2017 Kia Sorento
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 804 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 6th highest complaint count among 23 Sorento model years with reports.
Of the 2017 reports, 13 involved a crash and 32 involved a fire. 17 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
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, engineSep 21, 2017
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017 Sorento vehicles equipped with 3.3L engines. The engine crankshaft may have been improperly heat treated and may fail.
If the crankshaft fails, the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A failed crankshaft also increases the risk of a fire.
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the crankshaft, and, as necessary, replace the engine sub assembly, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC153.
Campaign 17V586000 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
Representative owner complaints: engine
402 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine, Jul 31, 2025
While driving, the engine warning light suddenly turned on and the vehicle began shaking violently. I was forced to pull over, and the car had to be towed. The dealership diagnosed engine failure caused by excessive oil consumption. Despite routine maintenance, the manufacturer refuses to cover repairs under warranty. This creates a serious safety hazard, as engine components like spark plugs can fail without warning, potentially leaving drivers stranded or causing accidents.
Engine, Jul 24, 2025
I have a 2017 Kia Sorento. On Sunday [XXX], I was driving on [XXX] in Oklahoma when I started hearing a weird knocking noise and was having difficulties accelerating. I was in the car with my mother and [XXX] son just between Guthrie and Edmond OK which is a very heavily trafficked area. My car suddenly shut off, I coasted to the side and put my hazards on. After 2 hours waiting for a tow truck to tow my vehicle back to my home town a mechanic informed us the engine was blown and could be apart of their lawsuit against engines. After reading many many other peoples encounter with Kia, Kia acknowledges issues with the engines and were placed in a lawsuit however they find every way out of responsibility for replacing the engines that are faulty. Not only did this put others in danger while I was driving UNDER the 75mph speed limit but it is July in Oklahoma and in the upper 90’s but feels like the hundreds placing myself, my mother and child at risk of heat exposure due to this faulty engine and having to wait 2 hours for a tow truck. I purchased the vehicle in 2020 during Covid when many business’ were shut down and more difficult to receive oil changes properly, and many people reported that since the engine was faulty it was eating away at the oil faster meaning oil did not go as far as it should. This company should replace ALL faulty engines REGARDLESS of their oil change reports and software updates as this is a massive safety feature and puts lives at risk on the road. No warning lights went off until the engine already shut down. They need to accept responsibility on these models as this is a major cost in a time many people cannot afford repairs for something that should be safe to drive. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 22, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that there was oil intrusion that caused the engine to fail. The contact was told that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The contact was informed that documents of past maintenance records were incomplete, and the warranty had expired. The contact stated that in the past, the vehicle consumed an excessive amount of oil. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.
Engine and engine cooling, Jul 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while her husband was driving 65 MPH, the contact heard a thumping sound coming from the engine. No warning light was illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired; however, the engine had been replaced one time before. The contact related the failure NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000( ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING ); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by the AG Office. The manufacturer denied the claim and refused to repair the vehicle. The failure mileage was 243,000.
Engine, Jul 17, 2025
My 2017 Kia Sorento is not included in the engine safety recall regarding the crankshaft failure in the engine. But I am experiencing the exact same problem so I do not see how it is not included in the recall. I am requesting the recall be expanded to include more vehicles because it is not safe to drive and is currently being held hostage by the dealer who wants $10,500 to repair my engine. I refuse to pay for negligence on the part of the manufacturer. Kia corporate has been very dismissive and not helpful. Please advise
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Jun 30, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that the check engine and low oil pressure warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an oil change was performed; however, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the nearest dealer for an unknown recall repair, and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the maintenance records needed to be reviewed to repair the vehicle under recall. The contact provided the maintenance records that the dealer sent to the manufacturer. The manufacturer later informed the dealer that the vehicle was not eligible for an engine replacement based on the maintenance records. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact called the manufacturer and was informed that the engineers had determined that the vehicle was not eligible for engine replacement and no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 133,000.
