Kia Sorento Kia Sorento

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Kia Sorento repairs by problem area

Engine (26%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (10%)

Brakes and Traction Control (7%)

Suspension and Steering (13%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (29%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (9%)

Other (6%)

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Chart based on 1094 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the Kia Sorento.

Kia Sorento electrical repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (3%)

$500 - $999 (10%)

$100 - $499 (28%)

< $100 (57%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 216 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2019 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

290-horsepower 3.3L V6 8-speed shiftable automatic AWD

14000 mi Mirror would not fold 

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2017 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

47000 mi The turn signal or any other warning buzzer made a very loud, grating noise. The entire electrical dash panel and total electrical system had to be replaced after weeks of consultation with factory technicians and changing parts until decision to replace entire system.. Total repair was $5800 but was covered by my extended warranty. Dealer said they had never seen before. 

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2017 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

290-horsepower 3.3L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

40000 mi Auto headlights were turning off randomly 

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2017 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

290-horsepower 3.3L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

10000 mi Lumbar support stopped working. Lumbar switch replaced. 
10000 mi New lumbar switch not properly connected 
400 mi a/c hose rubbed against belt and wore hole in pressure side of compressor hose. Was not installed correctly from the factory. 

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2016 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 240hp 2.0L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

16000 mi Dash warning lights, speedometer, tachometer, other signals would cease to function on start up or on shifting into gear. After evaluation, it was determined that the rear backup camera was causing the interference, The rear camera was replaced and the problems were resolved. 
19000 mi Noisy rear wiper motor. replaced motor under warranty 

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2016 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

290-horsepower 3.3L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

23000 mi Electrical connection behind the dashboard loosened and wouldn't allow the air conditioning fan to run properly. 
28000 mi Electrical harness powering the blower motor and a/c failed. Replace wiring harness and blower motor. 
30000 mi

US $180
Car failed to start in four attempts. Push button start finally worked on fourth try. Replaced the battery. 
Tire Pressure Monitoring System malfunctioned. Problem existed upon purchase. Dealer has parts on order. 
1000 mi TPMS parts came in and were installed 
4000 mi Airbag warning light came on. Computer scan indicated a bad resistor in monitor circuit. Board replaced. 
7000 mi Airbag light came on for second time. Returned to dealer. They conferenced with KIA and replaced circuit board for airbag. 
19000 mi Replaced clock spring assembly and air bag control module. Seven days in shop. 
37000 mi

US $200
Battery died would not hold charge, just outside warranty had to replace. 
17000 mi Control head unit was replaced 
18800 mi Car wouldn’t start 

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2016 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

290-horsepower 3.3L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

43400 mi Horn low note required replacement on war 
18000 mi Bluetooth, louder sounds from incoming phone call 
10540 mi Dealer trip for a few issues: Drivers rear door not unlocking- Bluetooth and Sat radio cut out at times- rattle from back hatch area 
14260 mi air conditioning began blowing warm air on a lengthy trip but after 3 days corrected itself. Took the car into dealer who examined the AC and said all was fine. They indicated they would keep it on file in case it happens again. 
4020 mi Tail gate electric door latch failed after first trip to dealer. Door latch won't stay closed and locked so tail gate was free to open ... Latch module was replaced in same trip at no cost (warranty). 
43500 mi

US $200
Cell went bad in the battery. Died just out of warranty. 
145000 mi

US $1565
Body control module went out. Could not shift from park. 
57000 mi

US $185
Driver's side speaker was distorting, especially during low notes in music. Purchased OEM replacement speaker and that fixed the problem. 
86000 mi

US $115
Low horn stopped working and high horn sounded feeble. Replaced both horns. 
5620 mi A few times on a three-day trip a "BSD cancelled" warning appeared. If the vehicle was stop and restarted or simply driven for a while the message went away. Dealer says it's a known problem, but no fix. 
14260 mi Replaced blind spot module 
3782 mi The vehicule started as usual and i was unable to turn the steering. The car have been remorqued to the dealer for inspection. The dealer said that my remote starter module have been installed too much near the steering module and interfered with it. The dealer replace my remote starter module et that solved the problem. The Kia Sorento was not defective, it was my remote starter module !!!! 
4340 mi I got black screen with backup camera occasionally. Dealer changed camera with a new one. Work under warranty. The two problems have been solved. 
6200 mi Rear antenna for the trunk dont recognize inteligent key. They changed rear antenna (it was in the rear bumper) under warranty and the problem is fixed. 

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2016 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

185-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

68000 mi

US $130
Recharged A/C 
19840 mi Fuel gauge not functioning. 

