Electrical System Problems of Kia Motor Sorento - part 2

I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding my 2021 kia Sorento and the repeated lack of resolution from the dealership where the vehicle was purchased and serviced. I have taken my vehicle to the dealership multiple times to address ongoing and serious safety concerns. Despite having active warranties on the transmission and powertrain, I have continually been told that there is nothing they can do, and my concerns have not been properly addressed. The vehicle is experiencing persistent issues, including: the transmission jerking and jarring when shifting gears the dashboard and center display screen intermittently go completely black while driving these issues do not occur constantly, but they happen frequently enough to pose a significant safety risk. I regularly have my grandchildren in the vehicle, and their safety, as well as my own, is my highest priority. Each time I have contacted the dealership to report these problems, I have been met with excuses and resistance to even scheduling an appointment. Due to the lack of cooperation, I felt I had no choice but to drop off my vehicle on April 13, 2026, without an appointment in order to have it addressed. I am extremely disappointed in the level of service and treatment I have received. As a loyal customer—this being my third vehicle purchased from the same dealership—I have never experienced this type of disregard. I also feel that I have not been treated fairly and, at times, have been dismissed in a way that is concerning and unacceptable. I am requesting the following: a full and thorough diagnostic of my vehicle, specifically addressing the transmission and electrical issues proper repair under warranty clear communication regarding findings and next steps immediate attention to these safety concerns I purchased this vehicle with the expectation of reliability and safety. At this time, I do not feel safe driving it, and I am requesting that kia take this matter seriously.

See all problems of the 2021 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

Our 2021 kia Sorento has been to elmhurst kia service numerous times . The chief complaint is the kia sorrento keeps losing power while in drive reverse middle traffic even on the highway but yeah every time we take it in, they say either it’s the battery . You can’t use it in the eco mode . Turn off the shut off while in drive mode when at stops ! always a different excuse, but yet no recall and it’s not showing up on their computer, but yeah it’s happening and kia does not want to take ownership. The vehicle has been left there for numerous weeks at a time leaving us without a vehicle no loaner . But because cannot duplicate issue release vehicle back with no repairs or maintenance. Kia prefer you taking the car getting into a car accident before they decide to do anything or even a lawsuit because not enough people having same issue with the 2021 kia Sorento s model ! if you also have these issues please report them here so they can be forced to open a recall !!! before someone gets seriously hurt my Sorento has loss power on highway and in the middle of train tracks with my little ones in Sorento and we drove the vehicle from day one original owners not a used Sorento.

2023 kia Sorento rear camera mounting bracket broke. There was are recall sc280 in 2023. Rear camera recently fell out of housing unit and is hanging. Still under warranty, dealership and kia America refusing to cover and pay for issue. Want a new housing unit and brackets because it is similar to recall noticed.

See all problems of the 2023 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

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

See all problems of the 2015 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

On 3/26/2026, I was driving at 45mph when the vehicle started slowing down and the auto stop light on the dash was blinking yellow. Every time it blinked, the car slowed even more. I tried to speed up, but it slowed down more. This could have caused an accident. I pulled off on the side of the road and shut the car off. I waited a few minutes and started the car. It ran alright and the light did not blink. It has been alright so far. If it occurs again, I will call the dealer to have it checked out.

My check engine light came on and went to dealer ship jn oct of 2025 they stated the egr needed to be replaced and would cost 1300 to repair but inform me they didn't have the piece to replace at that time to reschedule app. Also reservoir coolant light keeps coming on . I called several times to lumberton kia at one time they stated that they didn't have but 1 mechanic that worked on hybrids and he was behind. I finally have a appointmentthis weekto see what is exactlygoing on with my SUV cause now I have a hesitation when pressing the gas and my transmission jerks.

