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VIN REPORT

KNAJC5245958992912009 KIA SorentoBL

Risk Score
29
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
3 Found
3 campaigns
55
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
17 yrs
Made in SOUTH KOREA
C-
Score: 71/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2009 KIA Sorento was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 55 owner complaints include 3 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.

  • 3 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • 3 injuries reported across 55 owner complaints
  • Electrical is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
  • Component failure cascade detected — a known defect pattern that typically leads to more severe downstream damage
29/100
Moderate Risk
2 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 2 detected
Critical deferred maintenance — safety-critical components overdue
+20
3 model-wide recalls on record
+9
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
KIA
Model
Sorento
Year
2009
Trim / Series
BL
Body Style
Wagon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Drive Type
4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Doors
4
Manufacturer
KIA CORPORATION
Assembly
HWASUNG, SOUTH KOREA
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
CQuality55/100
Standard📍 HWASUNG, SOUTH KOREA

No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.

Safety
C-
Score: 71/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety21/30
Complaint History30/30
30/100Moderate
  • Brake system recall
0/100
Basic
0 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian AEB, Forward Collision Warning, Electronic Stability Control
Low
  • 1 complaint(s) involved a fire
Elevated
  • 2 recalls on same component: Electrical
  • Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Electrical
2 recalls12 complaints
Brakes
1 recall2 complaints
Recalls
82/100
Critical Deferred Risk
Critical deferred failure risk — 6 safety-critical or high-cost components are past their service interval. Without immediate attention, repair costs will compound significantly.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~204,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Belt
Service interval: 7 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Belt immediately — already past the 90,000 mi / 7 yr interval
A snapped timing belt causes immediate, catastrophic engine damage — bent valves, destroyed pistons. No warning. Replace before the interval, not after.
EST. OVERDUECriticalTiming Chain Tensioner
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Timing Chain Tensioner immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
EST. OVERDUECriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Water Pump immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighDifferential / Transfer Case Fluid
Service interval: 4 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Differential / Transfer Case Fluid immediately — already past the 50,000 mi / 4 yr interval
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
EST. OVERDUEModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 8 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 8 yr interval
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
EST. OVERDUEModerateFuel Injectors
Service interval: 10 yr · Vehicle age: 17 yr · Past due by age
Service Fuel Injectors immediately — already past the 120,000 mi / 10 yr interval
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
33 RECALLS

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 3 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

Average repair completion across 3 recalls is ~67%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.

67%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

KIA Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
86%Fair

KIA completes recalls at a fair rate (86%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~20 months.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~20 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
20mo
#20V088000
Invalid Date

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

SummaryKia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Sedona and 2007-2009 Sorento vehicles. Moisture may enter the Anti-lock Brake (ABS) Module and result in an electrical short.
Read full details...
ConsequenceAn electrical short within the ABS Module may cause an engine compartment fire, even when the vehicle is turned off, increasing the risk of an injury.
Est. Repair Completion~69%

~31% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#11E041000
Jun 2011

EQUIPMENT

SummaryCURT MANUFACTURING IS RECALLING CERTAIN TOW PACKAGE WIRING HARNESSES, PART NUMBER 56024, THAT CONNECT TOW VEHICLE LIGHTING CIRCUITS TO TRAILER LIGHTING CIRCUITS SOLD FOR USE ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 THROUGH 2011 HYUNDAI VERACRUZ AND KIA SORENTO VEHICLES. THE UNITS ARE NOT WATER-TIGHT AND MOISTURE CAN SEEP INTO THE CONVERTER MODULE AND DEFEAT THE MODULE'S INTERNAL CIRCUIT PROTECTION.
Read full details...
ConsequenceWITHOUT THE CIRCUIT PROTECTION, THE MODULE CAN OVERHEAT POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Est. Repair Completion~64%

~36% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#13V114000
Jan 2013

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH

SummaryKia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
Read full details...
ConsequenceFailure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~68%

~32% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

LONG-STANDING OPEN
EQUIPMENT
14.9yr open
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
13.3yr open

⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.

01/04/2013
3 total campaigns
ElectricalBrakes
3
Part Replacements
0
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
2 recalls are over 2 years old — statistically less likely to have been completed. Verify repair status with any dealer using your VIN.
1.9yr
Lag from first complaint to recall
First complaint: 2009-07-14 · Recall issued: 2011-06-10

23 months elapsed between first complaint and recall issuance — a significant delay in consumer protection.

Complaints
Safety Systems
2 crash3 inj19
Electrical
12
Engine/Powertrain
11
Other
10
Brakes
2
Suspension/Wheels
1
2017
4
2018
1
2019
3
2020
3
2021
1
2022
2
2023
1
2024
1
2025
1
2026
1
71% trend in recent years (improving reliability)
Accelerating +50%
3
Last 24 months
2
Prior 24 months
Electrical failure9
Engine stalling6
Fire/smoke2
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (11)Parking/low-speed (8)Startup (5)Rain/wet (3)
55HIGH VOLUME
1
Fire
2
Crashes
3
Injuries
ODI #11711370SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2009 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the check engine, ESC, and ABS warning lights were illuminated. Upon speaking with other independent mechanics, the contact was informed that the failure was likely linked to moisture that might have entered the ABS module. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V088000 (Electrical System, Service Brakes, Hydraulic); which the contact associated with the failure. The dealer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was already serviced under recall prior to owning the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

ODI #11664933ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE

My check engine light is on. It has been on for over 2 or more years. Nobody knows what the codes mean. My timing chain needs to be replaced. My tires are constantly leaking. My battery has been replaced 2 times, and I still cannot start my vehicle even when I get a jump. The interior light when you open the car door, has fallen and is hanging. When I open the back door, the light does not come on so I cannot see what is in the trunk. The handles on both sides of the rear doors are broken and the doors do not open. I have not been able to get my vehicle inspected because of the check engine light and the timing chain. I took it to get inspected last April when it was due and I was told it could not be inspected because of the check engine light. This all went on when I was living in Upstate NY I am now in Suffolk County Long Island.

ODI #11611059UNKNOWN OR OTHERFIRE

Driving on the interstate @ 65mph the car cut off then caught on fire. Smoke came in the car we pulled over to emergency lane exited the car and then flames came up through the console. The car became completely engulfed in flames and totally destroyed. There were no injuries. I have a video of the event. I do not know the cause. All of the gauges were working properly and read normal.

ODI #11519128SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2009 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while her daughter was driving approximately 15 MPH, she activated the windshield wipers and the radio, and the vehicle started to stall. The contact stated that her daughter saw the TPMS, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact's daughter drove the vehicle back to the residence. The contact’s husband attempted to duplicate the failure by letting the vehicle idle and then shifted to reverse (R), and the instrument cluster gauges started to function erratically. The contact shifted the vehicle to drive(D) and depressed the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated he shifted to park(P) and turned off the vehicle; when the vehicle was restarted, all vehicle functionality had returned. The contact stated that the failure had occurred a year prior. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that an electrical relay needed to be replaced. The contact stated that a similar electrical relay had been previously replaced; however, the battery drained due to the defective relay. The vehicle had not been repaired. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V088000 (Electrical System, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 185,000.

ODI #11470606ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

Currently my ESC OFF warning light is lit on my dash, and while lit my vehicle has trouble accelerating from 0 to 40 mph. The warning light goes on and off at random. I have had the accelerator pedal assembly replacement in 2015 and 2019 due to the same issue. It is NOW happening again in 2022!!!. Is this a design flaw issue? It's definitely a safety issue! How can consumers be protected from these issues?

ODI #11455715SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2009 Kia Sorento. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V088000 (Electrical System, Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

ODI #11429870SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,AIR BAGS,ENGINE

The contact owns a 2009 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving out of the driveway, the warning message "ASC-OFF" appeared on the instrument panel and the vehicle inadvertently stalled. The contact stated as she turned off the vehicle, she was able to restart the vehicle and parked in the driveway. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring and several warning lights including the ASC warning light, check engine warning light, and air bag passenger warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who informed the contact that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V088000 (Electrical System, Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The contact stated that the recall repair was completed, however, the ASC warning light, the check engine warning light, and the passenger’s side air bag warning light remained illuminated. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.