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2015 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

290-horsepower 3.3L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

5300 mi When the push start/stop button is pushed to turn off the car, the radio, nav stay on even after the "Goodbye" and the car is locked. After another 3 minutes it then shut off. Dealer tested could not create problem or offer solution. 
6000 mi Same problem radio, gps not shutting done when car was off 

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2015 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

191-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

82000 mi

US $40
Low-pressure hose appears to have a leak. Refilled with a can of R134 pending parts arrival. 
39990 mi UVO system rebooting by itself, sound not working anymore for USB and CD, odometers resetting randomly 

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2014 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

290-horsepower 3.3L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

26000 mi

US $20
The air conditioner started smelling like mold/mildew. I bought 2 cans of Lubegard 96030 Kool-It Evaporator and Heater Foam Cleaner. I cleaned out the gunk in the evaporator. Now the AC smells fresh. 

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2014 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

290-horsepower 3.3L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

20500 mi Nav display flash or fails with cold temperatures. 
33900 mi Rear view camera went out and the voice command button on the steering wheel became intermitant 
11000 mi Car would die if it was not run for 3 days in a row. Problem occurred 4 times before they determined that the battery was defective - it only held partial charge. 
38000 mi the original battery was defective and replaced by Kia in 2015; again in March 2017 i had the same problem - i parked my car at Newark airport for a 3-day business trip and came back at midnight to find it dead once again. I was able to get a jump from the security people at the airport and the next day i took the car to my local mechanic who replaced the "kia" battery (second one in 2 years) with an Delco battery and so far I have not had any more problems. What i learned was that even though you shut the car off, Kia has many electrical things on the car that continue to send signals out and deplete the battery. Basically, when you buy this car, they should tell you that you must drive it every 2-3 days or it will be dead. I think there is no way around this. i would never buy another one. 
46000 mi

US $700
Once again my Kia Sorento was dead. This car periodically just stops working. I have replaced two batteries in 46,000 miles and now the alternator. This car has electrical problems that Kia cannot figure out. The 10yr 100k mile warrant is only good if you live next door to the dealer - i have never spent so much time with AAA tow trucks as I have since I bought this car. another electrical problem - another repair - more tow trucks - i would never ever buy another Kia. This was a very expensive mistake. I have stopped taking the car to the dealership because they cannot figure out what's wrong and it takes a lot of time to get there and wait and then explain it them - only to be asked do I want to "rent a car from them" while my car is being repaired! I gave up - I tow the car to my local repair shop and hope that they can find whatever electrical part is now blown. This car is unreliable. 
6000 mi after siting at airport after a 6 day trip car was dead. This was the 2nd time in the month. 1st time we just chalked it up to leaving a light on or something. 2nd time, we took it in to b checked out. They flashed the control unit with an update. 
7440 mi When locking the car, sometimes the lights wouldn't go off and when unlocking the car would lock again instead. Described the problem to the dealer and the doorlock actuator was replaced under warranty. Told there recall/tsb for it. 
12900 mi Sirius satellite radio cuts out 5 to 7 times per day, no matter where car is driven. Radio display shoes "Acquiring Signal" for 3 to 10 seconds. No other car I've owned has had this repeat occurrence of sat signal dropouts. 
44702 mi Rear view (backup) camera was damaged; went black. It was replaced under the warranty. 
32000 mi GPS navigation system was not up to date on directions Internal dash clock was losing time 
38000 mi The AC stopped cooling abruptly from one day to the next (not gradually). A leaky AC rubber hose was found and replaced. System was recharged and all is working great. All covered under warranty. 
101680 mi Both headlights blown, switch on steering column not working, car needed jump after sitting for week. Dealer could not find problem, was supposed to put in request for warranty work on switch, blew me off. 
7000 mi Applied some service bulletins for the Sorento to help with battery life. 

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2014 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

191-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

72000 mi

US $10
Replaced headlight bulb 
142000 mi

US $65
Battery died in tire pressure sensor unit. Tire dealer replaced with new sensor. 
88000 mi

US $145
Backup camera malfunctioned and was replaced. 
115000 mi

US $52
Oil change, replaced headlight lamp. 
46000 mi cruise control cancel button broke. they replaced the small circuit card and button. 
72000 mi

US $25
Headlight replacement 
30000 mi the battery was not holding a charge and it was replaced under the two year battery replacement warranty at no cost to me. 
40000 mi BATTERT HARNESS WAS LOOSE CAUSING A POWER FAILURE IN MY VEHICLE. THE HARNESS HAD TO BE REPLACED AND THE DEALER WASHED MY CAR AND OFFERED TO SELL ME A NEW TWENTY SIXTEEN SORENTO FOR ONLY TWENTY GRAND AND MY TWENTY FOURTEEN VEHICLE..WOW! 
57000 mi Controls on steering wheel were doing incorrect functions when depressed. Dealer replaced the clock spring and steering wheel. Problem is now worse and awaiting fixing. 

