2007 Kia Sorento

The 2007 Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV that offered a comfortable ride and a decent amount of space for its class. Engine options included a 3.3L V6 engine producing 242 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.8L V6 engine producing 263 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were typically paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Sorento’s value for the money and its off-road capability, but some common complaints include mediocre fuel economy and some reliability concerns.

Engine

3.3L V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear of the timing chain, leading to a rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Can lead to engine misfires and eventually engine failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from valve cover gaskets and/or the oil pan gasket. Burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, especially when warm. Difficulty starting the engine. Check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from valve cover gaskets and/or the oil pan gasket. Burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeably hard or jerky shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Could be caused by a faulty shift solenoid, low transmission fluid, or a worn transmission. Repair can range from a fluid change and solenoid replacement to a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (Fluid Change) - $300 (Solenoid) - $2000+ (Rebuild/Replace)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at highway speeds, especially when accelerating or going uphill. Can also manifest as poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo. Can lead to a rougher ride and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints and Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (per corner)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminating on the dashboard. ABS system may not function properly, or may activate unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow or no engine crank, battery light illuminating on the dashboard, eventually leading to a dead battery.
  • Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on body panels, especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and door seams.
  • Solution: Rust repair and paint. Depending on severity, this can range from minor spot repairs to panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity and location)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not moving up or down, or moving very slowly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found
• AC Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air.
  • Solution: Replacement of the AC compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Kia Sorento, while offering decent value and capabilities, suffers from a range of issues. Engine problems like timing chain and oil leaks, along with transmission concerns such as harsh shifting and torque converter issues, are common. Suspension wear and electrical faults add to the potential repair costs. Interior issues with power windows and AC compressors also crop up. The severity of these problems ranges from relatively minor fixes to more substantial repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase.