I have an 04 Kia Sorento, 4WD, 3.5 Litre Automatic I am concerned at the fuel economy that I get as it seems to be poor. The vehicle was purchased new. It is the Australian version
hciaffa - What did you say to your dealer and they replaced the wrapped disc rotors? I am sure the Kia OEM pads cause more heat and wrapped rotors. My dealer already said "not covered". But I can try another one miles away. A guy in an independent shop who works my last cars for years told resurface the front rotors and replace the front pads are good enough. And it's all for $180. Please see my post in other Sorento discussion board.
Since I am about time to replace brake pads, should I look into some aftermarket ceramic brake pads? Should I replace just the front set? The rear set has a little bit more life. The front has 20% left.
lok 888 all I said to the service manager was that when coming to a stop there was vibration in the front end and that the brake pedal seemed to pulsate which is a sign of wrappage. Under the kia warranty I thought it was 5 years on limited warranty, 6 yrs on rust perforation and 10 yrs on engine and drive train. Maybe you service person is thinking that the rotors are maintenace item and not covered by warranty. Now for the service person to tell you that the rotors can't be turned I think is doodo. Most rotors can be turned at least once especially if you only have 35-36k miles unles you brake hard. but yes go to that mechanic and have them turned and new pads for $180 is pretty good.
How many miles?? Don't forget its like oil, the contaminants are suspended in the fluid. Maybe a fresh refill is due. Wouldn't hurt. Go with a synthetic
hciaffa - Another question about fluid change. Many suggested the automatic transmission change at 30,000 mile intervals. My machinist checked the fluid and suggested flush and fill only (for $50 or less), and not a complete power flush like the dealer suggested ($120). He said flush and fill basically well taken care of the service. He told the Dexron II is good enough for Sorento like many cars these. Beside transmission, what other fluid need to be changed on my 4WD with TOD at 36K miles?
The above info has just answered a number of questions i've had about the simmey and shake our 03 sorento is experiencing. My big concern know is that our fuel mileage has gone way down hill, and with fuel right at $3 per gallon it's starting to get way to expensive.
What sort of fuel economy are you talking about ? Are you using premium or regular unleaded ? Premium should get you a few extra kays out of a tank. Sorento's are not known for their great fuel economy. I installed ram air on mine and this helps as the air pickup is somewhat restricted tucked away in behind the RH front mudgaurd.Im getting around 600 klm's a tank at the mo. Try some octain booster as this helps.
I have had my 2003 Sorento for 3 years. 31,000 miles and no complaints. 2 days ago I noticed the temp gauge beginning to rise and then fall back to where it should be. I contacted a Kia dealer and was assured they could find the problem in 1 day. Since this dealer doesn't have loaners, I rented a car, thinking 1 day would not be so bad.
Wrong!! Dealer called next day and parts were not in stock. Would be 4-5 days minimum. Dealer wouldn't pick up car rental expense or give me a loaner. I called Kia Motors America, placed my complaint, and was told they would do nothing to help me with a loaner car.
Now here is my gripe. One of the reasons I choose the Sorento was the great warranty. However, that is useless if the car is tied up for an extended period of time and the cost of a rental comes out of my pocket! Should I be penalized ($) when Kia parts aren't available to the dealer?
My "free" under warranty coverage will cost me approximately $300.00!! I am extremely upset with Kia Motor America's stance that they "can't help me". No way will I be a repeat customer. Many of you might think that the dealer should give me the loaner. I agree, unfortunately for me, the dealer that I bought the car from no longer is a Kia dealer. The new dealer that picked up the Kia line is a Ford dealer.
First of all, it sounds like you have a leaking anti-freeze coolant bottle. It was so small and slow that you probably don't see any different of the coolant level. This is exactly what I had for the last two times! The engine temperature guage needle rose at 2/3. It always indicated the heat is a bit overheated while no check engine light was on. I had no A/C before my dealer replaced the first bottle (factory installed). Then I had no heat in past winter. They looked around and replaced something else... still no heat. Then they replaced the bottle again... the heat is on. They told they were working on 5 or 6 Sorentos at the same thim with the the same problem. They ran out all the replacement parts and I had a free loaner for the weekend.
