2015 Kia Sorento Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 359 6 crash 9 fire 5 injury

“Motor shuts down completely disabling the car electronically. I lose my brakes and my steering. In February 2020, I almost died driving the vehicle the car engine seized while driving and was replaced by KIA. I never received an itemized bill from Dealership they stole the rental from my private driveway to and stole $5,000 and my belongings from the vehicle. One June 29.2021 I almost died again driving the car. The New Engine shuts down and I lose breaks and steering and hit an animal trying to get off the road for safety since I no longer have breaks to my vehicle. The animal ripped off my…”
NHTSA complaint #11426547, 2021 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“HOW CAN NHTSA GIVE A 5-STAR SAFETY RATING TO A 2015 KIA SORRENTO BASED ON A 2013 CRASH TEST DONE ON THIS MODEL VEHICLE WHEN THERE IS OBVIOUS A PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE IN THE 2014/2015 KIA SORRENTO MODELS. SINCE 2014, THERE HAS BEEN AT LEAST 2 SERIOUS INJURIES AND OTHER COMPLAINTS DUE TO THIS DEFECT AND ITS NON-DEPLOYENT OF AIRBAGS, ETC. (PLEASE LOOK AT THE PHOTOS, VIDEO & SMALL OVERLAY CRASH REPORT AT HTTP://WWW.IIHS.ORG/IIHS/RATINGS/VEHICLE/V/KIA/SORENTO-4-DOOR-SUV/2015)..THE MANUFACTIURER WAS WELL AWARE OF THIS SINCE THEY REDESIGNED THE 2016 MODEL. THIS DEFECT SHOULD BE MADE PUBLIC FOR…”
NHTSA complaint #10881567, 2014 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“(AMENDMENTS TO ODI#S: 10668775 & 10663356 - UPDATE) ON 12/01/2014, I WAS IN A 2015 KIA SORENTO LX (ENTERPRISE INSURANCE RENTAL) TRAVELING ON CRABB RIVER ROAD, (A CITY STREET) SUGARLAND, TEXAS. I FULLY STOPPED AT THE TRAFFIC LIGHTS BECAUSE IT WAS RED. ONCE LIGHTS TURNED GREEN, I PUT THE VEHICLE IN MOTION BY STEPPING ON THE GAS PEDAL TO ACCELERATE BUT THE CAR FELT REALLY SLUGGISH SO I GAVE IT MORE GAS IN ORDER TO GAIN ENOUGH SPEED AS I WAS ABOUT TO GO OVER SOME RAILROAD TRACKS (APPROX. 55+ MPH) WHICH WERE ON A ROAD THAT WAS ON AN INCLINE. RIGHT AS THE CAR REACHED THE TRACKS, THE ENGINE STALL…”
NHTSA complaint #11000887, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Unknown Or Other 113 1 crash 1 fire

“I was on the highway with my family, when we started to smell smoke,and the car began to slow down I proceeded to get off the highway to pull over to the side the of the road oil light came on and some more signal came on .so my son told me to open the hood it was dark so I could not find the latch so he bent his head down and that’s when he seen fire he told everyone to get out the car.!,,,and we got away from the car that’s when the whole car blew up.very dramatic night in which I had my grand babies,the fire fighter believes it was electric all,my insurance I missed my payment day..so I had…”
NHTSA complaint #11575588, 2024 · fire

“My friend was driving my car this am and an unknown driver ran the stop sign on a side street off from Stuyvesant and hit my vehicle my friend proceeded to get out my vehicle to exchange ins with the other driver as she declined my friend tried contacting me numberous times by FaceTime and phone when I finally answered the FaceTime she snapped a picture of the back of her vehicle as she was proceeding to leave I told my friend I will contact the police department to do a report because we have her license plate number and car as well”
NHTSA complaint #11494361, 2022 · crash

“I own a 2015 Kia Sorento with Snow White Pearl paint. The paint is prematurely peeling/delaminating from multiple areas of the vehicle despite normal maintenance and no accident damage. The vehicle was inspected by a Kia dealership, and I was informed that the condition appears to be a paint defect rather than normal wear and tear. The paint failure is occurring in a manner consistent with numerous complaints from other Kia owners involving Snow White Pearl paint adhesion failure. The peeling paint affects the appearance and value of the vehicle and continues to spread. In areas around the r…”
NHTSA complaint #11737792, 2026