Engine, Jun 13, 2025
Engine failure. Hyundai and Kia Theta Engine Class Action Settlement 2017 Kia sorento 2.0 vin [XXX] . vehicle has the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Update which extends engine coverage to 10 years/150k miles for rod bearing failure. the vehicle has 118k miles and is at a kia dealership. They denied coverage due to no present codes related to the knock sensor and being that it has low compression on one cylinder. My 2017 Kia Sorento experienced a serious engine failure related to rod bearing wear, a known issue in the Theta II 2.4L GDI engine. The engine began making a loud knocking noise, which is a classic sign of rod bearing failure. They just so happened to left that out of their diagnosis that it has rod bearing noise and are using only the fact that low compression and no code related to the bearings to deny the coverage. When rod bearings wear out, they allow excessive play in the connecting rods, leading to unstable piston movement. In interference engines like this one, that instability can cause the piston to travel too far upward and strike open valves during operation. This can result in bent valves, valve seat damage, low cylinder compression, and repeated misfires. In my case, the engine was diagnosed with low compression and misfires consistent with this kind of internal damage. This isn’t just a wear-and-tear issue. it’s a known design flaw that leads to catastrophic engine failure and a serious safety risk. Kia denied coverage, despite this exact failure being covered under a class action settlement and extended warranty program, and despite my vehicle showing textbook symptoms of the defect. I am requesting a full investigation into Kia's handling of these claims and the lack of proper recall enforcement. My name is [XXX] with 1A auto mart inc. I am handling this case for my customer who is the registered owner of the vehicle [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Jun 9, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The mechanic replaced the air filter, brake fluid, serpentine belt, accessory belt, performed tire rotation, replaced the power steering fluid, and performed an oil change. The check engine warning light illuminated again. The vehicle was returned to the mechanic who replaced the ignition coil and spark plugs. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who confirmed the diagnosis. The dealer replaced the valve cover gasket, fuel pump gasket, and coolant, performed a 3-point GGI induction service, refilled the brake fluid, and replaced a carbon air filter. The failure persisted and the vehicle was returned to the dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that piston #3 had failed, and a spark plug was burned and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. While the contact’s husband was driving approximately 65 - 70 MPH, the vehicle began to shake aggressively, and the engine had seized. There was no warning light during the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The driver had coasted to the side of the road where the vehicle was towed home with open fuel injectors and piston failure. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and a case was opened. The manufacturer informed the contact that the spark plugs needed to be replaced again. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Jun 4, 2025
The car is a 2017 Kia Sorento with approximately 73,000 miles. We have always had the oil changed at the Kia dealership. A month after the last time I had it changed (1/2025) we were going on a trip so my dad checked the oil. There was no oil in it. Since then we have been having to put oil in it about once a month or so because it runs out. It is not leaking anywhere and no oil light comes on when it does run out. The oil is disappearing. The oil is burning internally. I am having difficulties with the dealership in addressing the oil consumption issue, even when it's a known problem. This last time I spoke with Robert at Kia Ramada in Shelby NC. They want me to pay for them to look at it and then said they would write up a report to see if corporate would cover it. I feel like since this is a known issue I shouldn’t have to pay for them to look at or diagnose it. He said it would not be covered unless the engine locked up. Well if I keep driving it and don’t keep putting oil in it, it will lock up. I’d rather you fix the issue than have to put in a whole new motor. Please get in touch with me asap so I know what further actions that I will need to take to resolve this matter.
Engine, May 12, 2025
In April 2025 the check engine light came on. The engine had been replaced in February 2025 so I immediately took the vehicle to Safford Kia Dealership in Fredericksburg, VA. (NOTE: The engine was replaced at Jacksonville Kia, Jacksonville, NC as the issue with the engine happened while I was away working at that location.) A few days after dropping the vehicle off I was notified by the service writer there that the catalytic converter had gone bad which was a common issue after problems with the engine. Specifically, I was told the engine dumps oil into the catalytic converter therefore ruining it. The new engine has been driven about a 1000 miles (give or take) as the vehicle was picked up from the dealership in Jacksonville, NC and driven to Fredericksburg, VA on 1 March 2025 with minimal normal driving before the check engine light came on.