I think the loaner policy is uncleared for Kia. But you can be sure when the car is under factory warranty and it is not safe to drive, the dealer must provide you a free loaner. Last time I had a loaner was when the dealer needed to replace a leaking power steering rack early this spring. I found sometime those Kia people don't know what they are doing on the phone. I called them about the use of 4Lo and Auto mode when I first picked up my '03 Sorento EX (4WD with TOD). They had to look up the owner's manual. What! However, my issues was properly addressed when I go online and use "Contact Us" features. I simply created a case file for my problem.
Sorry for the long message. But contact Kia again (phone, letter or email) and save all your receipts.
:lemon: Wow !! Another one. I too live in the high desert. Apple Valley. I have taken my 2005 Kia Sorento to High Desert Kia 12 times for a total of 35 days in the shop so far in only the first four months of ownership. Here is an example of my problems with my Kia Sorento; 1. The passenger air bag stopped working. The sensor in the passenger seat is " Defective". After numerous tries to fix it they sent it in. They replaced the seat sensor. It took 11 days. It now works. 2. The transmission is horrible. They finally admitted Kia Corp will not let them fix it. It shifts in to neutral betweeen shifts, then clunks in to gear snapping your head back. It does this in 1 to 2nd to 3rd to 4th. My trans does not go into 5 th gear. Even at 75 miles an hour. When you stop the transmission clunks. 3 Two clocks installed so far, 4. One new battery, 5. Headliner rattles fixed twice. The dealer went to Toyota to get a part to fix it. 6. Headlights go dim if I run the air conditioner. I must run the air. I live in the Mohave desert. 7. Etc, etc etc.
This is just a few of the problems I have had with my 2005 EX 4x4 Sorento. I have hired an attorney. I am pursuing the Calif Lemon Law refund. The service writer at High desert Kia told me there was two of us having the same problems at this dealership. People at the dealership told me to higher an attorney. They were right. What good is a 10 year 100,000 mile warranty if they can't fix their own cars. Let alone you have to take it back every week so they can try it again. Good Luck Kia owners I am buying a Toyota when I get my money back. :lemon: :mad:
Remember that you are in a Problems discussion -- happy owners aren't too likely to come in here and post. Check out the Consumer Ratings and Reviews for comments across the board (link).
I have posted before regarding most of the problems everyone is experiencing with my 2005 Sorento (i.e., engine light, passenger air bag, clock, been in the shop for over 30 days during only 8 months of ownership, etc.). Now, after 12,128 miles my rotors have heat warping and need to be replaced. This seems awefully ridiculous at such low mileage? Anyone have any ideas how and why this would occur at such low mileage, and does it indicate further probelms with my breaking system?
In addition, since my delaership did not have the rotors in stock, they had me pick up the car and drive it home. I argued that how could they let an unsafe vehicle back on the road without providing me with a loaner? They argued that the vehicle is not unsafe that I'll just have to be more careful and give myself longer time to stop ( you can imagine my comeback with that one...)....if I were a lawyer I'd have a field day with this one. I continued to argue, talked to the "service manager" (who I now know personally from being a "regular" customer), and then we called the Kia extended service warranty to see if they would give authorization for a rental car...denied! What a crock of bull this is owning a Kia Sorento.
Oh, and yes, my gas mileage is seemingly going down as the gas prices go up. And I mean really bad-less than 16-17 mpg from a high at one time of around 21.
:mad: My car too is a 2003, but with considerably more miles...46,000ish. On my way home yesterday, I had no heat...and my temp gauge kept going dangerously close to the red line. (now I understand why I had a bit of difficulty with the AC this summer, too).
I brought the car into the dealer and told the gentleman (hah!) exactly what I explained above. I called later on and was told that one of the servicemen took it for a ride and found nothing wrong. Because I hadn't had the 30,000 or 39,000mi service, anything I had repaired wouldn't be warrantied, as KIA requires those two services specifically. And that the problem (wait, what problem?!) could be a head gasket, which costs $150 for part and 8hrs of service, as it was "out of warranty." Lucky for me, he would combine the 30,000 and 39,000 service for around $800- then if the problem wasn't taken care of, I could bring it back in and it would be under warranty. Imagine that!
I spoke with a friend of the family...a service manager...not for KIA, who immediately diagnosed the problem as probably low coolant. But now that I've read more, perhaps it's the coolant bottle?
We are picking the car up tomorrow and checking the coolant before leaving the lot. And then I'm writing up a letter of disgust to send to the dealership, the Attorney General, and the BBB. Clearly the guy lied. He saw a female and the word sucker popped into his head.