Structure 99 3 crash 1 fire 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 KIA SORENTO. WHILE ENTERING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT'S FOOT INADVERTENTLY STRUCK THE FRONT DRIVER SEAT RAIL WHICH WAS MOVED BACKWARDS. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A LACERATION ON ONE OF THE TOES AND REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.”
NHTSA complaint #10724569, 2015 · 1 injury(ies)

“2015 Kia Sorento fire on the 7th I was drive lost brakes and steering and as soon as I stop to get out to check the whole truck went up in flames”
NHTSA complaint #11744083, 2026 · fire

“THE PAINT ON MY 2015 KIA SORENTO (SNOW WHITE PEARL) IS PEELING OFF LARGE SHEETS, EXPOSING THE METAL UNDERNEATH. THIS IS A KNOW ISSUE AFFECTING MANY KIA AND HYNDAI VEHICLES. I AM CONCERED IT WILL LEAD TO RUST, SAFETY ISSUES, AND REDUCE VISIBILITY. A PIECE LADED ON MY WINDSHIELD BLOCKING MY VIEW. KIA HAS DENIED REPAIR AND HAS A CASE PENDING MORE RESEARCH. CASE NUMBER IS 25399760. THIS IS CLEARY A MANFACTURER DEFECT HAPPENING TO THIS COLOR ONLY. IT IS PEELING ON THE HOOD AND DOORS AND BACK SIDE. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER”
NHTSA complaint #11675465, 2025 · crash

Exterior Lighting 90 1 crash

“SC197 completed 11/06/2020, SC212 completed 07/272021. recently found brake fluid leak results on my garage floor several times, but not after each use of vehicle? Also having to replace brake light bulbs often ,because apparently one will fail and all remaining stay on as if one was riding the brake pedal?”
NHTSA complaint #11482333, 2022 · crash

“Formal Complaint on Seized Headlight Sockets and Kia’s Obstruction of Essential Safety Maintenance 1. Incident & Discovery of Defect: I am the owner of a 2015 Kia Sorento. Recently, one of my headlights failed. Upon attempting a routine bulb replacement, I discovered a critical hardware defect: the bulb socket is physically seized. It cannot be rotated or removed by any standard manual force. This is not a simple wear-and-tear issue; it is a mechanical seizure of a component that must remain accessible for safety maintenance. 2. Kia’s Refusal of Technical Guidance: To resolve this without…”
NHTSA complaint #11715653, 2026

“The low beam headlights do not illuminate the highway sufficiently to drive safely. I lowered the aim of my high beam to be able to drive at night and not blind approaching drivers. This is unacceptable for a modern vehicle to be permitted to be sold in this condition.”
NHTSA complaint #11712657, 2026

Electrical System 57 4 fire

“I was on the highway with my family, when we started to smell smoke,and the car began to slow down I proceeded to get off the highway to pull over to the side the of the road oil light came on and some more signal came on .so my son told me to open the hood it was dark so I could not find the latch so he bent his head down and that’s when he seen fire he told everyone to get out the car.!,,,and we got away from the car that’s when the whole car blew up.very dramatic night in which I had my grand babies,the fire fighter believes it was electric all,my insurance I missed my payment day..so I had…”
NHTSA complaint #11575588, 2024 · fire

“traveling back from Panama City Beach, on 10/14/2022 Florida with a destination of [XXX]. At approximately 2:15pm, I had to pull off on the median of interstate 65 North bound at mile marker 123 in Greenville, Alabama due to mechanical failure of my 2015 Kia Sorento. The vehicle was smoking/caught fire and had become inoperable. I had my kids get out A.S.A.P. A good citizen called for help. Two Law enforcement cars and a fire engine arrived. Due to the trauma it caused on my kids a police officer provided transportation for us to the Quality Inn Hotel in Greenville, Alabama. Later that evenin…”
NHTSA complaint #11517824, 2022 · fire

“Cut off in middle of the interstate start smoking”
NHTSA complaint #11678103, 2021 · fire

Power Train 42 1 crash 3 injury

“WAS DRIVING DOWN INTERSTATE AT 65 AND FELT LIKE HIT A WALL ME AND MY 2 CHILDREN'S HEAD FLEW FORWARD CAR WENT DOWN TO 15 MPH AND RPMS SKYROCKETED WOULD NOT GO OVER 15 PULLED OVER TO SIDE OF ROAD SHUT OFF CAR AND LET SIT RESTARTED CAR WOULD NOT GO OVER 15 MPH OR SHIFT NO LIGHTS EVER ILLUMINATED ON DASHBOARD AND STILL HAVE NOT WILL BE GETTING TOWED MONDAY AS THIS HAPPENED ON SATURDAY NIGHT”
NHTSA complaint #11220374, 2019 · 3 injury(ies)

