Service Brakes Problems of Kia Motor Sorento - part 1

To whom it may concern, I am submitting a formal safety complaint regarding my kia Sorento and a recurring brake light failure that poses a serious risk to my safety and the safety of my children. After every single oil change, without exception, my brake lights stop functioning properly. This has happened repeatedly and consistently. Most recently, immediately after an oil change, both brake lights went out. I replaced the bulbs, but the issue did not resolve. Instead, the lights are now stuck on continuously, which strongly suggests a failure related to the brake light switch or associated electrical components—not normal wear and tear. This pattern is extremely concerning. The fact that the failure occurs every time the vehicle is serviced indicates either a defect in the design or a component that is highly susceptible to failure during routine maintenance. Brake lights are a fundamental safety feature. When they fail, other drivers are not alerted when I am slowing down or stopping, putting me, my children, and everyone around me at risk of a serious rear-end collision. I understand that brake light switch failures have been a known issue in kia vehicles in the past, including recalls for similar defects. Given the repeated nature of this problem and the safety implications, I do not believe I should be responsible for the cost of repairs for what appears to be a known or recurring defect. I am requesting that this issue be formally investigated and that kia be required to repair or replace the faulty brake light switch and any related components at no cost to me. Additionally, I ask that this matter be reviewed to determine whether further action, including a broader recall or service campaign, is necessary to protect other drivers. This is an ongoing and dangerous issue that has now occurred multiple times. I should not have to worry that a routine oil change will leave my vehicle unsafe to drive. I urge you to take this complaint seriously and act quic.

See all problems of the 2016 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

The contact owns a 2026 kia Sorento. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at 2 mph, the brake pedal was depressed and went to the floorboard. The vehicle failed to stop and rolled forward. The forward collision avoidance feature also failed, causing the vehicle to crash into a building. No warning light was illuminated. The air bags did not deploy. The contact and his wife did not sustain any injuries. A police report was filed. The vehicle was able to be driven away from the crash site. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who sent the computer system to the manufacturer; however, no data was retrieved. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The insurance company was made aware of the failure but had not yet deemed the vehicle totaled. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that they would notify NHTSA of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 600.

I am reporting a suspected brake system malfunction. About one block before my destination, I stopped at a traffic light and applied light pressure to the brake pedal. The vehicle slammed and jerked to a stop unexpectedly. Moments later, while turning into a parking space, I pressed the brake pedal again and the vehicle did not stop as expected. The SUV went over the cement parking post and struck a tall sign about 10 to 12 feet ahead. A large bush around the sign slowed the vehicle before it could continue into a tree. This created a serious safety risk to me and my passengers, who included one adult and two young children. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured. The suspected failed system is the brake system. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. It was towed after the incident because I did not feel it was safe to drive. At this time, the problem has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent repair facility because the vehicle is pending inspection. The vehicle has been reported to the manufacturer, and an insurance claim has been opened. Unknown whether any electronic braking or driver-assistance system also contributed. I did not observe any warning lamps or messages before the incident. The main symptom before the crash was abnormal brake behavior at the traffic light, when light brake pressure caused the vehicle to slam and jerk to a stop unexpectedly.

Driving 40 mph coming around a bend. There was a car stopped about to rear off to the left and when coming up around the turn I saw and tried to stop. I was about two car lengths behind the car when I pressed the brake down and I pushed it all the way down and nothing happened. It was grinding and shaky when pressing it down. Not tight or anything. I feel like I normally would have that tension right away to be able to stop. There was no warning or anything and the car always has warnings when something is close.

See all problems of the 2025 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

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.

Ebp light comes on dash while driving. Codes have been determined by dealership but refuse to fix unless light is active. To get light off - must stop vehicle and turn on and off ebp switch and light goes off. Switch or sensor not working causing the problem.

See all problems of the 2024 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

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.

See all problems of the 2017 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

I purchased this car with approximately 22,000 miles on it. I have had to have oem rotor resurface / replacement at the dealership approximately almost every oil change or about every 6,000 miles for about 30k miles (2 replacements, 3 resurface in an 18 month period). They sent out a kia engineer last time it happened.

