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:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
My car started running badly with a knocking noise at the start. The knocking noise got worse, I so pulled over and checked the oil and there was virtually no oil in the engine. I filled it with oil and the knocking continued and got worse as I drove it to the dealer for service. The engine failed before I could make it to the dealer. It now needs a new engine. The Car was serviced regularly. NO LOW OIL ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON TO NOTIFY ME OF LOW OIL. NO LEAK WAS DETECTED.
Corrective Action:
My car started running badly with a knocking noise at the start. The knocking noise got worse, I so pulled over and checked the oil and there was virtually no oil in the engine. I filled it with oil and the knocking continued and got worse as I drove it to the dealer for service. The engine failed before I could make it to the dealer. It now needs a new engine. The Car was serviced regularly. NO LOW OIL ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON TO NOTIFY ME OF LOW OIL. NO LEAK WAS DETECTED.
Additional Notes:
My car started running badly with a knocking noise at the start. The knocking noise got worse, I so pulled over and checked the oil and there was virtually no oil in the engine. I filled it with oil and the knocking continued and got worse as I drove it to the dealer for service. The engine failed before I could make it to the dealer. It now needs a new engine. The Car was serviced regularly. NO LOW OIL ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON TO NOTIFY ME OF LOW OIL. NO LEAK WAS DETECTED.
Mfg Campaign: 11473534
Recall Date: Jul 12, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
When “auto” for headlights the lights won’t turn on at night time unless I manually switch it or the lifts will be on and then go off on their own during the night.
Corrective Action:
When “auto” for headlights the lights won’t turn on at night time unless I manually switch it or the lifts will be on and then go off on their own during the night.
Additional Notes:
When “auto” for headlights the lights won’t turn on at night time unless I manually switch it or the lifts will be on and then go off on their own during the night.
Mfg Campaign: 11473183
Recall Date: Jul 10, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
When “auto” for headlights the lights won’t turn on at night time unless I manually switch it or the lifts will be on and then go off on their own during the night.
Corrective Action:
When “auto” for headlights the lights won’t turn on at night time unless I manually switch it or the lifts will be on and then go off on their own during the night.
Additional Notes:
When “auto” for headlights the lights won’t turn on at night time unless I manually switch it or the lifts will be on and then go off on their own during the night.
Mfg Campaign: 11473183
Recall Date: Jul 10, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Loosing oil which will result in engine failure. Had an oil test done at the Kia Dealership and they said it lost 2.5 quarts of oil in 2925 miles and that is "operating as designed". Their Owner's manual says change the oil every 7500 miles. So by then I will be out of oil. Not sure how this is "operating as designed".
Corrective Action:
Loosing oil which will result in engine failure. Had an oil test done at the Kia Dealership and they said it lost 2.5 quarts of oil in 2925 miles and that is "operating as designed". Their Owner's manual says change the oil every 7500 miles. So by then I will be out of oil. Not sure how this is "operating as designed".
Additional Notes:
Loosing oil which will result in engine failure. Had an oil test done at the Kia Dealership and they said it lost 2.5 quarts of oil in 2925 miles and that is "operating as designed". Their Owner's manual says change the oil every 7500 miles. So by then I will be out of oil. Not sure how this is "operating as designed".
Mfg Campaign: 11472854
Recall Date: Jul 8, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
While in Auto mode, lights turn off and on during the day and night. Happens daily.
Corrective Action:
While in Auto mode, lights turn off and on during the day and night. Happens daily.
Additional Notes:
While in Auto mode, lights turn off and on during the day and night. Happens daily.
Mfg Campaign: 11472700
Recall Date: Jul 7, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Potential Consequences:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Corrective Action:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Additional Notes:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Mfg Campaign: 11471982
Recall Date: Jul 1, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
SEAT BELTS
Potential Consequences:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Corrective Action:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Additional Notes:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Mfg Campaign: 11471982
Recall Date: Jul 1, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Consequences:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Corrective Action:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Additional Notes:
Passenger seat belt not on warning no longer works when car is running or not running. Passenger can forget to put on seatbelt and no reminder chime. Problem is continuous. No warning lamps. Has been inspected but not repaired. Headlights come on and go off intermittently. Headlights come on when vehicle is off and not running Draining the battery down. Hard to duplicate. Has not been duplicated or repaired as it's intermittent without warning.
