2019 Kia Sorento Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 151 2 crash 11 fire 4 injury

“MY KIA SORENTO 2019 HAS BEEN ACTING WEIRD FOR A WHILE. I HAD TALKED TO THE SERVICE GUYS AND I WAS TOLD ALL IS FINE. HERE ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR ISSUES: 1. THE CAR HAS AN ISSUE OF ACCELERATION. ONCE IT REACHES 45MPH IT BECOMES NOISY AND IT FEELS LIKE THE ENGINE IS ABOUT TO EXPLODE. THE ANSWER FROM THE SERVICE GUYS:" IT IS NORMAL." 2. THE BRAKES: IT TAKES TOO MUCH TIME TO STOP. SO, EVEN IF I KEEP MY DISTANCE FROM THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME, I ALWAYS STRUGGLE TO STOP AT THE SAFE DISTANCE AT THE STOP SIGN OR LIGHTS. THE ANSWER FROM THE SERVICE GUYS: 'NO PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKES.' 3. AFTER DRIVIN…”
NHTSA complaint #11233153, 2019 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“KIA and HYUNDAI - all of their cars are unsafe. I have attached a letter to the NJ State Attorney General to explain some of the issues. These cars are absolutely unsafe and we have no peace of mind. They are killing us, literally. Please do all you can to immediately stop them. I cannot explain how upsetting this is. Please may you help our families. Our children drive these cars. Our brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, neighbors, parents and all of us are in jeopardy of losing our lives. Thank you.”
NHTSA complaint #11559086, 2019 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the check engine light illuminated the instrument panel. The next day, the contact stated that while driving into her independent mechanic's shop, white smoke began to emit from the vehicle as the vehicle caught fire. The contact immediately exited the vehicle with her grandchildren as the independent mechanic managed to extinguish the vehicle with a fire extinguisher. The fire department was not notified of the failure. The contact sustained severe trauma as a result of the fire. The dealer was notified of t…”
NHTSA complaint #11498031, 2022 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

Unknown Or Other 108 1 crash 5 fire 6 injury

“I was driving along the road on a light traffic day, I approaching an intersection when the traffic light turned red, I tried engaging brakes and they would not engage. As I approached the intersection I became fearful of colliding with multiple vehicles and due to brakes failing I encroached the intersection when I was T-boned by another driver. I see various complaints of brakes and the lack of stopping power for this particular vehicle. I advise anyone else to avoid purchasing this vehicle if you value yours and your families safety.”
NHTSA complaint #11429351, 2021 · crash · 4 injury(ies)

“Attempted theft with injury Kia's reputation has caused this vehicle to be at risk for theft. Many resulting in injury. Kia had vehicle in 2023 and completed "upgrade" and placed stickers on the windows. Vehicle was still targeted. Insurance rates are insane for this as a result.”
NHTSA complaint #11598720, 2024 · 1 injury(ies)

“My wife was driving and this is what she had happen—I was at the atm, put my car in park. I was to short to reach the atm so I cracked the door open just enough to reach out to the atm to do what I needed to do, when the car jumped out of park into somehow it rolling forward.I then fell out of the car head first, smashing my knee and arm in the ground, then getting run over by the Kia. I was also smashed between the cement pulled the curb and door when it smashed shut My arm leg foot ankle all got run over. I then had to somehow manage to get up and run after the moving car open the door jump…”
NHTSA complaint #11550023, 2023 · 1 injury(ies)

Electrical System 67 3 crash 7 fire 2 injury

“KIA and HYUNDAI - all of their cars are unsafe. I have attached a letter to the NJ State Attorney General to explain some of the issues. These cars are absolutely unsafe and we have no peace of mind. They are killing us, literally. Please do all you can to immediately stop them. I cannot explain how upsetting this is. Please may you help our families. Our children drive these cars. Our brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, neighbors, parents and all of us are in jeopardy of losing our lives. Thank you.”
NHTSA complaint #11559086, 2019 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“Attempted theft with injury Kia's reputation has caused this vehicle to be at risk for theft. Many resulting in injury. Kia had vehicle in 2023 and completed "upgrade" and placed stickers on the windows. Vehicle was still targeted. Insurance rates are insane for this as a result.”
NHTSA complaint #11598720, 2024 · 1 injury(ies)