Engine, Apr 17, 2025
Engine blew at 175000. It is not one of the vehicles that is covered under the class action lawsuit but the vehicle itself just blew an engine after an oil change. One of the Pistons let go.
Engine, Mar 27, 2025
Engine failed, leaving me stranded at a stop light. I was finally able to get it started, but it ran terribly and didn't have the power to go uphill, almost rolled back into the vehicles behind me. Had to have it towed. No warning whatsoever, engine stalled and engine light on. I got it fixed at dealership I purchased from, then it did the same thing a week later. I will NEVER purchase a KIA again. Almost every shop I inquire about service won't even service KIA engines anymore because of the problems. I'm left with a car payment and no vehicle.
Electrical system, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Mar 27, 2025
This is the third time I’m having to take my SUV to the Kia dealership because my check engine light begins flashing and then my car has a hard time accelerating when it gets to certain speeds. It shakes but will not go over 68 mph although it is covered under a warranty, it is very frustrating. Having to keep take my car to get fixed. There should be a more permanent solution.
Engine, Mar 25, 2025
Severe oil spill from engine and is spilling out into the car tires and the side doors and comes through the muffler and my back window and it’s stalling my car and I have been left stranded on the side of the road and I had it diagnosed at the dealership I bought it and I need my car fixed due to faulty issues of the vehicle not my fault please and thank you
Electrical system, Engine, Mar 17, 2025
1.Component/System Failure: The issue involves a recurring failure of the oil pressure switch, which is part of the engine’s lubrication monitoring system. This malfunction has resulted in an oil leak that subsequently damaged a major wiring control harness and the associated control module. The affected components are available for inspection by an authorized service center. 2.Safety Risk: The oil leak poses a safety risk by potentially compromising the vehicle’s engine performance and electrical system integrity. While there has been no direct incident of injury, the malfunction increases the risk of unexpected vehicle failure, which could endanger the driver and others on the road. 3.Confirmation of the Problem: The recurring issue was initially diagnosed by an authorized dealer. After the first repair under warranty, the same problem reappeared, and an independent service center later confirmed that the oil pressure switch was leaking excessively. This repeated diagnosis supports the conclusion that the component is defective. 4.Inspections Conducted: The vehicle has been inspected by both the authorized dealer and an independent service center. Additionally, the previous repair under warranty was conducted with oversight from manufacturer representatives. There has been no involvement of the police or insurance representatives regarding this incident. 5.Warning Lamps or Symptoms: There were no specific warning lamps or error messages that appeared before the failure. The primary symptoms noted were poor acceleration and unusual engine noise, which first appeared shortly before the issue was identified as an oil leak.
Engine, Mar 11, 2025
[XXX] the engine on my 2017 Kia Sorento seized up due to severe oil leak. There was a recall earlier in the year for oil pressure gauge which I had replaced. This seems to be a common problem in Kias as there is the class action law suit for this very problem however my car does not qualify but after reading many forums this is still a common problem in Kias that are not covered in this class action. I am now left with an inoperable car and nothing to show for it. I have been in touch with Kia Corporate with no help, lawyer, Office of Attorney General and MyCarVoice.com. Hoping you all can add some advice or answers. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Mar 8, 2025
Car went into limp mode and check engine light began blinking. We do not have a Kia dealer in our town so we had it towed to local mechanic. He did not save the code but said it indicated one of two options: change the oil or replace engine. He changed the oil and cleared the code. The car had been using oil for some time so we called Kia to report it. We were told to let it run out of oil until it goes into limp mode again and then tow it to the dealer. We can’t do that! We live on a mountain. If the engine locked up, we could die. So, we add a quart to a quart and a half every couple of weeks. The car smells hot so we know the engine is bad. It is one of the GDI engines. There was a class action suit for this problem in CA. We believe Kia should be held responsible for the Over Consumption of Oil issue before more accidents occur. Our case number with Kia is [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Mar 7, 2025
Engine failure, loss of power on multilane highway, engine valves failed. unable to move to safe location Dealer checked valves failed No warning lamps, messages prior to failure
Engine, Feb 27, 2025