Referencing report [xxx] we are having issues getting the fuel filling door to open. We have unlocked the car, several times, but it will not open. We had to pry it open so we could fill the tank and have left it open since as to not have the issue again. Part number in question - 81560r5000 there are other recalls on the car that we need to get taken care of. Is this another one in addition? information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The issue appears to involve the electric oil pump and related components. My 2021 kia Sorento had a recall for the electric oil pump that was marked “completed” in January 2023; however, the dealership only performed a software update and did not replace any mechanical components because no fault code was present at that time. Beginning around October 2025, the vehicle started experiencing drivability issues including hesitation and bogging down when accelerating from a stop. A dealership representative later stated the electric oil pump and housing likely need replacement and that the transmission may also be affected. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This issue creates a safety risk because the vehicle frequently hesitates or bogs down when attempting to accelerate, especially when pulling into highway traffic. When pressing the accelerator, the vehicle sometimes struggles to engage and move forward, which increases the risk of a collision. I brought the vehicle to kia of rbc and spoke with service advisor justin hawkins. At the time of inspection, the check engine light had turned off and I was told they could not diagnose or repair the issue unless the warning light was active. I was instructed to continue driving the vehicle until the light returns. During a later conversation, dealership staff indicated the electric oil pump and housing likely need replacement and that the transmission may also require replacement, but they could not confirm this without the warning light being present.

I am submitting this revised complaint to correct a prior report that was not accurately documented during a phone submission. Vehicle: 2025 kia Sorento (259 miles at purchase) within approximately two months of ownership (~3,000 miles), the vehicle began experiencing serious safety-related issues, including intermittent stalling, braking problems, and electrical malfunctions. Symptoms include: •vehicle stalled and failed to restart, leaving me stranded •radio/display screen went blank •heating/climate system became nonfunctional •vehicle would not shift into neutral •persistent burning odor inside and outside the vehicle these issues raise concern about a potential fire risk. In may 2025, the vehicle was inspected by two separate dealerships, both of which reported no issues. The condition worsened, resulting in a complete failure requiring towing. A dealership later identified “electrical issues,” but key symptoms were not documented. A second dealership has since stated the vehicle is operating normally; I disagree, as I believe the root cause has not been resolved. Issues began at ~3,000 miles, with major failure at ~22,000 miles. I have contacted kia and requested a buyback due to repeated failures and safety concerns. This request was denied twice; a goodwill credit was offered but not accepted. This complaint is submitted to report ongoing safety defects involving stalling, braking, electrical failure, and a potential fire risk.

See all problems of the 2025 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

I am submitting a safety complaint regarding a **2017 kia Sorento sxl** equipped with a **3. 3l lambda v6 engine**, which experienced **sudden and catastrophic engine failure** at approximately *,000 miles**. Prior to failure, the vehicle exhibited **progressively worsening engine knocking and vibration**, indicating internal engine damage. Despite these warning signs, the failure occurred **abruptly while driving at highway speed**, resulting in a **sudden loss of power**. This incident created an **immediate safety hazard**, as I was traveling in active traffic and was forced to quickly maneuver to avoid surrounding vehicles. The unexpected loss of propulsion significantly increased the risk of a collision. The nature of the failure appears to be consistent with **internal engine component failure (such as connecting rod bearing failure)**, which is not typical for a properly maintained modern engine at this mileage. Importantly, my vehicle was manufactured in **November 2016**, placing it within an early production period for this engine. There is evidence from technical service information and consumer reports suggesting a **pattern of premature internal engine failures** in this engine family, particularly involving * bearing wear leading to catastrophic failure**. This raises concern that the issue may represent a **systemic defect** rather than normal wear and tear. I am concerned that other vehicles with this engine may experience similar failures **without sufficient warning**, potentially resulting in dangerous driving situations, especially at highway speeds. I am requesting that NHTSA: • review this incident as a **potential safety-related defect** • evaluate whether similar complaints exist involving the **3. 3l kia lambda v6 engine** • determine if an **investigation or recall** is warranted I am able to provide supporting documentation, including maintenance records, diagnostic findings, and repair estimates upon request.

See all problems of the 2017 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

My oil pressure switch is diagnosed as faulty by independent service center as well as kia. Kia is denying coverage. I have found information that it should be covered. My check engine light shows an oil can light.