Mfg Campaign: 11471982
Recall Date: Jul 1, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
SERVICE BRAKES
Potential Consequences:
Within the last 6 months the EPB Electronic Parking Brake system engages and will not disengage leaving me stranded 3 separate occassions having to be towed to the dealership twice. Now, the KIA dealer tells me the system needs to be replaced. The dealer originally acknowledged issues with this system and that there is no fix, or recall, at this time. Such a basic function should work on this vehicle without incident and certainly should not fail under 100,000 miles. It is dangerous and can put families at risk when the vehicle locks up and will not move from its spot. Replacement of this sytem is expensive and unreasonable. There are numerous reports that can be found online.
Corrective Action:
Within the last 6 months the EPB Electronic Parking Brake system engages and will not disengage leaving me stranded 3 separate occassions having to be towed to the dealership twice. Now, the KIA dealer tells me the system needs to be replaced. The dealer originally acknowledged issues with this system and that there is no fix, or recall, at this time. Such a basic function should work on this vehicle without incident and certainly should not fail under 100,000 miles. It is dangerous and can put families at risk when the vehicle locks up and will not move from its spot. Replacement of this sytem is expensive and unreasonable. There are numerous reports that can be found online.
Additional Notes:
Within the last 6 months the EPB Electronic Parking Brake system engages and will not disengage leaving me stranded 3 separate occassions having to be towed to the dealership twice. Now, the KIA dealer tells me the system needs to be replaced. The dealer originally acknowledged issues with this system and that there is no fix, or recall, at this time. Such a basic function should work on this vehicle without incident and certainly should not fail under 100,000 miles. It is dangerous and can put families at risk when the vehicle locks up and will not move from its spot. Replacement of this sytem is expensive and unreasonable. There are numerous reports that can be found online.
Mfg Campaign: 11471350
Recall Date: Jun 28, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The oil burns very fast. I check the oil weekly and it's always low. There were no warning lamps or lights or anything to indicate that the oil was low.
Corrective Action:
The oil burns very fast. I check the oil weekly and it's always low. There were no warning lamps or lights or anything to indicate that the oil was low.
Additional Notes:
The oil burns very fast. I check the oil weekly and it's always low. There were no warning lamps or lights or anything to indicate that the oil was low.
Mfg Campaign: 11471146
Recall Date: Jun 27, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
My vehicle has been consuming massive amounts of oil. My oil is completely OUT at around 2500 miles after a fresh oil change. There are no leaks or puddles on my garage floor and no warning indication on the dashboard. I became aware of the problem only after my mechanic did courtesy inspections after taking my car in to have tires replaced, headlight bulbs replaced, routine maintenance. This is unacceptable and can lead to significant engine problems and/or fire!
Corrective Action:
My vehicle has been consuming massive amounts of oil. My oil is completely OUT at around 2500 miles after a fresh oil change. There are no leaks or puddles on my garage floor and no warning indication on the dashboard. I became aware of the problem only after my mechanic did courtesy inspections after taking my car in to have tires replaced, headlight bulbs replaced, routine maintenance. This is unacceptable and can lead to significant engine problems and/or fire!
Additional Notes:
My vehicle has been consuming massive amounts of oil. My oil is completely OUT at around 2500 miles after a fresh oil change. There are no leaks or puddles on my garage floor and no warning indication on the dashboard. I became aware of the problem only after my mechanic did courtesy inspections after taking my car in to have tires replaced, headlight bulbs replaced, routine maintenance. This is unacceptable and can lead to significant engine problems and/or fire!
Mfg Campaign: 11471059
Recall Date: Jun 26, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
POWER TRAIN
Potential Consequences:
The oil light came on and started blinking. I checked the oil and it was full. I then called the Kia dealer and told them what was going on and the said it was a sensor. I needed to make appointment to get a new sensor but they had none and they were on back order. They would call me when it came in. I started seeing oil in garage under my car. I called The kia dealership back and they said just keep adding oil to it. 4 weeks after initial call the part came in. I took my car in to be fixed but it was more extensive than they were assuming. They had to order more parts and it took 2 more weeks. It turned out to be the Oil pressure switch that was leaking and spewing oil all over the engine. Could have been a disastrous situation. It cost me 1750.00. The car has 84,000 miles on it has been well taken care of and they didn’t cover it under any warranty.
Corrective Action:
The oil light came on and started blinking. I checked the oil and it was full. I then called the Kia dealer and told them what was going on and the said it was a sensor. I needed to make appointment to get a new sensor but they had none and they were on back order. They would call me when it came in. I started seeing oil in garage under my car. I called The kia dealership back and they said just keep adding oil to it. 4 weeks after initial call the part came in. I took my car in to be fixed but it was more extensive than they were assuming. They had to order more parts and it took 2 more weeks. It turned out to be the Oil pressure switch that was leaking and spewing oil all over the engine. Could have been a disastrous situation. It cost me 1750.00. The car has 84,000 miles on it has been well taken care of and they didn’t cover it under any warranty.
Additional Notes:
The oil light came on and started blinking. I checked the oil and it was full. I then called the Kia dealer and told them what was going on and the said it was a sensor. I needed to make appointment to get a new sensor but they had none and they were on back order. They would call me when it came in. I started seeing oil in garage under my car. I called The kia dealership back and they said just keep adding oil to it. 4 weeks after initial call the part came in. I took my car in to be fixed but it was more extensive than they were assuming. They had to order more parts and it took 2 more weeks. It turned out to be the Oil pressure switch that was leaking and spewing oil all over the engine. Could have been a disastrous situation. It cost me 1750.00. The car has 84,000 miles on it has been well taken care of and they didn’t cover it under any warranty.
Mfg Campaign: 11470867
Recall Date: Jun 24, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
The oil light came on and started blinking. I checked the oil and it was full. I then called the Kia dealer and told them what was going on and the said it was a sensor. I needed to make appointment to get a new sensor but they had none and they were on back order. They would call me when it came in. I started seeing oil in garage under my car. I called The kia dealership back and they said just keep adding oil to it. 4 weeks after initial call the part came in. I took my car in to be fixed but it was more extensive than they were assuming. They had to order more parts and it took 2 more weeks. It turned out to be the Oil pressure switch that was leaking and spewing oil all over the engine. Could have been a disastrous situation. It cost me 1750.00. The car has 84,000 miles on it has been well taken care of and they didn’t cover it under any warranty.
Corrective Action:
The oil light came on and started blinking. I checked the oil and it was full. I then called the Kia dealer and told them what was going on and the said it was a sensor. I needed to make appointment to get a new sensor but they had none and they were on back order. They would call me when it came in. I started seeing oil in garage under my car. I called The kia dealership back and they said just keep adding oil to it. 4 weeks after initial call the part came in. I took my car in to be fixed but it was more extensive than they were assuming. They had to order more parts and it took 2 more weeks. It turned out to be the Oil pressure switch that was leaking and spewing oil all over the engine. Could have been a disastrous situation. It cost me 1750.00. The car has 84,000 miles on it has been well taken care of and they didn’t cover it under any warranty.
Additional Notes:
The oil light came on and started blinking. I checked the oil and it was full. I then called the Kia dealer and told them what was going on and the said it was a sensor. I needed to make appointment to get a new sensor but they had none and they were on back order. They would call me when it came in. I started seeing oil in garage under my car. I called The kia dealership back and they said just keep adding oil to it. 4 weeks after initial call the part came in. I took my car in to be fixed but it was more extensive than they were assuming. They had to order more parts and it took 2 more weeks. It turned out to be the Oil pressure switch that was leaking and spewing oil all over the engine. Could have been a disastrous situation. It cost me 1750.00. The car has 84,000 miles on it has been well taken care of and they didn’t cover it under any warranty.
Mfg Campaign: 11470867
Recall Date: Jun 24, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
High oil consumption. I'm burning 2 quarts of oil every 1000 miles.
Corrective Action:
High oil consumption. I'm burning 2 quarts of oil every 1000 miles.
Additional Notes:
High oil consumption. I'm burning 2 quarts of oil every 1000 miles.
Mfg Campaign: 11470037
Recall Date: Jun 20, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I left my home in Northern California and drove my 2017 KIA Sorento EX V6 AWD to work. No one was with me in the vehicle. There seemed to be a rattling sound in the engine when I started and drove the vehicle. There was no illuminated light on the dashboard to indicate a specific issue. I was planning to drop off the vehicle at the KIA Service Center-Roseville Automall after work. I just got off the freeway, when the Kia slowed down by itself. I was able to pull over to the right shoulder of the freeway and the KIA just completely stopped with faint sounds coming from the engine. I turned the car off. I stayed in the car and was about to call my auto insurance company when I smelled smoke. I stepped out, checked the Kia from outside, saw something dripping under the front of the car, and started to catch fire. I immediately stepped far from it and called 911. The fire got bigger and just burned the whole front. We had the KIA Sorento serviced in December 2021 for a leaky oil switch despite timely maintenance at the KIA Service Center through the years. The maintenance guy said we did not have to pay to resolve the leaky oil issue because of a recall warranty. We brought the KIA again for a regular maintenance service and brake pad repairs on 4/2/2022. Later on, we got a letter from the KIA Headquarters dated 4/7/2022 regarding 2014-2018 MY KIA Sorento 3.3 L Vehicle Oil Pressure Switch Leaking New Vehicle Limited Warranty Extension. Somewhere in the letter stated, “If oil is NOT leaking from the engine or the Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light DOES NOT remain illuminated after the engine is turned ON, you DO NOT need to bring your vehicle to a Kia dealership for the purpose of this warranty extension.” I thought the vehicle was in the clear already since it got serviced for the leaky oil in 12/2021 and completed its regular maintenance in 4/2022. Proof of service records,vehicle photos, KIA’s extended warranty letter for recall are all available.
Corrective Action:
I left my home in Northern California and drove my 2017 KIA Sorento EX V6 AWD to work. No one was with me in the vehicle. There seemed to be a rattling sound in the engine when I started and drove the vehicle. There was no illuminated light on the dashboard to indicate a specific issue. I was planning to drop off the vehicle at the KIA Service Center-Roseville Automall after work. I just got off the freeway, when the Kia slowed down by itself. I was able to pull over to the right shoulder of the freeway and the KIA just completely stopped with faint sounds coming from the engine. I turned the car off. I stayed in the car and was about to call my auto insurance company when I smelled smoke. I stepped out, checked the Kia from outside, saw something dripping under the front of the car, and started to catch fire. I immediately stepped far from it and called 911. The fire got bigger and just burned the whole front. We had the KIA Sorento serviced in December 2021 for a leaky oil switch despite timely maintenance at the KIA Service Center through the years. The maintenance guy said we did not have to pay to resolve the leaky oil issue because of a recall warranty. We brought the KIA again for a regular maintenance service and brake pad repairs on 4/2/2022. Later on, we got a letter from the KIA Headquarters dated 4/7/2022 regarding 2014-2018 MY KIA Sorento 3.3 L Vehicle Oil Pressure Switch Leaking New Vehicle Limited Warranty Extension. Somewhere in the letter stated, “If oil is NOT leaking from the engine or the Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light DOES NOT remain illuminated after the engine is turned ON, you DO NOT need to bring your vehicle to a Kia dealership for the purpose of this warranty extension.” I thought the vehicle was in the clear already since it got serviced for the leaky oil in 12/2021 and completed its regular maintenance in 4/2022. Proof of service records,vehicle photos, KIA’s extended warranty letter for recall are all available.
Additional Notes:
I left my home in Northern California and drove my 2017 KIA Sorento EX V6 AWD to work. No one was with me in the vehicle. There seemed to be a rattling sound in the engine when I started and drove the vehicle. There was no illuminated light on the dashboard to indicate a specific issue. I was planning to drop off the vehicle at the KIA Service Center-Roseville Automall after work. I just got off the freeway, when the Kia slowed down by itself. I was able to pull over to the right shoulder of the freeway and the KIA just completely stopped with faint sounds coming from the engine. I turned the car off. I stayed in the car and was about to call my auto insurance company when I smelled smoke. I stepped out, checked the Kia from outside, saw something dripping under the front of the car, and started to catch fire. I immediately stepped far from it and called 911. The fire got bigger and just burned the whole front. We had the KIA Sorento serviced in December 2021 for a leaky oil switch despite timely maintenance at the KIA Service Center through the years. The maintenance guy said we did not have to pay to resolve the leaky oil issue because of a recall warranty. We brought the KIA again for a regular maintenance service and brake pad repairs on 4/2/2022. Later on, we got a letter from the KIA Headquarters dated 4/7/2022 regarding 2014-2018 MY KIA Sorento 3.3 L Vehicle Oil Pressure Switch Leaking New Vehicle Limited Warranty Extension. Somewhere in the letter stated, “If oil is NOT leaking from the engine or the Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light DOES NOT remain illuminated after the engine is turned ON, you DO NOT need to bring your vehicle to a Kia dealership for the purpose of this warranty extension.” I thought the vehicle was in the clear already since it got serviced for the leaky oil in 12/2021 and completed its regular maintenance in 4/2022. Proof of service records,vehicle photos, KIA’s extended warranty letter for recall are all available.
Mfg Campaign: 11470152
Recall Date: Jun 20, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
My husband and I were driving through a busy section of town and all of a sudden our suv completely lost power, dying on the side of the road. We never had a check engine light or anything come on. When we had it towed to the dealership we were informed our engine had locked up. Apparently there was a product upgrade that should have alerted us that our engine was going out, but we were not notified by Kia of the knock system upgrade. Nor were we informed that, as the second owners of the vehicle, in order to receive such notifications from Kia we needed to contact them and let them know we were the new owners and share our contact information. However, if Kia had classified it as a recall on the warning system, we would have been notified through our registration with the BMV. The dealership did share that this particular engine in a lot of Kia’s models have locked up suddenly similarly to ours. Luckily we were able to get our vehicle stopped right before the intersection, but did end up blocking a lane of traffic until the tow truck came. Kia also refuses to replace our engine because we did not get the knock system upgrade even though we were never notified.
Corrective Action:
My husband and I were driving through a busy section of town and all of a sudden our suv completely lost power, dying on the side of the road. We never had a check engine light or anything come on. When we had it towed to the dealership we were informed our engine had locked up. Apparently there was a product upgrade that should have alerted us that our engine was going out, but we were not notified by Kia of the knock system upgrade. Nor were we informed that, as the second owners of the vehicle, in order to receive such notifications from Kia we needed to contact them and let them know we were the new owners and share our contact information. However, if Kia had classified it as a recall on the warning system, we would have been notified through our registration with the BMV. The dealership did share that this particular engine in a lot of Kia’s models have locked up suddenly similarly to ours. Luckily we were able to get our vehicle stopped right before the intersection, but did end up blocking a lane of traffic until the tow truck came. Kia also refuses to replace our engine because we did not get the knock system upgrade even though we were never notified.
