2016 Kia Sorento

The 2016 Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV that offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior. It came with three engine options: a 2.4L Inline-4 producing 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 making 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.3L V6 delivering 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Sorento’s value, smooth ride, and available features. However, some common complaints include issues with engine stalling, electrical glitches, and some transmission hesitation.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls while driving, especially at lower speeds or when coming to a stop. This can be intermittent and without warning.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) can resolve the issue. In others, replacing the fuel pump or cleaning the throttle body has been necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause and repair needed).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an abnormally high amount of oil between oil changes. Some owners report needing to add oil frequently.
  • Solution: There is no definitive fix. Some have tried using thicker oil or additives, while others have needed to rebuild or replace the engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine develops a knocking sound, especially under load. This can progress to complete engine failure.
  • Solution: Engine replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5000 - $8000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

All Transmissions (6-Speed Automatic)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation when accelerating, particularly when shifting from a stop. Harsh or jerky shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Some owners have found that a transmission fluid flush or software update helps. Others have had to replace valve body solenoids or the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replacing the rear sway bar bushings and/or end links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use, leading to difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw (e.g., faulty sensor, relay, or module) and repair or replace the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezes, glitches, or becomes unresponsive. Connectivity problems with Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacing the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Tailgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic tailgate stops functioning, either not opening or closing, or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacing the tailgate struts, the motor, or the control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air conditioning system stops blowing cold air, or only blows intermittently.
  • Solution: Recharge the refrigerant, repair leaks, or replace faulty components such as the compressor or condenser.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Kia Sorento has some common issues, ranging from minor electrical glitches to more severe engine and transmission problems, depending on the engine option selected. The 2.4L engine seems to have the most reported issues with stalling and oil consumption, while the 2.0L Turbo has had some engine failure issues. The 3.3L V6 seems to be the most reliable engine option. Costs for repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage, but engine replacements can be very expensive. It is highly recommended to thoroughly inspect any used 2016 Kia Sorento and obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems.