Two problems related to engine noise have been reported for the 2003 Kia Motor Sorento. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2003 Kia Motor Sorento based on all problems reported for the 2003 Sorento.
I was driving and heard a screeching sound and lost my power steering. I had vehicle towed to my local garage and was informed that the crankshaft bolt, roll pin and crankshaft sprocket were all damaged because the bolt had broken. The garage repaired the car and I was informed that this is a common problem with kia Sorento models. The crankshaft bolt part number had changed and been redesigned which shows that kia knows of an issue. The shop had to replace the crankshaft sprocket, roll pin and crankshaft bolt.
The vehicle was purchased in April 03. Not long after that there was a strange sound, then there was oil leak under the car. Took it in. Checked. Did dye check. Replaced some bolts. Replaced a part. Every few months up to today Feb 2006, there has been an oil leak. Taking car again to dealer on Feb 3, 2006 to see what they say now. The oil is felt when one touches under the car and there is a puddle in the driveway (oil stain). The car has only been serviced by the kia mechanics at the kia dealer. Criswell kia as of January 06 no longer services kia. I have to now take the car to farrish kia in virginia.