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
1,251 reports, newest first.
Engine, Aug 17, 2022
There is a continuous buildup of carbon in the intake manifold system in the 2.0 engine causing stalling whenever accelerating from a stop, such as turning either way or accelerating across a road when using the power steering which uses up power while accelerating. This carbon buildup is very expensive and difficult to clean out and is very dangerous as it causes you to stall completely for a few seconds when entering traffic lanes, if it does not restart quickly, you will crash...
Power train, Electrical system, Aug 16, 2022
My 2016 Kia Sorrento is burning oil, about 1 quart every 300 miles. It only has 64,000 miles on it. We have the oil changed every 3000 miles and last time it was black and sludge like. This is not acceptable and called the dealership and they suggest paying $700 to do a carbon test. Not paying that when the car has a warranty still!!!! This issue needs to fixed!!! We have dealing with this for months!! Also the lights on dashboard flicker once in a while.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Aug 15, 2022
I purchased my 2016 KIA Sorento in October of 2018. Oil changes and everything has always been up to date along with regular maintenance. I never had any issues with it then in April 2022 I was driving to work and had complete engine failure with only 88k miles on it. The first obstacle was reaching KIA corporate. Would call several times a day just to be on hold for 30 plus minutes and sometimes over an hour. After speaking to several different people, they advised there was nothing to they could do, and I would have to pay for it out of pocket due to them saying they sent a piece of paper to the fist owner in June/July 2018 and then another one to me the end of 2019 or 2020. They were unsure of when it was sent to me and there was no proof that I received it. With my hands being tied since still owed money on it I went ahead and paid the $5700 to have my engine replaced. Fast forward I finally got my car back the end of July and two days later realized my heat no longer worked (worked before car went in to have engine replaced). Here it is over two weeks later, and I still do not have my car back. I have to call the dealership for an update and when I do call them, they have no clue who I am or why I am calling. Even though throughout this whole process with engine have only spoken to 1 service rep. KIA’s customer service across the board is very poor. I called the dealership today and they said they finally heard back from corporate again to try and run more tests and they will follow up with me by EOB I am not holding my breathe.
Engine, Aug 11, 2022
I was driving on freeway and all of a sudden my car stopped. The engine blew, I had no oil in car; the oil light didn’t come on. I had recently changed the oil. We kept oil changes up to date every 3000 miles. Called Kia, they said they couldn’t help us. What can we do?
Engine, Aug 11, 2022
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that the vehicle would not immediately start after pressing the start button. After finally starting the engine and while driving 35 mph, the engine suddenly shut off and could not be immediately restarted. After restarting the vehicle, the check engine and traction control warning lights remained illuminated. The cause of the failures was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failures. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 181,000.
Engine, Aug 10, 2022
I was driving 65 miles per hour on US 23, when my engine locked up. No warning, wasn't time for oil change, had plenty of oil.
Engine, Aug 10, 2022
The engine is making a hammer noise when you try to get past 2000rpm. Which has to do with the piston rod system. This will be to be towed if being inspected. This is currently causing engine failure and could blow the engine if it was still on the road. It has been replicated by several people now. And there was not early symptoms just the noise out of no where.
Structure, Aug 9, 2022
Paint started peeling. I thought it might have been a rock chip but it got worse in about 2 weeks.
Engine, Aug 8, 2022
There has been an ongoing issue nationwide with the Kia Sorento’s engines. I have been dealing with a burning oil issue and engine issue for months. I spent over 800.00 a few months ago on the oil issue that is still no better today. The engine, Kia is fully aware that there is an issue with the engine however will not state is is a recall as then they will be accountable to replace it. I have been told this by both my local dealership and the warranty company. Two weeks ago my Sorento broke down out of state. It had to be towed back to MA. I was told by the dealership that there are about 12 cars with the same issue in front of mine. It will be several weeks before I can expect any type of resolution. I am without a car and Kia will not pay for a rental until the adjuster comes out. This is very disheartening as I am a single mother on a very fixed income. I cannot afford to rent a car and I absolutely need transportation asap. They say it is an issue with the piston in the engine. I really need my car prioritized or need a rental paid for by KIA. I should also be reimbursed for the issue of which I was charged $800+. I was just told Saturday the 6th of August they would look at my car today the 11th, by the manager, it still has not been looked at, we were also told that if we were to pursue legal action they would not work on it at all. I even purchased the warranty and still nothing. Kia of Burlington MA Pleas help!
