2013 Kia Sorento Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 496 6 crash 33 fire 5 injury

“KIA REPLACED MY ENGINE TWICE, DUE TO OIL CONSUMPTION. A MONTH AFTER THE FIRST ENGINE REPLACEMENT, I HAD THE SAME PROBLEMS.. SMOKE COMING OUT OF EXHAUST, LOSS OF POWER, STALLING AND OIL CONSUMPTION. I WAS IN AND OUT OF KIA'S SERVICE DEPARTMENT. THEY TOLD ME NOTHING WAS WRONG! I MOVED FROM CO TO NE, MY HUSBAND AND I HAD TO ADD OIL EVERY 100 MILES, WITH SMOKE COMING OUT OF EXHAUST AND STALLING. LINCOLN NE KIA FOUND AN OIL LEAK AT THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD RIGHT AWAY! KIA INSTRUCTS THEN TO REPLACE MY ENGINE AGAIN! ONCE THEY REPLACED ENGINE, THEY STILL SAW THE LEAK AT THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD WITH R…”
NHTSA complaint #11031971, 2017 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“This vehicle has a oil consumption problem that causes engine damage and Kia will not take responsibility for especially after the car being maintained. On top of it even with substantial evidence that this was a manufacturing defect that Kia is refusing to take accountability for and completely dismisses any claims or complaints and not even bothered to speak with you unless the car has warranty which is absurd because this was a again a manufacturing defect of the vehicle not from not sustaining the vehicle from the driver that owns it. It also did not give off any warning signs or any indic…”
NHTSA complaint #11662704, 2025 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“On 4/29/22 @ 215 pm whilst deselorating for an off ramp from I-57 in Mattoon IL to enter onto RTE 16. The car made a huge search and a loud knocking near could be heard from the engine compartment. The cabin began to have smoke enter from the air vents. No warning lights where illuminated on the driver's control panel. The noise stopped and the car resumed it regular forward motion. Yet large amounts of smoke could be seen coming from the rear of the car. A min or two later the car smoke got more intense and the cabin and all the drivers warning light illuminated. The car stalled and engine…”
NHTSA complaint #11462899, 2022 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

Electrical System 116 3 crash 9 fire 3 injury

“KIA REPLACED MY ENGINE TWICE, DUE TO OIL CONSUMPTION. A MONTH AFTER THE FIRST ENGINE REPLACEMENT, I HAD THE SAME PROBLEMS.. SMOKE COMING OUT OF EXHAUST, LOSS OF POWER, STALLING AND OIL CONSUMPTION. I WAS IN AND OUT OF KIA'S SERVICE DEPARTMENT. THEY TOLD ME NOTHING WAS WRONG! I MOVED FROM CO TO NE, MY HUSBAND AND I HAD TO ADD OIL EVERY 100 MILES, WITH SMOKE COMING OUT OF EXHAUST AND STALLING. LINCOLN NE KIA FOUND AN OIL LEAK AT THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD RIGHT AWAY! KIA INSTRUCTS THEN TO REPLACE MY ENGINE AGAIN! ONCE THEY REPLACED ENGINE, THEY STILL SAW THE LEAK AT THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD WITH R…”
NHTSA complaint #11031971, 2017 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“This vehicle has a oil consumption problem that causes engine damage and Kia will not take responsibility for especially after the car being maintained. On top of it even with substantial evidence that this was a manufacturing defect that Kia is refusing to take accountability for and completely dismisses any claims or complaints and not even bothered to speak with you unless the car has warranty which is absurd because this was a again a manufacturing defect of the vehicle not from not sustaining the vehicle from the driver that owns it. It also did not give off any warning signs or any indic…”
NHTSA complaint #11662704, 2025 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTING ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE WALL, AND FLIPPED OVER. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SUSTAINED LACERATIONS AND CONTUSIONS THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10722697, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Structure 89 1 crash 2 fire 2 injury

“MY AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY WHEN I HIT A PERSON IN THE REAR AFTER SEVERELY DAMAGED FRONT END OF MY VEHICLE AND PARTS BEING SHOVED INTO THE MOTOR AND THE MOTOR RECEIVED A CRACK IN THE BLOCK. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10637536, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S DOOR WOULD STRIKE HIM IN THE FOREHEAD WHENEVER ENTERING THE VEHICLE .THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE EDGES AROUND THE DOOR WERE SHARP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSIS BUT THEY WERE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,000. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10523287, 2013 · 1 injury(ies)

