2016 Kia Sorento
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 1,251 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 23 Sorento model years with reports.
Of the 2016 reports, 29 involved a crash and 49 involved a fire. 19 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Trailer hitchesPark outsideSep 19, 2022
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
A 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 inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Campaign 22V703000 on NHTSA.gov
Power train, automatic transmission, lever and linkage, column shiftAug 10, 2022
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016 Sedona and Sorento vehicles. The vehicles may have been manufactured with faulty automatic transmission shift lever assembly components, preventing the shift lever from locking, which can allow the vehicle to rollaway.
A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of a crash and injury.
Dealers will inspect and replace the automatic transmission shift lever assembly components, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 7, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC246.
Campaign 22V612000 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
Trailer hitchesNov 30, 2016
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Campaign 16V862000 on NHTSA.gov
SeatsOct 24, 2016
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured March 3, 2016 to March 21, 2016. The driver's seatback frame may have been produced with inadequate weld joints and, as a result, the seatback may not function as designed in the event of a rear-end collision.
In the event of a crash, the driver seatback frame could break and fail to restrain a seat occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the welds and replace the driver seatback frame, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on December 9, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC140.
Campaign 16V770000 on NHTSA.gov
Suspension, rearJun 29, 2016
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sorento vehicles. A component of the rear suspension may not be properly welded.
The improper weld may break, affecting the rear suspension alignment, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the welds at the rear suspension cross-member, replacing the rear cross-member assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 27, 2016. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service Department at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC137.
Campaign 16V480000 on NHTSA.gov
Seat belts, front, buckle assemblyJul 14, 2015
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured October 23, 2014, to December 10, 2014. The affected vehicles have a front passenger seat belt whose buckle latch assembly may prevent the front passenger from fastening the seat belt.
If the front passenger seat belt cannot be latched, an occupant sitting in the front passenger seat has an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger seat belt buckle cover, free of charge. The recall began on August 18, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC123.
Campaign 15V446000 on NHTSA.gov
Vehicle speed control, accelerator pedalFeb 13, 2015
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to January 29, 2015. Due to an improperly soldered component in the accelerator pedal assembly, the driver may not be able to accelerate the vehicle.
If the vehicle is unable to be accelerated, there is an increased risk of a crash.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the accelerator assembly, free of charge. The recall began on February 19, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC115.
Campaign 15V089000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: steering
80 reports, newest first. Show all
Steering, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Apr 25, 2023, crash
I was backing up a residential driveway. My backup camera showed my wheels were in line. My steering wheel turned and my car had a sudden unintended acceleration. My car destroyed a double steel garage door. Pushed a parked vehicle forward approximately 10-12”. The vehicle crushed a riding lawn mower, pushing the mower through a sheet rock wall. If anyone had been in this area of the garage, they could have possibly suffered serious injury or even fatality. I am trying to arrange to have my vehicle taken to local Kia dealership for diagnostic testing. At this time, the vehicle has not been inspected. There were no warning signs that appeared and I did not hear my backup camera alert.
Steering, Apr 24, 2023
Steering column resistance measure at 5.3 NM indication an internal issue of the column which needed to be replaced. Power Steering sticking and stiff while driving causing clear and present danger to driver passengers and possibly other property. Kia Dealer was apologetic that this was not covered by warranty or recall. However there were other reports of this issue in the KIA System.
Steering, Mar 31, 2023
Sticky Steering It can be felt at any speed but especially on the highway when turning left. I can feel the steering sticks briefly then the wheel jumps. So I have to make constant unnecessary corrections.
Steering, Jan 10, 2023
My steering becomes "sticky" at highway speeds. It causes you to constantly correct your steering. This started as a subtle thing. Gradually I noticed it is more and more difficult to keep my vehicle between the lines and it feels dangerous. Now, the problem is also occurring at lower speeds. In February 2022, I took it to the KIA dealer and had them check it out. They said everything was normal and the alignment checked out OK. I think there should be a recall for this issue. 2016 Sorento EX AWD, Current mileage is 61,000. Problem first noticed at 40,000 miles.
Steering, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Nov 7, 2022
While driving out of state, my 2016 Sorento, the steering wheel totally stopped working .Terrifying experience! When we returned from trip I took it to a mechanic who told me the electric steering column was bad and had to be replaced. That was over 2,000.00. Then thought I had oil leak but was told this GDI engine burns oil fast & I have to add a quart every wk so it won’t run out. Kia needs to recall! Not fair to put our lives in jeopardy
Steering, Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jul 31, 2022
Ignition switch/steering column lock/anti-theft device. It is widely known key start KIA-Hyundai vehicles are easy to steal due to lack of sufficient steering column/ignition switch/anti theft device which makes these high risk vehicles for theft which also puts owners and bystanders at unreasonable risk of violence. These same vehicles sold in Canada and elsewhere are equipped with different parts making them much more theft resistant. KIA-Hyundai therefore made a decision to NOT install on US market vehicles, deliberately indifferent to safety of owners, occupants, and others of violence and of increased vehicle theft.