Needless to say, I won't be freqenting that dealership again. And I'm not all that impressed with the Sorento, anyway. My last car, a '98 Olds Bravada was the best...and great in snow. Too bad it's too expensive to own!
To be honest, I'm not sure. I get my tires rotated and oil changed regularly, but I don't think I've had "service" since before 20,000. I will be doing some of the recommended service, but not at that dealership.
It's funny, I went and picked up the car and received the invoice (no charge). It stated my problem, then that they found the coolant to be low, which they added "as required." They then took it for a test drive and found the temperature guage to be working normally. Imagine that.
On the way home, the heat finally kicked in about halfway, and the temp was definitely better...but a little high...between half and 3/4. Perhaps that needs time to flush through the system?
it was passed by congress to prevent abuses buy but not limited to the automotive industry for refusing to honor waranty repairs without due cause (they have to prove it)
the Magnuson-Moss Act is a lengthly document and sometimes hard to read, but there are short interpretation of it available
applcation of the law some say is difficult, maybe so maybe not
Everyone owning a 2003 Sorento should have their Kia dealer check the crankshaft pully retainer bolt. I own a 2003 EX Luxe and the bolt came undone last spring because its shear pin broke. I was lucky, in that no damage was done, I was able to drive to the dealer and they were great fixing it and providing me a loaner car in the meanwhile.
I just saw another 2003 Sorento EX in the dealership today that had exactly the same problem. The owner has been through a two-month ordeal because of the same problem, but which turned ugly (a pitiful sight seing a Sorento with its engine pulled to pieces).
My Sorento was just short of 80,000 km (50,000 miles) when it happened.
yea, mine broke (appx 8,000 miles) too and got the crankshaft so hot due to the friction of the vibration damper slipping on the end of the crank they had to replace the timing belt and the other 3 belts also
the vibration damper along with the bolt are updated items, as per the dealer that replaced them
so far so good, i ask the service manager if it would ever come off again, his response was it should not :surprise: :surprise:
I don't know if it as the case for you, but the crankshaft pully retainer shear pin broke when I started the engine, as it probably should be the case. The torque on the shaft pulley is probably at its highest when the engine starts up.
To add insult to injury, I was in the parking lot of a Toyota dealer, giving a lift to my girlfriend who had to pick-up her Corolla after some periodic maintenance had been done on it.
where are you from....I had the same thing (about the contract part) happen to me in NC....bought car and signed papers in July and in August was told there was a mistake...my dealership had illegally falsfied my paycheck stub and caused my loan to be revoked
I think you have the same problem like I had twice. The leaking anti-freeze coolant bottle.
I first noticed lack of A/C last year. The engine temperature gauge needle was at 3/4. The found a slow leak in the anti-freeze coolant bottle. I didn't see any anti-freeze coolant (green liquid) on the ground when I parked.
Early this early (late winter), I had no heat and engine temperature gauge was at 3/4 too. My dealer first tried the thermosate and some coils. I didn't see anti-freeze coolant was dripping on my driveway right after I returned from service. I returned and then they found the leak again. They were working on 5 other Sorento (03 to 05 models) with the same problem. I got a loaner because they back ordered the parts.
The car drove normal with no engine light on or no significant drop in the anti-freeze fluid level. It probably leaking very slowly while you are driving.
Now, I do think I have a leaking bottle again. Water (or some clear liquid) is still dripping on the ground half an hour after I return to my car from the store. I doubt this is A/C condensation It happens in the last two times before the replacement.
Also, I am too worry about the pully bolt on my 03 Sorento. I will check with my dealer this weekend. Oh! The magnetic lock of the center console/armrest (upper level) is broke too.
I just checked out the NHTSA site and found this recall notice for some 2003 Kia Sorento. It affected some 2935 units in 2003 model year which produced from June 7, 2002 to August 14, 2002. The problem with fuel leakage and could result in a fire.
The NHTSA recall campaign number is: 05V-353. The recall is expected to begin during October 2005. The Kia recall number is: SC-052.
My 2003 Kia Sorento manufactured in October 2002. I bought it in late November, 2002.
I've just began reading some of these posts, likely because I recently purchased an '04 Sorento LX 4X4. I absolutely love the truck, but have one annoying problem that, from what I've read, still has not been figured out.
I took the vehicle to BayCity Kia in Barrie, ON for some service work on September 5. At that time, the Service Manager came for a drive with me as I wanted to point out a vibration / noise at around 118 km/h (73 mph) and up. He instantly heard the noise and advised that we return to the dealership. When we got back, he got out and immediately inspected the tires. He noted abnormal tire wear and attributed the problem to that. The truck had only 28,000 km (17,300 miles). I indicated that I had read postings on this forum and the I didn't feel it was tires, but he immediately commented that "they all must have bad tires."
Last Friday, September 30, I replaced all 4 tires with the new Goodyear Fortera TripleTred tires. An alignment was done at the same time. I left the tire shop and went right to the highway only to find that the noise/vibration was still there. I turned around and immediately went back to the dealership. The Service Manager was not happy to see me and agreed to take the truck out for a drive another day. The Service Writer (a former technician) immediately offered to drive the vehicle and he did. As soon as we reached 118 km/h, he felt and heard the noise/vibration (he called it a groan). He slipped the truck into neutral, but the noise did not go away He commented that it is not a tire problem and we made our way back to the dealership. On the way there I found that this was my wife's best freind's dad...an "IN" at the dealership!
They have had the truck all week. They removed the drive shaft and replaced it with a shaft from a brand new '05 and test drove it, but the sound was still there. They then test drove the '05 with my drive shaft in it and there was no noise, ultimately eliminating the drive shaft as the root cause. They then drove my truck on the highway in 4X4 High wihtout any drive shaft installed, in effect using it in front wheel drive. There was no noise or vibration at all. The ordered all of the gears/interworkings of the rear differential.
The repair was made yesterday and I call for an update. They test drove the vehicle and again, the noise/vibration was still there. They now are completely "stumped" as to what the problem could be. I plan to call the Kia area manager today.
Does anyone know the true solution to this problem?!?!
"They then drove my truck on the highway in 4X4 High wihtout any drive shaft installed, in effect using it in front wheel drive. There was no noise or vibration at all. The ordered all of the gears/interworkings of the rear differential."
if the rear driveshaft was removed and the vehicle was driven, how did they keep the fluid from the trans from leaking out all over the road ?
lets say they capped the back of the trans with something, all the gears in the differental still turn when you drive
as a mechanic i have run into this problem befor and it it usually call "pinion angle misalignment"
that is, if you draw i straigth line through the differental pinion shaft it should be in direct alignment with the drive shaft and trans output shaft (vehicle sitting on the ground usually with a driver), if not the driveshaft will vibrate if the missalignment is too great
the cure for this at the rear of the driveshaft is to change the angle of the differental housing
if it is missaligned at the back of the trans, the fix is not so simple
one of they was of getting around this type of problem is using driveshafts with "constant velosity u-joints" (double joints on both ends)
another way to put is you have a "misalignment problem from the back of your trans to your differental" it is deffinatly in your vehicle
KIA should have spects for allowable angle missalignment of these componets
The customer's / our concern is on going. When you use quotes you must state the other persons exexactords and place them in context.
So with that said..I didn't suggest all Sorentos have poor tires. The customer's tires had abnormal tire wear . The customer agreed and had them changed. Not here. But at a tire shop which i'm sure gave him a second opinion before installing very nice new tires and an alignment.
I was unhappy to hear the problem was still there, but happy to see the customer.
The service advisor, is friends of the family and keen to fix the car for sure as am I.
The vehicle was road tested without the prpropellorhaft , not a drive shaft taken out.
The vehicle was left here while waiting for parts ( diff pot) on my suggestion that if any information came from KIA , I would be best if the vehicle was here for inspection and road testing.
We are not stumped , but we sure are looking forward to getting this problem fixed and back down the road with a happy customer behind the wheel .
Personally , I would ask not to be quoted ..... Unlessf course i'm in the middle of a day time TV show and I'm a guest star! ... At least be acurrate.
The customer is a great guy , the vehicle is a great SUV .
After 18 months of driving in Costa Rica a new 2004 EX Sorento 2.5L CRDi (Common Rail Diesel) 4x4 w/ AT I'm happy except for the only clock problem that was fixed months ago. Stiff suspension can be the only other complaint, but for these potholed highways and rough mountain gravel roads here that may be for the best. Dealership here is great, so far.
I have been reading many messages about non-working dome light in the past. I have the same problem on my '03 Sorento since days ago. Do you know what is the problem and any quick fix? The dorm light is not turn on at "DOOR" setting when opens are opened or UNLOCK button on the keyless remote was pressed. It is only the cargo light turn on. I checked the light bulb and it is fine. It is on at "ON" position or turn on the light switch on the dashboard. I also checked the fuse and it has no broken fuse.
Contact a local dealer ... Ask them to check a bulletin, there is one. There is a diode under the dash by the fuse panel, in a harness that controls the voltage to the dome light. If checked normally it could that an hour or more to troubleshoot the system. But KIA has release a new diode with corrects the problem. Then ask them to check stock on the diode , part number is in the bulletin and make yourself an appointment. The repair should take an hour , or in short it is something else.
:lemon: Update: As of Sept 27, 2005 Kia has agreed to refund all of my money under Calif Lemon Law. Yes folks you can win. Yes I had to hire an attorney at no cost to me, but five weeks later they agreed I was right. This Kia is a piece of JUNK. They are refunding ALL OF MY MONEY including interest I paid. I bought a Toyota. I have had zero problems, and great gas mileage. Good luck Kia owners:);
lok try this solution that was posted on another site. The cause may be the diode in the dome light circuitryit may be over heating as we think it is or as in the service bulletin, it is that the diode was not programed into the system properly. My dome light has gone out as well and I tried everything from taking it to work ( I work for a loarge electronics manufacturer) to trying to take it apart. One fellow posted this up on the other site you should got there as well Sorentosite.com. this worked for me twice so far. 1. With the engine running, make sure your dome is on DOOR. 2. Open your driver's door. Leave it open. 3. Press the POWER LOCK button on the drivers door to the LOCK position (locks will pop open automatically). 4. Press the POWER LOCK button on the drivers door to the UNLOCK position. 5. Turn off the engine. 6. Start the car.
After completing this steps the domelight started working right away. I payed special attention in order to document it.
also he posted the whole TSB Technical Bulletin that is sent out to the service manager and when you open it go to page it and it explains the diode but it also explains the rear drive shaft thumping problem. I had my drive shaft replace and it has been ok for 6 months so far.
I tried to post my email but Edmunds will not allow it and I cannot get into my profile to see if my email is there so I don't know if you can get back to me or anybody else. I would be gald to email you the pdf of the technical bulliten.j If you cannot get back to me I will post the Technical bulletin number at noon.
:mad: I have 41000 on my Kia and today I experienced a knocking sound which was very pronounced at idle.I took it to the dealer and a mechanic said I had carbon buildup.The fix would be to keep it overnight and run a decarboning process.I have never heard of carbon causing a knock at idle.It is not heard at highway speeds or with the windows rolled up.Funny thing is I accelerated very hard a couple times on the way home and the noise stopped.I think I'll add some additive to the gas and see how it goes.Anybody got any better ideas?
Thanks for replies, guys! For some reasons, it is working fine before I took it to my dealer. They found nothing wrong with it... no blow fuse. I think it has something to do with the parking light switch. I don't remember what actually I did or I must did something by accident. But I think I got no dome light when I left the parking lights on while you shutting off the engine and without open any doors yet. I will try this again to see if this is related to the parking light wirings.
Here is my another observation for the Sorento. I think we (EX and sport package owners with foglights) can leave the parking lights and foglights on when you shut off the car, remove key and open any door except the driver's door. I noticed this when I had to open the front passenger's door and insert key in order to close the passenger window. The parking light and foglight switches were at "ON" setting. Do you see what I see? But I think this can be happened on LX model too.
REGARDING VIBRATIONS WHILE DRIVING, I HAVE BEEN TAKING MY 03 EX 4X4 TO THE DEALER FOR A VIBRATION AT 2500 RPMS. JUST WITHIN THIS YEAR THEY HAD IT FOR ABOUT 4 MONTHS, AND AFTER PUTTING ABOUT $17000. UNDER WARRANTY REPAIRS, (NEW ENGINE, TRANS, DRIVE SHAFTS, MOTOR MOUNTS, FRONT DIFF, AXLES, AND SO-ON) THE VIBRATION IS STILL THERE, AND KIA TECH LINE AND THE AREA REP. HAVE NOW TELLING ME THAT THE VIBRATION IS NORMAL. EVER HARD TO BELIEVE. NOW THE WILL NOT RETURN MY PHONE CALL AND E-MAILS. CAN'T DO LEMON LAW CAR IS TO OLD BY VA. STATE LEMON LAWS STUCK BETWEEN ROCK AND HARD SPOT.. GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR VIBRATIONS.