“I PURCHASED THE 2015 KIA SORENTO NEW IN THE YEAR OF 2014 FROM THE KIA DEALERSHIP LOCATED IN MERIDIAN, MS. SINCE THE PURCHASED... MY GOODNESS, I'VE HAD AIRBAG SYSTEM ISSUES, ELECTRICAL ISSUES WITH MY LIGHTS, THE ELECTRONIC OUTLETS FOR DEVICE INPUT, CONTROL PANEL ON STEERING TO MAKE ACCESSING THE RADIO AND PHONE; THE BUTTONS ALWAYS JAM WITH THE SLIGHTEST TOUCH!! LAST BUT DEFINITELY NOT LEAST THE MOTOR HAS A RECALL AS OF TODAY'S DATE 09/2020. PLUS THE TRANSMISSION JERKS IN GEAR AND I'M TOLD THAT THAT WAS BECAUSE OF THE OLD MOTOR DEFECTS.., BUT NOW THAT THE MOTOR HAS BEEN REPLACED AND THE TRANSMIS…”
NHTSA complaint #11353332, 2020 · crash

“I was driving with my son when my 2015 Kia Sorento stopped in traffic. I remember warning lights coming on my dash including the engine light, oil light and battery light. However, I was more concerned about getting my hazards on so we would not be hit by another car. Traffic was heavy, it was raining and getting dark. I needed to push my car off the road with the help of another driver. A Hyannis ambulance was a few cars behind me and the EMT's also assisted with the traffic and moving my vehicle out of the road. I called AAA and had my car towed. I was told in writing by the Kia dealership…”
NHTSA complaint #11726057, 2026

Service Brakes 37 2 crash 5 fire 3 injury

“Motor shuts down completely disabling the car electronically. I lose my brakes and my steering. In February 2020, I almost died driving the vehicle the car engine seized while driving and was replaced by KIA. I never received an itemized bill from Dealership they stole the rental from my private driveway to and stole $5,000 and my belongings from the vehicle. One June 29.2021 I almost died again driving the car. The New Engine shuts down and I lose breaks and steering and hit an animal trying to get off the road for safety since I no longer have breaks to my vehicle. The animal ripped off my…”
NHTSA complaint #11426547, 2021 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE WHEEL HAD MALFUNCTION AND WOULD NOT TURN CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOOSE CONTROL OF THE STEERING AND CRASH. DURING THE CRASH THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER MULTIPLE TIMES. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A FRACTURED SPINE, HEAD, NECK AND CHEST INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED AWAY. A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN AT THE SCENE. THE LOCAL DEALER MORRIE MAZDA LOCATED ADDRESS: 2329 S PRAIRIE VIEW RD, CHIPPEWA FALLS, WI 54729 AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE BOTH NOTIFIED OF THE INCIDENT. THE FAILUR…”
NHTSA complaint #11375369, 2020 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“2015 Kia Sorento fire on the 7th I was drive lost brakes and steering and as soon as I stop to get out to check the whole truck went up in flames”
NHTSA complaint #11744083, 2026 · fire

Steering 33 5 crash 10 injury

“Steering column separated while on cruise control at 70mph”
NHTSA complaint #11572672, 2024 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

“Motor shuts down completely disabling the car electronically. I lose my brakes and my steering. In February 2020, I almost died driving the vehicle the car engine seized while driving and was replaced by KIA. I never received an itemized bill from Dealership they stole the rental from my private driveway to and stole $5,000 and my belongings from the vehicle. One June 29.2021 I almost died again driving the car. The New Engine shuts down and I lose breaks and steering and hit an animal trying to get off the road for safety since I no longer have breaks to my vehicle. The animal ripped off my…”
NHTSA complaint #11426547, 2021 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“car re-experienced power loss and steering failure as previously reported to NHTSA ID: 11244200. this time we narrowly missed a tree and only the right passenger tire made an impact on side of the road/mountain. side curtain airbags deployed I have been in contact with Kia about the ongoing issues repairs were made previously under warranty. car was returned with engine power loss/ intermittent loss of power and unresponsive steering. my son required 2 stitches. and my military injuries have been aggravated. Car insurance claim started after the incident. the symptoms have been intermittent an…”
NHTSA complaint #11423162, 2021 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

