Kia Sorento Typical Problems - 2.2 CRDI Engine Problems

By Nick Marchenko, PhD

The third generation of the Kia Sorento (UM) was manufactured from 2014 to 2020. In 2017, the compact SUV received a facelift. Its predecessor is the Sorento II.

Kia Sorento Engine Problems - Petrol

Available is the 2.4 GDI gasoline model, offering 188 horsepower, optionally with front-wheel or all-wheel drive, and standardly paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The Theta II engine series has a poor reputation in North America. The reason for this was several cases where the connecting rod bearings were defective and even became the subject of a lawsuit. Although we found no known cases in Germany, the problem cannot be ruled out. Especially with imports from the USA, the vehicle's history should be examined very carefully to ensure that one does not end up with a lemon.

Kia Sorento Engine Problems - Diesel

Also available is the 2.2 CRDi diesel engine (200 horsepower) from the R-II series, which is very inconspicuous in terms of reliability and can generally be of interest even at higher mileages, provided the service book shows no gaps.

However, at high mileages, attention should be paid to the typical weak points of a diesel, which eventually become apparent regardless of the manufacturer. These include in particular:

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF);
• Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF);
• Turbocharger;
• EGR Valve;
• Fuel Injectors.

Kia Sorento Recalls

• Due to a faulty connection of the electric auxiliary heater, it can overheat. During the workshop visit, a software update of the climate control unit with optimized operating logic is to be installed. If the connection is already damaged, the electric auxiliary heating element (PTC) along with the wiring will also be replaced – as we reported.
• According to the KBA (German Motor Transport Authority), it can happen that when the towing vehicle is slowed down by the cruise control in trailer operation, the vehicle brakes, but not the trailer brake light is activated. The affected models are from the years 2015 and 2016.
• Due to an error in the control software, it can happen that the daytime running lights do not work. Affected are Sorento models that were produced in 2017.
• According to the KBA, there is an increased risk of injury due to limited detection by the front collision assistant. The affected model year is 2019.

Kia Sorento Buyer's Guide: Diesel over Gasoline

The Kia Sorento III is a reliable SUV. If the budget does not quite fit, one can also opt for the predecessor, which also makes a good impression in terms of durability and still looks far from outdated in terms of design.

Price-wise, the Sorento UM starts at around 17,000 dollars on the common used car exchanges. However, those interested in a facelift model with low mileage should be prepared to pay twice that amount.

Nick Marchenko, PhD

Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist

Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.

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