ODI #11353736ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V088000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO NALLEY KIA LOCATED AT 7849 MALL PKWY, STONECREST, GA 30038, (770) 288-5283, WHERE THE RECALL REPAIR WAS COMPLETED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER THE RECALL REPAIR WAS PERFORMED, WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CONTAC HEARD A LOUD ABNORMAL SOUND. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE SAME DEALER AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH NEEDING THE AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSOR TO BE REPLACED. THE FAILURE WAS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT, CONTINUED TO EXPERIENCE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000.

ODI #11329396SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORRENTO. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V088000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, 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. AN UNKNOWN DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

ODI #11323336ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V088000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) 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. GETTEL KIA OF BRADENTON LOCATED AT 6423 14 TH ST. W, BRADENTON, FL 34207, (941)417-5210, WAS CONTACTED BY PHONE AND CONFIRMED THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

ODI #11231538ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE

VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING AT 65 MPH AND THE ESC LIGHT CAME ON SLOWING THE VEHICLE TO 30 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. WE WERE ALMOST HIT FROM BEHIND. THIS IS HAPPENING 2-3 TIMES A DAY. VEHICLE HAS TO BE TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED EVERY TIME. THIS IS A LIFE THREATENING INCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. TAKEN TO DEALER NO RECALL. VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION EVERY TIME THE ESC/ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON.

ODI #11230844VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

LESS THAN A WEEK AFTER GETTING THIS CAR, IT STARTED HAVING INTERMITTENT NO ACCELERATION! THE FIRST CODES WERE 02 SENSOR BUT IT WAS TRANSMISSION PROBLEM, I ONLY DROVE THE CAR 1000 NO IN A YEAR AND I JUST HAD IT REPAIRED I THOUGHT UNDER WARRANTY WITH TRANSMISSION CODES AS WELL AS A.C. WHICH WAS FIXED, BUT 2ND TIME DRIVING AND SAME THING, I COULD PUSH THE THROTTLE TO THE FLOOR AND NOT GO OVER 10MPH! I HAVE SEEN SO MANY OF SAME COMPLAINT! I HAVE NEARLY BEEN CRASHED INTO MULTIPLE TIMES, HAD TO PULL OFF INTERSTATE...I HAVE CALLED FREEDOM KIA AND DIDN'T GET CALL BACK AS PROMISED. I AM SCARED TO DRIVE THIS CAR AND SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE NOW! I AM DISABLED, AND HAVE A GRANDBABY! WHY ARE YOU PEOPLE NOT DOING ANYTHING ABOUT THIS?? YOUR JOB IS TO PROTECT US! THE WARRANTY IS UP IN 10DAYS AND IT'S NOT GOING TO BE FIXED AS YOU CAN SEE BY SO MANY COMPLAINTS! I WANT ACTION NOW WITH THE KIA DEALERSHIP. IF I GET IN AN ACCIDENT, THERE WILL BE MANY LAWSUITS, INCLUDING YOU FOR NOT DOING YOUR JOBS!

ODI #11205102UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I'VE ONLY HAD MY KIA SORENTO FOR A LITTLE OVER 2 YEARS AND I WAS TRYING TO GO FORWARD WHEN MY CAR JUST STARTED GOING IN REVERSE. I HAD THE CAR IN DRIVE AND IT JUST STARTED GOING IN REVERSE. I TRIED TO PUT IT IN PARK AND THE SAME THING HAPPENED. SO NOW IT JUST GOING IN REVERSE IN ALL GEARS

ODI #11066911UNKNOWN OR OTHER

2 WEEKS AGO MY DASHBOARD LIT UP WITH ALL LIGHTS WHILE DRIVING BRAKES,AIRBAG,TIRE PRESSURE,ENGINE,SWIRVE CONTROL,DOWN HILL, TACH JUMPED UP AND DOWN AND ALSO SPEEDOMETER, LOSS OF POWER LIKE DRAG ON ENGINE. MADE IT HOME AND SHUT IT OFF AND RESTARTED 3TIMES ALL LIGHTS WENT OFF EXCEPT TIRE AND AIRBAG. DROVE TO DEALER IN MORNING AND WHEN I ARRIVED ONLY LIGHT ON WAS AIRBAG. THEY SAID THERE WAS A WIRE LOOSE UNDER SEAT? GOT CAR BACK END OFF WEEK.THE FOLLOWING WEEKEND SATURDAY IT DID IT AGAIN WHILE DRIVING ALL THE LIGHTS AND GAUGES BUT THIS TIME I WENT TO PUT IT IN REVERSE AND IT WOULDNT SHIFT IN REVERSE SO I DROVE IT IN MY DRIVE WAY THEN PUT IT IN PARK AND THEN I COULDNT GET OUT OF PARK WHILE IT WAS RUNNING. I SHUT IT OFF AND RESTARTED TWICE ,THEN GOT IT IN REVERSE TO BACK IN MY GARAGE. SUNDAY ENGINE AND TIRE AND AIRBAG LIGHT STILL ON WENT TO STORE AND MORE LIGHTS WENT BACK ON WHEN I CAME HOME AND PULLED IN GARAGE PUT IN PARK DOOR LOCKS STARTED LOCKING AND UNLOCKING TILL I SHUT CAR OFF. MY CAR IS ONE OF THE CARS ON ENGINE RECALL AND THE DEALER SAYS IT HAS THE ENGINE ISSUE AS IT MAKES THE NOISE THAT THESE CARS MAKE BUT WHEN THEY PUT IT ON THE COMPUTER FOR HEADQUATERS IT WONT MAKE IT. THEY HAVE PUT ON THE COMPUTER TWICE AND SERVICE HAS HEARD IT AND SO HAVE I . EACH TIME BEFORE THIS HAPPENS MY CAR SEEMS TO START RUNNING RUFF. I FELT THAT THEY DIDNT BELIEVE WHAT I SAID SO THIS TIME I TOOK PICTURES OF MY DASH AND VIDEO RECORDED IT ON MY PHONE THEY KNOW I ONLY HAVE LESS THEN 3000 MILES LEFT ON MY 100,000 MILE WARRANTY SO I FEEL THEY ARE PUSHING ME OFF TILL WHATEVER IS CAUSING THIS COMES OUT OF MY POCKET. EXACTLY 2 WEEKS FROM FIRST OCCURENCE.

ODI #11056110AIR BAGS,SEATS

KIA INSTALLED FOUR PASSENGER SEAT SENSOR PADS IN MY 2009 AND A NEW AIR BAG MODULE. WHILE IT WAS ALL COVERED BY WARRANTY WORK, NOW I PAID $133.54 TO HAVE IT CHECKED AGAIN, AND THEY WANT ME TO PAY AN ESTIMATE OF $2535.34 PLUS TAX TO HAVE THE NEW SENSOR INSTALLED. I TALKED TO A MANAGER FOR KIA AND THEY SAID IT WAS NOT THERE PROBLEM. IT IS A PROBLEM BETWEEN ME AND THE DEALER WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR, IT SEEMS TO ME THAT THE DEALER REPLACED THE PARTS AS LONG AS IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY BUT THEY NEVER FIXED THE PROBLEM.( WHAT DO I DO}

ODI #11018784VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

MY 2009 KIA SORENTO,I WAS DRIVING DOWN MAIN ROAD GOING ABOUT 55 WHEN ALL SUDDEN MY POWER DROPPED TO ABOUT 20,LUCKY I WAS NOT ON INTERSTATE ARE PULLING ON TO INTERSTATE,HAD TO HAVE TOWED IN,SAID SOMETHING TO DO WITH GAS PEDAL,WELL THOUGHT WAS FIXED,NOPE,I HAVE HAD CAR FOR A YEAR AND HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES,IT IS A RECURRING PROBLEM,I AM SCARED TO DRIVE IT BUT IN TOWN AND BACK,PAYING 400 A MONTH FOR 5 YEARS FOR A CAR I AM SCARED TO DRIVE,IF THIS IS A RECURRING THING,WHY DOES KIA NOT FIX THIS PROBLEM,I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER KIA WHEN THEY DON'T STAND BEHIND THERE PTODUCT

ODI #10993351ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORENTO. WHILE REVERSING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL TO SHIFT THE GEAR INTO DRIVE AND THE ESC SENSOR ILLUMINATED. PREVIOUSLY, THE ESC INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED WHILE TURNING A CORNER. THE VEHICLE RESTARTED ON THE FIRST ATTEMPT; HOWEVER, THE ACCELERATION WAS VERY SLOW. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER (KIA OF CHATTANOOGA LOCATED AT 2136 CHAPMAN RD, CHATTANOOGA, TN, 37421) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ESC NEEDED TO BE RESET AND OR REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 53,900.