Air Bags 29 7 crash 10 injury

“WE WERE TRAVELING 64 MPH ON INTERSTATE 75 SOUTH (IT WAS RAINING HARD), WHEN WE WERE HIT FROM BEHIND AT 75-78 MILES PER HOUR BY AN F150 TRUCK. OUR AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY WHICH CAUSED US TO HIT THE STEERING WHEEL AND DASHBOARD. AT THE RATE OF SPEED WE WERE HIT, THE BAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. OUR SORENTO HAD OVER $9,000 IN DAMAGE TO THE REAR. THE BAGS ARE A MALFUNCTION, AS FAR AS WE ARE CONCERNED.”
NHTSA complaint #10995466, 2017 · crash · 3 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WAS STOPPED AT A STOP SIGN. ANOTHER VEHICLE MADE A VERY WIDE TURN AND CRASHED AT 60 MPH INTO THE DRIVER'S SIDE BETWEEN THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER DOORS. NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITH THE COLLISION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT AND HIS SON WERE TAKEN TO HOSPITAL LATTER ON. THE CONTACT HAD WHIPLASH AND HAD A HEADACHE AND HIS INFANT SON HAD A SWOLLEN FACE FROM HITTING THE SIDE OF HIS CAR SEAT WITH BRUISES. THE CONTACT'S WIFE AND DAUGHTER WERE NOT INJURED. THE CONTACT WENT TO A MILITARY HOSPITAL SINCE HE WAS ON ACTIVE…”
NHTSA complaint #11383959, 2020 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“HOW CAN NHTSA GIVE A 5-STAR SAFETY RATING TO A 2015 KIA SORRENTO BASED ON A 2013 CRASH TEST DONE ON THIS MODEL VEHICLE WHEN THERE IS OBVIOUS A PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE IN THE 2014/2015 KIA SORRENTO MODELS. SINCE 2014, THERE HAS BEEN AT LEAST 2 SERIOUS INJURIES AND OTHER COMPLAINTS DUE TO THIS DEFECT AND ITS NON-DEPLOYENT OF AIRBAGS, ETC. (PLEASE LOOK AT THE PHOTOS, VIDEO & SMALL OVERLAY CRASH REPORT AT HTTP://WWW.IIHS.ORG/IIHS/RATINGS/VEHICLE/V/KIA/SORENTO-4-DOOR-SUV/2015)..THE MANUFACTIURER WAS WELL AWARE OF THIS SINCE THEY REDESIGNED THE 2016 MODEL. THIS DEFECT SHOULD BE MADE PUBLIC FOR…”
NHTSA complaint #10881567, 2014 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

Fuel/Propulsion System 28 1 crash 1 fire 2 injury

“HOW CAN NHTSA GIVE A 5-STAR SAFETY RATING TO A 2015 KIA SORRENTO BASED ON A 2013 CRASH TEST DONE ON THIS MODEL VEHICLE WHEN THERE IS OBVIOUS A PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE IN THE 2014/2015 KIA SORRENTO MODELS. SINCE 2014, THERE HAS BEEN AT LEAST 2 SERIOUS INJURIES AND OTHER COMPLAINTS DUE TO THIS DEFECT AND ITS NON-DEPLOYENT OF AIRBAGS, ETC. (PLEASE LOOK AT THE PHOTOS, VIDEO & SMALL OVERLAY CRASH REPORT AT HTTP://WWW.IIHS.ORG/IIHS/RATINGS/VEHICLE/V/KIA/SORENTO-4-DOOR-SUV/2015)..THE MANUFACTIURER WAS WELL AWARE OF THIS SINCE THEY REDESIGNED THE 2016 MODEL. THIS DEFECT SHOULD BE MADE PUBLIC FOR…”
NHTSA complaint #10881567, 2014 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“The entire car failed as it caught fire. I wasn't able to break or put the car into park and it rolled to a stop while smoke was coming through the vents. Because of this, my passenger and I exited the vehicle and crossed the expressway while a highway patroller was directing traffic away from the car. Within 2 minutes the car was engulfed in flames. The car is not available for inspection as it was towed away and disposed of. The safety of myself and the passenger were at risk because the entire car broke out in flames and soon exploded. If we stayed in the car for any longer than we did, we…”
NHTSA complaint #11655958, 2025 · fire

