Avoid: 2017, 2016, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2021
21 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 24 model years, the Kia Sorento has 10,089 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 83 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and electrical system. 2011 drew the most complaints (1,517), 2010 the fewest of the years on the road 3+ years (3).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Kia Sorento vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $15,098–$28,908.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 6 |
| 2025 | 127 |
| 2024 | 49 |
| 2023 | 157 |
| 2022 | 223 |
| 2021 | 38 |
| 2020 | 135 |
| 2019 | 426 |
| 2018 | 254 |
| 2017 | 804 |
| 2016 | 1,250 |
| 2015 | 750 |
| 2014 | 986 |
| 2013 | 981 |
| 2012 | 880 |
| 2011 | 1,517 |
| 2010 | 3 |
| 2009 | 55 |
| 2008 | 217 |
| 2007 | 154 |
| 2006 | 242 |
| 2005 | 307 |
| 2004 | 220 |
| 2003 | 308 |
Highest: 2011 (1,517 complaints). Lowest: 2010 (3).
Sentiment is sharply divided and heavily dependent on model year, powertrain, and owner expectations. For newer models (2023-2026), feedback is often positive regarding value, interior comfort, ride quality, feature content, and hybrid fuel economy.
Multiple reports of complete transmission replacements, with one owner citing three new transmissions in a 2024 model within 14 months. Clunky shifting and concerns over Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) reliability are mentioned.
Reports of engines (including non-recalled engines) failing and requiring replacement, sometimes under 100,000 miles, with repair costs around $6,000.
The shared touch-sensitive strip for media and climate controls is universally panned. Owners report it requires taking eyes off the road, lacks tactile feedback, is difficult to see in daylight, and is prone to accidental activation.
A strong, recurring theme that vehicles may be designed to have significant issues after the warranty expires (~100,000 miles), with advice to sell before 70-80,000 miles. Perceived as less durable than Toyota/Honda counterparts.
The third row is consistently described as suitable only for children or occasional use by teens/young adults, not for full-sized adults on long trips.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Sorento. Individual model years are broken down above.
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