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2014 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

191-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

55000 mi Leak in high pressure hose 

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2013 Kia Sorento

Engine not specified

14000 mi

US $32
Airconditioner line freezes up after 2-3 hours travel. Have to stop/turn off for 30 minutes or so, then back on, then off. Terrible in Southern heat! 

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2013 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

276-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

100000 mi

US $70
Heated seat system replaced - problem with wiring grid caused driver side heat to not function. 

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2013 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

276-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

87000 mi

US $800
Dealer left connections unhooked after replacing alternator in December. Broke one of the connections off during alternator repair. Created leak in ac system during alternator repair. Required new wire harness, evac and recharge with dye. 
38000 mi Blower motor for third row seating A/C began making a very obvious squeaking/clicking noise. Parts were ordered under warranty. Third row blower squeaking / clicking. This trip was to replace the ordered part. 
93500 mi

US $700
AC would intermittently blow warm, driver side ac would blow warm when rest of the car was blowing cool. After being investigated it was found that: 1) One of the AC system hoses was leaking so system need to be recharged after the hose was replaced 2) the evap temp sensor needed to be replaced. Also performed were a couple outstanding Service Bulletins. 
105000 mi

US $20
The Driverside tail light has failed repeatedly on my Sorento, this is at least the 6th replacement. As I had it into the shop for other routine maintenance I asked that they also replace the lightbulb and take a look at the socket. Apparently Sorentos are notorious for this particular problem, they looked made an adjustment and now it's a waiting game to see how long the bulb lasts. 
22700 mi

US $200
Battery died, possibly due to failed alternator. Bad alternator discovered after dead battery was replaced. 
7500 mi Car in shop again. Car will not turn off with keyless ignition;interior lights, NAV, idiot light stays on. Had to lock car with manual key not fob. Dealer says ront panel needs to be removed for wiring problem. First time dealer glued wires. 

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2013 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

191-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

20000 mi Back up camera won't shut off in drive. Bluetooth not working properly. Radio being replaced to correct problems. Cruise control not working and power supply outlets cut power off on occasion to my garmin. I will have to bring car back. 
31000 mi Cruise control turns on but doesnt set speed. Problem since owned car just wasnt a priority to fix. Having done with another repair. 
34000 mi Cruise control fixed. 
69200 mi

US $125
battery kept dying. have been told by several people it is unusual for a battery to go bad so early. 
94300 mi The CD player and the USB port have stopped working. The lifts for my trunk no longer hold the truck door up either and my tail lights seem to go out more frequently they should also. 
110000 mi

US $70
Wire harness for head lamp melted. 
15100 mi

US $36
AC drain plug due caused water back up in passenger front rug area 
30100 mi Replaced malfunctioning backup camera 

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2013 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

191-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

46000 mi Replaced worn battery 
25000 mi Audio system freezes on occasion 

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2013 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

175-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

29300 mi AC would freeze up and not work again till thawed, part malfunction, had to order part took 25 days, then kept another 11 days for repair 

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2012 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

276-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

6000 mi Driver seat heater failed intermittently at the begining, now is dead. Waiting for new seat. Dealer couldn't find where is the problem after few hours tests. They want to change entire seat to see if problems could be fixed. Really not happy. 
17900 mi Auto headlamps do not work. Only turn on in very dark and never shut off during light conditions. Kia's response to auto headlights is it's a sealed system. No way to repair it. 
58000 mi UVO system started having glitchy errors then stopped working altogether requiring new head unit 
21000 mi New UVO head unit having same glitchy problems that led to replacement of head unit. Dealer unable/ unwilling to change head unit a second time. Done with glitchy piece of junk. Trading in for a real car. 
42000 mi Replace broken windshield washer pump. 
51170 mi

US $500
A/C high side line had a leak. Replaced the line, flushed and charged the system. 
24000 mi

US $160
OEM battery died. 

