Complaints & Recalls
Official Safety Recalls - Important!
12 RecallsThese are official manufacturer recalls ordered by NHTSA for safety defects. If you own this vehicle, contact your dealer immediately for free repairs.
Kia America, Inc.
Safety Issue:
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC249
Recall Date: Sep 19, 2022
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC172
Recall Date: Dec 19, 2018
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017 Sorento vehicles equipped with 3.3L engines. The engine crankshaft may have been improperly heat treated and may fail.
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC153
Recall Date: Sep 21, 2017
Kia Motors America
Safety Issue:
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Potential Risk:
FREE Recall Solution:
Additional Details:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Mfg Campaign: SC142
Recall Date: Nov 30, 2016
Consumer Complaints
894 ComplaintsKia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
2017 Kia Sorrento burns excessive amounts of oil between oil changes, more than 4 quarts. Eyebrow and rear parking lights come on their own, even after the car has been off for several hours without touching Kia or keys.
Corrective Action:
2017 Kia Sorrento burns excessive amounts of oil between oil changes, more than 4 quarts. Eyebrow and rear parking lights come on their own, even after the car has been off for several hours without touching Kia or keys.
Additional Notes:
2017 Kia Sorrento burns excessive amounts of oil between oil changes, more than 4 quarts. Eyebrow and rear parking lights come on their own, even after the car has been off for several hours without touching Kia or keys.
Mfg Campaign: 11490421
Recall Date: Oct 22, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over on the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed by an authorized dealer. The failure mileage was 102,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over on the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed by an authorized dealer. The failure mileage was 102,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over on the side of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and stated that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed by an authorized dealer. The failure mileage was 102,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11490117
Recall Date: Oct 20, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
"Oil pressure light" appears while starting and driving vehicle, oil maintains in vehicle no drop in oil level. KIA dealership is aware of issue and has not informed consumers before purchase that a flush of the engine, is a "potential" fix for issue, KIA dealership is unsure that issue will be resolved, on low mileage vehicle.
Corrective Action:
"Oil pressure light" appears while starting and driving vehicle, oil maintains in vehicle no drop in oil level. KIA dealership is aware of issue and has not informed consumers before purchase that a flush of the engine, is a "potential" fix for issue, KIA dealership is unsure that issue will be resolved, on low mileage vehicle.
Additional Notes:
"Oil pressure light" appears while starting and driving vehicle, oil maintains in vehicle no drop in oil level. KIA dealership is aware of issue and has not informed consumers before purchase that a flush of the engine, is a "potential" fix for issue, KIA dealership is unsure that issue will be resolved, on low mileage vehicle.
Mfg Campaign: 11490218
Recall Date: Oct 20, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The car started leaking oil. Took the car in for inspection at local Kia dealership. The component that failed was the "oil pressure switch". This leak put my engine at risk of not working and fire. There was no warning lamp, engine oil was low. There is a NHTSA notice for this same issue sent out for Kia Sorento 3.3L GDI engines.
Corrective Action:
The car started leaking oil. Took the car in for inspection at local Kia dealership. The component that failed was the "oil pressure switch". This leak put my engine at risk of not working and fire. There was no warning lamp, engine oil was low. There is a NHTSA notice for this same issue sent out for Kia Sorento 3.3L GDI engines.
Additional Notes:
The car started leaking oil. Took the car in for inspection at local Kia dealership. The component that failed was the "oil pressure switch". This leak put my engine at risk of not working and fire. There was no warning lamp, engine oil was low. There is a NHTSA notice for this same issue sent out for Kia Sorento 3.3L GDI engines.
Mfg Campaign: 11489734
Recall Date: Oct 18, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
While I was driving on the interstate my head lights and dashboard lights went out. My lights were in auto mode. The next morning my park lights were on with the light switch in auto mode.
Corrective Action:
While I was driving on the interstate my head lights and dashboard lights went out. My lights were in auto mode. The next morning my park lights were on with the light switch in auto mode.
Additional Notes:
While I was driving on the interstate my head lights and dashboard lights went out. My lights were in auto mode. The next morning my park lights were on with the light switch in auto mode.
Mfg Campaign: 11489784
Recall Date: Oct 18, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
While I was driving on the interstate my head lights and dashboard lights went out. My lights were in auto mode. The next morning my park lights were on with the light switch in auto mode.
Corrective Action:
While I was driving on the interstate my head lights and dashboard lights went out. My lights were in auto mode. The next morning my park lights were on with the light switch in auto mode.
Additional Notes:
While I was driving on the interstate my head lights and dashboard lights went out. My lights were in auto mode. The next morning my park lights were on with the light switch in auto mode.
