2018 Kia Sorento
The 2018 Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and value. Engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 producing 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, a 3.3L V6 delivering 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 available on older models producing 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L engine is typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.3L V6 is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the Sorento’s spacious interior, smooth ride, and user-friendly technology. However, some common complaints include issues with the automatic transmission, engine performance, and certain electrical components.
Engine
2.4L Inline-4
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Owners report the engine consuming an excessive amount of oil between oil changes. This can lead to low oil levels, potential engine damage, and illuminated oil pressure warning lights.
- Solution: Kia has issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) regarding this issue. The solution often involves performing an oil consumption test to determine the severity. In some cases, a software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) can help. In more severe cases, engine repairs or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $5,000+, depending on warranty coverage and required repairs.
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Stalling/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported engine stalling or failure, sometimes without warning. This can be related to the oil consumption issue if left unaddressed, or due to other underlying engine problems.
- Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified mechanic is crucial to determine the root cause. Depending on the cause, the solution can range from sensor replacement to major engine repair or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $7,000+, depending on the cause.
- Recalls: None Found
3.3L V6
- Engine Oil Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Engine oil leaking from the front timing cover, causing oil spots under the vehicle and low engine oil level.
- Solution: Replace the front timing cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.4L Engine)
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, especially during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. The transmission may also hesitate when shifting between gears.
- Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update can improve shifting performance. However, if the problem persists, more extensive repairs such as valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a full transmission failure.
- Solution: Transmission replacement
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
8-Speed Automatic (Paired with 3.3L Engine)
- Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, especially during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. The transmission may also hesitate when shifting between gears.
- Solution: In some cases, a transmission fluid flush and software update can improve shifting performance. However, if the problem persists, more extensive repairs such as valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This may indicate worn suspension components such as bushings, struts, or sway bar links.
- Solution: Inspection by a qualified mechanic to identify the source of the noise. Replacement of worn suspension components such as bushings, struts, or sway bar links.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component, depending on the specific part and labor costs.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery draining prematurely, especially when the vehicle is not driven for extended periods. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component that remains active even when the vehicle is turned off.
- Solution: Diagnosis by a qualified technician to identify the source of the parasitic draw. Repair or replacement of the faulty electrical component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Malfunctioning Infotainment System
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system experiencing freezing, lagging, or intermittent functionality. This may include issues with the touchscreen, navigation, audio, or Bluetooth connectivity.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update can resolve the issue. However, if the problem persists, the infotainment system may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+, depending on warranty coverage and whether a replacement is required.
- Recalls: None Found
- Blind Spot Detection System Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Blind spot detection system light on dash, failure to alert driver.
- Solution: Replace the Blind Spot Detection Radar Unit
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported cracking on the dashboard, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight. This can be a cosmetic issue and may worsen over time.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2018 Kia Sorento has several potential issues owners should be aware of. The most concerning are the engine problems, particularly the excessive oil consumption in the 2.4L engine, which can lead to significant engine damage if left unaddressed. Transmission issues, while less severe, can also be a source of frustration and expense. Electrical and interior problems are also present but are less widespread. Overall, it is important for prospective buyers to carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and be aware of these potential problems before making a purchase. The cost to fix these issues varies widely, from relatively inexpensive repairs to major engine or transmission replacements.