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2012 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

276-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

13640 mi Back-up camera unsealed. Bad image quality (foggy). Camera replaced under warranty. 
17980 mi

C $190
Charging light came in the dash. Dealer has tested the alternator but found after that the battery was grounded. Had to replace the battery (warranty paid for 20% of battery price and 100% of replacement time). 
49000 mi

US $158
Battery not charging. Not enough power to turn engine over. Replaced bad battery 
4700 mi Navigation System went dead-Req'd. Replacement-Dlr unable to match dash parts after repair-Commented to Dlr parts matched when new - Irwin Pa. Dlr stated- 
28300 mi Antenna defective 
30000 mi Sirius signal was cutting in and out- Dealer replaced antenna 
38000 mi

US $112
Battery died - Car required AAA service call 
38700 mi

US $50
Backup warning sensors stopped functioning requiring sensor replacement 
3100 mi Drivers power seat motor inoperative. All left side power seat functions inoperative. Replace drivers side power seat motor and frame assembly.Electrical failure.Repair successful but vehicle returned with scratches on seat back and lower sections.Technician failed to place seat on a protective surface when performing repair 
21000 mi

US $120
Five year old battery failed load test requirements.Requested dealer replace battery. 
21300 mi

US $75
Burning odor when operating HVAC. Dealer changed cabin air filter. 
130000 mi

US $1300
Once started, the engine ran roughly and slowly. No electronic items functioned; shifter was stuck in park. on a 95+ degree day, the engine cooling fans did not run and for about an hour, the engine could not be shut off. Tow truck driver was able to shut it off after jumping the battery. Car spent over TWO WEEKS at R K KIA before they even looked at it. The problem turned out to be simply a bad alternator. 
5300 mi Electric Door latch malfunction 
47740 mi

C $750
Audio system stopped working. This has been an ongoing issue since I purchased the vehicle. I have had it in to be checked numerous times and they couldnt find the problem. They will not cover it under warranty even though it has been an issue since day 1. Very disappointed. 
32860 mi Heated steering wheel not working. Part replaced 
88100 mi

US $505
Replaced alternator on 2012 Kia Sorento in August 2016 
9000 mi Dash lights fail intermittently. Dealer cannot replicate the problem, no repair, no help. Took it in twice, unresolved. 
13000 mi Backup camera fails to "light up" on the monitor screen, intermittently. I haven't had time to take it in for service, but will when I return home in early June 
17000 mi back-up camera AGAIN failed. Took it in, where it worked perfectly. 
17200 mi Back in for same problem, intermittent failure of back-up camera. At direction of KIA engineers, dealer inspected and tightened connections in tailgate and behind EVO unit. They seem to think this will solve the problem. I'm hoping so. Update: solved. 
23000 mi Intermittent blackout of dash lights, failure would not occur for the dealer, so KIA would not authorize warranty parts replacements. Was told to bring it back when it happenws again. 
24000 mi Same ol' problem, intermittent black out of dash & console lights 
38000 mi

US $328
Bearings on A/C pulley were making horrific noise. New pulley was $75, remaining $258 was labor, shop supplies. 

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2012 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

191-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

31300 mi Drivers side heated seat failed, still under warantee. 
43000 mi Back-up camera works intermittently. Did not have replaced since the shop was unable to determine whether the camera was defective or if the problem was due to faulty wiring. Problem still exists; ordered a new camera, but the part is on back order so I have to wait until the camera arrives to determine if this will resolve the problem. 
4000 mi Drivers map light was not installed correctly. Dealer reinstalled it so that electrical contacts lined up and it worked fine. 
9000 mi Bluetooth not working. Wire to Microphone disconnected. 
57000 mi Non-functioning front door speaker (passenger side) 
20800 mi Seat heaters need to be replaced. 
93000 mi

US $350
air bag sensor 
13640 mi Problems with starter 
29760 mi Seat heater 

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2012 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

191-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

81000 mi

US $149
Drivers Seat Heater was not working. they charged $95 to check it with obd reader. Gave them no information, checked different components, determined lower heating element was bad. $500 for the part, est $250 labor.  bought a seat heater for $149 ebay 
10700 mi

US $135
Broken AC Compressor: Cost of part was $1020, had to be shipped in from out of state, but was covered under warranty. Brake Rotors needed machining, this is what cost $135 

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2011 Kia Sorento

Engine not specified

75000 mi

US $450
Driver side door latch fails to release catch resulting in the inability to open drivers door from the outside of the vehicle 

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2011 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 194hp 2.2L I4 Diesel 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

12400 mi The audio system speaker resonated when playing loud with bass(premium audio). The right back speaker was replaced. Now OK. 
78740 mi Srs warning light is on. Repair/soldering of clock spring 

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2011 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

276-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

10000 mi Defective brake interlock switch causes pushbutton start to act intermittent 
13000 mi Dead Battery. Replaced by dealer at no cost to me. 
40000 mi Inadequate cooling 
46000 mi

US $60
Defective Battery. Replaced at minimal cost 
15000 mi Arizon heat killed the factory battery prior to warranty expiration. 
3000 mi Recall to replace accessory ambient lighting wiring harness. 
20800 mi Difficulty shifting into PARK and out of PARK. Intermittent problem with increasing frequency. Defective part # 938100W000 SWITCH ASSY-STOP LAMP replaced. Also called brake pedal switch to allow shifting when stopped. Warranty @ 21,000 mi. 
42000 mi