“SPONTANEOUS VEHICLE FIRE. TRAVELING ON US-27 IN FLORIDA, STOPPED AT RED LIGHT AND SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD, PROCEEDED THROUGH THE LIGHT ONCE IT TURNED GREEN TO GET TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY WHEN SMOKE STARTED THROUGH THE VENTS AND FLAMES CAME OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD AS WELL. CAR BECAME DISABLED AND 3 OF US JUMPED OUT AND RAN DOWN THE ROAD, AWAY FROM THE CAR. THE ENTIRE CAR WENT UP IN FLAMES IN A MATTER OF SECONDS FROM EXITING.”
NHTSA complaint #11119545, 2018 · fire

Unknown Or Other 89 3 crash 6 fire 2 injury

“JULY 3, 2020 CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. ENGINE REPLACE 2017. LESS THAN 40,000 MILES ON NEW MOTOR. 2019 HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP RECALLED. IT WAS INSPECTED AND REPLACED.”
NHTSA complaint #11343712, 2020 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“MY WAS REMOVING GROCERIES FROM HER NEW KIA WHEN IT STARTED TO ROLL AWAY WHILE THE CAR WAS IN PARK. WE CHECK KIA DEALER WE WERE ALL WAS ON WITH THE CAR THE PROBLEM HAD TO BE DIVER ERROR. THEN ON OR ABOUT NOVEMBER 20, 2015 WE RECEIVED A RECALLED FOR A TRANSMISSION PROBLEM THAT ALLOW THE KIA TO SLIDE OUT OF PARK AND INTO REVERSE WITH THE BREAK PEDAL BEING DEPRESSED.”
NHTSA complaint #10851062, 2012 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Car caught fire in the engine compartment.”
NHTSA complaint #11543660, 2023 · fire

Service Brakes 88 5 crash 1 fire 6 injury

“I'VE HAD MY 2013 KIA SORENTO FOR JUST OVER 3 YEARS. I WAS IN A ONE CAR ACCIDENT AND MY SEATBELT DIDN'T RETRACT AND MY AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY. I BROKE MY STERNUM AND HAVE BACK PROBLEMS. THE PROBLEMS I'VE HAD WITH MY SORENTO ARE REPLACING HEADLIGHTS, I HAD TO GET A NEW BATTERY AND BRAKES AFTER ONE YEAR. MY AIRBAG LIGHT DOESN'T GO OFF RIGHT AWAY. BEFORE MY ACCIDENT IT WAS IN THE SHOP BECAUSE MY AIRBAG LIGHT STAYED ON. NOW I HAVE NO POWER ALL MY LIGHTS STOPPED WORKING. WHEN I PUT THE TRUCK IN DRIVE AND TURN IT OFF, I CAN'T TAKE THE KEY OUT I HAVE TO PUT IT BACK IN PARK AGAIN. MY SORENTO WAS SHAKING…”
NHTSA complaint #10851857, 2015 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2013 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while the vehicle was turned off, it rolled away while she was removing groceries from the passenger side of the vehicle. As a result, the contact ran to the driver's side and jump into the vehicle to stop it. While driving at unknown speeds with the windows up and the air conditioner in the on position, smoke was entering through the vents. The engine warning light was illuminated. The driver was able to pull over. An independent mechanic informed the contact that there was an electrical failure. The contact and child occupant had w…”
NHTSA complaint #11585182, 2024 · 2 injury(ies)

“The contact owned a 2013 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that after parking and turning the vehicle off, moments later flames and smoke were present coming from the engine compartment of the vehicle. The fire department was called to the scene and extinguished the flames. During the incident, the vehicle was destroyed and later towed away. The contact sustained a right-hand laceration while attempting to remove items from the vehicle. The injury did not require professional medical treatment. Police and fire report information was not available. The cause of the fire was not yet determined. Th…”
NHTSA complaint #11616683, 2024 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

Exterior Lighting 70 3 fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO OPEN THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR, THE DOOR HANDLE FRACTURED AND DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE HEADLAMP AND ELECTRICAL COMPONENT MELTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE HEADLAMP WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE DEALER DECLINED TO REPAIR THE DOOR HANDLE FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10984715, 2017 · fire

“I TOOK T\HE VEHICLE TO A NON DEALER LOCATION TO BE INSPECTED AFTER HAVING MULTIPLE ISSUES WITH THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY BEING FAULTY. UPON INSPECTION I WAS NOTIFIED BY THE MECHANIC ON DUTY THAT THE WIRING ASSEMBLY WAS ACTUALLY MELTING , A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT. BECAUSE THIS BEING A FIRE HAZARD HE WAS UNABLE TO REPLACE THE BULBS FOR ME AND SAID HE FELT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE IT WOULD PLACE MYSELF, MY FAMILY AND OTHERS ON THE HIGHWAY AT RISK. HE PROCEEDED TO SHOW ME THE PROBLEM. THIS PROBLEM HAS RESULTED IN MY HAVING TO REPLACE THE BULBS FIVE TIMES IN THE PAST ON THE DRIVERS SIDE A…”
NHTSA complaint #10787877, 2015 · fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. APPROXIMATELY TWO WEEKS AFTER THE CONTACT PURCHASED THE VEHICLE, SHE BEGAN SMELLING TAR. THE VEHICLE WS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE HEADLIGHTS BURNED OUT. THE DEALER REPLACED THE HEADLIGHTS AND STATED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT DID NOT RECEIVE ANY RECALL NOTICE. APPROXIMATELY THREE WEEKS AGO, THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE DRIVER SEAT BEGAN TO BURN, JAMMING THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR. THE CONTACT CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THERE WERE N…”
NHTSA complaint #10748707, 2015 · fire

