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2018 Kia Sorento: common problems and reliability
One of the weaker Sorento years.
254 owner complaints, most about engine. 3 recalls.
Should I buy a 2018 Sorento?The 2018 Kia Sorento has 254 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are engine and exterior lighting.
Safety record for the 2018 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Sorento years only. How we score it
Is 2018 a good year for the Sorento?
Across the 24 Sorento model years we track, complaint volume runs from 3 (2010) to 1,517 (2011). With 254 complaints, the 2018 Sorento sits about the same as the model's median of 242.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2018 Sorento
steering:electric power assist system
Campaign 18V656000Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
air bags:side/window
Campaign 17V784000Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.
trailer hitches
Campaign 22V703000Kia 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 owners say across generations
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.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Sorento. See the full Sorento owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Sorento listings typically run $15,098–$28,908.
Other Sorento model years
Compare every Sorento year side by side to see how 2018 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Sorento against its rivals
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