Assuming the dealer was right I am going on the fact of deposits build up. I bought this Kia used so I don't know what brand gas was used previously. According to the maintenance forum all brands are not the same. If you use ARCO or other cheap brands you could have problems because of poor quality additives. So I have filled up with Chevron whereas before it was the stuff they sell at the marine base which I doubt is the best gas. My previous car an Acura was fed premium gas always and never had a problem even at 60k miles was perfect. As this is my first venture away from Honda products I am learning I should have stayed with Honda!
anyone else recieve one of these in the mail? we got this notice - Sept. 23 '05 - letting us know that some 2005 Sorento's equipped with a 3.5 liter engine may be in violation of Federal and/or California On-Board Diagnostic systems and that some models with this engine have experienced a malfunction indicator light illumination. they wwill replace the parial wheeel guard with a full size wheel gaurd - all we had to do was schedule an appointment. we did WEEKS ago and still have not had this done yet! :mad: the part has not come in! i can't understand what is taking so long - even if it was being shipped from Korea it should have gotten here. i wanted to find out if anyone else has gotten this notice and what action was taken at your local dealership. was it done in a timely manner?
I just came across this posting tonight and had to say just 2 days ago i had a diode replaced on my 2003 Kia Sorento LX for the same reason (center dome would not come on when doors are opened but the rear cargo lamp would). They charged me for the service, it took them over 4 hours to diagnose the problem...does anyone know if this was supposed to be covered under warranty?
If less than 60000 I think it should be covered because it is supposed to be bumper to bumper.I am new to kia and bought it based on the warranty but having to deal with uneducated uncaring service departments was not expected.Being a small company KIA is always combined with a bunch of other brands at dealers and there is no way a mechanic can know all those vehicles.My wife has a new Highlander Limited and if I had a lot of money I would have gotten another one but at $30000 no way.So I got this used KIA that is loaded with gadgets like the Toyota and is built better than the CRV I had.I thing for sure it is different not like the Highlander which has the personality of a toaster.
got this in today's mail - this one concerns the passenger air bag light - it may be turned off in the presence of an adult in the passenger seat under certain conditions. they need to update the programming in the Sorento OCS electronic control module int he front seat cushion. :surprise:
I had my 2004 Sorento in for 30k service which includes rotating the tires. As I left the dealership the front driver's wheel fell off while I was going about 30 mph. Seems the mechanic forgot to tighten the lug nuts. 2 weeks of haggling with the dealership. They will fix the car but say only that there is only cosmetic damage. I find this hard to believe. I tried to negotiate a trade-in, but bottom line is that they will still charge me around $10k. Any suggestions? I've already checked with an attorney and they tell me the dealership is only liable for repair of the car. Thanks dar
I just purchased a pre owned 2004 LX 5 speed 2 wheel drive. I must say that so far I am impressed with the ride and the way the vehicle handle's.It was purchased with 23K on the clock. I have owned 3 Hyundai vehicles and have been very satisfied. One thing I have noticed on many Sorento's is there always seems to be at least one lamp that seems to blow out. I have seen some of the tail lamps including brake lights, sometimes it's one of the driving lights. I have had the vehicle under 1 week and my noticed that one of my brake lights was out. I went back to the dealer (KIA) and they replaced the lamp.
Just curios about the various issues the Sorento might have. I don't have any vibration issues, the dome lights are working. The clock seems to keep time. I have the 3.5 engine and gas mileage is a bit less than I hoped for but I knew that going in.
I plan on driving this vehicle next year from Texas to Florida so I picked up a factory 2 peice bra.
Comments
Since I am about time to replace brake pads, should I look into some aftermarket ceramic brake pads? Should I replace just the front set? The rear set has a little bit more life. The front has 20% left.
is this normal ?
Now for the service person to tell you that the rotors can't be turned I think is doodo. Most rotors can be turned at least once especially if you only have 35-36k miles unles you brake hard. but yes go to that mechanic and have them turned and new pads for $180 is pretty good.