Power Train 69 2 crash 3 fire 1 injury

“On 4/29/22 @ 215 pm whilst deselorating for an off ramp from I-57 in Mattoon IL to enter onto RTE 16. The car made a huge search and a loud knocking near could be heard from the engine compartment. The cabin began to have smoke enter from the air vents. No warning lights where illuminated on the driver's control panel. The noise stopped and the car resumed it regular forward motion. Yet large amounts of smoke could be seen coming from the rear of the car. A min or two later the car smoke got more intense and the cabin and all the drivers warning light illuminated. The car stalled and engine…”
NHTSA complaint #11462899, 2022 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owned a 2013 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH and towing a trailer, he heard a loud abnormal sound emanating from the rear of the vehicle. After which, the instrument panel behaved erratically, then the vehicle lost all motive power, and the contact observed smoke entering the interior of the vehicle. The contact stated that he was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to shift into park. After some time, the contact observed the vehicle engulfed in flames originating from an unknown location. Local emergency services wer…”
NHTSA complaint #11552699, 2023 · fire

“THE CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN AND CAUGHT FIRE ON RURAL ROADS ABOUT 50MPH.THE DOG AND MY SIGNIFICANT OTHER WERE ABLE TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE AND MY S.O.'S QUICK THINKING...SNOW IN THE ENGINE HELPED EXTINGUISH THE FLAMES. A GAME WARDEN ARRIVED AND THE CAR WAS TOWED TO A KIA DEALERSHIP WHO REPLACED THE ENTIRE ENGINE FREE OF COST.”
NHTSA complaint #10958524, 2017 · fire

Air Bags 60 6 crash 2 fire 12 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. WHILE TURNING INTO A PARKING LOT DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A METAL POLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A CRACKED STERNUM, NECK AND BACK PAINS THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED A BACK INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT FOUR ADDITIONAL PASSENGERS SUSTAINED MINOR ABRASIONS THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND…”
NHTSA complaint #10693352, 2015 · crash · 6 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. WHILE THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS IDLING AT A STOP LIGHT, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO ITS REAR. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE PRECEDING VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE HEAD, NECK, AND LOWER BACK. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE HEAD, NECK, AND ARM THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN AUTOMOTIVE SHOP. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF T…”
NHTSA complaint #11054952, 2017 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“I'VE HAD MY 2013 KIA SORENTO FOR JUST OVER 3 YEARS. I WAS IN A ONE CAR ACCIDENT AND MY SEATBELT DIDN'T RETRACT AND MY AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY. I BROKE MY STERNUM AND HAVE BACK PROBLEMS. THE PROBLEMS I'VE HAD WITH MY SORENTO ARE REPLACING HEADLIGHTS, I HAD TO GET A NEW BATTERY AND BRAKES AFTER ONE YEAR. MY AIRBAG LIGHT DOESN'T GO OFF RIGHT AWAY. BEFORE MY ACCIDENT IT WAS IN THE SHOP BECAUSE MY AIRBAG LIGHT STAYED ON. NOW I HAVE NO POWER ALL MY LIGHTS STOPPED WORKING. WHEN I PUT THE TRUCK IN DRIVE AND TURN IT OFF, I CAN'T TAKE THE KEY OUT I HAVE TO PUT IT BACK IN PARK AGAIN. MY SORENTO WAS SHAKING…”
NHTSA complaint #10851857, 2015 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

Fuel/Propulsion System 34 6 fire 2 injury

“This vehicle has a oil consumption problem that causes engine damage and Kia will not take responsibility for especially after the car being maintained. On top of it even with substantial evidence that this was a manufacturing defect that Kia is refusing to take accountability for and completely dismisses any claims or complaints and not even bothered to speak with you unless the car has warranty which is absurd because this was a again a manufacturing defect of the vehicle not from not sustaining the vehicle from the driver that owns it. It also did not give off any warning signs or any indic…”
NHTSA complaint #11662704, 2025 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“JULY 3, 2020 CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. ENGINE REPLACE 2017. LESS THAN 40,000 MILES ON NEW MOTOR. 2019 HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP RECALLED. IT WAS INSPECTED AND REPLACED.”
NHTSA complaint #11343712, 2020 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“Car caught fire in the engine compartment.”
NHTSA complaint #11543660, 2023 · fire