Steering, Apr 18, 2022
The Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) has failed on our 2016 KIA Sorento on three separate occasions, with the most recent on March 25th, 2022. Each time we have taken the vehicle to our local Kia Dealership, the 1st time they confirmed the issue and provided us an estimate of near $5,000.00. We differed the repair, which appeared to be wise as we received a letter from Kia extending the Vehicle Warranty for this exact issue to 5 yrs/150,000 miles. HOWEVER after a 2nd incident of steering failure the dealer said "could not validate the issue" and to "bring it back if it happens again. Well it happened again, This time we recorded a video which we will retain if there is another denial of service from our local Kia Dealer. However they denied the repair again. At this point we are extremely frustrated and do not feel confident to return to the local Kia dealer we have contacted KIA America, Inc. although they are not standing behind their product. It is our desire and expectation that we can obtain remedy of this documented and dangerous warranty failure.
Steering, Feb 6, 2022
Steering sticks causing over correction. The car has 76000 miles on the odometer. The steering column has to be replaced at a significant cost. This is not a new problem to Kia… they should issue a recall and pay for the cost of repair.
Steering, Jan 21, 2022
I have knocking, clunking noise coming from steering column. Which leads me to believe that it is the flexible coupler. Also, when driving anywhere at speeds of 45mph or higher, the steering wheel sticks and I have to give force to correct the steering wheel. It is worse when turning on ramps on the highway because I am constantly adjusting the sticking steering wheel throughout the turn.
Steering, Nov 19, 2021
Steering sticking, second time. Now they changed the rack and pinion. Thank God I had extended service warranty. $4000.00
Steering, Nov 3, 2021
The steering wheel sticking while you turn left or right. In hwy it's hard to drive because you don't know how much pressure you have to put to adjust your vehicle on the road. If feel like you are losing your control of the vehicle.
Steering, Sep 1, 2021
Twice, the electronic power steering has stopped working at speed. Almost impossible to steer the vehicle. Kia has two service bulletins on this issue but dealer claims it cannot find the problem and will not attempt to fix it.
Steering, Electrical system, Aug 19, 2021
I'm not sure I've had my vehicle serviced but nobody seems to know the problem. Every since my headlight was replaced my electrical system has been wacky. All of my doors keep locking and unlocking on its own. When I try to accelerate my vehicle seems to be more stagnant as if it's no longer increasing speed and the steering wheel does not appear to be in alignment with my tires when turning. My son has never been able to open the door while in motion but since the locks have started clicking there's been some close calls.
Steering, Jul 17, 2021
Progressing problem with power steering failure since 05/2020. This month was more frequent occurrences. When driving straight and steady power steering stiffens and losses power, red warning light steering lights which forces the driver to steer hard limiting short turns. Almost got into accident multiple times. Must restart engine in order to restart steering function.
Steering, Apr 11, 2021
THE STEERING STICKS AT TIMES. ITS NOT SMOOTH AND I HAVE TO PUT EXTRA PRESSURE ON THE STEERING WHEEL TO GET THE STEERING TO TURN. THIS OCCURS WHEN DRIVING MOSTLY ON THE HIGHWAY.
Steering, Apr 10, 2021
STEERING STICKS CAUSES DRIVER TO JERK THE WHEEL LEFT OR RIGHT WHILE IN MOTION HAPPENS ALL THE TIME AT ANY SPEED ON ANY TYPE OF ROAD AND HAPPENS WHILE TURNING OR STRAIGHT. . DEALER STATED NEEDS WHOLE NEW MDPS STEERING COLUMN ASSY. THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY ISSUE. MULTIPLE COMPLAINTS UNDER THE KIA FORUMS. RECALL NEEDS TO BE DONE ASAP! HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR 3 + YEARS NOW.
Steering, Apr 4, 2021
STEERING WHEEL CONSTANTLY STICKS
Steering, Mar 25, 2021
I DO ALOT OF HIGHWAY DRIVING. WHILE AT SPEEDS OF 65MPH AND IN TURNS, THE STEERING WHEEL STICKS. AND FEELS LIKE IT PULLS EVEN HARDER. SO I HAVE TO GIVE IT A TUG IN THE TURN OR STOP IT FROM CROSSING INTO ANOTHER LANE. TRYING THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN.
Steering, Dec 14, 2020
WHEN DRIVING MY STEERING WHEEL WILL STICK TO LEFT AND RIGHT.IT HAPPENS AT ALL SPEEDS. I HAVE TO MOVE THE STEERING TO KEEP FROM STICKING.