US $450
Wiring harness connector to fuse box was broken, disabling gear indicator and preventing car from starting. Fuse box replaced and wiring harness wiring and connector repaired. Had to be towed three times. 
38000 mi The Dashboard Lights were not working. 
41000 mi The Driver Side Power Window Regulator had to be replaced. 
106000 mi

US $900
The Alternator was fried and needed replacement 
33000 mi The push button start has a brake pedal switch that was failing and needed replacement. Intermittent, so opted not to spend money on a repair. Update: The issue seemed to fade to black. It may have been fixed in a maintenance update or something but I never directly asked for it to be fixed. 
18000 mi intermittent refuse to start, dealer replaced brake switch 
39100 mi Light on Shifter housing out. Was disconnected somehow. Also recall on struts...they replaced all struts. 
8000 mi AC blower not working with remote starter. Dealer stated no problem, it shouldn't. Owner replaced fuses in Remote Start module. 
38000 mi Air bag light on. Reset by dealer- came right back on, not fixed Alarm going off on it's own, then stopped arming at all. Remote start quit at same time 
39700 mi Air bag light on 
44000 mi Airbag light coming on. Bad passenger seat. Reset, not fixed. Alarm sounds on its own. 
52000 mi Alarm sounding on it's own 
52000 mi Alarm constantly sounded on its own. Dealership could duplicate but not fix. 

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2011 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

276-horsepower 3.5L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

32000 mi Radio/GPS module failed. 
50000 mi LCD screen for radio going bad. Dealership said "bumper-to-bumper" 5 year warranty didn't cover. "Electrical only has 2 year warranty". 
75000 mi

US $600
Driver side Auto up/down button spring broke. Requires entire door to be taken apart to replace all window/mirror control buttons since it's one piece. Part cost $200 Motor that controls Air re-circulation flap failed. Got stuck & made ticking noise. Recirculating air not working. Had to take dash apart to get to it. 2 hrs labor, $100 for part. 
11000 mi Safety switch preventing putting car in/out of park Also one rear tail light 
36000 mi dvd wasn't working 
6000 mi Air conditioning drain hose plug causing back fill into passenger compartment. 
19000 mi The traffic display on the navagation systems stopped working. Dealer diagnosed and couldn't fix the problem. Car needs to go back in for further diagnostics. 
20300 mi From a forum learned of a rest for the nav system, by sticking a pin in a tiny hole in the upper right corner of the unit. Dealer didn't have a clue. Happened a few more times, fixed with a reset each time. 
29000 mi Car would not always start. When parking car, shifter sometimes would not allow you to put it in park. 
32000 mi Auto-dimming rear view mirror always dim. Technician noticed that I had a sticker on top of the light sensor and moved it. Problem fixed. 
59000 mi

US $146
Intermittent starting problems. Battery tested and replaced 
54000 mi The rear viewing camera was working only intermittently. 
91000 mi The battery light turned on and the vehicle started to shake. I charged the battery at home (battery 6 months old) and used the vehicle for a day without issue. The vehicle stalled in my driveway and would not start (no battery charge). Charged battery again and went to dealer (extended warranty) who although had the alternator in stock, needed 6 hours to repair the vehicle. Apparently the A/C lines run in front of the alternator. The refrigerant must be evacuated, the A/C lines removed, alternator replaced, A/C lines reattached and the A/C system evacuated and recharged. This is a very expensive repair ($475 alternator and the rest for labor). Total repair was $1,100. 
36000 mi Rear view camera would intermittently go out. Camera was replaced. Brake sensor bad resulting in keyless ignition not working properly. 
24800 mi replace rear camera. could not get it to start, towed, brake switch replaced. 
75000 mi Backup camera was not working (black screen). Quoted cost to replace ($380). Declined service. 
75700 mi Replaced rearview camera again (was showing black screen). 
34000 mi Intermittently failing backup camera. 
69981 mi

C $312
Replaced Battery 
71000 mi

US $300
The stereo began shorting out about 70,000 miles. First the CD player started acting up then the entire system. For a short time I was worried that it was the fuse block itself. Just the stereo. Going to upgrade the head unit. 
85000 mi

US $15
Replaced low beam halogen bulb. 
2480 mi Rear wiper motor was defective. Worked intermittantly. Replaced and is now working properly. 
24180 mi Sirius Receiver suddenly quit working. All other components of the system - Navigation etc. continued to function. I tried several times to re-activate my Sirius but was finally told it was a problem with unit. Dealer replaced it. Now OK. 
59520 mi Keyfob inoperable. Transmitter failed. New unit ordered and replaced and programmed on warranty. 