Seats 33 1 fire 1 injury

“The heated seats were turned on high. It was cold outside. Two hours later the occupant got out of the car and discovered blisters on leg from seat heat. Several large blisters from burns. The seat should not be hot enough to burn someone and cause blisters”
NHTSA complaint #11560525, 2023 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. APPROXIMATELY TWO WEEKS AFTER THE CONTACT PURCHASED THE VEHICLE, SHE BEGAN SMELLING TAR. THE VEHICLE WS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, BUT THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE HEADLIGHTS BURNED OUT. THE DEALER REPLACED THE HEADLIGHTS AND STATED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL; HOWEVER, THE CONTACT DID NOT RECEIVE ANY RECALL NOTICE. APPROXIMATELY THREE WEEKS AGO, THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE DRIVER SEAT BEGAN TO BURN, JAMMING THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR. THE CONTACT CALLED 911 AND THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THERE WERE N…”
NHTSA complaint #10748707, 2015 · fire

“My driver seat welds broke and is currently held to the base by zipties”
NHTSA complaint #11720271, 2025

Vehicle Speed Control 25 3 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTING ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED, CRASHED INTO A CONCRETE WALL, AND FLIPPED OVER. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SUSTAINED LACERATIONS AND CONTUSIONS THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10722697, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“HIT MY BRAKES GOING ROUGHLY 30MPG (I WAS IN HEAVY TRAFFIC ON THE TOLLWAY WITH LOTS OF BRAKING AND GOING FOR SEVERAL MINUTES ALREADY), THE ABS WAS TRIGGERED AS THE CAR WAS MAKING THE JERKING/THUMPING (HOWEVER YOU DESCRIBE FEEL OF ABS), I SHOULD HAVE HAD ENOUGH SPACE TO STOP, BUT MY CAR WAS ACCELERATING IT SEEMED AT THE SAME TIME, I HIT A CAR IN FRONT OF ME, AND IT CONTINUED, LURCHED FORWARD AND HIT THE CAR A SECOND TIME ALL WHILE THE BRAKE (ONLY) WAS BEING DEPRESSED. THAT FINALLY STOPPED THE CAR. THE OTHER DRIVER THOUGHT I WAS HIT FROM BEHIND TOO SINCE THERE WERE TWO HITS...BUT I FELT THE LUR…”
NHTSA complaint #10811303, 2015 · crash

“WE HAVE OWNED OUR KIA FOR 9 MONTHS, IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP AT LEAST 4 TIMES AND NOW ITS IN THE SHOP AGAIN. THE VEHICLE WILL COME TO A COMPLETE STOP WHEN GOING FULL SPEED, WE WERE GOING 45MPH FOR THE LAST INCIDENT AND THE KIA CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP OUT OF NO WHERE AND THE ENGINE SHUT WAS STILL ON BUT IDLE HIGH AND WOULD NOT GO ANYWHERE UNTIL YOU TURNED THE KIA OFF, WAITED FOR 15-20MINS FOR IT TO "REPROGRAM" AND THEN IT HAD ENOUGH POWER TO MOVE SLOWLY OUT OF THE ROAD. AFTER GETTING IT HOME MY HUSBAND CALLED THE DEALERSHIP THE FIRST TIME AND THEY HAD NO IDEA WHAT WAS WRONG SO THEY SENT US TO AN…”
NHTSA complaint #10596070, 2013 · crash

Visibility 23 6 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HE DROVE AT 65 MPH, THE SUNROOF EXPLODED. THE CONTACT SUFFERED CUTS TO HIS HANDS. THE FRONT PASSENGER SUFFERED CUTS ON THE BACK AND HANDS. THE PASSENGER IN THE REAR SUFFERED CUTS TO THE HANDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 26,700.”
NHTSA complaint #10584650, 2014 · 3 injury(ies)

“DRIVING ON ROUTE 55 S IN NEW JERSEY AROUND 3:00 PM , SUNNY DAY BETWEEN EXIT 53 A AND 53 B WINDOWS UP SUN ROOF CLOSED AND AIR CONDITIONING ON WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN OUR SUN ROOF IMPLODED ONTO MY WIFE AND I. WE WERE IN THE PASSING LANE AT THAT TIME AND HAD TO THINK QUICK AS TO WHAT JUST HAPPENED AND PROCEEDED TO REMOVE OURSELVES FROM THE HIGHWAY AND OFF TO THE SIDE . WE CALLED OUR INSURANCE COMPANY LOOKING FOR ADVICE ON WHAT TO DO, BUT THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO RECOMMEND ANY SO WE THEN CALLED 911 AND THE OPERATOR THERE CONTACTED SOMEONE FORM NJDOT WHO RESPONDED TO OUR NEEDS . MY WIFE AND I WERE COVERE…”
NHTSA complaint #10747107, 2015 · 2 injury(ies)