Additional Notes:
My husband and I were driving through a busy section of town and all of a sudden our suv completely lost power, dying on the side of the road. We never had a check engine light or anything come on. When we had it towed to the dealership we were informed our engine had locked up. Apparently there was a product upgrade that should have alerted us that our engine was going out, but we were not notified by Kia of the knock system upgrade. Nor were we informed that, as the second owners of the vehicle, in order to receive such notifications from Kia we needed to contact them and let them know we were the new owners and share our contact information. However, if Kia had classified it as a recall on the warning system, we would have been notified through our registration with the BMV. The dealership did share that this particular engine in a lot of Kia’s models have locked up suddenly similarly to ours. Luckily we were able to get our vehicle stopped right before the intersection, but did end up blocking a lane of traffic until the tow truck came. Kia also refuses to replace our engine because we did not get the knock system upgrade even though we were never notified.
Mfg Campaign: 11469808
Recall Date: Jun 17, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
I am requesting an investigation of a defect involving the oil pressure switch in my iKia Sorento vehicle engine. The oil pressure switch, a device which monitors engine oil pressure and illuminates a warning light when oil pressure is lost, is defective The defect results in an engine oil leak. The oil loss occurs without warning to the driver eventually leading to an engine stall and loss of motive power condition. This was brought to the attention of the technician that serviced my car several times. I was instructed to add some oil if I noticed it, but don’t fill it up. I was informed to let them take care of the liquid levels when I brought it in for the oil changes.
Corrective Action:
I am requesting an investigation of a defect involving the oil pressure switch in my iKia Sorento vehicle engine. The oil pressure switch, a device which monitors engine oil pressure and illuminates a warning light when oil pressure is lost, is defective The defect results in an engine oil leak. The oil loss occurs without warning to the driver eventually leading to an engine stall and loss of motive power condition. This was brought to the attention of the technician that serviced my car several times. I was instructed to add some oil if I noticed it, but don’t fill it up. I was informed to let them take care of the liquid levels when I brought it in for the oil changes.
Additional Notes:
I am requesting an investigation of a defect involving the oil pressure switch in my iKia Sorento vehicle engine. The oil pressure switch, a device which monitors engine oil pressure and illuminates a warning light when oil pressure is lost, is defective The defect results in an engine oil leak. The oil loss occurs without warning to the driver eventually leading to an engine stall and loss of motive power condition. This was brought to the attention of the technician that serviced my car several times. I was instructed to add some oil if I noticed it, but don’t fill it up. I was informed to let them take care of the liquid levels when I brought it in for the oil changes.
Mfg Campaign: 11468922
Recall Date: Jun 13, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
STEERING
Potential Consequences:
When steering the vehicle at speeds between 40 and 70 mph the steering will feel sticky or get a notch feel to it. When making minor adjustments to the wheel to keep the vehicle going straight there will be resistance, then when enough force has been applied it will move. This sudden movement of the wheel causes the vehicle to over steer on the direction the steering wheel was being moved. This can result in an overcompensation the other direction. Although these are small movements the driving experience is unsettling for the driver, and for others around. The dealership is aware of the issue, confirmed it, and applied a software fix to the vehicle per KIA TSB 060 Rev 5. This has made the issue intermittent at best, instead of correcting it. Upon my second visit the dealership they reset the vehicle computer and I believe applied the software again. Upon testing they could not recreate the issue. On the third visit they were not able to recreate the issue yet again. After every visit I could feel the vehicle exhibiting the problem on the drive home - it's is a 2.5 hour drive to the dealership. The vehicle currently has less than 20K and this issue has been occurring since about 8K miles on the odometer. There has been no indicators or trouble codes, only the driving experience. The first occurrence was during the winter and more pronounced. The sticky feeling and the way that affected my steering on icy roads was somewhat scary. KIA's TSB states if the vehicle fails the recommended course is replacement of steering components. After multiple visits I have found a serious reluctance for them to do anything more than software fixes. I simply want a safe vehicle to transport my loved ones in.