Mfg Campaign: 11489784
Recall Date: Oct 18, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
When the headlights are on "auto", they shut off at night while I'm driving. This has happened when I have been traveling out of state on dark highways and it is very dangerous. It is available to be inspected. I have not taken it in to get checked. I have not been able to use the "auto" feature because I do not want to take that kind of risk.
Corrective Action:
When the headlights are on "auto", they shut off at night while I'm driving. This has happened when I have been traveling out of state on dark highways and it is very dangerous. It is available to be inspected. I have not taken it in to get checked. I have not been able to use the "auto" feature because I do not want to take that kind of risk.
Additional Notes:
When the headlights are on "auto", they shut off at night while I'm driving. This has happened when I have been traveling out of state on dark highways and it is very dangerous. It is available to be inspected. I have not taken it in to get checked. I have not been able to use the "auto" feature because I do not want to take that kind of risk.
Mfg Campaign: 11489843
Recall Date: Oct 18, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
The auto lights turn off randomly during night operation
Corrective Action:
The auto lights turn off randomly during night operation
Additional Notes:
The auto lights turn off randomly during night operation
Mfg Campaign: 11489099
Recall Date: Oct 13, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
Rear Differential Coupling Assembly leak, to where it needs to be replaced. Loud noises coming from the back of the vehicle, especially during braking. Brakes still have 5 and 7 mm remaining.
Corrective Action:
Rear Differential Coupling Assembly leak, to where it needs to be replaced. Loud noises coming from the back of the vehicle, especially during braking. Brakes still have 5 and 7 mm remaining.
Additional Notes:
Rear Differential Coupling Assembly leak, to where it needs to be replaced. Loud noises coming from the back of the vehicle, especially during braking. Brakes still have 5 and 7 mm remaining.
Mfg Campaign: 11489187
Recall Date: Oct 13, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STRUCTURE:BODY
Potential Consequences:
Paint delamination on hood.
Corrective Action:
Paint delamination on hood.
Additional Notes:
Paint delamination on hood.
Mfg Campaign: 11488763
Recall Date: Oct 11, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
On 3 different occasions, my headlights have gone out during driving at night. My switch is always set to auto. I have noticed at times during the day they will shut off as well. Shutting off during night driving is very dangerous as i'm not always in areas that are lighted. On a few occasions my eyebrows and tail lights have randomly come on when my car is off during the night. These issues are happening without warning.
Corrective Action:
On 3 different occasions, my headlights have gone out during driving at night. My switch is always set to auto. I have noticed at times during the day they will shut off as well. Shutting off during night driving is very dangerous as i'm not always in areas that are lighted. On a few occasions my eyebrows and tail lights have randomly come on when my car is off during the night. These issues are happening without warning.
Additional Notes:
On 3 different occasions, my headlights have gone out during driving at night. My switch is always set to auto. I have noticed at times during the day they will shut off as well. Shutting off during night driving is very dangerous as i'm not always in areas that are lighted. On a few occasions my eyebrows and tail lights have randomly come on when my car is off during the night. These issues are happening without warning.
Mfg Campaign: 11488152
Recall Date: Oct 6, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
While driving at night down an unlit roadway, the headlights turned off. I was the passenger and my wife the driver. She touched the light control arm and they came back on. She said this has happened about 5 times, all at night. It takes about 3-5 seconds to get the lights to come back on. We were on a back country road driving about 55 mph which means we drove anywhere from 240 feet to 400 feet down the highway in the dark. This is a safety concern. I have also discovered some of the vehicle's lights come on at random while parked in the garage. I have also discovered the battery dead on 3 occasions. I assume these issues are related.
Corrective Action:
While driving at night down an unlit roadway, the headlights turned off. I was the passenger and my wife the driver. She touched the light control arm and they came back on. She said this has happened about 5 times, all at night. It takes about 3-5 seconds to get the lights to come back on. We were on a back country road driving about 55 mph which means we drove anywhere from 240 feet to 400 feet down the highway in the dark. This is a safety concern. I have also discovered some of the vehicle's lights come on at random while parked in the garage. I have also discovered the battery dead on 3 occasions. I assume these issues are related.
Additional Notes:
While driving at night down an unlit roadway, the headlights turned off. I was the passenger and my wife the driver. She touched the light control arm and they came back on. She said this has happened about 5 times, all at night. It takes about 3-5 seconds to get the lights to come back on. We were on a back country road driving about 55 mph which means we drove anywhere from 240 feet to 400 feet down the highway in the dark. This is a safety concern. I have also discovered some of the vehicle's lights come on at random while parked in the garage. I have also discovered the battery dead on 3 occasions. I assume these issues are related.
Mfg Campaign: 11488154
Recall Date: Oct 6, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
2017 kia Sorento has been burning oil like crazy. It is going through at least 3 quarts of oil every week to 2 weeks. The oil light does not come on to say it is low on oil, I have to continually check oil level manually to see if I need to add oil. Check engine light comes on and goes back out constantly. Biggest problem is there is no indication that the oil is getting low.
