2014 Kia Sorento
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 987 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 3rd highest complaint count among 23 Sorento model years with reports.
Of the 2014 reports, 23 involved a crash and 46 involved a fire. 24 people were injured and 1 person died.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideSep 25, 2023
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Campaign 23V652000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideMay 10, 2021
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles previously recalled under recall 20V-519. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
An electrical short in the HECU increases the risk of a fire while parked or driving.
Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. Dealers will install a new multi-fuse, and inspect the HECU for leaks, replacing the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 2, 2021. This recall supersedes previous NHTSA recall number 20V-519. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC212.
Campaign 21V331000 on NHTSA.gov
Service brakes, hydraulic, antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip, control unit/modulePark outsideAug 27, 2020
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. Owners are advised to park outside and away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed. The recall began October 20, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.
Campaign 20V519000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsDec 19, 2018
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Campaign 18V907000 on NHTSA.gov
Engine and engine cooling, engineMar 31, 2017
Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine.
Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC147.
Campaign 17V224000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, axle assembly, axle shaftAug 13, 2013
Kia Motors Corp. is recalling certain model year 2014 front wheel drive Sorento vehicles manufactured January 7, 2013, through March 12, 2013; and equipped with 2.4 liter engines. Due to a manufacturing issue, the right front axle shaft may fracture.
A fractured front axle may result in a loss of power to the wheels. Additionally, if the vehicle is parked without the parking brake applied, it may roll away. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front axle shaft assembly, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2013. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542 . Kia's recall number is SC099.
Campaign 13V356000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
987 reports, newest first.
Other or unspecified, Aug 16, 2024
The paint is peeling from body on the front driver’s side panel
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jul 25, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and refused to schedule an appointment. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Exterior lighting, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jul 24, 2024
Coolant, oil compression, runs hot, to over headlights need replaced frequently
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Jul 12, 2024
I was driving on the freeway in traffic with my 3 children returning home from a holiday weekend vacation, it was high 90's so the A/C was running and I had devices charging on the ports. We were 1.5 hrs into our drive and the vehicle failure came out of nowhere. Car has been in good condition and normal operation previously. Suddenly the entire dash flashed, flickered off then came back on with check engine light illuminated and battery symbol also on (very faintly), felt a minor kickback and car started slowing down until it stopped. I was able to get over and pull off to the shoulder to avoid incident but this could have easily turned into a very bad crash with a less experienced driver behind the wheel or if we had been going faster. Prior to this happening there was no warning of an issue with the vehicle - temperature check was in center between C and H, oil pressure was normal, no warning lights on dash, plenty of fuel and car was not due for an oil change for another 40 miles. Once I pulled over and stopped, turned off the car, it would not restart. Not enough power to turn over the engine. We had to call AAA and have the car towed home 35 miles. I had the vehicle towed to the Kia dealership and they are stating that it is not covered under a current recall or warranty extension and are seeking over $12,000 to replace the engine. I feel like my vehicle 2014 Kia Sorento SX V6 with 3.3L engine needs to be looked into for recall and warranty extension on the engine.
Structure, Jul 10, 2024
Paint has peeled off and continues to peel off from many places on the vehicle. One large spot is on top where no debris from the road hits. Since this has started it has only gotten worse. I believe the entire car will be paint free if this situation is not rectified. Currently there are five different locations where the paint has peeled off. Color of my vehicle is Snow White Pearl.
Suspension, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jul 9, 2024
Was driving to the store for groceries with my 2 young children, when my car just stopped accelerating and the engine seized up on a local road. Had noticed a ticking and knocking sound when accelerating a few prior and a weird sound coming from the suspension but it was dismissed by the dealer. Had the vehicle towed to my home and had to tow to dealership as it would no longer turn over at all. Received a recall notice but apparently it doesn't apply to my vehicle because I had oil, coolant and no leaks anywhere. Only had 127,000 mold and this is the 4th issue I've had with this vehicle. 1st was rats chewing all my wires, 2nd was the rear differential, 3rd fuel pump, and now this.
Structure, Jun 29, 2024
My vehicle's SNOW PEARL WHITE paint is flaking off in large chunks on the windshield pillars (both sides), as well as chipping all over the body. The chipping began in 2018 (2 years after purchase) and the large chunks began in 2022. Paint chunks have flown off my car while driving on the highway. Missing paint is now leading to the body of the car rusting. My car is available for inspection. The dealership has inspected the problem and informed me I am not the first person they have encountered with this same problem. It is specifically common with SNOW PEARL WHITE PAINT. Bubbles are forming under the paint in other spots now, and I am worried about the possibility of it coming off in larger chucks on the hood- which could possibly create a projectile/vision obstruction. I have provided photos to the manufacturer in 2022 and started a case number. I have not heard back since.
Structure, Jun 28, 2024
I have a 2014 Pearl White Sorento SX. After washing my car recently, two area showed up that have started to delaminate. I talked with my insurance company who came out and told me there are known problems with especially the Pearl White on Kia Sorento so they wouldn't cover anything. Unfortunately those two areas are spreading and three new areas are cropping up. Based on what I've learned since the insurance company informed me of the problem, other Pearl White Sorento owners (2014 and other years) are experiencing continuing delamination. It seems highly likely the delamination will only continue to get worse which will severely impacts the value of the car. I spent several thousand getting an extended warranty that is still good through 125000 miles, with the thought that, in addition to providing protection from a significant problem with the car (e.g., engine, transmission, etc.) it would also increase the value when I decide to sell. The warranty does not cover paint (I don't believe any extended warranties do). I am sure that I've now lost 25-50% of the value of the car which is very, very upsetting. I haven't contacted the dealer I had been going to because they let me drive my car off the lot after servicing it and they forgot to put oil in. Thank god I had an inspection appointment the next with a local shop who showed me the problem. The paint problem is obviously a latent defect. I believe Kia should take responsibility for the problem, but I am fairly sure they won't unless there is a recall. So I am hoping that with enough complaints a recall will be issued. Thank you for your time taking my complaint.