See all problems of the 2023 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

The contact owns a 2012 kia Sorento. The contact received notifications of NHTSA campaign numbers: 20v750000 (engine) and 23v652000 (service brakes, hydraulic); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The contact stated that while driving into a parking spot, the vehicle suddenly lost power and stalled. The contact later replaced the battery, but the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that, due to the vehicle not having the sensor changed before the failure, the engine could not be replaced. The dealer informed the contact tha,t due to the mileage, the vehicle would not be covered and would not qualify for the extended warranty coverage for the engine replacement. The failure mileage was approximately 250,000.

See all problems of the 2012 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

1. **component or system failure:** - the malfunction occurred in the **automatic braking system** while the vehicle was in **snow mode**. The brakes engaged and locked the wheels, resulting in a loss of traction. - this system is available for inspection upon request to assess the failure, where the car was towed to. 2. **safety risk:** - the automatic brakes locking the wheels put the driver at risk by causing the vehicle to slide uncontrollably. - the situation was further exacerbated by the fact that the vehicle collided with a tree, indicating a significant safety concern. 3. **reproduction of the problem:** - it is unclear if the issue has been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center, but given the nature of the malfunction, it would be advisable to have it inspected by a professional to verify the problem. 4. **inspection by authorities:** -the vehicle was inspected by police and the towing coming stating the car was a total loss because of the damages . 5. **warnings or symptoms:** - there were no indications of a problem prior to the failure, such as warning lamps or messages. The incident occurred suddenly when the brakes engaged, leading to the vehicle losing traction and ultimately colliding with a tree. - the failure of the airbags to deploy on the passenger side is also a critical point that needs further investigation. ### key takeaways - the automatic braking system malfunctioned in snow mode, leading to a loss of traction and a collision. - safety was jeopardized due to the vehicle's sliding and the failure of the airbags to deploy. - further inspection by qualified professionals is necessary to confirm and address the issues.

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 🔎.

I tried months ago to have my 2011 kia Sorento lx 3. 5l v6 awd to get the recalls fixed @ kia in yorkville,new york. They said they couldn't fix the recalls that were on the vehicle because supposedly the suspension is unsafe. But I already had the vehicle on a lift 4 times since,6 times total to get parts installed from my mechanic. If it was so unsafe,how could my mechanic lift the vehicle without any issues. I needed to get the underbody sprayed to stop rust and corrosion but kia refused me. The recall for the abs module needed fixing,they refused me. Having problems with the abs and my subframe/crossmember broke. I feel the spray could've helped.

See all problems of the 2011 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

Car stalled several times including as I was turning through an intersection. I took my car to kia ganley if boardman 7870 market street bdmn two, youngstown, ohio 44512. I met w/gerry who I explained the concerns with car stalling reminding him it had been almost 2 years since the jnick sensor issue was detected. So why am I expected to keep driving a dangerous vehicle without the repair needed??!!!! also asked about light assembly replacement delay (per recall) since I'm replacing the turn signal & brake bulbs 5-6 times a year while awaiting a replacement. Assembly.

Unknown however multiple times the front end of the vehicle starts shaking when I try to break up especially on the highway. The dealership claimed to have repaired it once and shortly after it happened again. When I took it in they first looked and said the parts was ordered but nothing was done then came back and said OH yes it was done then refused to fix it without a charge so I had to pay to repair it since I feared that the brake would give out if I drive it. The other issue was the check engine light just popped up check engine while driving on the highway, when I take it in they are stating that I may have left the gas tank open which is absolutely false. They cleared it but could not or neglect to explain why it was on. All these incidents occur while on highways never in the general local areas.