ODI #10985484AIR BAGS

AIR BAG IS OFF LIGHT COMES ON THE DASH FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE EVEN IF AN ADULT IS IN THE SEAT. I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER 2 TIMES WHILE UNDER WARRANTY AND THE FIRST TIME THEY SAID THE COMPUTER JUST NEEDED TO BE RESET. THE SECOND TIME THEY SAID WE WERE NOT SITTING IN THE SEAT CORRECTLY. I TOLD HIM I WEIGHED 190 LBS THAT THE WHOLE SEAT WAS COVERED WITH MY BOTTOM. THEY SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE SENSOR. I SHOWED THEM PICTURES OF MY PHONE SHOWING WE WERE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND THE LIGHT CAME ON. THEY DIDN'T SEAM TO CARE. IT STILL MALFUNCTIONS ABOUT 80%, THE WARRANTY RAN OUT A WHILE AGO. THE LIGHT WILL COME ON WHILE YOUR SITTING STILL AND IT WILL COME ON IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING. THE ONLY WAY TO GET IT BACK OFF IS TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND GET OUT AND SIT DOWN AGAIN, BUT IT WILL USUALLY DEACTIVATES AGAIN

ODI #10928591ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORENTO. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IDLING AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE BRAKES DISENGAGED AND THE VEHICLE PROCEEDED IN A FORWARD MOTION VOLUNTARILY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL WAS FAILING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

ODI #10881467VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORENTO. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 67 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE LOST POWER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MILEAGE DROPPED FROM 67 MPH TO APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE THROTTLE PEDAL ASSEMBLY SHORTED OUT. THE THROTTLE PEDAL WAS REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE CONTACT REFERENCED A RECALL ON THE 2016 MODEL (NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V089000); HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000. UPDATED 09/29/16*LJ *JS

ODI #10822048ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,SEATS

MY 2009 KIA SORENTO (87810 MILES) HAS HAD ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS SINCE 2014. IN SEPT 2014, WHILE WARRANTY WAS VOID DUE TO OVER 60, 000 MILES) I HAD TROUBLE WITH THE DASHBOARD ILLUMINATION LIGHTS WHEN THE HEADLIGHTS WERE TURNED ON. $1,000+ DOLLARS LATER, DIMMER SWITCH, INSTRUMENT CLUSTER, AND RHEOSTAT CIRCUIT WERE REPAIRED. IN DECEMBER 2015, STARTED TO HAPPEN AGAIN BUT NOW THE AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON AND WON'T GO OFF. TOOK IN JANUARY, AND $275 MORE, REPLACED DIMMER SWITCH AGAIN AND CLEANED THE CONNECTION TO AIR BAG SENSOR. THREE DAYS LATER, THE AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON AGAIN. FURTHER INSPECTION AND IT IS DETERMINED THE THE "OCS" SENSOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED TO THE TUNE OF $1900 FOR PARTS AND $200 FOR LABOR.

ODI #10790528AIR BAGSCRASH1 INJURY

MY SON WAS TRAVELING ON A MAIN ROAD IN TOWN WHEN THE CAR HYDROPLANED AT ABOUT 30 MPH AND HE LOST CONTROL. IT SENT HIM SLAMMING INTO A CULVERT, THEN IT BOUNCED OUT OF THE CULVERT AND RAN UP ON A RESIDENTIAL PORCH AND HIT A TREE. THE DRIVERS SIDE TOOK THE MAJORITY OF THE IMPACT. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED (FRONT OR SIDE). HE WAS SLAMMED INTO THE DRIVERS DOOR PANEL AND THE CENTER CONSOLE. HE HAS CONTINUING PAIN IN HIS BACK.

ODI #10786719AIR BAGS1 INJURY

THE DRIVERS SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE BACKING UP IN A PARKING LOT. I TRAVELED APPROXIMATELY 6-10 FEET TURNING LEFT IN REVERSE AT MAYBE 1-2 MPH IF THAT MUCH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT HIT NOR DID IT HIT ANYTHING TO CAUSE THIS AIRBAG TO DEPLOY AND THE HORN TO STAY ON. WHEN AIRBAG DEPLOYED, THE STEERING WHEEL COVER WHEN FORCED OPEN GASHED LEFT THUMB. AUTO INSURANCE WILL NOT COVER DEFECTS. TRYING TO WORK WITH KIA MOTORS TO REPLACE DEFECTIVE PARTS AND MAKE VEHICLE SAFE. UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME IF THEY WILL FIX. OTHER KIA VEHICLES HAVE HAD AIRBAG PROBLEMS FROM MY RESEARCH. SERVICE MANAGER AT DEALERSHIP SAID IT WAS OUT OF WARRANTY, BUT MY ATTORNEY SAID DEFECTS ARE NOT A WARRANTY ISSUE AND MY VEHICLE IS WITHIN THE PRODUCT LIABILITY PERIOD.

ODI #10779832POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

SHORTLY AFTER BUYING SUV IN 2009 WE EXPERIENCED "QUERKY" STUFF LIKE DOORS RELOCKING, DOME LIGHT S COMING ON, BACK HATCH UNLOCKING ALL THIS HAPPENING ON THEIR OWN!! I KEPT TELLING THE DEALERSHIP AT OIL CHANGES! THEY KEPT IGNORING IT ALL! NOV 1, 2009 KIA ELECTRIC SYSTEM SERVICE BULLETIN #282603 (TS B-044) ISSUED. SEPTEMBER THE CHECK ENGINE AND ESC OFF LIGHTS STARTED COMING ON TOGETHER, SUV IMMEDIATELY DECENDS TO 15-20 MPH! YOU CAN'T GIVE IT GAS, ONLY RPMS RISE HIGH! GAS IS EATEN UP! COAST TO SIDE, SIT A FEW TO 20 MINUTES. MAYBE BOTH OR ESC OFF LIGHT(S) GO OUT AND YOU PROCEED. HAVE NOTICED A BUCK FEELING BEFORE LIGHT(S) ARE COMING ON AT TIMES. CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS MAY STAY ON FOR A WHILE OR NOT. HABITUALLY ERRATIC WHEN LIGHTS COME ON, CAN BE EVERY MILE TO SEVERAL MILES! LAST WEEK SUV WITH OUT THESE LIGHTS STARTED RUNNING REAL ROUGH AT IDLE AND DRIVING. TO THE POINT OF REVING OVER 2000 RPMS BUT ACTED LIKE BEING HELD BACK! I HAVE BEEN RELUCTANT TO DRIVE IT MUCH IN FEAR OF THE ADVANCING ISSUES AND HURTING THE POWER TRAIN! AT IDLE RANGE IS 300 ' 1,800+ RPMS, MECHANIC WITNESSED THE VARYING RPMS WHEN CODE 1611 (TIME OUT:ECM,PCM,TCM ISSUE) CAME UP ON SNAP-ON'S CODE READER. SUV HAS BABY MILES OF 29,884 NOW 30,004 TODAY. ALL SUV'S ON FORUMS ARE OVER 50,000 MILES! ~ LOW IDLE KIA CALLS FOR TPS REPLACEMENT ~ SEPTEMBER 7, 2011. MY SUV THROWS P1295/P2135/P2106 CODES LISTED IN THIS! CALLS FOR THE ECM BE REPROGRAMED USING THE GDS (GLOBAL DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM). REF: 044 BULLETIN. DRIVING YOU CAN FEEL THE ENGINE SLOW DOWN TO ALMOST STALLING BUT CATCHES ITSELF AND KEEPS RUNNING. 1ST TIME THIS HAPPENED I WAS DOING 55MPH AND FOUND I WAS SLOWING REAL FAST WITH TRAFFIC COMING UP BEHIND ME. I NOW HAVE TO RIDE WITH 4 WAY FLASHERS TO BE SAFE! CHK ENG ON WHEN KEY IS TURNED ON AT TIMES NOW. TOWED 1X, DRIVE A MILE SIT MINUTES REPEAT'D 8X. ISSUES ARE PROGRESSING!