“I am filing a safety complaint regarding a Kia vehicle I purchased from CarMax Waldorf approximately 3 months ago. The vehicle has developed a strong gasoline/fuel odor that is consistent with a possible fuel leak. This creates a serious safety concern, including the risk of fire or explosion while driving or operating the vehicle. The issue began shortly after purchase and has continued. The vehicle is now unsafe to drive due to the strong fuel smell. When I contacted CarMax about the issue, I was instructed to take the vehicle to a Kia dealership instead of CarMax inspecting or addressing…”
NHTSA complaint #11743877, 2026

Vehicle Speed Control 21 3 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT RENTED A 2015 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH OVER RAILROAD TRACKS, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED AND EXCESSIVE FORCE WAS REQUIRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO CRASH INTO THE POST OF A BILLBOARD. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A VERTEBRAE, NECK, AND BACK INJURIES AND HEAD TRAUMAS THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE…”
NHTSA complaint #10668775, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owned a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while depressing the accelerator pedal to drive inside the garage, the vehicle accelerated to the highest speed unintendedly. The contact depressed the brake pedal continuously, but the vehicle failed to respond. The vehicle pushed a table of home items through the rear wall of the garage, hit several gas pipes, and then landed approximately 6 ft. downhill in the backyard, where it continued to accelerate. The contact then noticed steam coming out from underneath the hood and the vehicle stopped. The air bags did not deploy. The contact…”
NHTSA complaint #11593440, 2024 · crash

“I WAS TURNING INTO A PARKING SPACE IN A PARKING GARAGE WITH MY FOOT JUST BARLEY ON THE BRAKE WHENTHE CAR ACCELERATED VERY FAST AND CAUSE ME TO HIT A CONCRET WALL. I TRIED TO STOP IT BUT IT DIDN'T STOP UNTIL IT HIT THE WALL KNOCKING ME ALMOST OUT OF THE PARKING SPACE. THIS HAS NEVER HAPPEN BEFORE SINCE I HAVE HAD THE CAR.”
NHTSA complaint #10716930, 2015 · crash

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 8

“THE CAR SEIZES, AND JERKS, LIKE A MISSFIRE. IT SCARES ME.”
NHTSA complaint #11366242, 2020

“WHEEL SPEED SENSOR, ABS SENSOR, AND TPMS SENSOR GAVE OUT AT 56K. GOT IN ONE DAY AND IT SAID I WAS DOING 140 WHILE PARKED. BEFORE I GOT TO MY DESTINATION, THE ABS, TCS, AND TPMS LIGHTS WERE ON. CAR WAS USED AND WELL TAKEN CARE OF. IF EVERYTHING WASN'T BUILT INTO THE WHEEL HUB, IT WOULD BE A RELATIVELY EASY FIX. INSTEAD I NOW HAVE TO DRIVE MY SORENTO WITH NO TCS, ABS, OR KNOW IF A TIRE IS LOW/FLAT BECAUSE A QUOTED COST OF REPAIR WAS CLOSE TO 1200 DOLLARS. NOBODY HAS 1200 TO GET IT FIXED. AFTER LOOKING AT ONLINE FORUMS, IT SEEMS TO BE COMMON WITH 2013-2015 SORENTO TO HAVE ANYTHING ABS/TCS RELATED…”
NHTSA complaint #11352970, 2020

“DRIVING DOWN ROAD CAR WOULD RATTLE WHEN TURNING AND IT BECAME HARD TO TURN WHICH ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT THEN I WAS DRIVING GOING UP HILL WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR FRONT WHEEL STARTED SPINNING AND A RATTLING SOUND BECAME LOUDER FROM THE BOTTOM THE AWD COMPONENT SUDDENLY FAILED TIRES WOULD NOT ENGAGE. I TOOK IT IN TO A KIA DEALERSHIP AND THEY REFUSE TO DIAGNOSE THE AWD UNTIL AN ALIGNMENT IS DONE AND NEW TIRES ARE BOUGHT”
NHTSA complaint #11244200, 2019

Visibility/Wiper 7

“Low beam headlights are so dim, Si don't allow my wife to drive at night. Had dealer look at them and change bulbs with a small improvement, but after a while they have gotten so dim that even I don't like driving at night.”
NHTSA complaint #11482889, 2022

“The vehicle is leaking water inside the car cabin. The front passenger and driver side are soaked with water. If the air conditioner comes on, it sounds like I’m boiling water. It also fogs the windows from the inside.”
NHTSA complaint #11480112, 2022

“Airbag lights remain on regardless of what’s in the passenger seat. Engine smells like burning metal when driven longer than 15minutes. Ticking noises when the steering wheel is turned. Acceleration issues Vehicle lags when initially starting after being off for hours. Mechanics have looked at them KIA dealership WONT assist.”
NHTSA complaint #11480113, 2022