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2011 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

175-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

58000 mi The auto power window switch broke and I took it to the dealer for repair. Part were ordered and I am waiting to have the part installed.  
13000 mi The satellite radio sometimes switched bands due to a controller malfunction. 
42000 mi brake light switch was erratic which caused difficulties getting in and out of park. 
144000 mi Replace clock spring under warranty. 
33900 mi Push/Start button became inoperative. Switch connected to brake pedal was replaced to fix problem. 
44800 mi I inquire what was done to deal w/ nav system freezing on boot up, and am told it isn’t doing it for them, i.e. nothing has been done, even though they’ve seen it happen when I was at dealership and picking up car. 
67000 mi Nav issues never fixed. Voice recognition also got much worse after they updated the map software. 
11000 mi Car would not start. Start stop button would not start the car. Was in the shop twice for this problem. Ran tests and tightened some connections. 
26000 mi Could not put the car in gear. It was found to be a faulty brake switch, preventing the the system from releasing from Park. 
37000 mi Replace Brake switch 
35340 mi Vehicle wouldn't allow movement out of Drive unless vehicle was shut off. Turns out it was related to recall on brake control sensor control. Vehicle was repaired free within half hour. No problems since. 
44020 mi Middle passenger overhead light stopped working. Diagnosed as a short in light unit. Entire light unit was replaced under warranty. 
34000 mi Brake light switch was going bad. 
13000 mi Transmission could not be put in park or engine started after stopping in a parking spot. Brake light switch was replaced. 
15300 mi Engine would not start. Dealer replaced the brake sensor.  Rear view camera gives distorted image when very hot. 
18000 mi battery replaced 

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2011 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

175-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic AWD

65000 mi

US $345
Driver's side motor failed and was stuck in half open position 
3000 mi Head lights where not bright, recall on lights, problem solved 
15000 mi Brake switch went bad car would not start had to tow to dealership for repair, took about 4 hrs 
10500 mi drivers window quit half up, half down. Dealer diagnosed bad regulator, ordered part 1-1/2 weeks ago. Replaced today. 
3000 mi replaced all light bulbs on the rear of the car due to some TSB 
12000 mi

US $200
Replaced keyless start brake relay switch 
22000 mi

US $100
Replace keyless start brake relay switch 
25400 mi Replaced power window switch 
28000 mi Back up camera. Only works intermittently. 
29000 mi Replaced backup camera. Also replaced battery at 29000 miles. Car less than three yrs old 
15500 mi A/C compressor became notably noisy. Sounded like a diesel truck 
59280 mi Steering Audio controls glitch. When turning wheel talk button is engaged sometimes. Hang up does not work. Volume up becomes next. Random occurrences, no pattern 

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2011 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

175-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed manual FWD

10460 mi Auto lights were staying on constantly during daylight hours. Dealer replaced light sensor to address issue however issue has not been corrected i.e. this work did not solve the problem. 
6160 mi Auto Light electrical module replaced. 

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2008 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 168hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed shiftable automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

40700 mi A/C compressor leaking 
89900 mi

$1000
A/C compressor replacement A/C Electric Fan replacement A/C recharge 
99820 mi

$100
mode actuator replaced 
19300 mi Windscreen icing up on the inside. Workshop found that AC drain pipe had been fitted upside down allowing a small amount of moisture into cabin. 

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2008 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 168hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed manual 4WD, part-time w/low range

22000 mi Headlamp washer relay switch stopped operating - replaced. 
21000 mi Headlamp washer motor and relay replaced under warranty. 
34300 mi Rear parking sensors just packed up - no reason! 
35000 mi New rear parking sensor kit ordered by dealer and fitted - now all up and working again! 
42000 mi

£420
condenser leaking. it's rarely hot here, so no rush to fix it. 
44200 mi

£300
A/c condensor leaking. New non OEM unit fitted. 
86800 mi I didn't do anything but change a few bulbs and mess with the HVAC accentuature door so AC would blow at the face and not on the defrost mode. 

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2008 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

262-horsepower 3.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

73000 mi

US $200
Alternartor failure 

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2008 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

262-horsepower 3.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic AWD w/low range

75000 mi

US $150
Button automatic climate Control not working 

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2008 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

262-horsepower 3.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

62000 mi

US $650
Gradual failure of various accessories, bad ECM. 
49900 mi

US $150
Rear wiper motor would not stop, even with the key out of the ignition. Started over 2 yrs ago and it was never really fixed it had a mind of it's own seemed like. I disconnected the battery to make it stop. They finally replaced the wiper motor. 