“THE FRONT PORTION OF THE PANORAMIC SUNROOF ON MY KIA SORENTO 2013 EXPLODED WHILE I WAS DRIVING THE CAR. I DID NOT SEE ANYTHING COMING TOWARDS THE CAR THAT COULD HAVE HIT THE SUNROOF. THE DAYS WAS APPROX 90 DEGREES AND THE CAR HAD BEEN HOUSED IN AN INTERIOR GARAGE ALL DAY. I HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES, I DID NOT GO THROUGH AN UNDERPASS BEFORE THE INCIDENT, MY SPEED WAS APPROX 50 MPH. THE SUNROOF WAS PARTIALLY OPEN AT THE TIME. THERE WAS A VERY LOUD SOUND THEN SHARDS OF GLASS EVERYWHERE. I PULLED OVER IMMEDIATELY AND DID NOT SEE ANYTHING ON TOP OF THE CAR THAT WOULD INDICATE IT…”
NHTSA complaint #10478778, 2012 · 1 injury(ies)

Steering 22 3 crash 1 fire 3 injury

“On 4/29/22 @ 215 pm whilst deselorating for an off ramp from I-57 in Mattoon IL to enter onto RTE 16. The car made a huge search and a loud knocking near could be heard from the engine compartment. The cabin began to have smoke enter from the air vents. No warning lights where illuminated on the driver's control panel. The noise stopped and the car resumed it regular forward motion. Yet large amounts of smoke could be seen coming from the rear of the car. A min or two later the car smoke got more intense and the cabin and all the drivers warning light illuminated. The car stalled and engine…”
NHTSA complaint #11462899, 2022 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO TURN RIGHT, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE DROVE OFF THE ROAD AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND WAS TOWED TO A TOW YARD. THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOT CONTACTED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 65,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11173888, 2019 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“MY AIRBAGS DIDN'T DEPLOY WHEN I HIT A PERSON IN THE REAR AFTER SEVERELY DAMAGED FRONT END OF MY VEHICLE AND PARTS BEING SHOVED INTO THE MOTOR AND THE MOTOR RECEIVED A CRACK IN THE BLOCK. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10637536, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Engine And Engine Cooling 19 1 crash 1 fire 1 injury

“The contact owns a 2013 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 mph a knocking noise was present coming from the engine and the vehicle began to violently shake and vibrate causing the driver to lose control of the vehicle and crash into a ditch. During the crash both the driver and passenger side and curtain air bags deployed. The driver sustained a concussion that required medical attention. A police report was taken at the scene. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired.…”
NHTSA complaint #11517791, 2022 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“Engine cooling system failure on my second engine after it being replaced ounce already still the same thing overheating millions of recalls on 2013 kia serento with cooling system failures why am I have to buy another engine with 2 years of replacing my original with the same problem my vehicle vin need to be added with the rest of the same year make an model”
NHTSA complaint #11553912, 2023 · fire

“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 veh…”
NHTSA complaint #11702984, 2025

Suspension 11 1 crash

“THE TRAFFIC LIGHT FOR MY DAUGHTER'S VEHICLE TURNED GREEN. SHE PROCEEDED INTO THE INTERSECTION. AND ENDED UP CRASHING INTO THE PASSENGER SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE THAT RAN THR RED LIGHT. MY DAUGHTER'S VEHICLE SUSTAINED HEAVY DAMAGE TO THE ENTIRE FRONT END . HOWEVER THERE WAS NO AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT. WE ARE VERY CONCERNED DUE TO THE AMOUNT OF DAMAGE DONE TO THE VEHICLE . AND WE WISH TO PUT IT ON REPORT SO THAT SOMEONE CAN INVESTIGATE IF THERE MAY BE A DEFECT IN THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10605721, 2014 · crash

“Rear Subframe rust, sudden excessive suspension instability and excessive vibration while driving. A “recall” issue in UK but not the US ??”
NHTSA complaint #11736847, 2026

“Kia failed to take accountability for rods related to oil pan and engine damage defect on this vehicle. Did not offer other safety options and did not give any warning signs. I have ALL my receipts and maintenance on vehicle that I DID Maintain my vehicle responsible and this was a Kia vehicle safety issue on manufacturing. I did not receive any warning or lights on my dashboard and I have all my oil change receipts. Please see all attached documents for my complaint. All Kia customer service was concerned with was warranty when this is a manufacturing product defect of this car not being put…”
NHTSA complaint #11652979, 2025