ODI #10744565ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

ALMOST A YEAR AGO, I WAS DRIVING ON THE TURNPIKE WITH A POSTED 65 MPH WHEN MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT GOES ON AND THE ESC OFF LIGHT LIGHTS UP ON THE DASH. I STARTED LOSING ACCELERATION AND COULDN'T GO ABOVE 40 MPH. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER AND CONTACTED THE GARAGE. THEY TOLD ME TO TURN THE CAR OFF AND RESTART IT. THE ESC OFF LIGHT WENT OUT AND I WAS ABLE TO ACCELERATE NORMALLY BUT, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYED ON FOR 2 MORE DAYS. EVERYTHING WAS FINE UNTIL 8 MONTHS LATER WHEN MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AND ESC OFF LIGHT LIT UP AGAIN AND I COULDN'T ACCELERATE PAST 40 MPH. HOWEVER, THIS TIME I HAD TO PULL OVER - TURN OFF THE CAR - RESTART MY CAR( 6 TIMES) TO TURN OFF THE ESC OFF LIGHT!!! TWICE THIS JULY THE SAME SITUATION HAPPENED AND I TOOK IT IN FOR SERVICE. OF COURSE ALL LIGHTS WERE OUT AT THE TIME. THERE WERE ERROR CODES ON THE COMPUTER BUT WHILE CONVERSING WITH THE TECHNICIANS THEY BELIEVE IT'S A FAULTY GAS PEDAL/ACCELERATOR AND NOT TIRE/BRAKE SENSOR CODES. I WAS GIVEN A QUOTE OF $350 FOR REPLACEMENT HOWEVER THIS IS A REAL SAFETY ISSUE AND I FEEL THE CONSUMER SHOULDN'T BE RESPONSIBLE FOR CORRECTING THIS PROBLEM AND IT SHOULD BE A RECALL ISSUE. MY PARTICULAR CASE HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN LESS THAN A YEAR. OBVIOUSLY, THERE ARE MANY OTHER CONSUMERS HAVING THE SAME DEFECT ISSUE. IT'S NOT SAFE IF YOUR ONLY MEANS OF TRANSPORTATION CAN ONLY ACCELERATE TO 40 MPH ON A DANGEROUS ROAD TRAVELED BY COMMUTERS AND BIG RIGS GOING AS HIGH AS 80 MPH OR MORE. THIS IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN! KIA IS PLAYING WITH PEOPLES LIVES HERE. PLEASE INVESTIGATE KIA AND THE ELECTRONIC STABILITY ISSUE...OBVIOUSLY IT'S NOT STABLE. MA 10/8 UPDATED 3/22/2016*JS UPDATED 12/13/2017*CN

ODI #10717761AIR BAGS

PASSENGER SIDE, FRONT, AIRBAG INDICATOR WORKS ONLY SOME OF THE TIME WITH ADULT PASSENGER.

ODI #10716099ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

ESC OFF SENSOR AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON WHEN STARTING VEHICLE OR WHEN IN MOTION/DRIVING. ESC OFF ILLUMINATES FOLLOWED BY COMPLETE LOSS OF ACCELERATION. WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH TO 70 MPH LIGHT APPEARS AND QUICKLY LOOSES LACK OF THROTTLE ACCELERATION POWR. I'VE HAD THIS HAPPEN (10 PLUS TIMES) SINCE I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE IN 2012 PRE-OWNED FROM KIA DEALERSHIP IN CAPE CORAL,FL. TONIGHT 5/12/15 I WAS HEADING ON HIGHWAY AND STOPPED 3 TIMES EVERY 2 TO 4 MILES (LOST POWER) IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC.. FINALLY,VEHICLE CAME BACK ON MORE FOR ABOUT 10 MILES, WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY GOING 65 TO 70 MPHS VEHICLE SHOWED ESC OFF LIGHT AND LOST ACCELERATION THEN POWER... NO ACCIDENT JUST SWERVED ALOT..

ODI #10712447VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

I SUDDENLY LOST POWER OR CONTROL TO THE GAS. I COASTED THE CAR TO MY WORK A FEW MILES AWAY IN OSSEO, WI. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A NEARBY GARAGE, THE LOFT SERVICE CENTER IN OSSEO, WI. THEY HOOKED IT UP TO A COMPUTER AND COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG. 10/7/14 THE SAME THING HAPPENED. MY HUSBAND AND I WERE ON A TRIP AND LOST POWER, COASTED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD ABOUT EVERY 20 TO 40 MILES FOR ABOUT 300 MILES UNTIL WE GOT TO THE KIA PRESTIGE IN EAU CLAIRE, WI. THROTTLE BODY SENSOR WAS REPLACED. 4/20/15 SAME THING HAPPENED. I PULLED INTO A PARKING LOT. SHUT OFF THE CAR. WHEN IT WAS RESTARTED, I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE IT TO KIA PRESTIGE IN EAU CLAIRE, WI. REPLACED THROTTLE BODY AND AIR SENSOR TO AIR FILTER COST $1298. PARTS ARE ONLY GUARANTEED FOR ONE YEAR. I WAS TOLD THIS COULD HAPPEN AGAIN FOR MANY REASONS. I AM AFRAID THIS IS UNSAFE AND I COULD BE REAR-ENDED THE NEXT TIME IT HAPPENS. I CALLED THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-333-4542 AND HAVE A CASE NO. [XXX]. THEY WOULD NOT TELL ME IF THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM OR HOW TO FIX IT. I SEE MANY SIMILAR COMPLAINTS ONLINE. I HAD A KIA RONDO BEFORE THIS AND IT HAPPENED WITH THIS CAR AS WELL. I SEE THIS AS A HUGE SAFETY ISSUE AND JUST DON'T WANT TO DIE OR HAVE MY GRANDCHILDREN DIE BECAUSE THEY WON'T DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR

ODI #10660695AIR BAGS

FIRST NOTICED IN THE SEPT. TIME PERIOD THAT THE PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF LIGHT REMAINED ILLUMINATED EVEN AFTER MY WIFE SAT DOWN, AND EVEN IF SHE TRIED SHIFTING AROUND TO ACTIVATE THE SEAT SENSOR. MY WIFE WEIGHS MORE THAN 120 LBS. ABOUT 10% OF THE TIME THE SYSTEM SENSES HER PRESENCE FROM HER FIRST SITTING DOWN, WHILE THAT RISES TO ABOUT 75% IF SHE SHIFTS AROUND TO ACTIVATE THE SENSOR. COMMUNICATION ON THE WEB AND THE AUSTIN DEALERSHIP SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE NOTED THAT KIA HAS HAD PROBLEMS WITH ACTIVATION OF THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT SENSOR. IN PARTICULAR, KIA HAD A SAFELY RECALL SC 076 A (COVERING 2007-2008 KIA SORENTOS) WHICH HAD SYMPTOMS IDENTICAL TO WHAT WE NOW ARE EXPERIENCING. THE DEALERSHIP SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE AND THE KIA TELEPHONE HELP LINE CLAIM MY VEHICLE IS NOT COVERED BY THAT RECALL. *TR