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2008 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

242-horsepower 3.3L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

48360 mi I wash my car and having alternator problem, well its fixed in warranty 
50000 mi brake light switch had to be replaced. Bought the part at Advanced Auto Parts. headlight bulb went out The AC quit blowing. An auto tech teacher hit the reset button and it worked for another month. It is no longer working. Will have it looked at tomorrow. I am on a road trip. :/ 

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2008 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

242-horsepower 3.3L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

102000 mi

US $10
ESC Off light was illuminating. Replaced stoplight switch. 

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2007 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 168hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed shiftable automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

18788 mi

A $630
30000km service. Differential noise reported and differential will have to be removed, repaired or replaced. Estimated time off road 2 weeks. 
12000 mi Replace cruise control switch 

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2007 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

262-horsepower 3.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic RWD

117000 mi

US $23
replaced low beam headlight 
10000 mi

US $100
Tire pressure sensor 
67000 mi

US $145
Replaced clockspring. 

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2007 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

262-horsepower 3.8L V6 5-speed shiftable automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

28000 mi Defect in passenger air bag sensor. Factory recall. Problem returned in less than a week, then went away before had chance to take it back to the shop. 
126100 mi

$2500
The Air Conditioning system was serviced. 
6118 mi Ground wire broke off of rear wiper motor. Was reconnected. 
76860 mi

US $627
towed to garage, find issue, replaced alternator and battery 
85915 mi

US $325
turned out to be brake switch, had to have full read done on system. the cruse control went out, traction control switched off, and check engine light came on. one switch kicked out all above. also replace diode for interior lights. 

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2006 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 138hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed manual 4WD, part-time w/low range

118000 mi

£100
Replaced dead battery 

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2006 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 138hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

39000 mi

£98
Heater fan not working awaiting to be taking into workshop. Fuses all ok Transistor-Field EFF failed. New part fitted. This part controls the heater blower fan motor. 
41000 mi Interior Air conditioning/heater fan not working for 2 weeks as same problem last year. Took car into KIA workshop where they confirmed fan not working and could not identify part to replace and wanted to contact KIA helpdesk and to re-book the car into 
69900 mi

£175
Aircon service as not blowing out cold air. 
101000 mi

£70
Aircon gas needed to be refilled and system serviced as not blowing out cold air. Now working as it should. 

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2006 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed automatic AWD w/low range

164500 mi

US $400
Passenger airbag fault light is on. Service center was unable to find the problem. It remains unresolved. 

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2006 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

30000 mi

US $65
New Battery 
76000 mi

US $800
Replaced compressor due to clutch fail 
91140 mi

C $400
Issues with grounding in headlight/signal light electrical system. 
100000 mi

US $200
alternator burnout driver side window inoperable 
41000 mi

US $195
Windshield wiper would not turn off. 

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2005.5 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 138hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

68000 mi

£120
Car would not start - flat battery - jump start needed. High internal resistance and battery charge capacity reduced to about 30%. Original Kia battery replaced with new non-Kia part. 
104160 mi

R 900
Air con dead 
105400 mi

R 1700
Battery reached the end of life. New 900amp heavy duty fitted. 
108500 mi

R 9500
Electric window winder motor replaced. 

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2005 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 138hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

117000 mi

£59
Bearings alternator shot. Replaced alternator with second hand one from eBay. 
26660 mi

$20
AC fan noisy. Repaired to prevent overheating. 
31000 mi

$200
Replaced noisy alternator pulley and thinning brake pads 
9300 mi Replace dashboard clock 
18600 mi Repair cruise control 
55800 mi Repair cruise control 
63240 mi

R 450
Repair cruise control - replace sensor and clock spring 
74400 mi

R 310
Air conditioning compressor failed. Replaced with refurbished unit. Air conditioning compressor failed. Replaced with refurbished unit. 
98740 mi

R 500
Air conditioning compressor failed. Replaced with refurbished unit. 
103540 mi

R 100
Replace front parking light Replace front parking light 
112380 mi

R 500
Replace front parking light 
131220 mi

R 700
Replace faulty Aircon pump clutch and pully 
142600 mi

R 100
Bearing seized on A/C pump electric clutch. Clutch & Pulley replaced. 
160480 mi

R 500
Aircon pump failed. Problem traced to failed fan at front of radiator, not replaced in previous repair. Pump and fan replaced, regassed. 
168020 mi

R 280
Alternator not charging. Replaced regulator, diodes, bearing & alternator clutch and pulley 

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2005 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed manual 4WD, part-time w/low range

96000 mi

US $1500
condenser failed 

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2005 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed automatic RWD

57000 mi

US $500
Replaced alternator. 