Engine, Aug 5, 2022
The engine consumed the oil prior to the recommended regular oil change without any warning or indication. This has resulted in the need for a total engine replacement uncovered by Kia.
Fuel/propulsion system, Aug 1, 2022
Warning engine light keeps activating saying major fuel leak. Supposed recall sc 172 but according to kia, not associated with my vin and needed to be reported
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.
Power train, Engine, Back over prevention, Jul 22, 2022
I was driving on the highway going 70 mph when my 2016 Kia Sorento 3.3L lost power and could not accelerate. I had to navigate to the side of the highway carefully and got my car towed to the closest Kia Dealership. Upon their investigation, it was a blown head gasket that required the whole engine to be replaced. I am the 2nd owner of the car and bought the car in late 2019 with 45, XXX miles on it and it currently only has 66, XXX miles. I was not covered under warranty as it expires once you pass 60,000k miles. Estimation from Kia would cost close to $10K with a new engine/labor. Contacted Kia Consumer to see if they can help and was denied. Now stuck with a dead car trying to figure out what I can do.
Engine, Jul 21, 2022
My car began knocking and then it slowed down. It stalled as I pulled off the road and won't start. I had it towed and the mechanic said there was "glitter in the oil". He called our local Kia dealership, gave them the VIN number and was told there was a recall on my engine. I researched your website and it does not show a recall. I found two other individuals who wrote owner reviews in May and June 2022 who had the same problem.
Other or unspecified, Jul 20, 2022
2021 on my passenger side paint literally peeled off. I’ve had a small small chip on my roof and this was few years back. Though was just a chip. Now about last week literally my roof is peeling demalation. I see online many many recalls and issues with this type of pain and I have the Snow White paint
Other or unspecified, Jul 18, 2022
PAINT CHIPPING IN MULTIPLE SPOTS
Engine, Jul 15, 2022
I was on the interstate going 65 mph and my engine stopped shifting it suddenly decreased in speed and I made it off the interstate barely any power to get safely off the interstate.
Air bags, Jul 15, 2022
In October, 2020, the air bag light came on at approximately 90,000 miles. On 10/21/20, I called Kia customer service and they dated it was not covered under any warranty. As of 07/15/22, the airbag light is still on with about 100,000 miles. The airbag light came on and remains on with no incident or accident or repair having occurred. The vehicle is very well maintained and in excellent condition. I called my local Kia dealership on 07/11/2022. They stated the airbag light on my 2011 Kia Sorento is covered under a recall, due to faulty clock spring, but the 2016 Kia Sorento airbag light is not covered. I make this complaint to request NHTSA investigate the same or similar air bag problems occurring on the 2016 Kia Sorento as has occurred with the 2011-2015 Kia Sorento ODS recall. Thank you.
Engine, Jul 12, 2022
The car was running hot. The repair shop was suppose replace the thermostat..We received the car back the same day and it was still doing the same thing.. The repair place told us to put water in it when it cools down and continue on our merry way!! The car ran hot, started smoking and now it won’t crank
Other or unspecified, Jul 11, 2022
My 2016 pearl white Kia Sorento started to chip and peel. It started on the front edge of hood (both sides) and now is starting to peel on the roof line at windshield.
Engine, Jul 11, 2022
Vehicle lost power on highway going 70mph. Driver was able to safely exit to roadside. Popped hood and oil covering the engine bay. Lots of smoke. Upon further inspection, it appears as though a wrist pin dislodged from connecting arm and went through the front of the engine block. Oil was everywhere and is a fire risk! Also, vehicle only has 107,xxx miles on it. Kia refuses to tow vehicle at their expense to shop even though in speaking with dealership, engine should be covered under Theta II class action suit.
