2019 Kia Sorento Problems (9 Common Issue)

Diving into the world of car issues, the 2019 Kia Sorento has had its share. Let’s explore some of the most frequently reported concerns.

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9 Most Common 2019 Kia Sorento Problems

Headlights: A Dimming Concern

The headlights of the Kia Sorento might not last as long as one would hope. Some owners have even noticed other bulbs giving up the ghost too soon.

• Reports: A whopping 650.
• Feedback: 298 voices chimed in.
• Affected models: Spanning 13 years, including 2003 to 2006.
• Mileage when noticed: Around 79,179, ranging from 2,500 to 240,000.
• Pocket pinch: Replacing that headlight bulb will set you back somewhere between $158 and $165.

The Crankshaft Pulley Bolt Saga

The 3.5l V6 engine variant of the Kia Sorento had a hiccup. Difficult starts, unsettling vibrations, and an unnerving rattle were the symptoms. Kia’s solution? An updated crankshaft pulley bolt.

But there’s more. A class action lawsuit emerged against Kia Motors concerning this very bolt. Some conditions applied, though:

• Models from 2003 to 2006 were in focus.
• Repairs had to be done before hitting the 100,000-mile mark.
• Only at a Kia-authorized spot.
• And yes, it had to be that 3.5l V6 engine.
• Claims: They should’ve been made by May 17th, 2017.
• Opting out of the claim meant no further claims on this issue.

• Numbers: 257 reports and 134 discussions.
• Models affected: 9 years, including 2003 to 2006.
• Mileage: An average of 116,451, but as low as 14,400 and as high as 245,000.
• Cost: Diagnosis typically runs between $88 and $111.

When the AC Sings a Rough Tune

Some Kia Sorentos have an AC compressor clutch assembly that needs improvement. The result? Noise and vibration when the AC’s running. The good news? There are improved parts available.

• Reports: 220 of them.
• Feedback: 105 discussions.
• Models in question: 11 years, including 2003 to 2006.
• Mileage: An average of 97,673, but some are as low as 5,000, and others are as high as 201,000.
• Expense: Replacing the AC Compressor will cost between $844 and $970.

The Airbag Light’s Unwanted Glow

Sometimes, the airbag warning light just doesn’t know when to quit. The culprit? An internal glitch in the control module.

• Reports: 156.
• Feedback: 61 discussions.
• Models: 11 years, including 2003 to 2006.
• Mileage: Around 85,352, but ranging from 13,900 to 239,000.
• Cost: Diagnosis is typically between $88 and $111.

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Startup Noises and the Timing Chain Tensioner

Upon starting the Kia Sorento, some owners have reported a noisy engine, especially after it’s been off for a while. Kia identified the timing chain tensioner as the potential cause and released an updated version to address this.

• Reports: 94 in total.
• Feedback: 26 discussions.
• Models affected: 8 years, notably 2003, 2005, 2006, and 2007.
• Mileage: Averaging 96,462 but ranging from 10,000 to 170,000.
• Expense: Replacing the Timing Belt will cost between $784 and $906.

Transmission Quirks and Software Solutions

Some Kia Sorentos have shown transmission irregularities, leading to the Check Engine Light illuminating. Kia’s recommendation? Reprogramming the transmission control module. This solution seems more effective for newer models.

• Reports: 87.
• Feedback: 30 discussions.
• Models affected: 8 years, including 2004 to 2007.
• Mileage: Around 108,326, but as low as 12,500 and as high as 316,119.
• Cost: The diagnosis for the Check Engine Light is between $88 and $111.

Engine Misfires and the Role of Ignition Coils

A misfiring engine can be quite unsettling. In the Kia Sorento, this has been attributed to faulty ignition coils. A word of advice? If one lock fails, others might follow suit.

• Reports: 77.
• Feedback: 28 discussions.
• Models affected: 10 years, notably from 2003 to 2006.
• Mileage: Averaging 120,376 but ranging from 45,000 to 230,000.
• Expense: Replacing an Ignition Coil will earn you between $302 and $327.

Silent Speakers and the Simple Solution

Imagine driving, and suddenly, all audio stops. No music, no navigation voice, nothing. This has been a reality for some Kia Sorento owners. The fix? A ‘hard reset’ by disconnecting and reconnecting the vehicle’s negative battery terminal.

• Reports: 72.
• Feedback: 14 discussions.
• Models affected: 7 years, notably from 2011 to 2014.
• Mileage: Around 68,309, but ranging from 29,000 to 168,000
• Cost: Diagnosis typically runs between $88 and $111.

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Transmission Fluid Woes

Ensuring the right transmission fluid level and type is crucial. Some Kia Sorentos have faced transmission damage due to incorrect or low fluid.

• Reports: Only 9.
• Feedback: Just one discussion.
• Models affected: 4 years, including 2006 to 2009.
• Mileage: All reports at 114,000.

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