Corrective Action:
When steering the vehicle at speeds between 40 and 70 mph the steering will feel sticky or get a notch feel to it. When making minor adjustments to the wheel to keep the vehicle going straight there will be resistance, then when enough force has been applied it will move. This sudden movement of the wheel causes the vehicle to over steer on the direction the steering wheel was being moved. This can result in an overcompensation the other direction. Although these are small movements the driving experience is unsettling for the driver, and for others around. The dealership is aware of the issue, confirmed it, and applied a software fix to the vehicle per KIA TSB 060 Rev 5. This has made the issue intermittent at best, instead of correcting it. Upon my second visit the dealership they reset the vehicle computer and I believe applied the software again. Upon testing they could not recreate the issue. On the third visit they were not able to recreate the issue yet again. After every visit I could feel the vehicle exhibiting the problem on the drive home - it's is a 2.5 hour drive to the dealership. The vehicle currently has less than 20K and this issue has been occurring since about 8K miles on the odometer. There has been no indicators or trouble codes, only the driving experience. The first occurrence was during the winter and more pronounced. The sticky feeling and the way that affected my steering on icy roads was somewhat scary. KIA's TSB states if the vehicle fails the recommended course is replacement of steering components. After multiple visits I have found a serious reluctance for them to do anything more than software fixes. I simply want a safe vehicle to transport my loved ones in.
Additional Notes:
When steering the vehicle at speeds between 40 and 70 mph the steering will feel sticky or get a notch feel to it. When making minor adjustments to the wheel to keep the vehicle going straight there will be resistance, then when enough force has been applied it will move. This sudden movement of the wheel causes the vehicle to over steer on the direction the steering wheel was being moved. This can result in an overcompensation the other direction. Although these are small movements the driving experience is unsettling for the driver, and for others around. The dealership is aware of the issue, confirmed it, and applied a software fix to the vehicle per KIA TSB 060 Rev 5. This has made the issue intermittent at best, instead of correcting it. Upon my second visit the dealership they reset the vehicle computer and I believe applied the software again. Upon testing they could not recreate the issue. On the third visit they were not able to recreate the issue yet again. After every visit I could feel the vehicle exhibiting the problem on the drive home - it's is a 2.5 hour drive to the dealership. The vehicle currently has less than 20K and this issue has been occurring since about 8K miles on the odometer. There has been no indicators or trouble codes, only the driving experience. The first occurrence was during the winter and more pronounced. The sticky feeling and the way that affected my steering on icy roads was somewhat scary. KIA's TSB states if the vehicle fails the recommended course is replacement of steering components. After multiple visits I have found a serious reluctance for them to do anything more than software fixes. I simply want a safe vehicle to transport my loved ones in.
Mfg Campaign: 11468561
Recall Date: Jun 10, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
ENGINE
Potential Consequences:
Car oil had not been changed but a month or two ago and only went on one 2-3 hour trip there and back after the oil was changed. Only stayed in town and went to regular grocery store and work after trip. Did not check oil due to not normally having it deplete fast. A month or so later oil deplited rapidly (this is an unknown part if it was fully the cars issue or if was the person who changed the oil.) Oil was lower than normal mainly noticed when car showed oil lamp light (was only blinking did not stay lit) and started halting and jerking when driving home. More oil was added and once that happened the check engine light came on. Car has jerked and been close to stalling when trying to drive to autostore for diagnostics. Since then the car is acting like it did not have oil added. Oil light is off but engine light blinks constantly. The halting and stalling is similar to the recall on other 2017 Kia Sorento's (with a 3.3 L engine) with the crankshaft being the problem. The halting and stalling can lead to an accident. No prior engine issues before this when the oil ran low.
Corrective Action:
Car oil had not been changed but a month or two ago and only went on one 2-3 hour trip there and back after the oil was changed. Only stayed in town and went to regular grocery store and work after trip. Did not check oil due to not normally having it deplete fast. A month or so later oil deplited rapidly (this is an unknown part if it was fully the cars issue or if was the person who changed the oil.) Oil was lower than normal mainly noticed when car showed oil lamp light (was only blinking did not stay lit) and started halting and jerking when driving home. More oil was added and once that happened the check engine light came on. Car has jerked and been close to stalling when trying to drive to autostore for diagnostics. Since then the car is acting like it did not have oil added. Oil light is off but engine light blinks constantly. The halting and stalling is similar to the recall on other 2017 Kia Sorento's (with a 3.3 L engine) with the crankshaft being the problem. The halting and stalling can lead to an accident. No prior engine issues before this when the oil ran low.