“On December 16, 2025 at approximately 0830 hrs. EST my wife attempted to start the above vehicle. There was an "odd" odor in the garage by the vehicle at the time. She was unable to start the vehicle, there were not functional lights and no other accessories were functional. I perfomed a test on the battery later in the afternoon using a battery testing probe, it indicated the battery was non-functional. At approximately 1515 hrs. EST I replaced the battery in the above vehicle. Upon replacement of the battery the vehicle was started and run for approximately 3 minutes to ensure all systems c…”
NHTSA complaint #11705499, 2025 · fire

Structure 54 1 crash 1 injury

“Attempted theft with injury Kia's reputation has caused this vehicle to be at risk for theft. Many resulting in injury. Kia had vehicle in 2023 and completed "upgrade" and placed stickers on the windows. Vehicle was still targeted. Insurance rates are insane for this as a result.”
NHTSA complaint #11598720, 2024 · 1 injury(ies)

“My Vehicle was stolen from my residential home. My window was buss out and they stole my vehicle. After over two weeks my vehicle was finally retrieved by the police and city of Milwaukee tow lot. I was told by financing company as well as police department to go get pictures of vehicle as reported from tow company that my vehicle was completely totaled out. I went and retrieved pictures seeing that my car was totaled. With this being said i don't have a vehicle for me or my children to be able to get to work and or school and daycare. I don't know what I'm going to do with trying to not jeopa…”
NHTSA complaint #11430592, 2021 · crash

“About 1 month ago, i noticed on the hood, several areas (10-12) of bubbling and peeling of the paint. On the Side upright panel next to the windshield on the passenger side, there is a big area of peeling and bubbling paint. Paint is called Snow white Pearl. On the driver side panel above the handle, there is more bubbling of the paint. There are several other areas all over the car that is bubbling up and will peel soon. This will start to rust very soon. It was inspected by the local dealer and confirmed. This should not happen to any car. I was told it was defective paint/sealer from manu…”
NHTSA complaint #11729446, 2026

Power Train 50 1 fire

“The evening of December 13, the driver noticed an engine rattle when accelerating. No “check engine” or other warnings were displayed. The morning of December 14, the vehicle stalled. The driver waited then restarted the vehicle, which immediately turned over. The driver perceived no issues with electronics or engine and, again, the vehicle displayed no warnings or alerts. Upon accelerating from the location at which the vehicle was stopped, the driver heard a “boom” and the vehicle cabin filled with smoke. Upon exiting the vehicle and attempting to ascertain the issue, the driver noticed flam…”
NHTSA complaint #11497498, 2022 · fire

“Had to replace transmission at 133k miles. It was jolting sometimes providing a hard jolt at times will driving. There are also times of what feels like a cylinder misfire. Oil is constantly leaking and have to replace oil every 1k Miles. Have had multiple shops look at it and not able to find anything. Now during acceleration there is a huge grey smoke cloud coming from the exhaust. Looking at this site and through online it seems to be a common issue with this car and engine. So there has been multiple issues with this car - oil consumption of the engine leading to smoke in the exhaust and t…”
NHTSA complaint #11737159, 2026

“The vehicle just had an oil change. It was driven after that approximately 25 miles when there was a loud noise and the wheels locked up. The vehicle was shifted into neutral and coasted to the end of a dirt road. Could smell oil burning. Upon inspection of the underside there was oil blown onto the exhaust and down the underside of the vehicle. After looking further, I noticed a semi rectangular hole in the narrow end of the oil pan just above the exhaust pipe. Some oil had drained out but the dip stick was reading full. This incident could have resulted in losing control of the ve…”
NHTSA complaint #11723639, 2026

Fuel/Propulsion System 23 1 crash 3 fire 1 injury

“KIA and HYUNDAI - all of their cars are unsafe. I have attached a letter to the NJ State Attorney General to explain some of the issues. These cars are absolutely unsafe and we have no peace of mind. They are killing us, literally. Please do all you can to immediately stop them. I cannot explain how upsetting this is. Please may you help our families. Our children drive these cars. Our brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, neighbors, parents and all of us are in jeopardy of losing our lives. Thank you.”
NHTSA complaint #11559086, 2019 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“4/5/2023 954PM-Neville Island bridge, Pittsburgh, PA While traveling on the interstate, the vehicle caught fire with no warning. We were heading out on vacation, so we had lots of things packed in the car. The fire started in the rear of the vehicle, and was extinguished by a passer by with a fire extinguisher, but re-ignited. it burned VERY fast. Unknown at this time what caused the fire. It is currently in the hands of my car insurance company, so it may be available for inspection. There were NO indications of a problem prior to large flames erupting form the read of the vehicle. In the…”
NHTSA complaint #11518127, 2023 · fire

“2019 Kia sorento caught on fire while driving. Drivers behind my wife saw flames coming from under motor. They signaled her to pull over and she got out just in time before entire car went up in flames. We believe the fuel pump was faulty as entire motor was on fire.”
NHTSA complaint #11496522, 2022 · fire

Exterior Lighting 22

“Headlights burn out within weeks to months after replacing them, overheat, flicker when driving. Has been a recurring problem since being bought in 2019.”
NHTSA complaint #11705005, 2025

“The right headlight has stopped working as of 1 week ago. The car was returned to the KIA dealership for this issue as well as a hesitation while driving and a chronic bumping sound in the car while driving. The car was kept at the dealership for 3 days Sept 3,4 & 5 2025 and the headlights per the dealership were realigned. The Right headlight was on at the dealership but on Sept 6 2025 is back out. No warning showing on the dash and no warning on the dash when the light was first noticed being off. I have used all the light selector switch settings and nothing changes, moved wires on the back…”
NHTSA complaint #11685509, 2025

“I have a 2019 Kia Sorento that is available upon request for any inspection needed. I replaced the passenger headlight bulb for the low beams 4 times. Each time the bulb go out after a few days. Now, both headlights are out and I can only use my high beams which can cause a safety concern to other drivers as well as myself and family. Vehicle has been inspected by a licensed mechanic. The mechanic stated its a dealer issue after the replacement of the bulb 4 different times. No warning issues prior to failure just when it initially happened the dash warning light regarding low beams lights out…”
NHTSA complaint #11670201, 2025

Forward Collision Avoidance 18 1 crash

“Check forwarded collision was on and it has disabled my traction control and abs light was on kia had me make an appointment 3 weeks out. Was leaving for work and it was rainy I was doing 30 in a 40 and I tried stopping to slow down because there was a car in front of me stopped at a yeld so I tired to stop harder but back of car stating sliding our so I had to quickly make a move to get to the lane next to me and there is no one over there and I went over a curb and resulting in totalling my car”
NHTSA complaint #11577468, 2024 · crash

“Multiple lights on dash same time. Auto Hold, Fwd Collision, Adaptive Cruise and ABS. Code said ABS Module faulty. Multiple Safety System affected and rendered useless.”
NHTSA complaint #11742753, 2026

“Warning lights for ABS, Traction Control, and Forward Collision-Avoidance (FCA) appear simultaneously. The FCA system may fail to engage or display warnings. Causes: The issues are frequently tied to a faulty ABS module, malfunctioning wheel speed sensors (often the rear), or corroded connectors. Unsafe to drive. Also paint is just peeling off the car in huge chunks all the way down to the metal for no reason.”
NHTSA complaint #11713193, 2025

Visibility/Wiper 16

“Leaking windshield. Water dripping into cabin. Headliner soaked with water. Windshield possibly not sealed or adhered properly. (Similarly to NHTSA Campaign 22V158000 and Kia Recall SC232 for the Kia Cadenza)”
NHTSA complaint #11739687, 2026

“My backup camera had a safety recall issued previously. In March of 2024 I received a letter from Kia notifying me of the recall related to this issue, and offered a remedy. I took the car in for inspection, but it was working at the time. Now in Oct of 2025 the backup camera starting getting moisture inside, and has completely failed. I contacted the Kia dealership that I purchased it from, and they told me to bring it in. When I did, the technician told me that it had been a bracket that was the recall issue, and it was repaired, in direct conflict with what my paperwork said. They ref…”
NHTSA complaint #11694686, 2025

“I have been without transportation for 3 months now and I’m about to lose my Job”
NHTSA complaint #11628147, 2024

Service Brakes 14 3 crash 5 injury

“ON 7/25/2020, MY 2019 KIA SORENTO HAD COMPLETE BRAKE FAILURE, FOR THE THIRD TIME IN 4 MONTHS. I TOOK MY SORENTO TO MY DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT WHERE I WAS TOLD THAT THE PROBLEM WAS A "DEFORMED BOOSTER BRAKES VACUUM HOSE"WHICH THEY REPLACED (2 DAYS IN THE SHOP MARCH 23RD TOO MUCH 25TH). ON JULY 13, 2020 IT HAPPENED AGAIN AND THE CAR WAS BACK AT THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT, FOR THE SECOND TIME. A WEEK LATER(JULY 25TH) THEY CALL TO ME TO PICK UP THE CAR. THE SERVICE MANAGER INFORMED ME THAT THEY HAD REPLACE THE HOST WITH AN UPDATED VACUUM HOSE, AND THAT KIA COOPERATION ENGINEERS WERE…”
NHTSA complaint #11343232, 2020 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“MY KIA SORENTO 2019 HAS BEEN ACTING WEIRD FOR A WHILE. I HAD TALKED TO THE SERVICE GUYS AND I WAS TOLD ALL IS FINE. HERE ARE SOME OF THE MAJOR ISSUES: 1. THE CAR HAS AN ISSUE OF ACCELERATION. ONCE IT REACHES 45MPH IT BECOMES NOISY AND IT FEELS LIKE THE ENGINE IS ABOUT TO EXPLODE. THE ANSWER FROM THE SERVICE GUYS:" IT IS NORMAL." 2. THE BRAKES: IT TAKES TOO MUCH TIME TO STOP. SO, EVEN IF I KEEP MY DISTANCE FROM THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME, I ALWAYS STRUGGLE TO STOP AT THE SAFE DISTANCE AT THE STOP SIGN OR LIGHTS. THE ANSWER FROM THE SERVICE GUYS: 'NO PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKES.' 3. AFTER DRIVIN…”
NHTSA complaint #11233153, 2019 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“My wife was driving and this is what she had happen—I was at the atm, put my car in park. I was to short to reach the atm so I cracked the door open just enough to reach out to the atm to do what I needed to do, when the car jumped out of park into somehow it rolling forward.I then fell out of the car head first, smashing my knee and arm in the ground, then getting run over by the Kia. I was also smashed between the cement pulled the curb and door when it smashed shut My arm leg foot ankle all got run over. I then had to somehow manage to get up and run after the moving car open the door jump…”
NHTSA complaint #11550023, 2023 · 1 injury(ies)

Vehicle Speed Control 14 1 crash

“ON AUGUST 25, 2019, WHILE DRIVING HOME TO NEW YORK, MY WIFE SAT IN THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT AND MY DAUGHTER SAT IN THE SECOND ROW SEAT BEHIND MY WIFE, I STOPPED AT A REST STOP FOR GASOLINE AT ABOUT 12:15 PM AS I PULLED INTO THE AREA WITH MY FOOT ON THE BREAK TO SLOW DOWN, THE CAR SURGED FORWARD AND I PRESSED HARD TO STOP THE CAR. IT STOPPED. ON THE SAME DAY, AT 4:17 PM, I PULLED INTO A SUNOCO GAS STATION. WITH MY FOOT ON THE BREAK AS I PULLED INTO THE STATION, THE CAR SURGED, I PRESSED HARD AND THE CAR SLOWED DOWN. I SLOWLY PULLED AROUND THE TWO OCCUPIED PUMPS AND PULLED BEHIND THE OTHER P…”
NHTSA complaint #11278855, 2019 · crash

“My 2019 Kia Sorento suddenly began making loud knocking noises from the engine and immediately lost all acceleration while I was driving with my children in the car. The vehicle would not respond when pressing the gas, and the check engine light came on. This created a terrifying situation because I had no power to merge or move out of traffic, and I had my [XXX], [XXX] and [XXX] children with me.The engine now knocks severely and has almost no power at all. The oil level is full, so this is not due to low oil or lack of maintenance. This appears to be a sudden internal engine failure consiste…”
NHTSA complaint #11746864, 2026

“My car started to act crazy not wanting to move when in traffic.”
NHTSA complaint #11684101, 2025

Engine And Engine Cooling 12

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was smoke coming from the vents, with the low oil warning light illuminated. The contact stated that several oil changes were needed. While inspecting the vehicle, the contact became aware that the oil levels were constantly low. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was advised to go back to the dealer for a diagnostic test. The approximate failure mileage was 146,060.”
NHTSA complaint #11728306, 2026