Sorento's are not known for their great fuel economy. I installed ram air on mine and this helps as the air pickup is somewhat restricted tucked away in behind the RH front mudgaurd.Im getting around 600 klm's a tank at the mo.
Try some octain booster as this helps.
Wrong!! Dealer called next day and parts were not in stock. Would be 4-5 days minimum. Dealer wouldn't pick up car rental expense or give me a loaner. I called Kia Motors America, placed my complaint, and was told they would do nothing to help me with a loaner car.
Now here is my gripe. One of the reasons I choose the Sorento was the great warranty. However, that is useless if the car is tied up for an extended period of time and the cost of a rental comes out of my pocket! Should I be penalized ($) when Kia parts aren't available to the dealer?
My "free" under warranty coverage will cost me approximately $300.00!! I am extremely upset with Kia Motor America's stance that they "can't help me". No way will I be a repeat customer. Many of you might think that the dealer should give me the loaner. I agree, unfortunately for me, the dealer that I bought the car from no longer is a Kia dealer. The new dealer that picked up the Kia line is a Ford dealer.
Any advice?
Barney
W3BCY
I don't mean to be flippant but you could consider a cheaper rental for a few days.
tidester, host
I think the loaner policy is uncleared for Kia. But you can be sure when the car is under factory warranty and it is not safe to drive, the dealer must provide you a free loaner. Last time I had a loaner was when the dealer needed to replace a leaking power steering rack early this spring. I found sometime those Kia people don't know what they are doing on the phone. I called them about the use of 4Lo and Auto mode when I first picked up my '03 Sorento EX (4WD with TOD). They had to look up the owner's manual. What! However, my issues was properly addressed when I go online and use "Contact Us" features. I simply created a case file for my problem.
Sorry for the long message. But contact Kia again (phone, letter or email) and save all your receipts.
1. The passenger air bag stopped working. The sensor in the passenger seat is " Defective". After numerous tries to fix it they sent it in. They replaced the seat sensor. It took 11 days. It now works.
2. The transmission is horrible. They finally admitted Kia Corp will not let them fix it. It shifts in to neutral betweeen shifts, then clunks in to gear snapping your head back. It does this in 1 to 2nd to 3rd to 4th. My trans does not go into 5 th gear. Even at 75 miles an hour. When you stop the transmission clunks.
3 Two clocks installed so far,
4. One new battery,
5. Headliner rattles fixed twice. The dealer went to Toyota to get a part to fix it.
6. Headlights go dim if I run the air conditioner. I must run the air. I live in the Mohave desert.
7. Etc, etc etc.
This is just a few of the problems I have had with my 2005 EX 4x4 Sorento. I have hired an attorney. I am pursuing the Calif Lemon Law refund. The service writer at High desert Kia told me there was two of us having the same problems at this dealership. People at the dealership told me to higher an attorney. They were right.
What good is a 10 year 100,000 mile warranty if they can't fix their own cars. Let alone you have to take it back every week so they can try it again.
Good Luck Kia owners I am buying a Toyota when I get my money back. :lemon: :mad:
Steve, Host
In addition, since my delaership did not have the rotors in stock, they had me pick up the car and drive it home. I argued that how could they let an unsafe vehicle back on the road without providing me with a loaner? They argued that the vehicle is not unsafe that I'll just have to be more careful and give myself longer time to stop ( you can imagine my comeback with that one...)....if I were a lawyer I'd have a field day with this one. I continued to argue, talked to the "service manager" (who I now know personally from being a "regular" customer), and then we called the Kia extended service warranty to see if they would give authorization for a rental car...denied! What a crock of bull this is owning a Kia Sorento.
Oh, and yes, my gas mileage is seemingly going down as the gas prices go up. And I mean really bad-less than 16-17 mpg from a high at one time of around 21.
Wow what a frustration....after purchasing brand new vehicle, I went to the service.
They put some sponges on it, still rattles.. Also more noice on the passinger side
seat...... I guess the most frustrating coming from after purchasing vehicle, you feel like driving used vehicle....
Already been in service 4 times and around 1300 miles....
If someone try to buy Kia, I wouldn't recommend it.....
Another ridiculous part is after all signed up for purchasing vehicle, after 2 weeks,
finance manager gave me a call saying they made a mistake, and want me to resign the contract....I've never heard such a thing.......
Kia~ 10 years warantee.......
They just gave me a frustration........