Steering, Dec 3, 2020
I HAVE 2016 SORENTO WHEN I DRIVING ON FREEWAY AND THE ICON TO THE STEERING WHEEL COMES ON I NEED TO VEER TO THE SIDE OF THE FREEWAY AND STRUGGLE BECAUSE THE STEERING WHEEL GET HARD TO MAUNUVER AND FIND SOMEWHERE TO STOP SO I CAN TURN OFF THE CAR AND TURN IT BACK ON AGAIN TO THE ICON BE REMOVED TO IT WOULD UNLOCK THE STEERING WHEEL SO I CAN DRIVE AGAIN.IT HAPPEN VERY OFTEN
Steering, Electrical system, Electronic stability control (ESC), Oct 26, 2020
10 MONTHS NOW I'VE GONE WITH DRIVING MY 2016 KIA SORENTO BY ENTERING A SCREW DRIVER IN THE OVERRIDE MODE BECAUSE I CAN'T GET OUT OF PARK THE MORAL WAY. I'VE TAKEN THIS CAR INTO SHAWNEE MISSION KIA SO MANY TIMES I'VE LOST COUNT AND THEY HAVE NOT ONLY REFUSED TO TAKE CARE OF THIS PROBLEM, INDICATING THAT BCM OR BODY CONTROL MODULER ISN'T COVERED UNDER MY WARRANTY. WELL LET ME SAY THIS THEY GOT OVER ON ME ONCE ALREADY TELLING ME I HAD TO TURN A CLAIM IN ON THE FUEL PIPE, AND UNDER CARRIAGE PARTS THAT I NOW REALIZE WAS ALL A LIE AND SHOULD HAVE BEEN COVERED BECAUSE KIA KNEW ABOUT ALL THOSE PARTS BEING DANGEROUS AND STILL STOOD BY THE 'IT HAD TO ME HITTING SOMETHING UNDER CAR' .. IT'S NOW ALL SURFACED VIA CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT AND THEY STILL REFUSE TO TAKE CAR OF MY DRIVE PROBLEM! THEY WILL NOT GET ME AGAIN AND I AM SO FRUSTRATED THAT I JUST WANT THEM TO TAKE THE CAR BACK! I'LL NEVER OWN ANOTHER KIA AFTER THIS! PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED TWO BRAND NEW VEHICLES FROM THEM OVER 35,000 A CAR AND THEY CAN'T SEEM TO FIND IT REASONABLE TO MAKE CAR DRIVE WITHOUT A SCREW DRIVER! FED UP!
Steering, Oct 16, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2016 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING 65 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER PARKED AT A NEARBY GAS STATION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HW KIA OF WEST COUNTY LOCATED AT 14116 MANCHESTER RD, BALLWIN, MO 63011, (636) 591-2900 WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE BATTERY TO BE REPLACED. THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE HAD EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE ON 4 SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER, RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND PROCEEDED TO HIS DESTINATION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO SAME DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE POWER STEERING ASSEMBLY TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 90,000.
Steering, Electrical system, Oct 5, 2020
POWER STEERING FAILED WHILE DRIVING. EXTREME DIFFICULTY TO STEER, DANGEROUS SITUATION SINCE IT HAPPENED WHEN I WAS TRYING TO TURN LEFT FROM THE LEFT TURNING LANE ON A FREEWAY OFFRAMP. WAS ABLE TO TURN CAR LEFT AND CHANGE TO RIGHT LANE THEN MOVED TO SIDE OF ROAD. TURNED OFF CAR, ON RESTART POWER STEERING RETURNED.
Steering, Jun 26, 2020
WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS OVER 50 MPH THE STEERING FEELS LOOSE AND HAS A LOT OF PLAY IN IT. HARD TO KEEP THE CAR GOING STRAIGHT IN THE LANE WITHOUT EXCESSIVE MANUAL CORRECTIONS. THE STEERING ISN'T VERY RESPONSIVE EVEN WITH THIS. *TR
Steering, May 31, 2020
CANNOT KEEP VEHICLE GOING IN STRAIGHT LINE WITHOUT MAKING CONSTANT MINOR ADJUSTMENTS. SOMETIMES, THE STEERING DOES NOT RESPOND IMMEDIATELY TO THE ADJUSTMENTS CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO WANDER DANGEROUSLY CLOSE TO THE CENTER LINE OR THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. IT WILL ALSO OVER CORRECT AT TIMES CAUSING THE DRIVER TO MAKE A MORE DRASTIC CORRECTION. DUE TO THE LACK OF RESPONSE (INTERMITTENT), MY FEAR IS THAT IT WILL FAIL TO RESPOND AT ALL. I TOOK IT TO THE SELLING DEALER AND, AFTER A VERY SHORT DRIVE, THEY SAID "NO PROBLEM FOUND." WE BOUGHT THIS CAR WITH 20,000 MILES AND IT NOW HAS 60,000. THIS PROBLEM HAS PERSISTED SINCE WE BOUGHT IT.