Electrical system, Air bags, Service brakes, Jun 27, 2024
Every light is on in the dash compartment. Power steering goes in and out. Brake lights not working even after being replaced. Car stuck in park unable to put into reverse. ABS/ Airbag light showing- ABS Sensor replaced and still not working Recall in 2022. Kia repaired vehicle and now that same issues are occurring Kia refuses to even look at vehicle without payment of 180.00 to just LOOK!
Other or unspecified, Jun 21, 2024
The pearl white paint on my 2014 Kia Sorento is delaminating from my hood, roof and side pillars. I have an estimate of $2772.50. I have more pictures and a copy of the estimate but was unable to upload more file.
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Jun 17, 2024
I own a 2014 KIA Sorento 2.4L LX FWD. I have been experiencing a problem with my car for about two years. This usually occurs when driving up a hill and the transmission downshifts and I experience a jerk, either from the transmission or engine and the rpm drops to zero. The transmission will not shift from the last shift point. Most times it will be in the drive for final gear. You can increase the vehicle speed by pushing the accelerator all the way down. We were coming back on vacation two years ago and was driving in the left lane on an interstate. I experienced the symptoms and the rpm dropped to zero. No downshift or up shift. I managed ti find an opening in traffic to get over in the right hand lane and exit. Once I came to a stop, I tried to accelerate but engine struggled. I turned off the engine and was able to restart the engine and it operated properly. Had rom, transmission shifted properly. This was an unnerving situation. I felt very fortunate that I did not have to evade a dangerous situation on the interstate since the transmission would not shift and I could press the accelerator to the floor to gain a little extra speed. Any help will be appreciated. Thank you.
Engine and engine cooling, Jun 17, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle was making an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the sound was louder whenever the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced due to bearing wear. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact had researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V224000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Fuel system, Gasoline, Jun 7, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The contact drove the vehicle to the residence and became aware that there was gas leaking underneath the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure and diagnosed the vehicle with a crack in the high-pressure fuel pump. The contact was informed that the high-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced and confirmed that parts for the recall repair were not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 74,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Latches/locks/linkages, Jun 6, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that the doors failed to lock securely. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the remedy for the antitheft recall issued by the manufacturer was performed. The dealer stated that the remedy would resolve the cause of the failure however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and opened a case. The failure mileage was 100,000.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jun 5, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she smelled a burning odor in the interior of the vehicle. The traction control and ABS warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic), and the VIN was included, but parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was unknown.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jun 4, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS and traction control warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The VIN was included, and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 32,000.
Engine, May 30, 2024
Have already applied several times about my engine and what happened started out with crank sensor going out and cause my engine crash and stop running should have paperwork did on March 2023 applied several times still no request back from any company need hear from NHTSA not yet would like to no what was the results never heard back thank you
Other or unspecified, Engine, May 29, 2024
I took my Kia to Thomas Kia on April 12, 2023 and paid a total of $3321.93 for an oil change, fuel injection flush, engine oil flush, drive belt, oil pressure switch, front valve cover gasket, passenger brake bulb, high pressure ac line, cooling system flush, 6 spark plugs and plug assy-spark. I could not drive the car almost three months later I took my Kia back to Thomas Kia and was told it had a bad spark plug, a blown head gasket, oil leak into the cooling system and that would be an additional $6500. Are there any recalls that can help me?
Engine, May 25, 2024
My oil keeps running out. Had this problem for over six months. Took to the dealership but keep getting the run around. They said, it wasn’t a recall for that but it’s been reported that certain vehicles was having this problem.
Engine, May 18, 2024
My Grand daughter' car. May 9th 2024 discovered engine oil is in the engine coolant system. KIA tech says it a blown head gasket or the threads that were machined into bolt holes in the engine block for the head bolts are pulling out. Safety hazard, engine could have failed on interstate or in traffic and posed a threat to driver and others traveling on roadway. No warning of any type.
Power train, May 16, 2024
Engine bearings failed at 69000 miles only .excessive metal shavings in oil filter. Oil warning light flashing on and off even though the oil is full. Burning oil and gas. Mechanic checks it up and said crank shaft bearings failure. Common issue with this car model and year. He informed me that there are open recalls engine on this model. I called kia manufacturer customer support and said no there is no recall for this vehicle even though. Recall number: 17V224000 “ Kia Motor Company (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2014 Optima, 2012-2014 Sorento and 2011-2013 Sportage vehicles. Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine. Recall consequence Bearing wear may result in the engine seizing, increasing the risk of a crash. Recall action Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began June 20, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC147.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, May 3, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An unknown warning light was illuminated. An unknown local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. 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 approximately 71,895. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Engine, Apr 29, 2024
Engine failure similar to other Kia Engine Class Action Lawsuit
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Apr 29, 2024
The contact owns a 2014 Kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, and smoke was coming from the engine before the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to move the vehicle to the shoulder and had the vehicle towed. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 133,000.
Other or unspecified, Apr 28, 2024
My 2014 kia sx limited is pealing paint, a huge chuck on drivers side pillar. It has been garaged kept, and only has 150,000 miles. If u need I can send a picture.