general problems of the 2017 Kia Motor Sorento - part 2

I don’t understand how my 2017 kia Sorento doesn’t have a recall on its engine. I bought the car in cash and 1 month the car doesn’t want to start. . I don’t understand I wasted money… I need engine replaced and don’t have $10000.

Oil consumption.

On July 25th when I started my car , 2017 kia Sorento, to leave work, it made a horrible knocking noise when it was starting, but once it started the noise stopped, no alert lights came on, so I drove it home 7 miles and parked it for the weekend. When my husband and I took it out again on Monday, July 28th, we had driven under 10 miles and gotten up to 70 miles an hour on the toll/express road, the check engine light started flashing as the power produced by the engine drastically declined and acceleration seemed capped or limited. We were able to safely exit the toll road without causing or being involved in an accident. We drove it 6 more miles home and parked it. A week later we had it toed to a kia mechanic who confirmed that the engine had been using oil, had metal shavings in the oil and the rod bearing had failed. The engine would have to be replaced. Once the engine was replaced, it was determined that the turbo had also failed on the impeller side and would have to be replaced. We did not take it to a dealer. We had both components replaced by a kia mechanic at our own cost.

While driving, the engine warning light suddenly turned on and the vehicle began shaking violently. I was forced to pull over, and the car had to be towed. The dealership diagnosed engine failure caused by excessive oil consumption. Despite routine maintenance, the manufacturer refuses to cover repairs under warranty. This creates a serious safety hazard, as engine components like spark plugs can fail without warning, potentially leaving drivers stranded or causing accidents.

The contact owns a 2017 kia Sorento. The contact stated that three days after purchasing the vehicle, the contact checked the oil level and noticed that the oil level was two quarts low. The contact checked the oil constantly after one thousand miles and noticed that the oil level was low. The vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. Most recently, while the contact was driving at slow speeds, the vehicle jerked, and the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact was attempting to overtake a us postal service truck when the vehicle failed to accelerate and stalled. The contact was able to coast to the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with knock sensor failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

I have a 2017 kia Sorento. On Sunday [xxx], I was driving on [xxx] in oklahoma when I started hearing a weird knocking noise and was having difficulties accelerating. I was in the car with my mother and [xxx] son just between guthrie and edmond ok which is a very heavily trafficked area. My car suddenly shut off, I coasted to the side and put my hazards on. After 2 hours waiting for a tow truck to tow my vehicle back to my home town a mechanic informed us the engine was blown and could be apart of their lawsuit against engines. After reading many many other peoples encounter with kia, kia acknowledges issues with the engines and were placed in a lawsuit however they find every way out of responsibility for replacing the engines that are faulty. Not only did this put others in danger while I was driving under the 75mph speed limit but it is July in oklahoma and in the upper 90’s but feels like the hundreds placing myself, my mother and child at risk of heat exposure due to this faulty engine and having to wait 2 hours for a tow truck. I purchased the vehicle in 2020 during covid when many business’ were shut down and more difficult to receive oil changes properly, and many people reported that since the engine was faulty it was eating away at the oil faster meaning oil did not go as far as it should. This company should replace all faulty engines regardless of their oil change reports and software updates as this is a massive safety feature and puts lives at risk on the road. No warning lights went off until the engine already shut down. They need to accept responsibility on these models as this is a major cost in a time many people cannot afford repairs for something that should be safe to drive. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

We purchased a 2017 kia sorrento awd 3. 3l v6 153,000 on may 9 2025. We made our 2nd payment on July 11th & on July 17th @5am we went and filled it up and got on the highway to head to work. We didn't even drive ½ a mile when all of a sudden it lost all power at 73mph. No warning lights nothing. Dash said "key fob not in vehicle". We had it towed to kia which cost almost $350 for them to call & tell us we need a new engine. No codes nothing. Also almost $200 for them to diagnose that. And that it will cost over 10k to fix. We paid under 10k to begin with. They are saying it isn't covered under any warranty. It's our only vehicle that we can drive in winter. We literally had the kia just over 2 months.

The contact owns a 2017 kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 55 mph, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that there was oil intrusion that caused the engine to fail. The contact was told that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact was informed that documents of past maintenance records were incomplete, and the warranty had expired. The contact stated that in the past, the vehicle consumed an excessive amount of oil. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

Unknown engine stopped in the middle of driving. The engine has a bad bearing. Caused the starter wire to be burned so can’t start vehicle what so ever. Chunks of metal in the oil.