See all problems of the 2020 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

I am filing this complaint regarding my 2021 kia Sorento, which has suffered a serious transmission failure. The vehicle is displaying diagnostic code p0741, indicating a torque converter clutch malfunction. The transmission slips, shifts harshly, hesitates during acceleration, loses power unexpectedly, and has become unsafe to drive. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This defect has put my safety and the safety of others at risk. On several occasions the vehicle failed to respond properly when accelerating, including while entering highways and driving in traffic. The hesitation and sudden loss of power created fear and anxiety because I could not trust the vehicle to move when needed to avoid a dangerous situation. The problem has been reproduced and confirmed by a repair facility, and the symptoms are consistent with a transmission torque converter clutch failure. I also contacted kia and provided the vehicle information. Kia informed me that they would not repair the vehicle because it has exceeded 100,000 miles and that the recall or warranty extension had expired. However, my vehicle is experiencing the same transmission-related symptoms reported by many other kia owners. I never received any recall notification because I purchased the vehicle from a dealership as the second owner. Had I been properly notified, I would have taken the vehicle in for inspection much earlier. It is extremely frustrating and financially devastating to be denied assistance solely because of mileage when the failure appears to be related to a known transmission defect. Before the failure, the check engine light illuminated and code p0741 appeared. Prior to that warning, the vehicle had already shown delayed shifting, slipping, hesitation, rough gear changes, and loss of power, which became progressively worse. This situation has caused significant emotional stress, anxiety, and financial hardship. I am requesting a full investigation and a fair resolution from kia.

This is the 4th time car is unable to start after being parked for one day and it had to be jump starting. At first I thought it was some accessory, specifically a dashcam and aftermarket ambient lights, so I disconnected both and I even turned off the wireless charging pad and disable the function to turn the lights on when doors open and it didn't help, dead car again after 1 day parked. Car was purchased new in August of 2025 and this issue started this past January coincidentally after an ota update in December. Today, I got the 12v battery tested at my local advance auto parts and battery health came out good, battery level was low (as supposed after a jump start) and it only recommended a recharge. So the issue lies inside the electrical system of the car and to my surprise this parasitic draw is not new, in online forums a lot of owners talk and complaint about this specific issue, even here I found a similar complaint and I wonder why there's not at least a technical bulletin from kia addressing this issue. Finding out the cause of the battery draining fast is imperative because if overlook this can evolve into something more serious because we don't know what it is that is "always on" drawing big amounts of power and can clearly be classified as a fire hazard. I remember having the same issue with my old car, a 2019 kia Sorento ex, and it was solved with a simple computer update (not the map or infotainment update), it was a firmware only available at the dealership. I just hope this could be the case this time and kia can respond in a timely manner to solve this issue.

I was driving everithing was normal but suddenly the light of the engine was on and the car lost power and the engine shut off everything happened in like one second, dont let me time or opportunity to think something safe, it was a lot of traffict on the street and the car behind almost crash on me. It was like a nigthmare.

There is a recall for the havoc system foe the years 2021-2023, 25v649 recall. My car is a 2019 kia Sorento and I m having the same issues, I have already replaced blower motor, resistor, air filter replaced, fuses, air compressor clutch relays, 3 times. Coolant is fine. After reading this recall my car same issues, please add my car to the recall list, I have spent over $600 in mechanic fees and parts, now the problem is recurring. Its a wiring issue, there was melted part on the blower motor when everything was replaced in February, I can't afford more repairs. I can get reciepts from parts I had to buy and a invoice from my mechanic, the issue of ac/heater reoccurring on may 29th. 2026. I had pur in a relay last week, now needs another one. Cost of them $25. 00.

See all problems of the 2019 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

My speedometer was jumping from 0 to 20 mph while in park. A couple weeks later it did it while I was driving, I was going 25 mph and it jumped to 55 mph. I took it to the shop that day and all 4 of my wheel speed sensors were out, which wasn’t accurately measuring my speed. The shop said it was common with this model and year. Also, my headlights do not work in auto mode. I will have shut my car off, made sure the lights were off, and hours later I have a text from my neighbors that my lights are on.

