Lane Departure Warning	Optional

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

Technical Service Bulletins, 2020 KIA SORENTO

82 manufacturer communications from 52 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	27
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	10
010000 STEERING	9
100000 POWER TRAIN	7
350000 EQUIPMENT	7
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	6
160000 STRUCTURE	2
116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE	2

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: 4WD COUPLING NOISE INSPECTION AND SNAP RING 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. T

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: AVN 5.0 WIDE NON-RESPONSIVE RADIO ICON (AM, FM, SXM) - 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

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: 4WD COUPLING NOISE INSPECTION AND SNAP RING REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information to inspect for a knocking/clicking noise present in the rear of the vehicle during low-speed driving (25MPH or less) on

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

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

This bulletin provides information to update the software on 5th Generation AVN wide on certain 2020-2024MY Kia vehicles (refer to model list on page 3) to remedy a 'non-responsive' or 'inoperative' radio (FM, AM, SXM, etc. ) concern. The a

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

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

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

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

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin provides information to update the software logic in the Kia Genuine Remote Start

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PIT STOP: LOG FILE COLLECTION FOR AVN 5.0/W AND DISPLAY AUDIO 2.0 - 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 Pitstop contai

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

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MAINTENANCE REMINDER FEATURE - 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 provides inform

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE REMINDER SETTING RESET PROCEDURE - This bulletin provides the procedure to turn OFF the service reminder lamp, at the first service interval reminder alert that will display on the instrument cluster. The

210000 TRAILER HITCHES

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRAILER HITCH ACCESSORY FUSE REQUIREMENT - This bulletin provides information regarding the trailer hitch accessory installation on some 2016-2020MY Sorento (UMa) vehicles. Note that the Kia trailer hitch accesso

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER REPLACEMENT AND MILEAGE SETTING WITH KDS - 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 pitstop pro

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)

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: REPLACEMENT OF MOBIS C-MDPS SMALL BEARING - This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the small bearing of the Column Motor Driven Power Steering (C-MDPS) unit on the vehicles listed below, which may exhibi

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

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b

160000 STRUCTURE

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: PARTIAL REPAIR OF THE DUAL PINION MOTOR DRIVER POWER STEERING SYSTEM - This bulletin provides information regarding the availability of partial repair (depending on faulty components) of the Dual Pinion Motor Dri

350000 EQUIPMENT

010000 STEERING

260000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

PITSTOP: FRONT RADAR SENSOR MOUNTING INSPECTION (PS704) - This pitstop provides information regarding front radar sensor alignment on 2014MY and later vehicles that may exhibit a warning light ON related to radar sensor alignment errors in

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE REMINDER SETTING RESET PROCEDURE - 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 pr

010000 STEERING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: LOG FILE COLLECTION FOR AVN 5.0/W & DISPLAY AUDIO 2.0 - This Pitstop contains information regarding the log file collection procedure for 2020MY~ models equipped with AVN 5.0/W or Display Audio 2.0 head units.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: DATA COLLECTION: EXTRACT CALIFORNIA EMISSIONS DATA FROM ECU (DC20). This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the mar

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

TSB_ELE200_CLOSED: Technical Service Bulletin superseded by SC199_TSB

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

TSB_ELE200_CLOSED: Technical Service Bulletin superseded by SC199_TSB

100000 POWER TRAIN

TSB_ELE200_CLOSED: Technical Service Bulletin superseded by SC199_TSB

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

010000 STEERING

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

350000 EQUIPMENT

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: LOOSE OR POORLY SEATED CRASH PAD GARNISH (SA438) - This bulletin provides the procedure to inspect and if necessary, replace the right side dash garnish molding on some Sorento (UMa) vehicles prod

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: MFC, CONCERNS FOR DISABLED OPERATION - This Pitstop provides information regarding concerns with disabled operation of Multi-Function Camera (MFC) on some Kia vehicles. When normal operation is not possible due to certain outside e

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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

284000 BACK OVER PREVENTION: CAMERA SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: REAR VIEW CAMERA REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to replace the rear view camera on some 2016-2020MY Sorento (UMa) produced from SOP through July 9, 2020, due to distortion and/or blue screen c

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: LAMBDA 3.3L GDI ENGINE HESITATION AT HIGH ALTITUDES LOGIC IMPROVEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to improve the logic of the Engine Control Module (ECM) on some 2019-2020MY Sorento (UMa) vehicles equi

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

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MAINTENANCE REMINDER FEATURE

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

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

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

010000 STEERING

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

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

100000 POWER TRAIN

160000 STRUCTURE

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: DRIVER DOOR CHECKER ROD INSPECTION AND REPLACEMENT (SA407) - This bulletin provides the procedure to inspect and if necessary replace the front left driver door checker rod assembly on some 2020MY

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

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 (current)	1	191
2019	2	632	View
2018	3	340	View
2017	4	1,041	View
2016	8	1,635	View
2015	3	964	View
2014	6	1,379	View
2013	5	1,298	View
2012	5	1,208	View
2011	8	2,077	View
2010	2	3	View
2009	3	79	View
2008	3	319	View
2007	4	224	View
2006	1	382	View
2005	0	457	View
2004	0	341	View
2003	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

2020 KIA SORENTO

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2020 KIA SORENTO

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2020 KIA SORENTO

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA SORENTO

KIA SORENTO - All Years Overview

KIA SORENTO - Year by Year

Other KIA Models