ODI #10597559POWER TRAIN

THE CAR WILL SOMETIMES SHIFT HARD. WHEN IT DOES THIS AND I PUT IT INTO DRIVE, THE TACH WILL GO UP AND THE ENGINE REVS, BUT THE CAR MOVES AT A SNAILS PACE. EVEN IF THE PEDAL IS TO THE FLOOR. IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AT THAT POINT AS I COULD NOT SAFELY MAKE A LEFT HAND TURN TO CROSS TRAFFIC. I WOULD LIKELY GET HIT BEFORE I COULD CLEAR THE INTERSECTION. I HAVE TO SHUT THE CAR ON AND OFF A FEW TIMES REMOVING THE KEY WHILE DOING THIS TO GET THE CAR TO RUN NORMAL AGAIN. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO KIA 3 TIMES FOR THIS PROBLEM AND THEY HAVE NOT FIXED IT. THEY SAID THEY COULD NOT REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM AND I SHOULD BRING IT IN WHEN THE CAR IS ACTING UP. BUT I LIVE ABOUT 50 MILES FROM THE NEAREST KIA DEALER, HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO DRIVE A CAR THAT WON'T GO OVER 5 MPH AND IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE? WHEN I TOOK IT IN LAST WEEK I WAS BASICALLY TOLD THEY HAD NOTHING TO GO ON SINCE THEY COULDN'T PULL A CODE FROM THE CAR AND I WAS OUT OF LUCK BECAUSE WHILE HE SUSPECTED HE KNEW WHAT SYSTEM WAS CAUSING THE ISSUE THEY WERE NOT GOING TO FIX IT BECAUSE THERE WAS NO CODE. AND MY WARRANTY WILL BE UP AT THE END OF THE MONTH. I HAVE RESEARCHED KIA REVIEWS AND HAVE SEEN A FEW PEOPLE WITH THE SAME YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL HAVE THE SAME ISSUES WITH THEIR CARS, AND SOME PEOPLE INDICATED IT WAS A TRANSMISSION ISSUE. I SHARED THIS WITH THE KIA SERVICEMAN AND HE DISMISSED THE INFORMATION SAYING THAT WAS HIGHLY UNLIKELY AS KIA MAKES SUPERIOR TRANSMISSIONS. I LATER FOUND OUT THAT I EVEN HAVE A FRIEND WHO HAD THIS SAME ISSUE WITH HER KIA AND ALSO HAD TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION. SO IT ACTUALLY KIND OF SOUNDS LIKE A COMMON PROBLEM TO ME. AS A SIDE NOTE, IT DID THIS WHILE IN PA ON VACATION. THE KIA DEALER LOOKED AT IT THERE, THEY SAID IT WAS A SENSOR UNDER THE PEDAL AND THEY REPLACED IT. BUT IT HAS DONE IT AGAIN SINCE THEY FIXED THAT PROBLEM. THE PART THAT WAS REPLACED IS PART OF THAT SYSTEM THE SERVICEMAN WAS REFERRING TO. *TR

ODI #10563790AIR BAGSCRASH1 INJURY

I WAS DRIVING ON BLACK TOP RD. IT HAD BEEN SLEETING THE KIA I WAS DRIVING VEERED OFF THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF RD. I WENT OFF IN DITCH HITTING A TREE HEAD ON MY AIR BAG DIDN'T DEPLOY I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY IS THIS NORMAL I DON'T THINK SO I THOUGHT THAT IS WHAT THEY WERE FOR MY INJURIES WERE SPRAINED WRIST & NECK & BACK & MY BREAST BONE HURTS I WAS DRIVING A 2009 KIA SORENTO LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR REPLY DOES THIS HAPPEN VERY OFTEN TO THIS MAKE OF VEHICLE? *TR

ODI #10548861POWER TRAIN

WHEN SHIFTING MY 2009 KIA SORENTO FROM P TO R, IT VIOLENTLY JOLTS INTO R AND THEN WHEN SHIFTING INTO D, IT HAS ALMOST NO POWER, AS IF I WERE DRIVING IN FIRST GEAR WITH A MANUAL TRANSMISSION (VEHICLE IS AUTOMATIC). AFTER A FEW MINUTES, IT WILL DRIVE NORMALLY UNTIL I STOP, THEN IT AGAIN IS VERY SLUGGISH WITH ALMOST NO POWER UNTIL IT "CATCHES". SOMETIMES IF I STOP THE CAR, PUT IT IN PARK AND SHUT IT OFF, THEN RESTART, IT WORKS FINE. THIS PROBLEM DOES NOT HAPPEN EVERY DAY, IT'S RANDOM BUT WHEN IT HAPPENS, IT IS VERY SCARY AND I AM NOW AFRAID OF DRIVING IT. EVERY TIME I START THE CAR, I GINGERLY SHIFT TO D OR R, WAITING FOR THE JOLT. I AM AFRAID IT'S GOING TO JERK BACKWARDS OUT OF CONTROL AND HIT SOMEONE/SOMETHING. IT HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR TWO YEARS NOW, OFF AND ON. DEALER SAID THEY CAN'T DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND "THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO UNTIL IT BREAKS". IN WHICH CASE MY WARRANTY WILL BE OVER AND THEY'LL CHARGE ME FOR A NEW TRANSMISSION. CALLED KIA AND THEY TOLD ME THE SAME THING BUT THEY OPENED A TICKET FOR MY PROBLEM. I KNOW BOTH KIA AND THE DEALERSHIP KNOWS WHAT THE PROBLEM IS BUT THEY ARE IGNORING IT. I HAVE DONE A LOT OF INTERNET RESEARCH REGARDING THIS PROBLEM AND SEE COMPLAINT AFTER COMPLAINT (INCLUDING THREE ON THIS SITE JUST FOR THE 2009 MODEL ALONE). I KNOW THE 2011 MODELS HAD SIMILAR PROBLEMS ALSO. IT'S VERY SAD BECAUSE I REALLY LIKE THE CAR BUT I'M TOO NERVOUS DRIVING IT NOW SO I'LL BE TRADING IT IN AND GOING BACK TO A CHEVY. *TR

ODI #10545234POWER TRAIN

RECENTLY BROUGHT MY 2009 KIA SORENTO TO THE DEALER ON 9/9/13. THE VEHICLE WAS BANGING INTO GEAR (WHETHER REVERSE OR DRIVE) AND IT WAS SLUGGISH WHEN ATTEMPTING TO DRIVE. IT WAS VERY SCARY TRYING TO MAKE A LEFT TURN WHILE CROSSING OVER ONCOMING TRAFFIC AS THE CAR WAS NOT GOING ANYWHERE WHEN TRYING TO DRIVE. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ALSO CAME ON. MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT SOMEHOW WAS NOT ON WHEN THEY TOOK POSSESSION OF THE VEHICLE.THE DEALERSHIP TOLD ME THEY COULDN'T DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THEN SENT ME ON MY WAY WITH NO RECOMMENDATIONS. NOW A WEEK LATER, 9/17/13, I CALLED THE DEALER AND REPORTED THE SAME INCIDENT AS BEFORE. THEY TOLD ME TO DRIVE IT TO THEM AND KEEP THE CAR RUNNING. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON AGAIN. AS THE TECH AT THE DEALER TOOK POSSESSION OF MY VEHICLE, YOU CAN HEAR IT BANG INTO GEAR AND HEAR THE RPM'S RACING AS THEY DROVE FORWARD. THE TECH ADVISED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE CODES WERE STORED HISTORY CODES. THEY ARE TO DO WITH THE TRANSMISSION. THIS TIME KIA ADVISES TO REPLACE THE TRANSMISSION. MEANWHILE, THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED DECEMBER OF 2011. KIA STILL HAS MY TRUCK AS I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE IT. I HAVE A CALL INTO KIA CUSTOMER SERVICE REGIONAL OFFICE. THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING PROBLEM FROM EARLY ON. I HAD BROUGHT THE VEHICLE IN ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS AND THE DEALERSHIP WOULD TELL ME THEY COULDN'T DUPLICATE MY PROBLEM. THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE! WHEN YOU PUT THE CAR INTO GEAR, THERE IS A LOUD BANGING SOUND (SOUNDS LIKE YOU WERE REAR ENDED). THEN WHEN YOU APPLY THE GAS PEDAL TO GO FORWARD, THE CAR GOES NOWHERE. THE RPMS RACE AND YOU ARE BARELY MOVING. AT OTHER TIMES, WHEN YOU SLOW DOWN IN TRAFFIC OR ARE STOPPED AT A LIGHT, AND ATTEMPT TO DRIVE, YOU BARELY MOVE AS THE RPM'S ARE RACING. THIS PROBLEM NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED! IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE!! *JS

ODI #10523457TIRES

DRIVING ON NYS THRUWAY AT 65 MPH. SIDEWALL BLEW OUT. NO PUNCTURES, GOOD TREAD AND PRESSURE. MY 3 YEAR ODL SON WAS IN THE CAR. REPLACED WITH FULL SIZE SPARE. *TR

ODI #10516089AIR BAGS

'PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF' LIGHT ON REPEATEDLY WITH A PASSENGER IN SEAT AND AFTER TURNING ENGINE OFF AND ON AND RE-POSITIONING OF PASSENGER MORE THAN 1 DOZEN TIMES! THIS VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED USED AS A REPLACEMENT VEHICLE, AFTER SURVIVING BEING HIT HEAD-ON, SEVERELY INJURED AND OUR VEHICLE DESTROYED. AIR BAGS HELPED SAVE OUR LIVES. THE SORENTO HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM SINCE DATE OF PURCHASE IN FEBRUARY 2010. WE HAVE REPEATEDLY TALKED TO KIA HEADQUARTERS AND DEALERSHIPS REGARDING THIS PROBLEM. NORMAL PASSENGER IS MUCH HEAVIER THAN 120 LB "GRAY AREA" NOTED TO AFFECT ACTIVATION. ONE DEALERSHIP PRINTED A READOUT "PROVING" USUAL PASSENGER "SITS LIGHT" - ADVISED ADJUSTING SITTING POSITION. YESTERDAY TEMPS IN AZ EXCEEDED 110 DEGREES AND THE PROBLEM WAS SEVERE. THE LIGHT CAME ON WHEN VEHICLE WAS STARTED, WOULD GO OFF AND COME BACK ON AS SOON AS THE SHIFTING LEVER WAS MOVED. THE PASSENGER LIFTED AND READJUSTED EACH TIME TO NO AVAIL. THIS PROCESS WAS REPEATED EACH TIME THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED. OFTEN THE LIGHT COMES ON WHEN SHIFTING INTO REVERSE TO EXIT DRIVEWAY OR PARKING PLACE, WITH NO MOVEMENT FROM PASSENGER. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD!! MUST SOMEONE DIE BEFORE KIA CORRECTS THIS PROBLEM?!?! (AIR BAG SHOULD ALWAYS BE ACTIVATED!!!!!) KIA SHOULD BE MANDATED TO FIX THIS LIFE THREATENING PROBLEM BEFORE FATALITIES OCCUR!!!!!!!! CORRECTION OF THIS PROBLEM IS SURELY LESS EXPENSIVE THAN LAWSUITS FOR INJURIES/DEATHS CAUSED BY INACTIVE AIR BAGS! *TR

ODI #10512541ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

I WAS DRIVING ALONG A STATE HIGHWAY WHEN MY CAR SUDDENLY LOST POWER. "ESC OFF" LITE UP ON THE DASH AS DID AN ANTI LOCK BRAKE LIGHT. I WAS ABLE TO COAST TO A SAFE PLACE ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. I SHUT THE CAR OFF AND TRIED TO RESTART IT TWICE WITH NO RETURN OF THE POWER. THE ENGINE WOULD RUN BUT DID NOT RESPOND TO THE ACCELERATOR. I SHUT THE CAR OFF AND CALLED FOR A TOW. WHEN THEY ARRIVED 45 MINS LATER HE STARTED THE CAR AND IT WORKED FINE EXCEPT THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. I WAS THEN ABLE TO DRIVE THE CAR HOME. I HAD A MECHANIC CHECK THE CAR AND WAS TOLD ALL HE COULD FIND WAS A CODE THAT INDICATED THERE HAD BEEN SOME PROBLEM WITH THE ESC AND THAT THAT PROBLEM HAD SHUT THE GAS OFF TO THE ENGINE. HE RESET THE SYSTEM AND EVERYTHING SEEMED FINE FOR 5 DAYS OR ABOUT 260 MILES. THEN IT OCCURRED AGAIN IN A SITUATION OF INCREASED TRAFFIC. I WAS AGAIN ABLE TO SAFELY GET OFF THE ROAD AND AFTER WAITING ABOUT 10 MINS WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE CAR AND DRIVE HOME. I AM VERY CONCERNED THAT IF THIS OCCURRED AT A HIGHER SPEED I WOULD END UP IN AN ACCIDENT. I HAVE AN APPOINTMENT WITH THE KIA DEALER NEXT WEEK, BUT WILL BE DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE TO GET MY CAR TO THEM. IT APPEARS THERE HAVE BEEN OTHERS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. PLEASE ADVISE ME IF YOU ARE INVESTIGATING THIS PROBLEM. *TR

ODI #10508480ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)

WHEN MERGING ONTO THE INTERSTATE (INCREASING SPEED FROM 25MPH AND UP) VEHICLE SUDDENLY STOPS AND DOESN'T ALLOW ME TO ACCELERATE AND THE ESC OFF ILLUMINATES ON THE DASH AS WELL AS THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. IN ORDER TO OPERATE THE VEHICLE I HAVE TO MOVE OFF OF THE HWY INTO THE EMERGENCY LANE, PUT ON MY FLASHERS, TURN OFF THE VEHICLE, RESTART THE VEHICLE, AND PRESS THE ESC OFF BUTTON. THE VEHICLE THEN STARTS AND I SLOWLY MERGE BACK ONTO THE HWY CAUTIOUS NOT TO ACCELERATE TOO QUICKLY AS THE ENTIRE PROCESS WOULD OCCUR AGAIN. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AS IT OCCURS WHEN AN INCREASE IN SPEED IS NEEDED AND IT NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. I HAVE TAKEN MY VEHICLE IN TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP, THEY 'TIGHTENED SOME WIRES" AND LITERALLY THE NEXT DAY IT OCCURRED AGAIN. *TR

ODI #10462481POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

UPON STARTING THE 2009 KIA SORRENTO ONE DAY, I SHIFTED TO REVERSE AND NOTICED A VIOLENT JERK WITH A LOUD POPPING SOUND. UPON PUTTING IT INTO DRIVE, THE CAR WOULD BARELY ACCELERATE BUT THE ENGINE WOULD STILL REV WHEN PRESSING DOWN ON THE GAS PEDAL. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON BUT LATER WENT AWAY. THE DEALERSHIP HAS SEEN THE CAR MULTIPLE TIMES AND OUR SERVICE ADVISOR GARY DAWSON IN HOUSTON, TX SAYS THEY CANNOT REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM OR FIND ANY FAULT CODES (EVEN THOUGH WE PROVIDED THE CODE PULLED FROM AUTOZONE THE PREVIOUS DAY). CODES SAID THE TRANSAXLE AND HIGH/LOW SOLENOID WERE THE PROBLEMS. THE CAR IS IN THEIR POSSESSION NOW BUT AFTER A QUICK TALK WITH OUR SERVICE ADVISOR I HIGHLY DOUBT THEY WILL BE FIXING ANYTHING. A QUICK GOOGLE SEARCH SHOWS ALMOST ALL 2005+ SORRENTOS HAVE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS. PLEASE DO SOMETHING ABOUT KIA AND KEEP THEM IN CHECK. *JS

ODI #10442300AIR BAGS

AFTER NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS TO HAVE PROBLEM FIXED, KIA STATES THAT IT IS NORMAL THAT THE PASSENGER AIR BAG SENSOR DOES NOT ALWAYS DETECT PERSON ON SEAT. WHAT BS!!! NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ON THIS ISSUE. WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO GET A RECALL? SOMEONE DYING? OR MULTIPLE? *TR