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle bucked abnormally. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had recurred on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The mechanic informed the contact that the failure was related to an unknown engine recall, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11726917, 2026

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the vehicle stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not drivable and was towed to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact researched and was made aware of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11710774, 2026

Lane Departure 12

“Car would randomly stall and jerk while accelerating. Unsafe to drive. May cause accident. Having to constantly set hazard lights to prevent accident.”
NHTSA complaint #11718973, 2026

“Warning lights for ABS, Traction Control, and Forward Collision-Avoidance (FCA) appear simultaneously. The FCA system may fail to engage or display warnings. Causes: The issues are frequently tied to a faulty ABS module, malfunctioning wheel speed sensors (often the rear), or corroded connectors. Unsafe to drive. Also paint is just peeling off the car in huge chunks all the way down to the metal for no reason.”
NHTSA complaint #11713193, 2025

“I get an error message on all the forward collision and lane departure system. A mechanic has looked at this and they cannot determine the issue. They say maybe the front cameras are acting up but the car has never been in a accident that would impact the cameras. In addition the drivers mirror will not reset from the reverse setting to drive mode. When driving it needs to be manually adjusted each time in order to see.”
NHTSA complaint #11690362, 2025

Steering 10 1 crash

“My Vehicle was stolen from my residential home. My window was buss out and they stole my vehicle. After over two weeks my vehicle was finally retrieved by the police and city of Milwaukee tow lot. I was told by financing company as well as police department to go get pictures of vehicle as reported from tow company that my vehicle was completely totaled out. I went and retrieved pictures seeing that my car was totaled. With this being said i don't have a vehicle for me or my children to be able to get to work and or school and daycare. I don't know what I'm going to do with trying to not jeopa…”
NHTSA complaint #11430592, 2021 · crash

“We have received the security update for the ignition system over a year ago for the recall. Even with this recall fix our vehicle was still stolen, so this solution clearly didn't work.”
NHTSA complaint #11649128, 2025

“Steering wheel "sticks" at higher speeds, making it difficult to make fine adjustments. When steering un-sticks, it then overcompensates and you end up zig-zagging down the highway. It is very uncomfortable and it feels unsafe.”
NHTSA complaint #11599878, 2024

Trailer Hitches 7 1 fire

“The contact owned a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the contact's residential driveway, the vehicle caught on fire. The vehicle was unoccupied. The contact stated that while packing the vehicle for a planned family trip, the contact noticed the fire. In addition, the contact stated that no warning lights were illuminated prior to the fire. The contact and other family members extinguished the fire with fire extinguishers that were at the contact's residence. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. The insurance company condemned the vehicle as a tot…”
NHTSA complaint #11716232, 2026 · fire

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the local dealer and was informed that parts for the repair under NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V703000 (Trailer Hitches) were not available. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who replaced the fuse. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the driver’s side taillight became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the same dealer, where it was diagnosed that the taillight bulb, taillight assembly, and the wiring harness needed to be replaced. The vehicle…”
NHTSA complaint #11629072, 2024

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V703000 (Trailer Hitches) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the part for the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool showed no open recall.”
NHTSA complaint #11540132, 2023

Back Over Prevention 6 1 crash

“What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Infotainment center and back up camera failure as well as multiple other system failures that have been ongoing since 2020 after water damage when ac drain hose backed up. Kia has been contacted multiple times since April 2021 regarding this issue after it caused an accident while backing up in April 2021. Kia did not inspect the vehicle until March 2022 due to failure to arrange appropriate appointments and transportation. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The ongoing…”
NHTSA complaint #11551510, 2021 · crash

“I get an error message on all the forward collision and lane departure system. A mechanic has looked at this and they cannot determine the issue. They say maybe the front cameras are acting up but the car has never been in a accident that would impact the cameras. In addition the drivers mirror will not reset from the reverse setting to drive mode. When driving it needs to be manually adjusted each time in order to see.”
NHTSA complaint #11690362, 2025

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while reversing in rainy weather, the rearview camera image was distorted. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V639000 (Back Over Prevention), and the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where additional water proofing to the camera harness was added, but the rearview camera was not replaced. The contact stated that the failure persisted after the recall repair. The dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 49,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11720692, 2024

Air Bags 5 2 crash 3 injury

“The contact owned a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH the vehicle crashed head on into a second vehicle. During the crash the vehicle was destroyed but the air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained multiple rib fractures, lower back, and right knee injuries and was transported to the hospital. The driver of the second vehicle had also sustained unknown injuries and was also transported to the hospital. The cause of the failure was not determined. A police report was taken at the scene and the vehicle was towed away. The manufacturer and local dea…”
NHTSA complaint #11534967, 2023 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“The contact owned a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, she lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a lamp post. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. The contact's wife later received medical treatment for a fractured vertebra, right hip, and groin injury. No police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot and deemed totaled by the insurance company. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000. The VIN was unavailable.”
NHTSA complaint #11459097, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“My Kia Sorrento 2019 model has dashboard cracks on the driver as well as the passenger side. I tried calling the KIA dealership that sold me the car to help me with the goodwill repair and they refused to do so. Its very expensive to replace or repair but most importantly it poses a grave risk to me and my family. Airbag Danger: Cracks near the passenger airbag can become shrapnel during deployment.Electronics: Dust and moisture can fall into the cracks and ruin hidden wires causing extensive damage to the car. KIA needs to take responsibility for this and either change the material used to ma…”
NHTSA complaint #11749499, 2026

Seat Belts 5 1 crash 2 injury

“ON 7/25/2020, MY 2019 KIA SORENTO HAD COMPLETE BRAKE FAILURE, FOR THE THIRD TIME IN 4 MONTHS. I TOOK MY SORENTO TO MY DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT WHERE I WAS TOLD THAT THE PROBLEM WAS A "DEFORMED BOOSTER BRAKES VACUUM HOSE"WHICH THEY REPLACED (2 DAYS IN THE SHOP MARCH 23RD TOO MUCH 25TH). ON JULY 13, 2020 IT HAPPENED AGAIN AND THE CAR WAS BACK AT THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEPARTMENT, FOR THE SECOND TIME. A WEEK LATER(JULY 25TH) THEY CALL TO ME TO PICK UP THE CAR. THE SERVICE MANAGER INFORMED ME THAT THEY HAD REPLACE THE HOST WITH AN UPDATED VACUUM HOSE, AND THAT KIA COOPERATION ENGINEERS WERE…”
NHTSA complaint #11343232, 2020 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“While my 6 year old was attempting to put on his rear right seat belt, the belt gave way and tore in half completely unhinged at the seams. We were leaving so we move our child to the left rear seat that has hardly ever been used. As he was putting this seat belt on it also became completely torn in half at the seams . My child’s life has been at risk for the our most recent drives as the seat belt would most likely have been busted in the case of a car accident not being able to hold my child safe and secure. Dealer says they have never seen this. Dealer inspected and reported to manuf…”
NHTSA complaint #11553694, 2023

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 KIA SORENTO. WHILE OPERATING THE VEHICLE, THE PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT RELEASED WITHOUT A WARNING CHIME SOUNDING. GERALD KIA OF NORTH AURORA (201 HANSEN BLVD N, AURA, IL) AND THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 13,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11279978, 2019

Visibility 5

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that the panoramic sunroof failed to properly close. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with an inoperable motor and fractured cables. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle had previously been taken to the dealer for the same failure and was inspected for debris and damage. The debris was cleaned. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 48,900.”
NHTSA complaint #11733967, 2026

“As I was merging off of a ramp onto the expressway my sunroof exploded causing glass to go everywhere almost causing me to crash the vehicle. No cars were present around me to kick up debris to hit the vehicle, and there were no potholes or anything for me to hit.”
NHTSA complaint #11553174, 2023

“2019 KIA Sorento SXL SPONTANEOUS SUNROOF EXPLOSION, 05/06/13 Car is still under warranty. Conditions: --Open, well maintained highway, nothing nearby (overpass, trees, traffic, etc) to suggest the sunroof was damaged by any foreign object. --Clear, dry, predominately straight roadway, time of day about 7:30pm, temperature about 70°, very light traffic. Was driving south on Maryland Route 6, a 4-lane divided state roadway, when suddenly and without warning the sunroof exploded. Both the sunroof and the interior sunshade were closed at the time. The incident began with a very loud BANG!, follow…”
NHTSA complaint #11522315, 2023