Road debris under normal driving conditions caused a puncture of the inverter radiator resulting in a total loss of coolant in the inverter and battery system. Inspection of the system at a kia dealer confirmed the problem. The first sign of concern was an error displayed on the driver screen stating, "check drive motor cooling system". There is no mention of this error in the owner's manual for the vehicle, though I did find several online discussions surrounding similar issues and warnings. I was driving on the highway at the time, and outside temperature was just under 40 degrees f. The car continued to drive normally for roughly 15 miles while utilizing the gas engine on the highway but eventually began struggling to accelerate or brake when switching to the electrical system after moving to residential streets. There is not a means of turning off the hybrid system. I received further warnings for several various driver assist functions becoming unavailable and the car became difficult to steer. I parked in a parking lot until the car could be towed for evaluation.

The contact owns a 2013 kia Sorento. The contact stated that the abs warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the abs had failed, and the brakes needed to be repaired. The vehicle was included in NHTSA campaign number: 23v652000 (service brakes, hydraulic); and the recall repair was completed; however, the failure persisted. The dealer was informed of the persistent failure; however, the vehicle had not been taken to the dealer for another diagnostic test or repair. The manufacturer was informed of the failure, and a case was opened. The manufacturer referred the contact to the dealer for additional assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.

The contact owns a 2009 kia Sorento. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine, esc, and abs warning lights were illuminated. Upon speaking with other independent mechanics, the contact was informed that the failure was likely linked to moisture that might have entered the abs module. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA campaign number: 20v088000 (electrical system, service brakes, hydraulic); which the contact associated with the failure. The dealer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was already serviced under recall prior to owning the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

See all problems of the 2009 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

The contact owns a 2013 kia Sorento. The contact received notifications of NHTSA campaign numbers: 17v224000 (engine and engine cooling) and 23v652000 (service brakes, hydraulic). The contact stated that while his daughter was driving 45 mph, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. In addition, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact's daughter stated that the engine had seized, and the vehicle had stalled. The contact's daughter was unable to coast to the side of the road. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The following day, the vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact was informed that since the first recall repair had not been completed, the manufacturer denied the recall repairs. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact received a bill from the dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact's daughter stated that before the engine failed, every time the vehicle was started, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. However, after several minutes, the abnormal sound disappeared. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

The contact owns a 2011 kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 23v652000 (service brakes, hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure.

While operating the vehicle and utilizing the cruise control, the electronic stability control (esc) and the antilock braking system (abs) warning lights turn on. These lights will remain on until the vehicle is turned off and a new drive begins. They only activate during the use of cruise control and at times it has caused the brake pedal to become extremely tough to press. This is a concern if maintaining cruise control and an emergency braking situation arises, the brake may not engage it is designed to do and cause a vehicle accident.

Everytime I put my car in cruise control for 1-2 minutes after I take the cruise control off the breakers are gone and them come back.

See all problems of the 2022 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

The contact owns a 2012 kia Sorento. The contact stated the vehicle was serviced at the local dealer for the NHTSA campaign number: 23v652000(service brakes, hydraulic) regarding a safety fire hazard. Days later, while the vehicle was idling, smoke was suddenly present coming from under the hood. The contact opened the hood of the vehicle and discovered flames and smoke coming from the fuse box located in the front of the engine bay. The contact, who was a local fire investigator, retrieved a fire extinguisher and extinguished the flames. The fire department was called to the scene, and a fire report was filed. The vehicle was later towed to the home, and the manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the incident. The manufacturer sent an investigator to the home to examine the vehicle. The investigator determined that the fire had originated at the front of the engine compartment, but did not determine the cause of the fire. No injuries were reported. The contact was concerned that the fire was related to the recall service previously performed. The failure mileage was 212,000.

There are eight recalls on my car I do not trust dealerships I do not trust mechanics I work on my own car I have very bad experience with mechanics I would rather return my car to the dealership I want to sell my car do the dealership eight different recalls is too much.

Parking lights stay on, change brake light switch but the hole that the switch goes in is not aligned with the brake stopper to turn off the stop brakes, therefore it remains on. Battery needs to be unplugged to keep from draining. The mechanism to stop the lights from remaining on is somehow shifted to no longer turn off the brake lights.