Engine, Jul 6, 2022
7/3/22, 71,500 miles accrued on vehicle. While operating the vehicle, on an uphill grade after 5.7 miles of driving, sudden and abrupt knocking noise occurred. Knocking was intensified during acceleration. At this time, dramatic loss of power occurred. Attempted to "coast" downhill for the remainder of the trip. After another 2.2 miles, a very loud "bang" noise occurred, the driver in fear part felle from the vehicle. Knocking noise intensified, and the vehicle then stopped responding. Displayed oil pressure, check engine and check battery lights. Violent shaking and vibrating occurred. Driver was able to coast the vehicle off the roadway to the right shoulder for safety so as to not become a traffic hazard. Smoke was visible and heat was felt from the engine bay of the vehicle. Driver of the vehicle was in fear of fire occurring imminently. Vehicle was shut off for safety. After smoke dissipated and engine cooled, a restart was attempted but failed. Vehicle would not respond. Nothing was visible from the top of the engine bay. Vehicle was moved to a local repair shop adjacent to the location where it was stopped. On inspection, the engine block cracked adjacent to the connecting rod producing knocking noise and releasing all oil from the engine block. The local automotive shop confirmed the engine/powertrain failure similar to the previous recall: RQ17-003 NHTSA Recall No. 17V-224 on "GDI" engines. Kia corporate was contacted. Kia has not inspected the vehicle but was informed. Kia replied they would NOT replace or reimburse due to recall only being applied for 2.0 and 2.4 liter engines. This vehicle was fitted with a 3.3 liter "GDI" engine produced in the same facility as reported in RQ17-003 NHTSA Recall No. 17V-224. Local mechanics report the engine may be replaced by the dealer with enough complaining, however, the dealer states "no recalls for this vehicle" and will not take action.
Vehicle speed control, Other or unspecified, Engine, Jul 1, 2022
Sometime Mid May 2022 I was driving back from Tri City Washington. As I was passing a semi truck I noticed my car was losing some power. I ten was able to to get in front of the semi when I seen a place to pull off. During this time I noticed my dash lights were coming on. Engine light. I was lucky enough to pull off where on a side road in Warden, Washington. My car then ceased and would not start. I had to have it towed in my home town of Moses Lake, Washington to a auto mechanic by my resident. The name is Customs Auto on Broadway. They said it needed to go to a Kia Specialist/Mechanic for repairs. So I then had it towed to Over Turf Kia Dealership in Tri City, WA. where my car has been sitting since the end of May 2022. Nathan from Over Turf said I needed to replace my engine and quoted me at $6300.00 which is what I owe my bank loan with Wells Fargo. I only had 135,000 miles on it and not sure why all of a sudden my engine ceased. Now I have filed a complaint with NTSB they gave me a complaint #11466956 on Kia and their recalls. I had a recall repair on it September 2017 and had contacted Kia out of Wenatchee, WA where the recall was done. But they are closed down because of the covid. I am lost to what to do at this point. I was given an email address to send an email of pictures or important documents pertaining this problem. I am asking for any direction as to what to do or who to contact. If you need to call me please fill free at [XXX]. Thank You! Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Engine, Jul 1, 2022
I reported a complaint on 1/24/2022. I had to replace my engine. I actually had to borrow the money. I went on Kia-Consumer-Assistance-to file a claim for reimbursement. They sent me a denial letter on 6/30/22 stating I did not have the knock sensor detector. Well I would have if I received the notice. I bought my car used. The dealership didn't have any recalls and I did not receive anything until May 2022. Kia emailed me about the knock sensor detector. Although I replaced my engine I had it installed on 6/17/22. How could have known about something that I never received. I didn't even know there was a class action lawsuit until I went on line to find Kia Corporate information. I emailed several people and nit one person emailed back. I was asking for assistance but I guess they delete it but I still have it. I feel like this is an ongoing issue with Kia and they need to reimburse everyone that has had engine failures due to THEIR NEGLIGENCE. Does someone have to be driving and the car turns off and they get hit because of the engine failure. This is a sign of bad business. My reimbursement for the engine needs to be approved. Kia has more than enough money. If they would have tested the GDI engines first before releasing them to the public they probably would not have half the complaints. I think another class action lawsuit should be filed against them. Not only has this impacted me financially but it has impacted me emotionally.
Engine, Jun 30, 2022
Engine failure at 85,500 miles an hour into a road trip. Just had an oil change on it a few days prior. No warning lights came on before the engine started to rattle at 3000 rpms. Engine still rattles while car is idling.