Corrective Action:
2017 kia Sorento has been burning oil like crazy. It is going through at least 3 quarts of oil every week to 2 weeks. The oil light does not come on to say it is low on oil, I have to continually check oil level manually to see if I need to add oil. Check engine light comes on and goes back out constantly. Biggest problem is there is no indication that the oil is getting low.
Additional Notes:
2017 kia Sorento has been burning oil like crazy. It is going through at least 3 quarts of oil every week to 2 weeks. The oil light does not come on to say it is low on oil, I have to continually check oil level manually to see if I need to add oil. Check engine light comes on and goes back out constantly. Biggest problem is there is no indication that the oil is getting low.
Mfg Campaign: 11487580
Recall Date: Oct 3, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
We were driving on a highway that was currently under construction. I had called my mechanic to get the vehicle in to get it plugged in to see why the service engine light came on that morning. While driving it, the vehicle stalled out on the now one lane highway. Stalled to the point of not being able to move or restart. There was no other sounds, smoke, anything! It. Just. Stopped. The semi behind us took out three construction barrels when he swerved to miss hitting the back of the vehicle! After seeing our lives flash before our eyes, we had to have some of the construction workers help us push it out of the way of any other traffic. It was towed to our mechanic who told us that there were metal shavings in oil and that intake and exhaust cams are two degrees off. They would not repair this type of engine issue, so we had it towed to our local Kia dealer/service center. There they have diagnosed the vehicle having catastrophic engine failure. Not covered under warrantee and we are required to pay for new engine.
Corrective Action:
We were driving on a highway that was currently under construction. I had called my mechanic to get the vehicle in to get it plugged in to see why the service engine light came on that morning. While driving it, the vehicle stalled out on the now one lane highway. Stalled to the point of not being able to move or restart. There was no other sounds, smoke, anything! It. Just. Stopped. The semi behind us took out three construction barrels when he swerved to miss hitting the back of the vehicle! After seeing our lives flash before our eyes, we had to have some of the construction workers help us push it out of the way of any other traffic. It was towed to our mechanic who told us that there were metal shavings in oil and that intake and exhaust cams are two degrees off. They would not repair this type of engine issue, so we had it towed to our local Kia dealer/service center. There they have diagnosed the vehicle having catastrophic engine failure. Not covered under warrantee and we are required to pay for new engine.
Additional Notes:
We were driving on a highway that was currently under construction. I had called my mechanic to get the vehicle in to get it plugged in to see why the service engine light came on that morning. While driving it, the vehicle stalled out on the now one lane highway. Stalled to the point of not being able to move or restart. There was no other sounds, smoke, anything! It. Just. Stopped. The semi behind us took out three construction barrels when he swerved to miss hitting the back of the vehicle! After seeing our lives flash before our eyes, we had to have some of the construction workers help us push it out of the way of any other traffic. It was towed to our mechanic who told us that there were metal shavings in oil and that intake and exhaust cams are two degrees off. They would not repair this type of engine issue, so we had it towed to our local Kia dealer/service center. There they have diagnosed the vehicle having catastrophic engine failure. Not covered under warrantee and we are required to pay for new engine.
Mfg Campaign: 11487616
Recall Date: Oct 3, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I have to refill my oil with 5 quarts every 2k miles like clockwork between periodic oil changes. Oil light comes on taking left turns and slowing down to a stop. Dealership said nothing about the issues associated with this car.
Corrective Action:
I have to refill my oil with 5 quarts every 2k miles like clockwork between periodic oil changes. Oil light comes on taking left turns and slowing down to a stop. Dealership said nothing about the issues associated with this car.
Additional Notes:
I have to refill my oil with 5 quarts every 2k miles like clockwork between periodic oil changes. Oil light comes on taking left turns and slowing down to a stop. Dealership said nothing about the issues associated with this car.
