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2014 Kia Sorento

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2014 Kia Sorento, organized by category and engine/transmission configuration, following your specified format.

The 2014 Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV that offers a comfortable ride and decent cargo space. Available engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, a 3.3L V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Sorento’s value and interior space, but some common complaints include issues with the engine, transmission, and electrical system.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 Engine

  • Engine Failure/Seizing
    • Description/Symptoms: Sudden engine failure, often accompanied by knocking noises, stalling, and the inability to restart the vehicle. This can be caused by connecting rod bearing failure.
    • Solution: Engine replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: 17V024000
  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Rapid decrease in oil levels between oil changes, often indicated by the low oil pressure warning light.
    • Solution: Possible repair including piston ring replacement, or engine replacement in severe cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: 17V024000
  • Knocking Noises
    • Description/Symptoms: Loud knocking or ticking noise coming from the engine, especially during acceleration. This can indicate connecting rod bearing wear or damage.
    • Solution: Engine repair or replacement, depending on the extent of the damage.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: 17V024000

3.3L V6 Engine

  • No Issues Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

  • No Issues Found

Transmission

All Engines (6-Speed Automatic)

  • Rough Shifting/Hesitation
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts between gears, particularly during acceleration or deceleration. Hesitation or delay when shifting gears.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid flush/change, valve body replacement, or in some cases, transmission replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine revving without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed, indicating a loss of power transmission.
    • Solution: Transmission repair or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Rear Suspension Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps. This can be caused by worn-out sway bar links or bushings.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn sway bar links and bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: Frequent dead battery, requiring jump starts. This can be caused by parasitic drain from faulty electronics or a failing alternator.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain, replacement of faulty components (alternator, sensors, etc.), or battery replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • ABS/Traction Control Light Illumination
    • Description/Symptoms: ABS or traction control warning lights turning on intermittently or constantly. This can be caused by a faulty wheel speed sensor or ABS module.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of ABS/traction control system, replacement of faulty wheel speed sensor or ABS module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headlight Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Headlights dimming or failing to operate properly.
    • Solution: Replacing faulty bulbs, checking and repairing wiring, or replacing the headlight assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Sunroof Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin through the sunroof, especially during heavy rain. This can be caused by clogged sunroof drain tubes.
    • Solution: Cleaning and unclogging the sunroof drain tubes.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Air Conditioning Malfunction
    • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning blowing warm air or failing to cool the cabin effectively. This can be caused by a refrigerant leak, faulty compressor, or other A/C system components.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of A/C system, repair of refrigerant leaks, replacement of faulty components (compressor, condenser, etc.).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Navigation/Infotainment System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, or not working properly.
    • Solution: Update software to latest version.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Kia Sorento can be a good value, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues, particularly with the 2.4L engine which has issues with failing and consuming excessive oil, which can be costly to repair. Electrical issues, such as battery drain and ABS/Traction Control problems, can also be frustrating. While the V6 engine appears to be more reliable, the transmission can experience rough shifting or slipping across all engine options. Overall, it’s crucial to have a thorough inspection performed before purchasing a used 2014 Sorento and check the car’s history.

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