Urgent Assistance Needed: Engine Issue and Warranty Dispute Since September last year, the engine warning light has been consistently on. Whenever I took the car to the Kia dealership, they merely mentioned that the system was “too rich” and assured me it was not a concern. Instead of addressing the engine issue, they recommended replacing unrelated parts such as the air filter. When I took the vehicle to a local mechanic, I was informed that the engine was not in good condition, causing the oil to burn quickly, which indicated an engine problem. However, the Kia dealership did not acknowledge this issue. On February 7th, while driving, the vehicle began shaking violently and making unusual noises. I immediately brought it to the local mechanic, who diagnosed that the #4 cylinder valve was burnt. The following day, on February 8th, I brought the car to the dealership. They mentioned that the engine might need to be replaced and promised to contact the warranty company for approval. They initially seemed optimistic, suggesting that the replacement could be covered under the warranty. However, two weeks later, I received a response stating that the warranty would not cover the repair. Despite multiple attempts to contact Kia headquarters via email, I have not received any response. Upon further investigation, I discovered that my vehicle is part of the Theta II engine recall. Kia had publicly announced a lifetime engine warranty for vehicles with this issue. However, now that my engine has failed and requires replacement, they are refusing to honor this promise. The estimated cost for the engine replacement is $8,000, and I have been told that I am responsible for the full amount. I kindly request your immediate assistance in resolving this issue. I believe Kia should honor its commitment to the lifetime engine warranty for the Theta II engine vehicles. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. I look forward to your response.
Other or unspecified, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Feb 24, 2025
Engine problem. I've had to replace spark plugs and have to add oil almost every week. This was done about 3 months ago. Today check engine light came back on and it's the same problem stalling and shaking as if it's going to dye in me .. I bought my car brand new I've been the only owner..it's only got 80,000 miles .. I know that you guys have life time warranty on your engines .what do I need to do to have it repaired under warranty?
Engine and engine cooling, Exterior lighting, Feb 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the front and rear exterior lights shut off unexpectedly. The contact turned off the light switch and then back on and the failure was fixed. Additionally, the vehicle had experienced excessive oil consumption, and engine oil was added shortly after having an oil change performed. The vehicle also experienced harsh driving due to the oil consumption failure. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 65,000.
Engine, Jan 30, 2025
While on vacation the oil light came on (just had it in for maintenance, told them it was using oil but no sign of leak, they told me it was fine to go on vacation, that there was no problem) we put oil in but then engine light came on. It was Saturday night and warranty co. had no emergency phone number. Got to Hotel, Monday was towed to Repair Shop was told after they inspected the car that we had to replace the engine. Warranty Co. replaced the engine a MONTH later with a used engine. My car was not on the recall and should of been. KIA did not answer any calls or emails. Also I am still paying for it. I had a lo of problems with the warranty co, luckily I kept up with the maintenance on it, because if I did not they would never replaced the engine, but now I have to worry about it happening again. Also my car is in Arkansas and we live in Wisconsin.
Engine, Jan 27, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure. The contact stated that engine oil was covering the engine compartment. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 110,000. The VIN was not available.
Engine, Jan 27, 2025
My vehicle started leaking oil from the engine from an unknown location. I took it to the dealership for them to diagnose the cause of the leak which is under warranty. The dealer refused and did not honor the warranty. Now my car is immobile
Engine, Jan 26, 2025
While driving the check engine light came on. I could feel the vehicle losing power despite giving it gas & seeing the rpm's rise. While looking at the dash board to see if there any other indicators the check engine light started flashing followed up by the oil light and another light (can't remember what it was). I pulled off the highway and the vehicle was shaking while running before cutting out. It would not restart and I had it towed to the dealership. The dealership attempted to diagnos however all they can tell me is cylinders 1 & 3 will not hold compression, the engine needs to be replaced & despite only having 82K miles it's not covered by Kia. The vehicle has been meticulously maintained at the dealership.