ODI #10424514POWER TRAIN

WHILE DECENDING A MOUNTIAN PASS IN COLORADO WITH THE VEHICLE IN 4WD-LOW RANGE AND THE SHIFT SELECTOR IN THE SPORT MODE THE TRANSMISSION WOULD UP-SHIFT AT ABOUT 3200 RPM CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO GAIN SPEED VERY QUICKLY AND REQUIRING THE CONSTANT APPLICATION OF BRAKES WHICH CAUSES THE BRAKES TO OVER HEAT. THE OWNERS MANUAL CLEARLY STATES THAT THIS IS AN APPROVED USE OF THE VEHICLE AND THAT THE TRANSMISSION SHOULD NOT SHIFT UNTIL THE RED-ZONE (APPROX 6000 RPM). I CONTACTED KIA CUSTOMER SERVICE IN NOVEMBER OF 2009 AND HAVE HAD SEVERAL CONVERSATIONS WITH KIA'S CUSTOMER SERVICE AND MR RICHARD PULRIDIA WHITH KIA SERVICE HAS EVALUATED THE VEHICLE AND FILED A REPORT WITH KIA ENGINEERING IN MAY 2011. I TALKED TO MR PULRIDA THIS WEEK AND HE HAS NOT RECEIVED ANY INFORMATION TO DATE AND HAS NO IDEA WHEN OR IF ANY ACTION WILL BE TAKEN TO CORRECT THIS UNSAFE CONDITION. I BELIEVE THIS OPERATION IS UNSAVE BECAUSE IT CAUSES QUICK ACCELLERATION TO UNSAFE SPEEDS WHIN IN A STEEP DECENT. *TR

ODI #10406887POWER TRAIN

2009 KIA SORENTO WITH TRANSMISSION/DRIVELINE ISSUES. DEALERSHIP HAS HAD NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS TO CORRECT AND STATES "NORMAL FOR THIS VEHICLE." VEHICLE CLUNKS, POPS, JOLTS, AND JERKS WHEN IN OPERATION REGARDLESS OF TIME OF DAY, TEMP, ETC. STARTED IN MAY 2010 AND CONTINUES PRESENTLY WHICH IS JUNE 2011. *TR

ODI #10393470SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

EXPERIENCING VIBRATION IN BRAKES CAUSED BY WARPED ROTORS. THIS IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY BECAUSE DEALER SAID BRAKES WERE USED TO SLOW DOWN VEHICLE WHILE GOING DOWNHILL ON MOUNTAIN ROADS. VEHICLE IS NOT USED MUCH IN MOUNTAINS, MOSTLY STOP-AND-GO CITY TRAFFIC. IF THIS VEHICLE CANNOT WITHSTAND THIS TYPE OF USE, IT IS NOT SAFE FOR USE ON AMERICAN ROADS. KIA APPARENTLY USES UNDER DESIGNED, INADEQUATE MATERIALS AND THEN EXCLUDES THESE PARTS FROM THEIR SHAM OF A WARRANTY.

ODI #10391028AIR BAGS

VEHICLE HAS HAS REPEATED ISSUES WITH PASSENGER AIR BAG SENSOR NOT RECOGNIZING 120 LB. FEMALE PASSENGER. TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALER (FISHER KIA IN BOULDER, CO) AND WAS TOLD AIR BAG HAD A "GRAY AREA" BETWEEN 80-120 LBS WHERE IT MAY NOT ACTIVATE PROPERLY. I FIND THIS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE AND FEEL UNSAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE WITH PASSENGER AIRBAG DEACTIVATED WITH MY WIFE IN PASSENGER SEAT.

ODI #10375748AIR BAGS

2009 KIA SORENTO. CONSUMER STATES THAT PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG LIGHT INDICATED THE AIRBAG WAS DISABLED. THE DEALER TOLD CONSUMER THAT HIS WIFE DIDN'T WEIGH ENOUGH FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM TO REGISTER. *KB

ODI #10365864POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS

I HAVE 2 COMPLAINTS. 1) I HAVE COMPLAINED ABOUT THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG NOT COMING ON WHEN AN ADULT IS SEATED IN IT. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO 2 DIFFERENT KIA SHOPS 5 TIMES SINCE 1200 MILES AND WAS TOLD IT IS OPERATING NORMAL. NORMAL IS WHEN AN ADULT SITS IN IT, NOT WHEN YOU PLACE A PURSE ON THE SEAT OR WHENEVER IT DECIDES TO WORK. I AM FOLLOWING THE MANUAL AND STILL NO SATISFACTION WITH REPAIR. 2) AT 1200 MILES I ALSO COMPLAINED THAT THE CAR WOULD BUCK, STICK IN 3RD GEAR, AND NOT SHIFT TILL IT RED LINES. THIS DOES NOT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME AND I WAS TOLD BY KIA THAT UNLESS THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT COMES ON THEY CAN NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. EVEN AFTER THE #1 REPAIR TECH IN THE WORLD FOR KIA EXPERIENCED THE NOT SHIFTING TILL IT RED LINES FOR HIMSELF. I WAS TOLD THE ONLY THING THEY COULD DO IS REPROGRAM THE COMPUTER. THEY HAVE REPROGRAMMED IT 4 TIMES THE PROBLEM IS STILL THERE. I HAVE 22 REPAIR INVOICES FOR THIS CAR SINCE I PURCHASED IT. I AM FIGHTING ON A DAILY BASIS WITH KIA TO REPAIR THIS CAR. IT IS A SHAME TO SAY BUT I FEEL SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET HURT OR WORST KILLED BEFORE KIA FIXES THESE ISSUES! *TR

ODI #10360991AIR BAGS

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHEN SOMEONE WAS SEATED IN THE PASSENGER SEAT AND WOULD NOT TURN OFF UNTIL THE VEHICLE WAS SHUT OFF. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO ADVISED HIM TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR A REPAIR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALERSHIP WHERE THE AIR BAG SENSOR WAS REPLACED BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED SUCCESSFULLY. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 9,000. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,253.

ODI #10355800ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

KIA SORENTO DOORS LOCKS DO NOT WORK FROM INTERIOR SWITCH OR KEY REMOTE CONTROL, THE DEALER JUST CHANGE A FUSE FROM THE FUSE HOLDERS, BUT FUSE POPPING DUE TO SHORT SOMEWHERE, MAIN CONCERN DRIVING THE CAR LIKE THAT IT COULD CAUSE A BIG SHORT INSIDE THE CAR, AND AFTER THE 5TH. TIME IN THE SHOP THEY CAN NOT FIND WHAT IS CAUSING THE PROBLEM , BECAUSE THEY JUST CHANGE THE FUSE. LIKE I SAID THE HAPPEN FIVE TIMES IN A MONTH . AND I HAVE TO DRIVE THE CAR LIKE THAT WITH MY LITTLE DAUGHTER , BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE ANOTHER OPTION ,BECAUSE THE PEOPLE ON THE DEALER SHOP CAN NOT DO ANYTHING . *TR

ODI #10347484AIR BAGS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THE PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE CONSOLE WITH THE PASSENGER SEAT OCCUPIED. THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE AIR BAG SENSOR WAS DEFECTIVE. THE DEALER MADE REPAIRS TO THE SENSOR YET THE FAILURE PERSISTED SPORADICALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE AUTHORIZED DEALER WHERE AN INVESTIGATOR FROM THE MANUFACTURER EXAMINED THE VEHICLE AND STATED THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING AS NORMAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE CONTINUED TO RECUR INTERMITTENTLY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 6,920.