Mfg Campaign: 11486757
Recall Date: Sep 27, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
My engine is consume too much oil. On 2 occasions when taking car for oil change I was told no oil in my engine. I had to put 3 quarts of oil in between oil change around 900 miles. My engine light flickers on and off but last time no warning given. I am concerned that this may cause engine fire. Noticed the issue at approx 98000 miles. I drive on highway for 45 mins to go to work and afraid I will consume all the oil in my engine and cause an accident or cause a fire. I go through a tunnel and it cause a lot of anxiety knowing my car is consuming too much oil. I called Kia dealership and they told me I have to wait till November for car to get service. I am trying to avoid the run around since I am at 103000 miles since warranty ended at 100000. I purchased car brand new. Thank you
Corrective Action:
My engine is consume too much oil. On 2 occasions when taking car for oil change I was told no oil in my engine. I had to put 3 quarts of oil in between oil change around 900 miles. My engine light flickers on and off but last time no warning given. I am concerned that this may cause engine fire. Noticed the issue at approx 98000 miles. I drive on highway for 45 mins to go to work and afraid I will consume all the oil in my engine and cause an accident or cause a fire. I go through a tunnel and it cause a lot of anxiety knowing my car is consuming too much oil. I called Kia dealership and they told me I have to wait till November for car to get service. I am trying to avoid the run around since I am at 103000 miles since warranty ended at 100000. I purchased car brand new. Thank you
Additional Notes:
My engine is consume too much oil. On 2 occasions when taking car for oil change I was told no oil in my engine. I had to put 3 quarts of oil in between oil change around 900 miles. My engine light flickers on and off but last time no warning given. I am concerned that this may cause engine fire. Noticed the issue at approx 98000 miles. I drive on highway for 45 mins to go to work and afraid I will consume all the oil in my engine and cause an accident or cause a fire. I go through a tunnel and it cause a lot of anxiety knowing my car is consuming too much oil. I called Kia dealership and they told me I have to wait till November for car to get service. I am trying to avoid the run around since I am at 103000 miles since warranty ended at 100000. I purchased car brand new. Thank you
Mfg Campaign: 11486544
Recall Date: Sep 26, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
Headlights were in auto mode and twice have shut off when it was completely dark at around 0600 on 9/22 and 9/26. Dashboard and all exterior lights went out. I had turn them to the on position for see. In both cases the vehicle was stopped at a stop sign and it happen just as was pulling out.
Corrective Action:
Headlights were in auto mode and twice have shut off when it was completely dark at around 0600 on 9/22 and 9/26. Dashboard and all exterior lights went out. I had turn them to the on position for see. In both cases the vehicle was stopped at a stop sign and it happen just as was pulling out.
Additional Notes:
Headlights were in auto mode and twice have shut off when it was completely dark at around 0600 on 9/22 and 9/26. Dashboard and all exterior lights went out. I had turn them to the on position for see. In both cases the vehicle was stopped at a stop sign and it happen just as was pulling out.
Mfg Campaign: 11486554
Recall Date: Sep 26, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
The headlights spontaneously shut off while driving at night. This has happened multiple times since we have owned the car. Mostly happens when lights are in AUTO mode. Also the headlights will turn on while parked and shut off.
Corrective Action:
The headlights spontaneously shut off while driving at night. This has happened multiple times since we have owned the car. Mostly happens when lights are in AUTO mode. Also the headlights will turn on while parked and shut off.
Additional Notes:
The headlights spontaneously shut off while driving at night. This has happened multiple times since we have owned the car. Mostly happens when lights are in AUTO mode. Also the headlights will turn on while parked and shut off.
Mfg Campaign: 11485886
Recall Date: Sep 22, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
There is an electrical problem with the Kia Sorento. I had the battery and Alternator replaced when the vehicle shut down and locked up on me. This is the second time in a few months it just shut down while I was driving.
Corrective Action:
There is an electrical problem with the Kia Sorento. I had the battery and Alternator replaced when the vehicle shut down and locked up on me. This is the second time in a few months it just shut down while I was driving.
Additional Notes:
There is an electrical problem with the Kia Sorento. I had the battery and Alternator replaced when the vehicle shut down and locked up on me. This is the second time in a few months it just shut down while I was driving.
Mfg Campaign: 11485691
Recall Date: Sep 21, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, his wife noticed an abnormal sound coming from the engine. Additionally, his wife also noticed that the vehicle was not accelerating as needed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the high-pressure fuel pump follower was replaced; however, immediately there was a knocking sound coming from the vehicle. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and stated that the knocking noise was coming from the engine and might be the rod bearing. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were contacted and stated that the vehicle was out of warranty and that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Corrective Action:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, his wife noticed an abnormal sound coming from the engine. Additionally, his wife also noticed that the vehicle was not accelerating as needed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the high-pressure fuel pump follower was replaced; however, immediately there was a knocking sound coming from the vehicle. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and stated that the knocking noise was coming from the engine and might be the rod bearing. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were contacted and stated that the vehicle was out of warranty and that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Additional Notes:
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, his wife noticed an abnormal sound coming from the engine. Additionally, his wife also noticed that the vehicle was not accelerating as needed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the high-pressure fuel pump follower was replaced; however, immediately there was a knocking sound coming from the vehicle. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and stated that the knocking noise was coming from the engine and might be the rod bearing. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were contacted and stated that the vehicle was out of warranty and that the VIN was not under recall. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Mfg Campaign: 11485735
Recall Date: Sep 21, 2022
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