Fuel System 4

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. The fuel odor was also outside the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. An appointment with the dealer was scheduled for the vehicle to be inspected. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11678812, 2025

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed, an abnormally strong fuel odor was detected inside the vehicle. The vehicle was parked outside the garage due to the strong fuel odor. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who advised the contact to stop driving the vehicle due to a possible fire risk from a failed fuel pump. The fuel pump was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not assist. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11581947, 2024

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V519000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11464237, 2022

Seats 4 1 crash

“My Vehicle was stolen from my residential home. My window was buss out and they stole my vehicle. After over two weeks my vehicle was finally retrieved by the police and city of Milwaukee tow lot. I was told by financing company as well as police department to go get pictures of vehicle as reported from tow company that my vehicle was completely totaled out. I went and retrieved pictures seeing that my car was totaled. With this being said i don't have a vehicle for me or my children to be able to get to work and or school and daycare. I don't know what I'm going to do with trying to not jeopa…”
NHTSA complaint #11430592, 2021 · crash

“The 'Gear' on the drivers seat towards middle of car (right hand drivers seat) snapped in some fashion and the seat rocks. I hear this is quite common in this car and that it costs upwards of $2,000 to repair because the entire seat has to be replaced.”
NHTSA complaint #11720177, 2025

“My car will not turn on, there was no warning light or maintenance required message. Also the two passenger seats recline back but will not go back to forward position.”
NHTSA complaint #11566425, 2024

Suspension 2

“I purchased my 2019 Kia Sorento with 7,000 miles on it. A few moths after purchase, I began having suspension issue with it. My rear tires were being worn out very quickly and a tire repair shop suggested that I have Kia dealership check out the shocks, which I did. Kia Service Center diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the shock absorbers due to leakage. Almost 2 months later, I took my Sorento back to the same Service Center due to loud squeaking noises and the up and down of the vehicle anytime I drove over the smallest hump or bump in the road. Kia found that the strut mount and bearings we…”
NHTSA complaint #11575564, 2021

“I purchased my Kia Sorento in 2020. It was a used 2019 with 7,000 miles. I immediately noticed that it would squeak rather loud and bounce high when driving over very small humps on the roads. Being that I'm no mechanical savvy, I assumed this was normal for SUV's because I've driven sedans all my life. Anyways, I was informed of the issue when going to a tire repair shop asking why my back tires sounds so harsh when driving. I was told that there are waves in my tires due to the shocks. and that the shocks has had to have issues for a while to now change the formation of the tires. I have now…”
NHTSA complaint #11483030, 2021

Firerelated 1 1 fire 1 injury

“The contact owned a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked after driving and the vehicle caught on fire. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that smoke was observed emanating from the left taillight, a loud 'boom' noise was heard, and the entire vehicle was engulfed in flames. The fire department extinguished the fire. The contact was not sure if the fire department report was available. The contact sustained a right shoulder and right knee injury. The contact did not receive medical attention. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure…”
NHTSA complaint #11518917, 2023 · fire · 1 injury(ies)

Latches/Locks/Linkages 1

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that when the brake pedal was depressed, the brakes would pulsate as the vehicle would shake until the vehicle came to a stop. The ABS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle had been taken to two dealers for the issue 7 times. The contact stated that the dealer was unable to determine if the failure was an ABS brake failure or an electrical failure as the vehicle has had electrical failures. The contact stated that the dealer had replaced the tire sensors more than one time, the brain of the electrical system was reprogrammed, and rep…”
NHTSA complaint #11558812, 2023

Tires 1

“The contact owns a 2019 Kia Sorento equipped with Kumho Tires, Tire Line: Crugen Premium, Tire Size: 235/65/R17, DOT Number: (N/A). The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the low tire pressure warning light illuminated. Upon inspecting the passenger’s and driver’s side rear tires, the contact noticed that the interior tread line had peeled and detached from the steel belt. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 30,845.”
NHTSA complaint #11502228, 2023

Wheels 1

“THERE HAS BEEN A DRONING NOISE COMING FROM THE LEFT FRONT TIRE AT SPEEDS OVER 15 MPH FOR A COUPLE OF MONTHS, AND IT CONTINUES TO GET LOUDER. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #11324087, 2020