Additional Notes:
Car oil had not been changed but a month or two ago and only went on one 2-3 hour trip there and back after the oil was changed. Only stayed in town and went to regular grocery store and work after trip. Did not check oil due to not normally having it deplete fast. A month or so later oil deplited rapidly (this is an unknown part if it was fully the cars issue or if was the person who changed the oil.) Oil was lower than normal mainly noticed when car showed oil lamp light (was only blinking did not stay lit) and started halting and jerking when driving home. More oil was added and once that happened the check engine light came on. Car has jerked and been close to stalling when trying to drive to autostore for diagnostics. Since then the car is acting like it did not have oil added. Oil light is off but engine light blinks constantly. The halting and stalling is similar to the recall on other 2017 Kia Sorento's (with a 3.3 L engine) with the crankshaft being the problem. The halting and stalling can lead to an accident. No prior engine issues before this when the oil ran low.
Mfg Campaign: 11466890
Recall Date: Jun 1, 2022
Kia America, Inc.
Defect Description:
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Potential Consequences:
Car oil had not been changed but a month or two ago and only went on one 2-3 hour trip there and back after the oil was changed. Only stayed in town and went to regular grocery store and work after trip. Did not check oil due to not normally having it deplete fast. A month or so later oil deplited rapidly (this is an unknown part if it was fully the cars issue or if was the person who changed the oil.) Oil was lower than normal mainly noticed when car showed oil lamp light (was only blinking did not stay lit) and started halting and jerking when driving home. More oil was added and once that happened the check engine light came on. Car has jerked and been close to stalling when trying to drive to autostore for diagnostics. Since then the car is acting like it did not have oil added. Oil light is off but engine light blinks constantly. The halting and stalling is similar to the recall on other 2017 Kia Sorento's (with a 3.3 L engine) with the crankshaft being the problem. The halting and stalling can lead to an accident. No prior engine issues before this when the oil ran low.
Corrective Action:
Car oil had not been changed but a month or two ago and only went on one 2-3 hour trip there and back after the oil was changed. Only stayed in town and went to regular grocery store and work after trip. Did not check oil due to not normally having it deplete fast. A month or so later oil deplited rapidly (this is an unknown part if it was fully the cars issue or if was the person who changed the oil.) Oil was lower than normal mainly noticed when car showed oil lamp light (was only blinking did not stay lit) and started halting and jerking when driving home. More oil was added and once that happened the check engine light came on. Car has jerked and been close to stalling when trying to drive to autostore for diagnostics. Since then the car is acting like it did not have oil added. Oil light is off but engine light blinks constantly. The halting and stalling is similar to the recall on other 2017 Kia Sorento's (with a 3.3 L engine) with the crankshaft being the problem. The halting and stalling can lead to an accident. No prior engine issues before this when the oil ran low.
Additional Notes:
Car oil had not been changed but a month or two ago and only went on one 2-3 hour trip there and back after the oil was changed. Only stayed in town and went to regular grocery store and work after trip. Did not check oil due to not normally having it deplete fast. A month or so later oil deplited rapidly (this is an unknown part if it was fully the cars issue or if was the person who changed the oil.) Oil was lower than normal mainly noticed when car showed oil lamp light (was only blinking did not stay lit) and started halting and jerking when driving home. More oil was added and once that happened the check engine light came on. Car has jerked and been close to stalling when trying to drive to autostore for diagnostics. Since then the car is acting like it did not have oil added. Oil light is off but engine light blinks constantly. The halting and stalling is similar to the recall on other 2017 Kia Sorento's (with a 3.3 L engine) with the crankshaft being the problem. The halting and stalling can lead to an accident. No prior engine issues before this when the oil ran low.
Mfg Campaign: 11466890
Recall Date: Jun 1, 2022
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Edzant Price LLC
Valencia, CA • 36 yrs
Focus: Lemon Law, Personal Injury