ODI #10321575AIR BAGS

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 KIA SORENTO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE PASSENGER SEAT WAS OCCUPIED BY AN ADULT, THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT INDICATED THAT THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG WAS OFF. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PASSENGER WAS SEATED IN THE VEHICLE INCORRECTLY AND COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE MANUFACTURER DID NOT WANT TO ADMIT FAULT TO THE FAILURE AND WAS CONCERNED WITH THE OVERALL SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE. IF INVOLVED IN A CRASH, THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THE AIR BAGS WOULD NOT DEPLOY. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 700 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. UPDATED 05/11/10.*LJ

ODI #10319301STRUCTURE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

2011 KIA SORENTO, CHROME BEZEL ON INSTRUMENT PANEL REFLECTS SUN LIGHT AND STREET LIGHTS INTENSE ENOUGH TO CAUSE TEMP BLINDING FLASH. CONTACT KIA VEHICLE IS NEW AND NO OTHER COMPLAINTS HAVE BEEN FILED. *TR

ODI #10314369AIR BAGS

2009 KIA SORENTO. CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE DOES NOT PROTECT THE FRONT PASSENGER IF THE WEIGHT IS LESS THAN 120 POUNDS. *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE PANEL READ PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF. *JB

ODI #10308610POWER TRAIN

2011 KIA SORENTO; RENTAL VEHICLE FROM NATIONAL RENTAL. CRUISING AT 65 MPH AND CAR BEGAN TO VIOLENTLY JERK CAUSING PARTIAL LOSS OF CONTROL. MADE POPPING SOUNDS, AND SMOKE CAME OUT REAR OF VEHICLE. CAR BARELY MOVED AND HAD TO BE TOWED FROM SCENE. DURING INCIDENT, VEHICLE WAS VERY HARD TO KEEP UNDER CONTROL AND IN DESIGNATED TRAFFIC LANE. NATIONAL RENTAL SENT A TOW TRUCK AND A REPLACEMENT VEHICLE. THIS KIA HAD 62 MILES ON IT AT TIME OF FAILURE. TOW DRIVER THOUGHT IT WAS A TRANSMISSION FAILURE. THIS INCIDENT NEARLY CAUSED ME TO TOTALLY LOOSE CONTROL OF VEHICLE AND CRASH. I CONSIDER MYSELF VERY LUCKY TO GET CAR STOPPED BEFORE HAVING AN ACCIDENT. ALL I HAVE IS LAST DIGITS OF VIN TAKEN FROM RENTAL PAPERWORK. *TR

ODI #10293999AIR BAGS,SEATS

WE HAVE BEEN HAVING A PROBLEM WITH THE OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM ON OUR 2008 KIA SORENTO. THE SYSTEM IS DEACTIVATED WHEN THERE IS AN ADULT PASSENGER IN THE FRONT SEAT.. THE CAR HAS BEEN IN FOR REPAIR FOUR TIMES. THE PASSENGER SEAT HAS BEEN REPLACED AND THE COMPUTER HAS BEEN REPROGRAMMED. AT THIS TIME THE DEALER HAS INFORMED US THAT KIA TECH LINE HAS DETERMINED THAT THE SYSTEM IS WORKING AS DESIGNED AND THERE ARE NO FURTHER REPAIRS THAT CAN BE PERFORMED. WE HAVE FOLLOWED ALL PROCEDURES OUTLINED IN THE OWNERS MANUAL AND STILL THE SYSTEM DOES NOT ACCURATELY REGISTER A PASSENGER IN THE SEAT. WITH THE "PASSENGER AIR BAG LIGHT OFF" LIT, THE AIR BAG WILL NOT DEPLOY AND PROTECT THE PASSENGER IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT. *TR

ODI #10293703AIR BAGS

I BOUGHT A USED 2009 SORENTO KIA AND WHEN MY WIFE WAS SEATED ON THE PASSENGER SEAT THE PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF SIGN WAS ON. THE LIGHT COMES OFF/ON RANDOMLY WHEN A PASSENGER IS ON THE SEAT. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE MECHANIC AND THEY COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG, BUT THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. *TR

ODI #10276722AIR BAGS

SINCE JANUARY 2009 WE HAVE BEEN FIGHTING WITH KIA MOTORS BECAUSE MY PASSENGER AIRBAG LIGHT WILL NOT ACTIVATE WHEN SOMEONE IS SEATED IN THE SEAT. ALL KIA HAS DONE IS UPDATE THE VEHICLES COMPUTER SYSTEM, WHICH HASN'T WORKED. THEY HAVE ISSUED A SAFETY RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM, BUT THEY REFUSE TO FIX IT SAYING THAT THE VEHICLE IS OPERATING AS IT WAS DESIGNED TO DO. MY PROBLEM IS THAT MY VEHICLE IS NOW UNSAFE FOR ME TO DRIVE WITH A PASSENGER. I HAVE BROUGHT MY VEHICLE TO THEM 12 TIMES ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU HAS TOLD ME THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO FOR ME, EVEN THOUGH IT IS UNDER WARRANTY. KIA HAS OFFERED ME $1500.00 TO GO AWAY. I REFUSED. I WANT THIS SAFETY ISSUE FIXED. *TR

HighABS issue detected

Loss of brake assist and ABS in emergency — can significantly extend stopping distances

HighTRANSMISSION issue detected

Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable

HighDEF issue detected

Engine derate or no-start condition — DEF system failure puts vehicle into limp mode limiting speed to 5mph

Annual complaints and reliability score for KIA Sorento — recall years marked in red
048050100201120132009201120132015201720192021202320252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Recall issued
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 55 total NHTSA complaints filed over 18 years, with the worst year being 2010 (8 complaints).

The amber reliability line shows an improving trend — scores have risen from the earlier years toward 91/100 more recently, suggesting the most serious issues are older and may have been addressed through repairs or recalls.

The recalls (red dashed lines) followed the first complaints by 2 years — a typical response window; neither unusually fast nor a pattern of denial.

Red dots on the amber line flag 2 years (2014, 2015) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$50,614
~$844/mo over 5 yrs
$0.2/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$25,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$5,114

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $50,614 (~$844/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

3 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,500
2 recalls over 2 years old — likely uncompleted−$800
Total recommended deduction−$2,300
HIGH
Inspect for abs issue detected — ask for repair records
Loss of brake assist and ABS in emergency — can significantly extend stopping distances
HIGH
Inspect for transmission issue detected — ask for repair records
Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
HIGH
Inspect for def issue detected — ask for repair records
Engine derate or no-start condition — DEF system failure puts vehicle into limp mode limiting speed to 5mph
HIGH
Verify recall ELECTRICAL SYSTEM has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2006-2010 Sedona and 2007-2009 Sorento vehicles. Moisture may enter the A
HIGH
Verify recall EQUIPMENT has been repaired
Recall on record for: CURT MANUFACTURING IS RECALLING CERTAIN TOW PACKAGE WIRING HARNESSES, PART NUMBER 56024, THAT CONNECT TOW VEHICLE LIGHTI
HIGH
Verify recall EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and S
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
5%
18-month
10%
2-year
Low Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 10%

5% baseline recall probability — no strong indicators of an imminent recall.

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$1,270–$1,620/yr
~$106–$135/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
17-year-old vehicle: −28% (lower ACV reduces comprehensive/collision cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

KIA has been fined $27M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2020: Failure to promptly conduct recalls for Theta II engine defect.

2020$27MFailure to promptly conduct recalls for Theta II engine defect

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VINKNAJC524595899291
Model Year2009
MakeKIA
ModelSorento
TrimBL
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR

Body & Configuration

Body StyleWagon
Doors4
Drive Type4WD/4-Wheel Drive/4x4
Fuel TypeGasoline

Manufacturer

ManufacturerKIA CORPORATION
Assembly CityHWASUNG
Assembly CountrySOUTH KOREA

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)KNA
Check Digit (Char 9)5
Model Year Code (Char 10)9
Plant Code (Char 11)5
Sequence (Chars 12–17)899291

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count3
NHTSA Complaint Count55
K
1
N
2
A
3
J
4
C
5
5
6
2
7
4
8
5
9
9
10
5
11
8
12
9
13
9
14
2
15
9
16
1
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
K
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
N
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
A
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
JC524
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
5
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
9
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
5
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
899291
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
South Korea
From VIN position 1 (K)
Model Year Character
"9" → 2009
Unambiguous model year
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✗ Invalid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 4/17/2026, 9:03:06 AM.