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2005 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed automatic AWD w/low range

80000 mi

US $40
Interior bulb and tails lights keep going out and replaced one headlight 
83000 mi

US $350
Replaced altenator 
97000 mi

US $100
Ac clutch  

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2005 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

104000 mi Entire sensor system started breaking down, wiring throughout engine and entire vehicle started crumbling apart. This is not a repair problem, it's systemic, and common with the 2003-2006 Sorento. 
108000 mi

US $300
Replace a/c compressor 
93000 mi

US $20
Bought a diode to get the dome light to work in the "Door" position. It had not worked for several months. Apparently this is a common problem and the new diode fixed it. 
106000 mi

US $230
The AC died some time in fall of 2009. I did not attempt to get it fixed until July 2010. Alas the attempt failed after a couple of weeks and the AC is dead again. I doubt I'll try again. 
159600 mi

US $16
Replaced headlight. 
161000 mi

US $16
Replaced headlight. 
166000 mi

US $16
Replaced headlight. 
172200 mi

US $20
I replaced the passenger side headlight. Frequent headlight replacements are a known issue with this era of Sorento. 
178000 mi

US $25
Replaced drivers side headlight bulb 
179000 mi

US $20
Replaced drivers side headlight 
43400 mi

C $800
vehicle was brought in as air conditioning was not blowing cold air. A/C was repaired..warranty.  

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2004.5 Kia Sorento 4-door

6-cylinder automatic AWD

155000 mi

A $1
Half tank of gas and fuel warning light comes on or gauge shows empty. 

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2004 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 5-speed manual 4WD, part-time w/low range

140000 mi rear wiper ran even with car off, had to disconnect a wire to make it stop. never repaired. 

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2004 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed automatic AWD w/low range

74000 mi seat belt sensor bad will need a new set of belts dash light stays on. have not had work done yet, too expensive. 
75000 mi interior light sensor shot. 

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2004 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

111000 mi A/C Compressor has failed. 
116000 mi A/C compressor never replaced. 

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2003 Kia Sorento

Engine not specified

106000 mi

US $400
CAR RETURNED TO FACTORY FOR AIR BAG DEFECTS IDIOT LIGHT COMES ON. WHEN CAR WAS PURCHASED THE LIGHT WAS OFF BUT SINCE A YEAR IT HAS BEEN ON. KIA REPS WILL DO NOTHING EVEN THOUGH IT WAS FACTORY FIXED,KIA DOES NOT STAND BEHIND THEIR WORK 

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2003 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 138hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed manual 4WD, part-time w/low range

42160 mi Aircon thermostat fixed 
46460 mi Refitting of receptacle of rear plate light. Resetting of mechanical thermostat of cabin air conditioning to minimum. 
57040 mi

$2800
Halfway in a trip, the air con failed. At service it was seen that the compressor clutch was broken into pieces, leaving only the central part. Repaired for 3 hours including stuck up bolts and nuts, replacement of surplus clutch, oil, R-134? 

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2003 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

turbocharged 138hp 2.5L I4 Diesel 5-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

74900 mi needed new alternator 
119660 mi

€841
The car would not start I thourght it was the immo, the car was taken to main dealer 60 kilometres away, the had to replace the starter motor after after having the car for 9 Days the service was very slow 

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2003 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed automatic RWD

113500 mi

US $50
O rings at both ends of suction hose right off the A/C compressor 
118000 mi

US $120
Replaced suction side hose off of compressor. Had a pin hole leak. Replaced oil in compressor also. 
291100 mi

US $250
Alternator replaced. 
86000 mi

US $470
ac clutch bad,complete compressor kit on order 

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2003 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed automatic AWD w/low range

31000 mi

US $1550
Discovered dealer had drained AC (both caps missing) during the 60K service. 2 weeks until hot weather to discover Never taking car back there again. Paid $200 to a repair shop to test cooling system (OK) and refill with fluid. Never going back to Kia. 
108500 mi

C $220
Blower Transistor resistor, fans would not turn off. 
120000 mi Needed a new A/C compressor. 
63000 mi Over drive off switch failed. Was not properly repaired. 
67500 mi

US $100
Recharge air conditioning. 

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2003 Kia Sorento 4dr SUV

192-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed automatic 4WD, part-time w/low range

131440 mi

C $350
Compressor was seized. 
110000 mi

US $130
Head light bulbs also replaced 
144000 mi Airbag warning light on. No diagnosis, no repair. 
75020 mi

C $35
Low beams burn out at least every 3-4 months replaced wiring with one that was stated in a TSB- so far so good. 
119600 mi

US $525
The air conditioning compressor was bad. 

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See TrueDelta's information for all Kia models.

Kia Sorento Electrical Problems

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently Kia Sorento problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.