2013 Kia Sorento

Introduction to the 2013 Kia Sorento

The 2013 Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that offers both a comfortable ride and a spacious interior. It is available with a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.3-liter V6 that generates 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Sorento is praised for its roomy cabin, user-friendly infotainment system, and affordable price. However, it also has some drawbacks, such as a lack of power with the four-cylinder engine and a firm suspension that can lead to a rough ride on bumpy roads.

Engine Issues

2.4-liter four-cylinder engine

• Engine misfire
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may experience rough idling, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption.
  • Solution: Replace faulty spark plugs or ignition coils.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain may stretch or break, resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, sprockets, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3-liter V6 engine

• Oil leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil may leak from the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission Issues

Six-speed automatic transmission

• Transmission slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip when shifting gears, especially when accelerating or climbing hills.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift solenoid problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may fail to shift gears or may shift erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty shift solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension Issues

• Strut mounts failing
  • Description/Symptoms: The suspension may make a clunking noise when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Replace the worn strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle may sag, especially when loaded with passengers or cargo.
  • Solution: Replace the rear springs or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical Issues

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain quickly, even when the vehicle is not being used.
  • Solution: Diagnose the electrical system to identify the faulty component and replace or repair it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator may fail to charge the battery, resulting in electrical system problems.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior Issues

• Door handle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The exterior door handle may break or become difficult to operate.
  • Solution: Replace the defective door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rust on the roof and hood
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust may develop on the roof and hood of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior Issues

• Seat heater failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heater may not work properly or may not heat up at all.
  • Solution: Diagnose the electrical system and replace any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate control problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may not function properly, resulting in inconsistent temperatures or uneven airflow.
  • Solution: Diagnose the system and replace the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Kia Sorento has a mixed reliability record, with some major issues being reported in certain areas. Engine problems such as timing chain issues and oil leaks can be costly to repair. Transmission issues can also be significant, with slipping gears and shift solenoid problems being common. However, it is worth noting that some of these issues only affect specific components and not all vehicles. Overall, the severity of the issues varies, and the estimated cost of repairs can range from minor to major.