2021 Kia Sorento

Introduction

The 2021 Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV available with three engine options: a 2.5L 4-cylinder, a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid, and a 3.5L V6. The 2.5L 4-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid engine produces 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The 3.5L V6 engine produces 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Sorento is offered with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Consumers praise the Sorento for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system.

Engine

• 2.5L 4-Cylinder
  • Piston Ring Failure Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, loss of power Solution: Engine rebuild or replacement Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+ Recalls: N/A
  • Timing Chain Tensioner Failure Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, rattling sound, reduced engine power Solution: Replace timing chain and tensioner Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500 Recalls: N/A
• 2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid
  • No Issues Found
• 3.5L V6
  • Oil Leak from Valve Cover Gaskets Description/Symptoms: Oil seeping from valve cover gaskets, visible oil stains on engine Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: N/A

Transmission

• 8-Speed Automatic
  • Slipping Gears Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, hesitation during acceleration Solution: Replace or repair transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000 Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Rear Trailing Arm Bushing Failure Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, clunking or popping noises, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace trailing arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Battery Drain Description/Symptoms: Battery draining quickly, vehicle failing to start Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Cracked Windshield Description/Symptoms: Visible cracks in the windshield Solution: Replace windshield Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Stitching Coming Loose Description/Symptoms: Stitching coming loose on seats, door panels Solution: Repair or replace affected parts Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500 Recalls: N/A

Summary

While the 2021 Kia Sorento is generally a reliable vehicle, some owners have experienced issues with the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and interior. The severity and cost of these issues vary, with some requiring major repairs. Overall, the Sorento is a solid choice for those seeking a spacious and comfortable SUV, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues before making a purchase.