See all problems of the 2018 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

The car has completely shutdown and nothing works while parked and has not started until the next day. This has happened 3 times in 5 months.

The car gets stuck and will not shift out of park. I've had to use the manual override. And when the ambulance came to my house, I could not move my car out of the way fast enough and this delayed emergency response team. I thought it was a one time fluke, but it started happening again this week (4/1/26) every time I use the car. This cannot be safe.

My airbag light is on after picking it up from a kia dealership service and they are refusing to correct the issue that was caused by the dealership. I escalated the issue to kia America and filled a formal case#25916418 on 2/26/2026. On 3/4/206 tori at kia customer service informed me that it will not be covered because the dealership claims its a pre-existing issue. The dealership has failed to provide proof that that is true. Attached are: -the dealership’s diagnostic report -all text communications with the service advisor -also have video documentation of misaligned steering wheel I was unable to attach. Prior to dealership service, my vehicle was evaluated for approximately one week at a reputable independent repair facility for a cracked head gasket. At no time were there airbag warnings, steering issues, or safety system concerns. The vehicle was driven directly from the independent shop to the dealership where they preformed a warranty service. Upon pickup, I immediately observed: - misaligned steering wheel - illuminated airbag warning light - coolant system air bubble (later corrected per dealership) the steering misalignment indicates the steering system was disturbed during repair. The airbag warning light appeared immediately afterward. The dealership’s report references “history” fault codes, but provides no proof the warning light was active prior to service. History codes can result from battery disconnection or electrical interruption during major repairs and do not establish a pre-existing defect. Given that: - the airbag system functioned properly before service - the steering wheel was returned misaligned - the airbag light appeared immediately after repair - there is no documentation proving a prior active fault I am concerned a critical safety system has been compromised. An active airbag warning indicates the system may not function in a collision. I am requesting that kia fix this at no charge to me due to the reasons listed above.

Vehicle only has 5839 miles and this is the 2nd time the battery has been dead. First time was Dec 18th 2025. Vehicle purchased 7/5/25. 2nd time 2/5/26. First time the outside lights flickered for a long time before finally going off. 2nd time the outside lights didnt flicker and key fob wont even lock the car. We took the vehicle in for service after 1st dead battery instance and they told us we must've not closed a door or left a light on which drained the battery. Will be scheduling another service so they can fix the issue. There were no messages or symptoms of the problem prior to the failures. I am requesting that NHTSA document this as a potential electrical system safety defect.

Vehicle: 2025 kia Sorento (VIN: [xxx]) kia corporate case #: xxx safety defect description: the central ccnc infotainment display screen suffers from recurring, thermal-induced flickering and complete blackouts while driving and parking. When the screen blackouts, the fmvss 111 federally mandated backup camera, navigation, and critical vehicle safety displays are completely lost, posing an immediate collision and safety hazard. Extensive service & repair history (2 failed dealer visits): 1. Visit #1 (xxx - healey kia, newburgh NY): reported intermittent display flickering and blackout. Dealer claimed unable to duplicate on quick drive and requested video proof. 2. Evidence documentation: clear video was captured demonstrating screen flickering and total blackout after ~20 minutes of driving, while audio continued playing. 3. Visit #2 (xxx - kia of middletown, NY, invoice #xxx at 4,951 miles): dealer performed a 2-hour manual ccnc software update via kgis and released the vehicle as "operating as designed. " 4. Failure recurrence (xxx): less than 24 hours after the software update, the display experienced another complete failure and blackout while driving (captured on secondary video). Current status / refusal to repair: despite two separate dealership visits and conclusive video evidence proving the software update failed, kia customer care (case #xxx) refused to authorize a warranty head unit / display assembly replacement and instead instructed me to repeatedly surrender the vehicle for indefinite dealer visits. This is an unresolved, chronic safety defect. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The vehicle has less than 75k miles, and I am the second owner. I was driving, and the vehicle lost power. Creating a traumatic experience that could have been fatal. After kia had inspected the vehicle, I was informed that I needed a new engine and it would cost 8k or more, and my extended warranty would not cover it. Kia has current recalls for similar issues.

