Kia Sorento Years to Avoid: What You Should Know Before Buying
Since 2003, the Kia Sorento, a midsize SUV, has dominated the market as it is perfect for families. You get third-row seating, a spacious interior, and advanced technology, all at a fair price with a Sorento. The quality of each model year varies; not all models are reliable. In this article, we will see some of the Kia Sorento years to avoid having expensive repairs and issues with its reliability.
A Quick Look at Kia Sorento Years to Avoid
Here are the years of the Kia Sorento that are not recommended to buy
- 2004
- 2006
- 2011
- 2012
- 2013
- 2014
- 2016
During these years, people have experienced engine issues, electrical problems, problems with airbags, and other issues. Now, let’s explore in more detail what the problems were during these years.
Guide to Kia Sorento Years to Avoid
If you want to buy a Kia Sorento, here are the models not worth considering:
First Generation Trouble Spots (2004 and 2006)
Early models of the Sorento may have impressed with their charm, but they also dealt with a lot of mechanical problems, and it was especially true for the 2004 and 2006 editions.
Many people faced head gasket leaks, problems with the electrical system, and a sensitive check engine light in their 2004 Sorentos. Some motorists experienced serious engine difficulties even after reaching 70,000 miles.
By 2006, people hadn’t seen much improvement. Many times, the engine would develop serious rod knock that needed to be rebuilt. Having a hard-to-use latch and worn-out suspension were both annoyances to the owner.
The Second Generation Sorento (2011–2014)
The company launched the second generation with major changes in 2011. Making the Sorento’s chassis a unibody gave it improved handling and reduced fuel use. But in the early years of the redesign, from 2011 to 2014, there were serious problems.
During 2011, it faced the most serious issues. Many people view the 2011 model year as the most troublesome Sorento ever produced. Common problems mentioned by users are:
- The engine died beyond the normal 70,000-mile range.
- Problems related to airbags and seatbelts
- They cannot open the door from the outside.
- Brake systems that are not working correctly
Replacing an engine on average costs around $4,600, which is why most choose not to buy them.
2012 to 2014 – Ongoing powertrain and electrical problems.
Although these years didn’t reach the terrible heights of 2011, they didn’t improve much either. Quite a few 2012 and 2013 Sorentos experienced high rates of oil consumption, resulting in the engine stalling sometimes. Bad soldering on the electrical panels meant that the doors, lights, and infotainment system could all break.
In 2014, some V6 models received complaints for timing chain and oil leak problems, in addition to the existing issues.
Setback for the Third Generation – Sorentos of 2016
The third model of the Sorento included a new, attractive body style and better functions. Even though the new Sorento appeared in 2016, it still carried over many of its predecessor’s early weaknesses.
Many people have experienced common problems with the 2016 model.
- A failure of the engine caused by problems with rod bearings
- An ABS module failure
- Quickly worn steering and suspension
- A rodent can actually cause wiring damage.
Some owners found that engine issues stopped their vehicle at under 60,000 miles, and the fix could be far more than $6,000.
Kia Sorento Years to Avoid and Their Major Issues – Overview
Here is the quick overview of Kia Sorento years to avoid:
| Model Year | Common Problems | Estimated Repair Cost |
| 2004 | Head gasket failure, electrical faults | $2,000–$3,500 |
| 2006 | Rod knock, door latch issues | $1,200–$2,800 |
| 2011 | Engine failure, airbag faults, and door lock problems | $4,000–$6,500 |
| 2012 | Excessive oil consumption, wiring faults | $2,500–$4,000 |
| 2013 | Engine stalling, transmission faults | $3,000–$5,000 |
| 2014 | Timing chain issues, oil leaks | $2,800–$4,500 |
| 2016 | Engine breakdown, ABS failure, rodent-damaged wiring | $2,000–$6,100 |
Common Issues Found in Kia Sorento Models
Even when it’s not one of the worst years, the Kia Sorento still faces some usual issues. Let’s take a quick tour of the common issues reported by people from different generations.
- Engine Failure: For the most part, engine failure occurs in 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2016 models because the head gasket allows coolant and oil to mix. The result? Services that include complete engine replacement or rebuilding.
- Transmission Problems: People have faced humming noises, slipping gears, and total transmission failure, mainly on models with the 2.4L engine. There’s a clear difference again in the 2011 model year.
- Faults with electrical control and door operations: Doors with latches that stick and lights that won’t work have been problems for several years, along with other control panel issues. While they don’t always get in the way of driving, they get costly.
- Faulty Air Conditioning and Heating: In first- and second-generation models, owners have routinely complained about compressor and heater core issues. Often, inoperative compressors are caused by clutch problems or leaks in the refrigerant.
Safer Sorento Years to Buy
If you want a Kia Sorento but want to miss the hassle, these models should be on your list, according to NHTSA and reviews:
- During 2007, 2008, and 2009.
- 2010
- 2015
- The years 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020.
- 2022 (third-generation model)
These models see relatively fewer complaints and haven’t experienced the engine and electrical issues reported during the same period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs about Kia Sorento Years To Avoid:
Experts agree that 2011 models have problems with their engines, airbags, and transmissions, making them the least reliable year.
No. The 2.4L and 3.3L engines had most of their problems during 2011–2014 and 2016. The latter types started working much better as of 2017.
The problem was an engine malfunction. In recent years, repairs on 2011 and 2016 Sorentos often surpassed $5,000.
Yes, as long as you stay away from those years. Manufacturers have produced safe and reliable cars since 2017.
Because cars are priced differently, expect to pay about $9,500 for one from 2011 and at least $25,000 for one from 2020, depending on the condition.
Bottom Line
Kia Sorento is a comfortable, luxurious, and stylish car for families and personal use, but there are some years to avoid, including 2004, 2006, 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014. These models are not as reliable as 2010, 2015, 2017, and other latest models. The first Kia Sorento years to avoid have engine and electrical system issues.
If you get a car made in 2010, 2015, or after 2017, you can expect your drive to be more dependable and enjoyable. Every time you are considering a purchase, check if the vehicle has any pending recalls and check its history for service work.
