2022 Kia Sorento

The 2022 Kia Sorento is a popular mid-size SUV known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and available third-row seating. Engine options include a 2.5L inline-4 producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, a turbocharged 2.5L inline-4 producing 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 paired with an electric motor in the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. The 2.5L is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the turbocharged 2.5L comes with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Common praises include the Sorento’s value for money and modern features. Criticisms often focus on the sometimes underwhelming performance of the base engine and the occasional complexities of the infotainment system.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of the engine stalling while driving, particularly at low speeds or when idling.
  • Solution: Software update to the Engine Control Unit (ECU).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are usually free at the dealership.
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Engine Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-ups. Owners have reported blue smoke from the exhaust as well.
  • Solution: Replacement of piston rings, and/or valve seals. In severe cases, engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000-$8,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) - 2.5L Turbo Engine

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or hesitant shifting, particularly at low speeds. Some owners report a feeling of the transmission “slipping.”
  • Solution: Software update to the Transmission Control Unit (TCU). In some cases, replacement of the clutch assembly may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update is usually free. Clutch replacement $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, crashes, or becomes unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate controls.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are usually free. Head unit replacement $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or after a short period of inactivity, particularly in models with advanced electronic features.
  • Solution: Inspection for parasitic drain, software updates, replacement of the battery, or replacement of a faulty electronic component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement: $200 - $400+, parasitic drain diagnosis and repair $100-$500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• “Check Engine” Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminates randomly, or comes on due to a sensor failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the failed component and reset of the computer
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Wiper Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear wiper motor fails, causing the wiper to stop working.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Upholstery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature wear or tearing of the seat upholstery, particularly on leather or synthetic leather surfaces.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the affected upholstery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$1000+, depending on the repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2022 Kia Sorento has various reported issues, ranging from minor electrical glitches and interior wear to more concerning engine problems, particularly with the turbocharged engine consuming excess oil and the dual-clutch transmission experiencing harsh shifting. The severity and cost of repairs vary greatly depending on the specific issue, with engine-related problems potentially being the most expensive to fix. While the infotainment system and other electrical issues can be frustrating, they are often less costly to resolve. It’s important to be aware of these potential issues when considering the purchase of a 2022 Kia Sorento, especially the turbocharged version with the dual-clutch transmission.