See all problems of the 2022 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

All tail lights of SUV go in an out randomly.

See all problems of the 2016 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

Screen not responding properly.

Was driving home from work, and suddenly all the indicator lights came on on the dash, (check engine, warring lights, indicator that the battery was critically low, etc etc. ) the car notified me to safely pull off the road. I pulled off the road in limp mode, the engine would not engage when pedal was pressed, and then lost power. I was stuck in the middle of the lane on a side road in park. I turned the car off, then turned it back on and let it idle for a bit thinking it may be the battery (which is new). After several minutes drove it home and have not had any other issues. I researched this issue on the internet and there were reported similar problems exactly like this. Note. I put it on a reader at home and it did not show any codes.

I was driving my car, while at a stop light I noticed some smoke coming from under my hood. I thought it might have been the cold I turned off the main road onto my street and noticed the smoke increasing, I pulled over turned off my car opened the hood and a fire started at the back of my engine.

See all problems of the 2011 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

The fuel door actuator failed. The gas door would not open due to the actuator being seized shut, preventing access to the fuel tank. This vehicle does not have a manual release mechanism, so there was no alternative way to open the fuel door. The dealership confirmed the actuator malfunction. My family’s safety was put at risk because we were unable to refuel the vehicle. The incident occurred during extremely cold weather, with a windchill of approximately -8°f. Due to the inability to add fuel, we were at risk of running out of gas and losing heat in the vehicle, which could have resulted in a dangerous exposure situation. There were no warning lights or messages indicating a problem prior to the failure. The issue was first noticed when attempting to refuel and the fuel door would not open.

To the office of defects investigation, I am submitting this formal complaint regarding NHTSA recall 22v703000 (kia recall sc249) involving my 2020 kia Sorento (VIN: [xxx] ). This recall identifies a fire risk due to a potential electrical short in the tow hitch harness module. The recall notice specifically warns that a vehicle fire may occur while parked or driving. After receiving the recall notification, we made multiple attempts to schedule the required repair with pompano kia, the authorized dealership in our area. Despite repeated efforts, we were not provided with a confirmed repair appointment, and the recall remained incomplete. On [1-19-2026], before the recall remedy was performed, the vehicle caught fire while being driven on a highway in florida. The vehicle became fully engulfed and was declared a total loss. Law enforcement and/or fire services responded. The incident appears consistent with the fire risk described in the recall. Following the incident, we visited the dealership to report the fire and the unresolved recall. We were told the matter would be reviewed and that we would receive a follow-up call. No follow-up was received. Attempts to contact the dealership through publicly listed email addresses resulted in delivery failure notices. According to NHTSA records, this recall affects tens of thousands of vehicles nationwide. We are concerned about: • timeliness and availability of recall repairs • dealership accessibility and communication • risk to consumers when recall remedies are not completed before failure occurs we also attempted to consult several attorneys regarding this incident. We were advised that due to the volume of recall-related fire cases involving this manufacturer, representation may not be feasible unless severe bodily injury is involved. This further raises concern about the scale and seriousness of the issue. We respectfully request that NHTSA review: • whether recall 22v703000 is being remedied information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information.

I am writing to report a mechanical failure with my kia vehicle that occurred on January 19, 2026. While stopped at a red light, my vehicle suddenly shut off and would not restart. Although the electrical lights came on, the engine would not turn over. Because my car was stuck in the middle of the intersection blocking traffic, I had to call 911 for assistance. When the police arrived, the officer attempted to jump-start the vehicle, but it still would not start. A tow truck was then called to remove the vehicle from the roadway. I paid $290 out of pocket to have the vehicle towed to a nearby repair shop. After diagnosing the issue, the shop determined that the starter had completely failed. I purchased the vehicle on may 15, 2023. At the time of the failure, the vehicle had just exceeded the 60,000-mile warranty, leaving me responsible for the repair. I paid approximately $500 out of pocket to replace the starter. Given the short time between purchasing the vehicle and the failure of the starter, I believe this may indicate a defective component.

