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Kia Sorento

EPA MPG: 21 mpg

RECALL ALERT:
There are 2 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Reliability

Overall Reliability

The 2019 Sorento is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

The 2019 Kia Sorento has been recalled 2 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
Most Common Trouble Spots
Common Trouble Spot
Common Trouble Spot

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2019 Kia Sorento owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

Exhaust

Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

What Owners Say

Catalytic converter

"As previously noted GDI failed twice causing rich fuel dump which damaged the catalytic converter."

Anonymous, AK (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)
Other/unsure

"Alternator failed on highway leaving us stranded. Kia connect had us towed to Kia dealer where dealer replaced alternator on 5-year warranty although it had expired several weeks earlier."

Anonymous, NC (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)

""The windshield wiper sensor is very inconsistent. Sometimes it won't go on timely when it's raining hard, and other times it turns the wipers on fast when it's barely drizzling.""

Anonymous, OR (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)

"alternator failed at 43000 mi. replaced under extended warranty"

Anonymous, OH (2019 Kia Sorento Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

"cv joints and oil housing"

Anonymous, AZ (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)

"unsure"

Anonymous, TX (2019 Kia Sorento Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

"Sun Roof is temperamental in closing, sticks, barely moves, or you have to open it again to close it. Bad design."

Anonymous, AZ (2019 Kia Sorento LX 3.3-L V6)

Engine Minor

Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

What Owners Say

Oil leaks

"Leak stated in early 2024. Leak was fixed by mechanic. Vehicle now burns oil."

Anonymous, MA (2019 Kia Sorento LX 3.3-L V6)

"A stick bent the oil filter. Now it burns oil"

Anonymous A., GA (2019 Kia Sorento Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
Other minor engine problem

""Oil light began to come on intermitantly. Told by 2 separate mechanics that oil was not getting to the 'top' of the engine, causing excessive wear. Advised that this was a common occurance for Kia/Hyundai once vehicle reaches 100,000 miles""

Anonymous, WI (2019 Kia Sorento L 3.3-L V6)

"Burns alot of oil"

Anonymous A., GA (2019 Kia Sorento Unsure 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

Climate System

AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

What Owners Say

Blower (fan) motor

"The blower fan and resister failed"

Anonymous, PA (2019 Kia Sorento LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
Other climate system problem

"Ive been dealing with the air conditioning going out since I got the car. Ive taken it in at least a half dozen times. No one seems to be able to figure out whats wrong."

Anonymous A., MN (2019 Kia Sorento LX 3.3-L V6)
Refrigerant leaks

"Hoses were leaking refigerant starting in early 2024. Mechanic replaced the hoses."

Anonymous, MA (2019 Kia Sorento LX 3.3-L V6)

In-car Electronics

Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

What Owners Say

Display screen goes blank

""Ill be driving and listening to a book. Suddenly, the display goes blank and nothing works. I have to wait until I shut the car off and restart it before things are working again.""

Anonymous A., MN (2019 Kia Sorento LX 3.3-L V6)
Hardware replacement

""While driving with cruise control activated, the system suddenly disengaged and stopped functioning. At the same time, the following appeared on the dashboard: warning icons and a message stating, Check Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist System. There is a problem with the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist System sensor and I got an estimate of $2500 to $3000 to fix.""

Anonymous, NJ (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)
Radio

"Electronic antenna failed causing very poor reception and static. (AM and FM/FM-HD)"

Anonymous, (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)

Fuel System/Emissions

Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

What Owners Say

Fuel injection system

"High pressure fuel pump (GDI) replaced twice. Dumping rich fuel multiple times burned out the catalytic convertor. Dealership refused to replace at their expense even though they agreed the GDI failures were the cause."

Anonymous, AK (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)
Fuel pump

"Fuel leak"

Anonymous, MI (2019 Kia Sorento SX 3.3-L V6)

"Fuel pump pressure was high. Had you be replaced"

Anonymous, PA (2019 Kia Sorento EX 3.3-L V6)

Drive System

Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

What Owners Say

CV joint

"We were told the Front-right CV Axle boot needed replacing."

Anonymous, MO (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)

""Front Axle boots became loose and leaked oil, noted groning on turning the front wheels""

Anonymous, NJ (2019 Kia Sorento SX 3.3-L V6)
Other driveline problem

""I had problems while driving using the Comfort drive setting, I have switched to the Smart drive setting.""

Anonymous, (2019 Kia Sorento LX 3.3-L V6)

Electrical Accessories

Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

What Owners Say

12V battery

"The car needed a boost every morning"

Anonymous, PA (2019 Kia Sorento LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
Other electrical system problem

"Door handle button failure"

Anonymous, NS (2019 Kia Sorento LX 3.3-L V6)

"Trailer wiring as purchased with the vehicle. Wiring failed almost immediately on initial use. Prevented using the vehicle for boat towing until it was later identified as part of a recall."

Anonymous A., MN (2019 Kia Sorento EX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

Engine Electrical

Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

What Owners Say

Alternator

""Alternator failed and was not charging battery. Expensive repair, of course not covered by warranty.""

Anonymous A., CT (2019 Kia Sorento LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)
Ignition switch

"Car would not turn off"

Anonymous A., NY (2019 Kia Sorento SX 3.3-L V6)

Suspension/Steering

Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

What Owners Say

Shocks or struts

"The left front strut mount failed and created a disturbing noise that. Identifying this problem took a lot of time and effort at the dealership - which affected my confidence in their ability to properly diagnose such issues."

Anonymous, AZ (2019 Kia Sorento LX 3.3-L V6)
Wheel bearings

"Right rear wheel began making noises. Primary driver, spouse, did not hear the noise. Problem was caught at a car check up in early May. 968 repairs to Wheel Bearing assembling and bearing and hub ass ($562.25 parts for that) other costs were from the labor"

Anonymous, GA (2019 Kia Sorento EX 3.3-L V6)

Engine Major

Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

What Owners Say

Other major engine problem

"The oil pressure light kept going on and kia insisted that it was the sensor but continued after The $780 repair. Now it is not burning enough oil to change engine"

Anonymous A., NY (2019 Kia Sorento SX 3.3-L V6)

""Car goes through a quart of oil about every 600 miles with no major leakage, no spots under car, no burning oil smell. There was a minor leak at the valve cover gasket that was fixed but oil consumption barely changed. Dealership says it is normal but we could have an oil flush and consumption diagnostic test run for $1600. Seems to be a common issue with these engines from what I have read. Very disappointed with this and how the dealership has handled it.""

Anonymous A., CT (2019 Kia Sorento LX 2.4-L 4 Cyl)

Brakes

Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

What Owners Say

Calipers

"I drive lots of major highways and city roads where there is a lot of breaking. I think the calipers did well for my driving."

Anonymous A., ON (2019 Kia Sorento SXL 3.3-L V6)

Transmission Minor

Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

What Owners Say

Gear selector or linkage

"Vehicle stuck in park. Needed to use shift unlock override everything Vehicle put into Park."

Anonymous, WA (2019 Kia Sorento EX 3.3-L V6)

Noises/Leaks

Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

What Owners Say

Squeaks or rattles

"Squeeking when going over speed bumps slowly. Not present with other vehicle we own over the same bumps. Very difficult to diagnose. Ended replacing shocks and struts without solvong the problem completely."

Anonymous, NJ (2019 Kia Sorento SX 3.3-L V6)

Transmission Major

Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

What Owners Say

Transmission rebuild or replacement

""We started noticing a slipping of the gears and the check engine light went on. At 88,000 my mechanic hooked up a machine and it providednthe code about problems with the transmission. Light went off because he turned it off and I avoided bringing in until the problem resurfaced at 105,000 miles at which point kia mechanic told me it needed to be replaced and it was out of warranty. We had to pay for the replacement which was $3700. In addition they told us about a problem on the back wheel suspension which we also had replaced.""

Anonymous, NJ (2019 Kia Sorento SX 3.3-L V6)

Paint/Trim

Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

Engine Cooling

Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

Body Hardware

Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

2019 SUVs Reliability

This Car
vs. Similar Cars

Kia vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

Reliability History
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Overall Reliability Verdict
POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
Powertrain
Engine Major
Engine Minor
Engine Cooling
Engine Electrical
Transmission Major
Transmission Minor
Drive System
Fuel System/Emissions
Exhaust
Suspension/Steering
Brakes
Climate System
Build Quality
Electrical Accessories
Body Hardware
Paint/Trim
Noises/Leaks
In-car Electronics
Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
Recalls
PROVIDED BY
BACK OVER PREVENTION
Sep 15, 2023
A rearview camera that does not display an image can reduce the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
Summary:
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2019 Sorento vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, water may leak into the rearview camera, which can cause the rearview camera image not to appear on the display. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
What should you do:
Dealers will inspect the rearview camera and add additional water proofing to the camera harness, or replace the camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 8, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC282.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V639000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 83667
TRAILER HITCHES
Sep 19, 2022
A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Summary:
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.
What should you do:
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.
For more information:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 22V703000
Potential Number of Units Affected: 70887
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