Engine seized kia denied warranty extension b/c of maintenance records changed oil myself had 3 years of receipts for oil and filters.

Prior to the below incident, my vehicle was driving normally. Oil levels were normal, and there were no warning lights. In June 2025, I was driving on [xxx] during morning rush hour. As I approached a traffic light at the end of this 3-lane expressway, the engine suddenly stalled. I rolled up to the red light. When safe to do so, I left the vehicle to stand on the side of the road so as not to get hit. I had the car towed to a local repair facility. Repair shop looked at the vehicle and determined that the engine was seized. They then checked for TSB's and discovered that kia had, in some instances, extended the warranty to 180,000 miles and 15 years. My vehicle had 142,000 miles. I then had my car towed to the closest kia dealer in hickory, nc. The dealer initially indicated it was possible my car would be covered by the extended warranty, but they needed to run pressure tests to determine the cause of the engine seizure. Over the next 2 weeks, I called the dealer repeatedly, but they had no update for me. After about 2 weeks, they told me that my vehicle would not be covered by the extended warranty, and a new engine would cost me $15,000. I then called kia customer care, and the representative told me there was nothing they could do. I asked about an appeals process and was told there is none. After I returned from vacation in early August, the kia dealer contacted me and requested that I pick up my vehicle. I drove to the dealer and called a tow truck to bring it to my home. I rented cars at my own expense from the time of the engine failure until I bought a new car in mid-August. Shortly thereafter, I arranged to sell the kia to a used car dealer for $1,500, far less than I would have received with a healthy engine. At that point, I needed to get the car out of my garage. While cleaning out the car the night before it was to be picked up, I opened the hood and found that the engine had been left disassembled with parts lying all over the place. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act.

My 2017 kia Sorento is not included in the engine safety recall regarding the crankshaft failure in the engine. But I am experiencing the exact same problem so I do not see how it is not included in the recall. I am requesting the recall be expanded to include more vehicles because it is not safe to drive and is currently being held hostage by the dealer who wants $10,500 to repair my engine. I refuse to pay for negligence on the part of the manufacturer. Kia corporate has been very dismissive and not helpful. Please advise.

I was driving and out of no where the battery light pop up and than car turns off on in the middle of traffic. . Surprisingly there was no accident it was scary I had my two babies in the car with me. There’s no recall it’s a safety hazard . .

Valves are knocking and rattling. Engine sometimes stalls out. The knocking and rattling will not go away. It is getting worse everyday to the point that I am scared to drive it because it will stall out on me somewhere and leave me stuck on the side of the road. Been doing this for a couple of months now.

The contact owns a 2017 kia Sorento. The contact stated that the check engine and low oil pressure warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an oil change was performed; however, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the nearest dealer for an unknown recall repair, and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the maintenance records needed to be reviewed to repair the vehicle under recall. The contact provided the maintenance records that the dealer sent to the manufacturer. The manufacturer later informed the dealer that the vehicle was not eligible for an engine replacement based on the maintenance records. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called the manufacturer and was informed that the engineers had determined that the vehicle was not eligible for engine replacement and no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 133,000.

Engine failure. Hyundai and kia theta engine class action settlement 2017 kia Sorento 2. 0 VIN [xxx] . Vehicle has the knock sensor detection system (ksds) update which extends engine coverage to 10 years/150k miles for rod bearing failure. The vehicle has 118k miles and is at a kia dealership. They denied coverage due to no present codes related to the knock sensor and being that it has low compression on one cylinder. My 2017 kia Sorento experienced a serious engine failure related to rod bearing wear, a known issue in the theta ii 2. 4l gdi engine. The engine began making a loud knocking noise, which is a classic sign of rod bearing failure. They just so happened to left that out of their diagnosis that it has rod bearing noise and are using only the fact that low compression and no code related to the bearings to deny the coverage. When rod bearings wear out, they allow excessive play in the connecting rods, leading to unstable piston movement. In interference engines like this one, that instability can cause the piston to travel too far upward and strike open valves during operation. This can result in bent valves, valve seat damage, low cylinder compression, and repeated misfires. In my case, the engine was diagnosed with low compression and misfires consistent with this kind of internal damage. This isn’t just a wear-and-tear issue. It’s a known design flaw that leads to catastrophic engine failure and a serious safety risk. Kia denied coverage, despite this exact failure being covered under a class action settlement and extended warranty program, and despite my vehicle showing textbook symptoms of the defect. I am requesting a full investigation into kia's handling of these claims and the lack of proper recall enforcement. My name is [xxx] with 1a auto mart inc. I am handling this case for my customer who is the registered owner of the vehicle [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Motor uses 6 guarts of oil in 3000 miles. No leaks. The dealer has done the oil consumption test. And it failed every time. Kia denied claim to replace engine. They stated that it passed the bearing test. This is crap.