The contact owns a 2013 kia Sorento. While the contact's granddaughter was attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that a special device was previously installed in the vehicle because of a legal matter. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who installed the device, and the vehicle was inspected. The contact was informed that the device did not cause the failure. In addition, the cause of the failure could not be determined. The contact was advised to contact the dealer for assistance. The contact had received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 23v652000 (service brakes, hydraulic). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 215,000.

See all problems of the 2013 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

Formal complaint – repeated engine failures and unacceptable service delays vehicle: kia Sorento 2014 VIN: [xxx] purchased: fall of 2021 current issue: vehicle in service at kia of lincolnwood since January 9, 2026 dear kia consumer affairs and legal department, I am writing to formally document my severe dissatisfaction with the repeated engine failures in my kia vehicle and the complete lack of communication and urgency from both kia of lincolnwood (6750 n Lincoln Ave, lincolnwood, IL 60712) and kia's consumer support channels. This has caused significant financial hardship, disruption to my family and work, and eroded any trust in the brand. I purchased this vehicle approximately 5 years ago through carmax. Within that time, the engine has died or stalled three times: the first failure occurred about one year after purchase, stranding me at 11:00 p. M. In rural wisconsin during winter with my three young children in the vehicle. The second incident happened in downtown chicago (river north), just one hour before I needed to depart for a work event in champaign, IL, requiring a tow and last-minute rental arrangements. The most recent failure occurred at approximately 4:30 a. M. After leaving my music studio, necessitating another tow and a $50 uber ride home. Eleven months ago, kia of lincolnwood replaced the knock sensor under a one-year recall warranty. Despite this, the engine issues persisted. On January 9, 2026, I brought the vehicle to kia of lincolnwood for the third major engine-related failure. It has now been in the shop for nearly six weeks with no meaningful updates on diagnosis, repair timeline, or resolution. I have called the dealership at least ten times seeking callbacks from my assigned service advisor (max) or any team member. In each instance, I was either hung up on, placed on hold for over an hour, or promised a return call that never came. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2014 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

The vehicle’s ignition system began malfunctioning immediately after a recall-related service (campaign cs2312 – ignition cylinder protector installation) performed on January 9, 2026. Prior to this service, the vehicle had no ignition or electrical issues. After the repair, the ignition key became difficult to turn, and the vehicle intermittently failed to start. Additionally, multiple electrical components began to fail intermittently, including the infotainment screen shutting off, the air conditioning system stopping, and windshield wipers not operating at times. These failures create a safety concern, as they may affect visibility, driver awareness, and vehicle operability while driving. The issue was reported to the dealership, and their own inspection confirmed that the ignition key cylinder is sticking. The vehicle remains available for inspection, and the condition persists.

My 2011 kia sorrento caught fire while parked in my garage. Kia is saying it's not due to any recall they have and that it was an electrical fire store behind the steering wheel and they're refusing to take any responsibility financially for it or otherwise due to it being through previous owners and an older vehicle.

Upon starting the vehicle, it flashed several warning lights that were not on the day before. Including popping codes up on the infotainment system and urging me to schedule a service with kia. Upon looking up the codes it states hvac issue, when calling to dealership to schedule a service for it (while it is still barely under warranty) they let me know it might not be covered. That’s when I found out there is a recall only for certain VIN #’s for the exact same issue. My car won’t even drive because the electrical system is being affected. Windshield wipers going crazy, lights not working, ac/heat not working, the emergency braking system braking out of nowhere, the lane departure pulling the wheel while driving without cause. I don’t even feel safe driving the vehicle anymore. Kia needs to have a recall on this that alerts the vehicles owners because I had no clue that there was a potential fire hazard due to faulty wiring.

My reverse camera bracket broke off leading to the camera dangling on the license plate and unusable for rear backup safety.