The contact owns a 2014 kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. In addition, the contact stated there was condensation coming out of the exhaust pipes. The contact was stopped by another driver and was informed that the condensation coming out of the exhaust smelled like a bakery. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not inspected. The contact was informed that a diagnostic test was needed and was provided with the cost of the diagnostic test. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact received notifications of NHTSA campaign number: 17v224000 (engine and engine cooling) and NHTSA campaign number: 21v331000 (service brakes, hydraulic). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that a diagnostic test needed to be performed and that there was a cost for the diagnostic test. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

See all problems of the 2014 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

Brakes and rotors needed changed at 23930, not normal.

A coin slid underneath parking brake lever while driving on the freeway. The car came to sudden stop and would not move until I removed coin from under the lever. It could have caused a major accident.

The car is accelerating without anyone pressing down on the gas, not accelerating when our foot is on the gas, jerking unexplainably and the emergency brake warning is coming on when it has not been employed.

I have had nothing but issues with my kia since I purchased it may 30th, 2023. It's continually stalling, completely looses power, sometimes won't operate at all. My kia is very unsafe and completely unreliable. I had to have it towed to the dealership before my first payment was even due. My kia has has to be taken to the dealership a total of 5 times and still nothing has been resolved, other than oil change, diagnostic testing, spark plugs replacement, "fuel system service", hecu fuse installed. As of today's date (June 19th, 2025) I still owe close to $12,000 on it. This is utterly ridiculous and needs to be resolved ASAP. It has been continual issues from may 30th, 2023 through current date (June 19th, 2025). In 15 months I have only been able to drive it 4,876 miles. That's how unreliable it is. I need help getting these issues resolved ASAP.

On two separate occasions, my 2024 kia Sorento has activated its automatic emergency braking system, as if anticipating a potential forward collision on an empty florida highway. The dashboard lights illuminate precisely before the forward collision warning and emergency braking lights activate and commence engaging. Since then, I have noticed a loose sensation in the steering wheel and a diminished braking response. Also screen on dash will randomly shut down and will not allow me to check my vehicle systems or to kia connect.

While traveling about 30 miles per hour a car in front stopped. When I applied the brakes the abs locked up and caused my car to skid in to car in front. I had plenty of room to stop but as the policy report shows there was kid marks and car did not stop .

The entire car failed as it caught fire. I wasn't able to break or put the car into park and it rolled to a stop while smoke was coming through the vents. Because of this, my passenger and I exited the vehicle and crossed the expressway while a highway patroller was directing traffic away from the car. Within 2 minutes the car was engulfed in flames. The car is not available for inspection as it was towed away and disposed of. The safety of myself and the passenger were at risk because the entire car broke out in flames and soon exploded. If we stayed in the car for any longer than we did, we would have died. Unkown. I do not believe that the vehicle has been inspected. The warning lights all turned on at exactly the same time, about 3-5 seconds before the car completely stopped.

See all problems of the 2015 Kia Motor Sorento 🔎.

My cars shift lock release keeps getting stuck. I replaced the shift solenoid but that didn't work. I see there was a recall for 2016 kia Sorentos for this issue but my VIN was not included in the recall. Can you direct on where I can go from here please! thank you.

The abs, down hill light, and swaying light came on. As I was pulling into a parking space slowly with my foot on the brakes, the car sped forward knocking over a post and shrubs.

The contact owns a 2014 kia Sorento. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, there was a ticking sound coming from the vehicle. Later, on the same day, while pulling into a friend’s driveway, the engine began making a knocking sound. The contact decided to drive to the residence nearby, and the engine started knocking again, eventually causing the engine to fail and the vehicle to lose motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer who diagnosed that the rods had failed due to excessive rust, causing the rods to knock. The dealer stated that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not yet fully inspected or diagnosed. The contact informed the dealer that the VIN was included in NHTSA campaign number: 23v652000 (service brakes, hydraulic) and asked that the recall repair be completed; however, the dealer had not confirmed completion of the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The failure mileage was 147,000. Parts distribution disconnect.