2020 Kia Sorento

Introduction:

The 2020 Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that has been praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. It is available with either a 2.4L inline-4 or a 3.3L V6 engine, and both engines can be paired with either a 6-speed automatic or an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Despite its popularity, the 2020 Kia Sorento has experienced a few issues that have been reported by owners. These issues range from relatively minor annoyances to more serious problems that could affect the vehicle’s safety or performance.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling:
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine suddenly stalls while driving, even at highway speeds.
  • Solution: Kia has issued a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V408000) to address this issue. The fix involves reprogramming the engine control module (ECM).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes excessive amounts of oil, requiring frequent top-ups.
  • Solution: Kia has not issued a recall for this issue, but some owners have reported that their vehicles have been repaired under warranty. The solution typically involves replacing the piston rings and valve seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

3.3L V6

• Timing Chain Rattle:
  • Description/Symptoms: A rattling noise is heard from the engine, especially when the engine is cold.
  • Solution: Kia has issued a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V285000) to address this issue. The fix involves replacing the timing chain and tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Hesitation:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or jerks when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Kia has not issued a recall for this issue, but some owners have reported that their vehicles have been repaired under warranty. The solution typically involves replacing the transmission control module (TCM) or updating the software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

8-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Squeaky Suspension:
  • Description/Symptoms: A squeaking noise is heard from the suspension, especially over bumps or rough roads.
  • Solution: Kia has not issued a recall for this issue, but some owners have reported that their vehicles have been repaired under warranty. The solution typically involves replacing the sway bar bushings or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Kia has not issued a recall for this issue, but some owners have reported that their vehicles have been repaired under warranty. The solution typically involves replacing the battery or alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Headlight Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: One or both headlights fail to illuminate properly.
  • Solution: Kia has issued a recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V314000) to address this issue. The fix involves replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: None Found

Exterior

• Windshield Wiper Linkage Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The wiper blades become stuck or do not move properly.
  • Solution: Kia has not issued a recall for this issue, but some owners have reported that their vehicles have been repaired under warranty. The solution typically involves replacing the wiper linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• Squeaky Dashboard:
  • Description/Symptoms: A squeaking or rattling noise is heard from the dashboard, especially over rough roads.
  • Solution: Kia has not issued a recall for this issue, but some owners have reported that they have been able to fix the problem by tightening the dashboard screws or applying foam tape to the contact points.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $50+

Summary:

Overall, the 2020 Kia Sorento is a reliable and popular SUV. However, it has experienced a few issues that could affect the vehicle’s safety or performance. Some of these issues have been addressed by Kia through recalls, while others may require repairs under warranty or at the owner’s expense. The severity and cost of the issues vary depending on the specific problem.