Seats 6 1 crash 2 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2015 KIA SORENTO. WHILE THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS AT A COMPLETE STOP AT A RED LIGHT, ANOTHER VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP AND REAR ENDED THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE CRASH PUSHED THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE INTO THE INTERSECTION. THE DRIVER'S SEAT SEPARATED FROM THE BASE AND CAUSED THE DRIVER'S SEAT TO MOVE BACKWARDS AND FORWARD, CAUSING THE DRIVER'S BODY TO STRIKE THE REAR PASSENGER AND DRIVER'S SEAT RAILINGS, THE DRIVER'S WINDOW, DRIVER'S DOOR, AND DASHBOARD. THE DRIVER SUFFERED INJURIES TO THE NECK, HEAD, AND FACE. THE CONTACT WAS SEATED IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AND SUFFERED SE…”
NHTSA complaint #11129315, 2018 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“Subject: Broken Driver Seat Metal Rod – Safety Hazard in 2015 Kia Sorento To Whom It May Concern, I am writing to report a serious issue involving the driver’s seat in my 2015 Kia Sorento, specifically a broken metal rod inside the seat frame. This part appears to be part of the seat's internal adjustment mechanism and should not fail under normal use. Its failure presents a potential safety hazard. Vehicle Details: Make/Model: 2015 Kia Sorento VIN [XXX] 5 Registered Owner [XXX] m Address [XXX] 4 Email [XXX] m Part Label Information: Label reads: “4 Way Manual” Manufacturer: Johnson Controls…”
NHTSA complaint #11722038, 2025

“Subject: Urgent: Structural Failure of Driver Seat Component – 2015 Kia Sorento I am writing to report a serious structural failure in the driver seat of my 2015 Kia Sorento. While driving under normal conditions, the torsion tube under the driver’s seat snapped, causing the seat to become unstable and compromising my safety. This part is labeled: “4 Way Manual” Johnson Controls, Inc., Holland, MI Markings: [XXX] &&[XXX] and [XXX] This torsion tube is a core part of the seat structure and should not fail under normal use. The failure occurred with no warning and while the vehicle was…”
NHTSA complaint #11675047, 2025

Engine And Engine Cooling 5

“The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, he heard an abnormal rattling sound before the vehicle started to lose motive power. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal, but the vehicle failed to respond. The contact then depressed the accelerator pedal with much more force and the vehicle responded. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that nearly all the engine oil had been consumed. The mechanic determined that the e…”
NHTSA complaint #11507823, 2023

“The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle failed to respond; instead, the vehicle gradually lost forward momentum and decelerated. The contact pulled off the highway. The contact turned off the vehicle and attempted to restart the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact opened the hood and smelled a burning odor. The contact checked the oil dipstick and saw that the dipstick was dry. The contact had recently had an oil change performed. The…”
NHTSA complaint #11469672, 2022

“The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnosed that the engine was faulty and needed to be replaced. After replacing the engine, the vehicle started experiencing several engine failures. The transmission also slipped while in 6th gear. Additionally, the engine was consuming coolant. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was appro…”
NHTSA complaint #11515594, 2020

Suspension 4

“Hello my name is [XXX] . Approximately [XXX] my 2015 Kia Sorento practically stopped performing on [XXX] highway nearly having to dodge an accident. At first, I noticed a burning scent which I thought was just in the air until my car started to slow down by itself followed by coming to a complete stop amid 70 miles per hour traffic. I had my car towed in to the nearest Kia dealership which was located in Meridian Mississippi. Upon my arrival I was told by Service department manager Monty that my 2015 Kia Sorento had engine and transmission recalls. However since this date I have continued to h…”
NHTSA complaint #11516072, 2023

“SUV started making a strange noise and the rear started dragging before 70K miles. Needed a new axle and a rear differential. Total cost was $3800.00 and not covered under warranty. The rear differential oil wasn't even due to be changed yet.”
NHTSA complaint #11473073, 2022

“What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Engine, it is currently available How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Absolutely Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO Car began making very loud noises, passenger felt parts droppin…”
NHTSA complaint #11457205, 2022

Tires 4

“- I was driving down 55 mph. on dark, busy highway in Sarasota, Florida (Fruitville Rd.) at approximately 6:15 a.m. on Friday, January 23, 2025. - Suddenly, without warning, the sidewall of the rear passenger side tire completely blew out in a perfect circle around the entire outside of edge. - The tire is currently available for inspection. - The Goodyear dealer claims that the blowout was caused due to underinflation. However, the tread pattern of the tire shows no signs of underinflation. - Since this is my wife's car, I check the tire pressure every other Sunday evening knowing that she'…”
NHTSA complaint #11714505, 2026

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, SEVERAL UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC TO BE INSPECTED FOR THE TPMS (TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM) WARNING LIGHT BEING ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TIRES FUNCTIONED AS DESIGNED AND THAT NO DEFECTS WERE FOUND IN THE TIRES. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER NOR THE DEALER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.”
NHTSA complaint #11339414, 2019

“I HAVE THE KUMHO CRUGEN PREMIUM KL33 235 60 R18 TIRES. THEY CAME WITH THE KIA SORENTO. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY AND THE CAR STARTED SHAKING AND I PULLED OVER TO SEE THE TIRE WITH ONLY 16 THOUSAND MILES ON THEM WITH THE SIDEWALL CUT THROUGH AROUND THE WHOLE TIRE, THREAD SEPERATION. I TOOK THE TIRE TO THE DEALER WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR AND THEY COULD NOT FIND ANY BRUISE OR CUT THAT WOULD CAUSE IT TO BLOW OUT. THEY SENT IT TO KUMHO FOR WARANTEE EVALUATION.”
NHTSA complaint #10852307, 2016

Forward Collision Avoidance 3 1 fire

“Cut off in middle of the interstate start smoking”
NHTSA complaint #11678103, 2021 · fire

“Compotent : Throttle position Sensor Risk\ High level to vehicle occupants Highest to pedestrians Unfortunately, after inspection was TOTALED inforrned us of an investigation currently ,by NHTSA regarding throttle components. The insurance adjuster was a forrner mechanic. there wear warning lights on to indicate a problem”
NHTSA complaint #11460788, 2022

“Yes there was a recall in a module control panel which still is messed up. It’s been replaced a couple x. Also the dim lights since I bought the car have a very low light were you can hardly see at night. And this SUV drinks gas on long/short trips. I’ve taken it in several times but they keep saying nothing’s wrong and I know there is I have driven my boyfriend vehicle which is a V6 and went the same exact distance and didn’t have to get any fuel until I was about half way back. Something has to give. I love my Kia as I have owned 2. But something is really wrong. Please help. Thanks”
NHTSA complaint #11713407, 2020

Fuel System 3

“The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she smelled a fuel odor throughout the vehicle. The check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the engine failed to turn over immediately. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone and diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine oil level was low. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that a high-pressure fuel line needed to be replaced. The vehicle was being repaired. The manufactur…”
NHTSA complaint #11504462, 2022

“hello my name is [XXX] owner of 2015 kia Sorrento on Sept 19 2021 my father in law and my wife and kids were pulling up on the drive way when they called me and said they smell gas odor from the car i said send me a pic since i was at work .I informed them turn the car off and get every body away be prepared to call fire dept. .when they sent me a video of the car I saw something leaking .so I rushed home to check the problem well it was definite fuel so I opened the hood and removed the plastic cover and started to look around everything looked in place but I noticed a clip was not in it's pl…”
NHTSA complaint #11434804, 2021

“HIGH PRESSURE FUEL LINE FITTINGS DETERMINED TO BE DEFECTIVE AND NOT FITTING CORRECTLY. LINE(S) BECAME DETACHED CAUSING NEAR CATASTROPHIC FUEL SPILL IN CROWDED PARKING LOT. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10615106, 2014

Seat Belts 3 1 crash 1 injury

“(AMENDMENTS TO ODI#S: 10668775 & 10663356 - UPDATE) ON 12/01/2014, I WAS IN A 2015 KIA SORENTO LX (ENTERPRISE INSURANCE RENTAL) TRAVELING ON CRABB RIVER ROAD, (A CITY STREET) SUGARLAND, TEXAS. I FULLY STOPPED AT THE TRAFFIC LIGHTS BECAUSE IT WAS RED. ONCE LIGHTS TURNED GREEN, I PUT THE VEHICLE IN MOTION BY STEPPING ON THE GAS PEDAL TO ACCELERATE BUT THE CAR FELT REALLY SLUGGISH SO I GAVE IT MORE GAS IN ORDER TO GAIN ENOUGH SPEED AS I WAS ABOUT TO GO OVER SOME RAILROAD TRACKS (APPROX. 55+ MPH) WHICH WERE ON A ROAD THAT WAS ON AN INCLINE. RIGHT AS THE CAR REACHED THE TRACKS, THE ENGINE STALL…”
NHTSA complaint #11000887, 2014 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact's mother owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing an abnormal oil consumption. The contact stated that the vehicle consumed three quarts of oil after driving 367 miles. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who informed the contact that the vehicle could be experiencing an internal oil leak. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where an oil consumption test was performed. The dealer informed the contact to come back after 300 miles. Additionally, the contact stated that the air bag warning…”
NHTSA complaint #11558825, 2023

“I HAD TO RIDE IN MY OWN BACKSEAT FOR THE FIRST TIME TODAY. THE REAR SEAT BELT GOES ACROSS MY NECK AND I AM 5 FOOT 8 INCHES. LOOKED OVER AT MY DAUGHTER WHO IS 5 FOOT AND IT WAS JUST AS BAD FOR HER.”
NHTSA complaint #10902062, 2016

Visibility 3

“The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the brakes and the steering wheel seized inadvertently, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road. The contact stated that she attempted to roll up the windows, but the vehicle failed to respond. The vehicle failed to restart after several attempts. The check engine warning light, ABS warning light, and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence, and then to a Triple A certified mechanic, where the battery and the alternator were replaced;…”
NHTSA complaint #11530648, 2022

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55-60 MPH, THE SUN ROOF SHATTERED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A STATE BARRACKS TO BE INSPECTED AND WAS INFORMED BY THE STATE TROOPER THAT THERE WERE NO SIGNS OF ROAD DEBRIS CONTACT PRIOR TO THE SUN ROOF SHATTERING. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO KIA OF DARTMOUTH (LOCATED AT 143 FAUNCE CORNER RD, DARTMOUTH, MA 02747, (508) 999-2542) TO BE INSPECTED, BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.…”
NHTSA complaint #11253115, 2019

“OUR 2015 KIA SORENTO LX WITH TOURING PACKAGE WAS PARKED IN OUR DRIVEWAY WHEN THE TAILGATE WINDOW EXPLODED AND SHATTERED ALL OVER THE DRIVEWAY. FORTUNATELY NO ONE WAS IN OR NEXT TO IT AT THE TIME. VEHICLE IS BACK AT FUCILLA KIA DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR. IT IS ONLY ONE WEEK SINCE WE PICKED UP THE BRAND NEW CAR AND IT IS ALREADY IN THE SHOP FOR REPAIR...NOT A GOOD OMEN AND WE ARE NOT HAPPY. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10596586, 2014

Wheels 3 1 crash

“KIA DEALERSHIP ROTATED TIRES. REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE FLEW OFF VEHICLE WITHIN 2 BLOCKS OF DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT. ALL LUGS MISSING. EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO REAR END DEALERSHIP CLAIMS ALL LUG NUTS WERE PROPERLY ATTACHED AND THE ATTACHMENT WAS WITNESSED BY 2 TECHNICIANS. IF THIS IS TRUE THE WHEELS CAN FLY OFF OF THIS VEHICLE AT ANY TIME. I WANT THEM TO VIDEO ALL FUTURE WHEEL SERVICE AND RECALL ALL PREVIOUS WORK. THEY COULD KILL SOMEONE.”
NHTSA complaint #11014195, 2016 · crash

“Rear Coupler parts. Yes it is available for inspection on request. My safety was put at risk, #1 the rear wheels lock when turning, and makes a horrendous noise whilst turning. I live in a snowy state so this is very dangerous to have wheels lock up and have tires shredded. This is my third set of wheels as we just figured out the issue (coupler) this could cause accidents and hurt/injure/cause serious bodily harm to others. I have tried reaching out to the dealership but they said it is out of warranty and the dealership gave an outrageous quote. They have not inspected it but it has been r…”
NHTSA complaint #11564046, 2023

“BEARINGS, SUSPENSION AND STEERING ISSUE: TOOK CAR TO GET TIRE CHANGED AND EVER SINCE THE BEARINS AND STEERING IS OFF. STEERING WHEEL SHAKES ONCE I TRY TO GO FASTER THAN 55 MPH.”
NHTSA complaint #11240919, 2019

Equipment 1

“CAR MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM INCLUDES BLUE TOOTH RADIO A GPS STOPPED WORKING AND I CAN NOT USE BLUE TOOTH AND DIRECTION MAPS MY MECHANIC ASKED THE KIA MECHANIIC AND WAS TOLD IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11331202, 2020