2011 Kia Borrego

The 2011 Kia Borrego is a mid-size SUV offered with a choice of two engines and two transmissions: a 3.8L V6 producing 276 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission, and a 4.6L V8 producing 319 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Borrego was praised for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and comfortable ride, but criticized for its fuel economy and lack of modern features.

Engine

3.8L V6

• Intake manifold failure: The plastic intake manifold can crack, causing a loss of engine power and rough idle. Solution: Replace the intake manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip and result in catastrophic engine damage. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Oil leaks: The engine may develop oil leaks from the oil pan gasket, valve cover gaskets, or rear main seal. Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Knock sensor failure: The knock sensors can fail, causing the engine to run poorly and potentially damage the pistons and valves. Solution: Replace the knock sensors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Camshaft position sensor failure: The camshaft position sensor can fail, causing the engine to stall or run erratically. Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

4.6L V8

• Intake manifold runner failure: The intake manifold runners can fail, causing a loss of engine power and rough idle. Solution: Replace the intake manifold runners. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Valve stem seal failure: The valve stem seals can fail, causing the engine to burn oil and smoke. Solution: Replace the valve stem seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Oil leaks: The engine may develop oil leaks from the oil pan gasket, valve cover gaskets, or rear main seal. Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Knock sensor failure: The knock sensors can fail, causing the engine to run poorly and potentially damage the pistons and valves. Solution: Replace the knock sensors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Mass airflow sensor failure: The mass airflow sensor can fail, causing the engine to run rich or lean and affect performance. Solution: Replace the mass airflow sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Transmission

5-speed Automatic

• Transmission shudder: The transmission may shudder or vibrate during acceleration or shifting. Solution: Replace the torque converter or transmission solenoids. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
• Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip or fail to engage gears. Solution: Replace the transmission or rebuild it. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
• Transmission fluid leaks: The transmission may develop fluid leaks from the pan, lines, or seals. Solution: Replace the leaking seals or gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

6-speed Automatic

• Torque converter shudder: The torque converter may shudder or vibrate during acceleration or shifting. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Transmission fluid leaks: The transmission may develop fluid leaks from the pan, lines, or seals. Solution: Replace the leaking seals or gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Suspension

• Strut failure: The front or rear struts may fail, causing the vehicle to ride harshly and handle poorly. Solution: Replace the struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Control arm failure: The control arms may fail, causing the vehicle to pull to one side or drift when braking. Solution: Replace the control arms. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Sway bar link failure: The sway bar links may fail, causing the vehicle to roll excessively and handle poorly. Solution: Replace the sway bar links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Electrical

• Headlight switch failure: The headlight switch may fail, causing the headlights to not turn on or to turn off intermittently. Solution: Replace the headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Battery failure: The battery may fail prematurely, leaving the vehicle stranded. Solution: Replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail, preventing the battery from charging and leaving the vehicle stranded. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+

Exterior

• Fog light condensation: The fog lights may accumulate condensation inside them. Solution: Replace the fog lights. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Seat adjustment switch failure: The seat adjustment switch may fail, preventing the driver or passenger from adjusting the seat. Solution: Replace the seat adjustment switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• HVAC system failure: The HVAC system may fail to blow air or heat, or may only blow air or heat on one side of the vehicle. Solution: Diagnose and repair the HVAC system. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
• Windshield washer pump failure: The windshield washer pump may fail, preventing the windshield from being cleaned. Solution: Replace the windshield washer pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• Dashboard condensation: The dashboard may accumulate condensation inside it. Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dehumidifier. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Summary

The 2011 Kia Borrego has its share of potential issues, including serious engine and transmission problems. The severity and cost of these issues can be significant, especially for the V8 engine and the 6-speed automatic transmission. While the Borrego offers spaciousness, power, and comfort, it is important to consider the potential expenses associated with maintaining and repairing this vehicle before purchasing one.