Visibility/Wiper 9 1 fire

“I TOOK T\HE VEHICLE TO A NON DEALER LOCATION TO BE INSPECTED AFTER HAVING MULTIPLE ISSUES WITH THE HEADLAMP ASSEMBLY BEING FAULTY. UPON INSPECTION I WAS NOTIFIED BY THE MECHANIC ON DUTY THAT THE WIRING ASSEMBLY WAS ACTUALLY MELTING , A MANUFACTURERS DEFECT. BECAUSE THIS BEING A FIRE HAZARD HE WAS UNABLE TO REPLACE THE BULBS FOR ME AND SAID HE FELT THE VEHICLE WAS UNSAFE TO DRIVE BECAUSE IT WOULD PLACE MYSELF, MY FAMILY AND OTHERS ON THE HIGHWAY AT RISK. HE PROCEEDED TO SHOW ME THE PROBLEM. THIS PROBLEM HAS RESULTED IN MY HAVING TO REPLACE THE BULBS FIVE TIMES IN THE PAST ON THE DRIVERS SIDE A…”
NHTSA complaint #10787877, 2015 · fire

“WHILE ON VACATION IN NEW MEXICO, WE WERE DRIVING ON I-40 WHEN WE HEARD A DEAFENING BOOM AND REALIZED THE SUNROOF HAD SPONTANEOUSLY BURST AND THE ARMATURES AND MECHANISM THAT CONTROL THE OPENING AND CLOSING OF THE SUNROOF HAD DETACHED FROM THE CAR. THERE WERE NO OTHER VEHICLES BEHIND, BESIDE, OR IN FRONT OF OUR VEHICLE AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT. WE WERE FOLLOWING THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT AND THE WEATHER WAS CLOUDY. WHEN THE GLASS BURST, THE INSIDE SLIDE COVER VIBRATED VIOLENTLY AND BEGAN TO OPEN. BOTH MY HUSBAND AND I HAD TO HOLD THE COVER CLOSED WITH OUR HANDS TO AVOID FALLING GLASS UNTIL WE C…”
NHTSA complaint #11102486, 2018

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING 67 MPH WITH THE SUN ROOF CLOSED, THE SUN ROOF FRACTURED. GLASS AND DEBRIS FELL INTO THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INJURED. RICART KIA (4255 S HAMILTON RD #210, GROVEPORT, OH 43125, (614) 836-6503) WAS NOTIFIED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 92,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11080343, 2018

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 8 1 fire

“I WAS DRIVING DOWN I70 WEST IN MISSOURI I GOT TO MILE MARKER 83.8 AND I HEAR TINK THINK AND AS I'M PULLING OVER I SEE MY CONTROL STEERING LIGHT FLASHING AND ALL SUDDEN BOOM AND THEN NOTHING. WON'T START, WON'T TURN OVER. NOTHING. I WAS DRIVING MY 2013 KIA SORENTO DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT ABOUT 72 MILES AN HOUR. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11331164, 2020

“WE EXPERIENCED LITERALLY EVERYTHING DESCRIBED ON THE LAST LETTER FOR THE RECALL ON OUR 2013 KIA SORENTO'S ECU, INCLUDING THE VEHICLE SHUTTING OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF ACTIVE INTERSECTIONS, HIGHWAY, AND NORMAL DRIVING OPERATION(S). MY WIFE AND I OWN A VEHICLE (2013 KIA SORENTO), THAT IS THE SUBJECT OF YOUR "VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO UPDATE THE ENGINE CONTROL UNIT (ECU)". AFTER THE ECU UNIT WAS REPLACED WE RECEIVED THE ATTACHED LETTER FROM KIA THAT STATES HE HAS A WARRANTY ON THE ENGINE FOR AS LONG AS WE OWN THE VEHICLE. DESPITE THIS LETTER, WE'VE BEEN TOLD BY KIA USA CORPORATE AND LITHIA KIA OF…”
NHTSA complaint #11291005, 2019

“VEHICLE HAS BEEN WELL TAKEN CARE OF AND IS IN EXCELLENT SHAPE. ONLY 52,000 MILES WHEN THE ABS LIGHT, TRACTION CONTROL, AND DOWNHILL ASSIST LIGHT CAME ON AT THE SAME TIME. WON'T GO OFF AS MANY OTHER OWNERS HAVE ATTESTED TO IN FORUMS ALL OVER THE INTERNET. CAME ON WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS MOVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND THEN WENT OFF. CAME BACK ON THE NEXT DAY SEVERAL TIMES AND NOW IS STUCK ON.”
NHTSA complaint #11258840, 2019

Seat Belts 8 2 crash 8 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SORENTO. WHILE TURNING INTO A PARKING LOT DURING INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS, THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED INTO A METAL POLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT FAILED TO RETRACT. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A CRACKED STERNUM, NECK AND BACK PAINS THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED A BACK INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT FOUR ADDITIONAL PASSENGERS SUSTAINED MINOR ABRASIONS THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND…”
NHTSA complaint #10693352, 2015 · crash · 6 injury(ies)

“I'VE HAD MY 2013 KIA SORENTO FOR JUST OVER 3 YEARS. I WAS IN A ONE CAR ACCIDENT AND MY SEATBELT DIDN'T RETRACT AND MY AIRBAG DIDN'T DEPLOY. I BROKE MY STERNUM AND HAVE BACK PROBLEMS. THE PROBLEMS I'VE HAD WITH MY SORENTO ARE REPLACING HEADLIGHTS, I HAD TO GET A NEW BATTERY AND BRAKES AFTER ONE YEAR. MY AIRBAG LIGHT DOESN'T GO OFF RIGHT AWAY. BEFORE MY ACCIDENT IT WAS IN THE SHOP BECAUSE MY AIRBAG LIGHT STAYED ON. NOW I HAVE NO POWER ALL MY LIGHTS STOPPED WORKING. WHEN I PUT THE TRUCK IN DRIVE AND TURN IT OFF, I CAN'T TAKE THE KEY OUT I HAVE TO PUT IT BACK IN PARK AGAIN. MY SORENTO WAS SHAKING…”
NHTSA complaint #10851857, 2015 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT WILL NOT LATCH. IT DID THIS ONCE BEFORE LAST WEEK AND IT FINALLY LATCHED. LAST NIGHT I COULD.NOT GET THE RED BOTTOM TO COME BACK UP SO THAT IT WOULD LATCH. WE WHERE SITTING IN A PARKING LOT IN SITTING STILL. THE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK NOTH TIMES.”
NHTSA complaint #11400081, 2021

Wheels 8 1 crash

“We were driving on highway at 120 kmh. The road was smooth and we had no error/service dash lights illuminated. Suddenly we heard a loud bang and we lost total control of the vehicle. We (hit) slid onlong the concrete highway which prevented the car from flipping and entering oncoming traffic. Our terrifying experience lasted about 8 seconds until we came to a stop. We were fortunate that we were not crashed into by nearby traffic. The original manufacturer alloy rear left wheel shattered. I have pictures of the wheel. The wheel totally separated from the hub. The tire was in good condition a…”
NHTSA complaint #11611361, 2024 · crash

“As per a consumer affairs article, hub assembly and wheel speed sensors should be covered by power train and/or relevant warranty that comes with Kia. In 2021, after an oil change, certain sensors on the dashboard started showing up, and the dealership informed me that the wheel speed sensor and hub assembly needs to be changed. Though the warranty should have automatically covered it, I had to repeatedly communicate with the Kia customer service center before it was authorized. Though this part is supposed to last for 80000-100000 miles, something similar happened after an oil change, and the…”
NHTSA complaint #11708249, 2025

“Drove approximately 6 miles from home to grocery store, parked car, did shopping and on way home 3 lights lite up on dash, ABS - ESC-TPMS. Just had serviced on 8/1/2022 with 111279 miles, currently has 111,378 miles on it. Vehicle is garage kept and I'm retired. I have had the car serviced at the dealership where vehicle was purchased.”
NHTSA complaint #11486484, 2022

Tires 7

“Tires are Douglas Touring, and Sceptor. Those options were not available. I bought a set of tires that belongs to two different brands. Three from Douglas/Goodyear tires and one is Sceptor all from Walmart. They are supposed to have 50000 miles and 45000 miles respectively. When I took for car service, two different service mechanics mentioned that two of the tires have already reached 2/32. Originally, two tires were bought in June 2023, third tire is July 2024, and fourth tire in Jan 2025. There was already an issue with a tire that led to replacement earlier this year. I even filed a set of…”
NHTSA complaint #11706458, 2025

“I had contacted earlier with regard to getting clarity on the tread wear rate, and whether a faster tread wear would make the tire defective. As a replacement to that tire which got replaced, I purchased a totally new tire on Sunday, and today, this is how it looked. Is this normal?”
NHTSA complaint #11643704, 2025

