2020 Kia Sorento

The 2020 Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV offering a blend of practicality and value. Engine options include a 2.4L inline-4 producing 185 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 3.3L V6 generating 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4L engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.3L V6 utilizes an 8-speed automatic. Many owners appreciate the Sorento’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some criticisms include the base engine’s lack of power and reported issues with certain components, particularly in earlier production models.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported instances of the 2.4L engine stalling unexpectedly, particularly at lower speeds or while idling. In more severe cases, engine failure has occurred, often attributed to connecting rod bearing failure. Ticking or knocking noises from the engine may precede the stalling or failure.
  • Solution: The most common solution involves replacing the entire engine assembly. Some owners have reported success with short block replacements, though this is less common. In some cases, a software update may be applied to address engine knock detection sensitivity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $8,000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls:
    • SC188 (Certain 2011-2014 Kia Sorento, Optima, and Sportage vehicles): This recall addresses a potential fire hazard due to engine oil leaking onto hot exhaust components. It may not directly relate to engine failure, but it’s relevant to overall engine safety.
    • SC217 (Certain 2015-2017 Kia Sorento vehicles): This recall relates to a potential engine compartment fire caused by a fuel leak.
    • SC220 (Certain 2016-2018 Kia Sorento vehicles): This recall covers piston ring damage that can cause engine stalling.

3.3L V6

No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.4L Engine)

No Issues Found

8-Speed Automatic (Paired with 3.3L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or jerky shifting, particularly between certain gears. Hesitation when accelerating from a stop or during gear changes has also been noted. The transmission may feel sluggish or unresponsive.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update or transmission control module (TCM) reprogramming can resolve the issue. Other solutions include replacing the transmission valve body or flushing the transmission fluid. In more severe cases, complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (Software Update), $500 - $1500+ (Valve Body), $3,000 - $5,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the rear shock absorbers. Symptoms include excessive bouncing over bumps, a noisy or clunking rear suspension, and diminished handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Rebooting
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or spontaneously reboot. This can affect navigation, audio, and other system functions.
  • Solution: A software update is usually the first step in addressing this issue. In some cases, the entire infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200 (Software Update), $500 - $1500+ (Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle experiences frequent battery drain, especially if left sitting for extended periods, causing difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Potential solutions involve checking the alternator, the parasitic drain of the battery, and replacing the battery with a new one.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate may fail to open or close properly. It might stop mid-cycle, make unusual noises, or become completely unresponsive.
  • Solution: Possible solutions include replacing the liftgate motor, struts, or sensors. Checking and repairing wiring harness issues is also common.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Track Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the seat tracks, making it difficult to adjust the seats forward or backward. This may include binding, sticking, or complete failure to move.
  • Solution: Lubricating the tracks can sometimes resolve the issue. More severe cases require replacement of the seat track assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+ (Lubrication/Minor Repair), $300 - $700+ (Track Assembly Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Kia Sorento has some common issues with a few different components. The most severe and costly problems appear to be related to the 2.4L engine, specifically engine stalling and failure. The automatic transmission, particularly when paired with the 3.3L V6, can experience harsh shifting. Electrical and interior problems, while less severe, can still be frustrating for owners. The estimated costs for repairs vary significantly depending on the issue and the necessary solution, ranging from minor software updates to full engine or transmission replacements. Potential buyers should pay close attention to the engine maintenance history and service records.