In April 2025 the check engine light came on. The engine had been replaced in February 2025 so I immediately took the vehicle to safford kia dealership in fredericksburg, va. (note: the engine was replaced at jacksonville kia, jacksonville, nc as the issue with the engine happened while I was away working at that location. ) a few days after dropping the vehicle off I was notified by the service writer there that the catalytic converter had gone bad which was a common issue after problems with the engine. Specifically, I was told the engine dumps oil into the catalytic converter therefore ruining it. The new engine has been driven about a 1000 miles (give or take) as the vehicle was picked up from the dealership in jacksonville, nc and driven to fredericksburg, va on 1 March 2025 with minimal normal driving before the check engine light came on.

This is the third time I’m having to take my SUV to the kia dealership because my check engine light begins flashing and then my car has a hard time accelerating when it gets to certain speeds. It shakes but will not go over 68 mph although it is covered under a warranty, it is very frustrating. Having to keep take my car to get fixed. There should be a more permanent solution.

The contact owns a 2017 kia Sorento. The contact stated the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The mechanic replaced the air filter, brake fluid, serpentine belt, accessory belt, performed tire rotation, replaced the power steering fluid, and performed an oil change. The check engine warning light illuminated again. The vehicle was returned to the mechanic who replaced the ignition coil and spark plugs. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who confirmed the diagnosis. The dealer replaced the valve cover gasket, fuel pump gasket, and coolant, performed a 3-point ggi induction service, refilled the brake fluid, and replaced a carbon air filter. The failure persisted and the vehicle was returned to the dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that piston #3 had failed, and a spark plug was burned and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. While the contact’s husband was driving approximately 65 - 70 mph, the vehicle began to shake aggressively, and the engine had seized. There was no warning light during the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The driver had coasted to the side of the road where the vehicle was towed home with open fuel injectors and piston failure. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer informed the contact that the spark plugs needed to be replaced again. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

Engine blew at 175000. It is not one of the vehicles that is covered under the class action lawsuit but the vehicle itself just blew an engine after an oil change. One of the pistons let go.

Engine failure, loss of power on multilane highway, engine valves failed. Unable to move to safe location dealer checked valves failed no warning lamps, messages prior to failure.

Urgent assistance needed: engine issue and warranty dispute since September last year, the engine warning light has been consistently on. Whenever I took the car to the kia dealership, they merely mentioned that the system was “too rich” and assured me it was not a concern. Instead of addressing the engine issue, they recommended replacing unrelated parts such as the air filter. When I took the vehicle to a local mechanic, I was informed that the engine was not in good condition, causing the oil to burn quickly, which indicated an engine problem. However, the kia dealership did not acknowledge this issue. On February 7th, while driving, the vehicle began shaking violently and making unusual noises. I immediately brought it to the local mechanic, who diagnosed that the #4 cylinder valve was burnt. The following day, on February 8th, I brought the car to the dealership. They mentioned that the engine might need to be replaced and promised to contact the warranty company for approval. They initially seemed optimistic, suggesting that the replacement could be covered under the warranty. However, two weeks later, I received a response stating that the warranty would not cover the repair. Despite multiple attempts to contact kia headquarters via email, I have not received any response. Upon further investigation, I discovered that my vehicle is part of the theta ii engine recall. Kia had publicly announced a lifetime engine warranty for vehicles with this issue. However, now that my engine has failed and requires replacement, they are refusing to honor this promise. The estimated cost for the engine replacement is $8,000, and I have been told that I am responsible for the full amount. I kindly request your immediate assistance in resolving this issue. I believe kia should honor its commitment to the lifetime engine warranty for the theta ii engine vehicles. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.

The car is a 2017 kia Sorento with approximately 73,000 miles. We have always had the oil changed at the kia dealership. A month after the last time I had it changed (1/2025) we were going on a trip so my dad checked the oil. There was no oil in it. Since then we have been having to put oil in it about once a month or so because it runs out. It is not leaking anywhere and no oil light comes on when it does run out. The oil is disappearing. The oil is burning internally. I am having difficulties with the dealership in addressing the oil consumption issue, even when it's a known problem. This last time I spoke with robert at kia ramada in shelby nc. They want me to pay for them to look at it and then said they would write up a report to see if corporate would cover it. I feel like since this is a known issue I shouldn’t have to pay for them to look at or diagnose it. He said it would not be covered unless the engine locked up. Well if I keep driving it and don’t keep putting oil in it, it will lock up. I’d rather you fix the issue than have to put in a whole new motor. Please get in touch with me ASAP so I know what further actions that I will need to take to resolve this matter.

The contact owns a 2017 kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure. The contact stated that there was engine oil covering the engine compartment. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 110,000. The VIN was not available.

My vehicle started leaking oil from the engine from an unknown location. I took it to the dealership for them to diagnose the cause of the leak which is under warranty. The dealer refused and did not honor the warranty. Now my car is immobile.

Engine failed, leaving me stranded at a stop light. I was finally able to get it started, but it ran terribly and didn't have the power to go uphill, almost rolled back into the vehicles behind me. Had to have it towed. No warning whatsoever, engine stalled and engine light on. I got it fixed at dealership I purchased from, then it did the same thing a week later. I will never purchase a kia again. Almost every shop I inquire about service won't even service kia engines anymore because of the problems. I'm left with a car payment and no vehicle.

While driving the check engine light came on. I could feel the vehicle losing power despite giving it gas & seeing the rpm's rise. While looking at the dash board to see if there any other indicators the check engine light started flashing followed up by the oil light and another light (can't remember what it was). I pulled off the highway and the vehicle was shaking while running before cutting out. It would not restart and I had it towed to the dealership. The dealership attempted to diagnos however all they can tell me is cylinders 1 & 3 will not hold compression, the engine needs to be replaced & despite only having 82k miles it's not covered by kia. The vehicle has been meticulously maintained at the dealership.

Severe oil spill from engine and is spilling out into the car tires and the side doors and comes through the muffler and my back window and it’s stalling my car and I have been left stranded on the side of the road and I had it diagnosed at the dealership I bought it and I need my car fixed due to faulty issues of the vehicle not my fault please and thank you.

While on vacation the oil light came on (just had it in for maintenance, told them it was using oil but no sign of leak, they told me it was fine to go on vacation, that there was no problem) we put oil in but then engine light came on. It was Saturday night and warranty CO. Had no emergency phone number. Got to hotel, Monday was towed to repair shop was told after they inspected the car that we had to replace the engine. Warranty CO. Replaced the engine a month later with a used engine. My car was not on the recall and should of been. Kia did not answer any calls or emails. Also I am still paying for it. I had a lo of problems with the warranty CO, luckily I kept up with the maintenance on it, because if I did not they would never replaced the engine, but now I have to worry about it happening again. Also my car is in arkansas and we live in wisconsin.

Like many other kia owners I have a kia sorrento and after 6700 miles started running into problems with oil consumption. I have Toyota extended warranty because I am second owner and wanted some type of coverage. Kia knows there are problems and giving customers run around plus higher insurance premiums. Second time over 5 days my car is being evaluated I have done 3 oil changes since March 2024 I did get engine oil switch fixed did own oil consumption test which Toyota did not except because it was not Toyota or kia dealer that did it. I would sue them on my own or geta new car if I could afford it. I love the car for size and smoothness of ride but they are failing their customers.

Coolant system not functioning properly replace thermostat and worked a day then back to overheating. Engine overheating with new oil and filter also shakes badly car does not shut of when ignition is pressed the first time have start the car then shut it off again.

Engine oil burning 2-4 quarts of oil in less 1000 miles.

The engine locked up. The engine only had 80,000 miles. The car stopped in the middle of traffic. The dealership refused to take responsibility. Kia also declined warning coverage. I had to pay to replace the engine.

I was driving down the road and my car shut off. It would not restart at all. I just had my state inspection and a new oil change on November 11. There was no light on the dash at all. They had to tow it to kia where it has been since the 25th.