“235 r 17 104H I had a flat out tire, which led to a replacement of a relatively new tire that was bought in the middle of 2024. During the replacement process, it was found that the the tread depth dropped to 7 in 7 months or so as registered by local auto service personnel. I have been a long time driver with this type of instance happening for the first time during all these years where I had to replace the tire completely well within a year. Can a drop of 30% or more in tread depth within 7 months or so make the tire defective? Assuming that the tread depth wears out evenly, which I belie…”
NHTSA complaint #11643224, 2025

Fuel System 4

“The contact owns a 2013 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS, traction control, and incline warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V907000 (Fuel System, Gasoline, Engine) and 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 155,00. VI…”
NHTSA complaint #11562128, 2023

“MY CAR HAS 73,000 MILES AND KEPT WELL MAINTAINED. ONE DAY THE CAR WOULDN'T START. ENGINE KEPT TURNING OVER AND OVER. I WAS EVENTUALLY ABLE TO GET THE CAR STARTED BUT IT WOULD SHAKE, VIBRATE, AND HESITATE WHILE DRIVING. MY MECHANIC SAID THE PROBLEM IS HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP AND IT IS NOT COVER AFTER 60,000 MILES WARRANTY AND THE PART WILL COST OVER $850 WITHOUT THE LABOR. I NEVER HAD AN ISSUE WITH FUEL PUMP OR FUEL PUMP SYSTEM WITH A CAR THAT HAS UNDER 100,000 MILES ON IT. THIS IS DEFECT DESIGN FROM KIA AND THEY WILL NOT COVER FOR IT. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10945733, 2017

“WHILE DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY IN LIGHT TRAFFIC AT SPEEDS AROUND 40MPH THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF COMPLETELY. I HAD TO COAST TO THE SHOULDER, PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK AND RESTART. THE VEHICLE RESTARTED COMPLETELY FINE. THIS INCIDENT HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN THE LAST 6 MONTHS. THE VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY AT A KIA DEALERSHIP AND THEY ARE NOT FINDING ANYTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10577185, 2014

Back Over Prevention 3

“MY CAR WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE WHOLE THING JUST CUT OUT. I'VE NEVER HAD A A PROBLEM WITH IT. AND I HAD TO GET IT TOWED JUST TO BE TOLD I NEED A NEW ENGINE.”
NHTSA complaint #11402528, 2021

“About 4 years ago the rear view warning started to get foggy/blurred so it was hard to see what was towards the rear when backing. Contacted dealer about this and of course it was no longer in warranty and I would have to pay a high price to have this replaced. After the view became blank, all your saw were the lines that would show how close you were to another car while backing up I once again ask my dealer about it, if they were having trouble like this on other Kia cars and he would not tell me, just told me the price of replacment. So I started to wonder if this problem showed up on other…”
NHTSA complaint #11571034, 2020

“MY 2013 KIA SORENTO BACKUP CAMERA RECENTLY STOPPED WORKING, AFTER RESEARCHING ON THE INTERNET IT SEEMS LIKE A VERY COMMON ISSUE FOR A LOT OF KIA MODELS BECAUSE THE CAMERAS ARE NOT PROPERLY SEALED AND GET CORRODED INSIDE OF THEM. WHEN I SHIFT THE CAR TO REVERSE THE SCREEN IS BLACK, THE DISTANCE LINES SHOW UP BUT NO CAMERA VIDEO FEED OR SOMETIMES IT IS INTERMITTENT AFTER WAITING FOR 20+ SECONDS.”
NHTSA complaint #11383301, 2020

Firerelated 1 1 fire

“The contact owned a 2013 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact noticed there was smoke coming from underneath the hood. The contact inspected underneath the hood and saw there were flames coming from the engine compartment before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The contact did not sustain any injuries. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. Police and fire department reports were filed. The vehicle was towed to an unknown location and deemed total…”
NHTSA complaint #11481998, 2016 · fire

Latches/Locks/Linkages 1

“WHILE DRIVING IN PARKING LOT AND BREAKING THE ENGINE STOPPED, ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. CAR WOULD NOT RESTART. TOOK MULTIPLE TRIES TO GET GEAR SHIFT INTO PARK. ENGINE FINALLY RESTARTED. TOOK IN TO DICK HANNAH DEALER TO CHECK CODES, AFTER 2 HOURS THEY COULD FIND NOTHING AND HAD NOT HEARD OF THE PROBLEM. APPARENTLY THEY DON'T HAVE INTERNET ACCESS WHERE THIS NHTSA SITE REPORTS 14, NOW 15, OF THE SAME INSTANCES. THIS IS A VERY UNSAFE SITUATION & THE DEALERS DON'T KNOW ABOUT IT........REALLY. THIS IS OUR FIRST AND PROBABLY LAST KIA. THIS VEHICLE HAS HAD THE ELECTRONIC THROTTLE FAILURE WHILE D…”
NHTSA complaint #10553282, 2013