I brought the car into the dealer and told the gentleman (hah!) exactly what I explained above. I called later on and was told that one of the servicemen took it for a ride and found nothing wrong. Because I hadn't had the 30,000 or 39,000mi service, anything I had repaired wouldn't be warrantied, as KIA requires those two services specifically. And that the problem (wait, what problem?!) could be a head gasket, which costs $150 for part and 8hrs of service, as it was "out of warranty." Lucky for me, he would combine the 30,000 and 39,000 service for around $800- then if the problem wasn't taken care of, I could bring it back in and it would be under warranty. Imagine that!
I spoke with a friend of the family...a service manager...not for KIA, who immediately diagnosed the problem as probably low coolant. But now that I've read more, perhaps it's the coolant bottle?
We are picking the car up tomorrow and checking the coolant before leaving the lot. And then I'm writing up a letter of disgust to send to the dealership, the Attorney General, and the BBB. Clearly the guy lied. He saw a female and the word sucker popped into his head.
Needless to say, I won't be freqenting that dealership again. And I'm not all that impressed with the Sorento, anyway. My last car, a '98 Olds Bravada was the best...and great in snow. Too bad it's too expensive to own!
It's funny, I went and picked up the car and received the invoice (no charge). It stated my problem, then that they found the coolant to be low, which they added "as required." They then took it for a test drive and found the temperature guage to be working normally. Imagine that.
On the way home, the heat finally kicked in about halfway, and the temp was definitely better...but a little high...between half and 3/4. Perhaps that needs time to flush through the system?
it was passed by congress to prevent abuses buy but not limited to the automotive industry for refusing to honor waranty repairs without due cause (they have to prove it)
the Magnuson-Moss Act is a lengthly document and sometimes hard to read, but there are short interpretation of it available
applcation of the law some say is difficult, maybe so maybe not
I just saw another 2003 Sorento EX in the dealership today that had exactly the same problem. The owner has been through a two-month ordeal because of the same problem, but which turned ugly (a pitiful sight seing a Sorento with its engine pulled to pieces).
My Sorento was just short of 80,000 km (50,000 miles) when it happened.
Ron in Montreal, Canada
the vibration damper along with the bolt are updated items, as per the dealer that replaced them
so far so good, i ask the service manager if it would ever come off again, his response was it should not :surprise: :surprise:
To add insult to injury, I was in the parking lot of a Toyota dealer, giving a lift to my girlfriend who had to pick-up her Corolla after some periodic maintenance had been done on it.
:sick: :P
I first noticed lack of A/C last year. The engine temperature gauge needle was at 3/4. The found a slow leak in the anti-freeze coolant bottle. I didn't see any anti-freeze coolant (green liquid) on the ground when I parked.
Early this early (late winter), I had no heat and engine temperature gauge was at 3/4 too. My dealer first tried the thermosate and some coils. I didn't see anti-freeze coolant was dripping on my driveway right after I returned from service. I returned and then they found the leak again. They were working on 5 other Sorento (03 to 05 models) with the same problem. I got a loaner because they back ordered the parts.
The car drove normal with no engine light on or no significant drop in the anti-freeze fluid level. It probably leaking very slowly while you are driving.
Now, I do think I have a leaking bottle again. Water (or some clear liquid) is still dripping on the ground half an hour after I return to my car from the store. I doubt this is A/C condensation It happens in the last two times before the replacement.
Also, I am too worry about the pully bolt on my 03 Sorento. I will check with my dealer this weekend. Oh! The magnetic lock of the center console/armrest (upper level) is broke too.
The NHTSA recall campaign number is: 05V-353. The recall is expected to begin during October 2005. The Kia recall number is: SC-052.
My 2003 Kia Sorento manufactured in October 2002. I bought it in late November, 2002.
I took the vehicle to BayCity Kia in Barrie, ON for some service work on September 5. At that time, the Service Manager came for a drive with me as I wanted to point out a vibration / noise at around 118 km/h (73 mph) and up. He instantly heard the noise and advised that we return to the dealership. When we got back, he got out and immediately inspected the tires. He noted abnormal tire wear and attributed the problem to that. The truck had only 28,000 km (17,300 miles). I indicated that I had read postings on this forum and the I didn't feel it was tires, but he immediately commented that "they all must have bad tires."
Last Friday, September 30, I replaced all 4 tires with the new Goodyear Fortera TripleTred tires. An alignment was done at the same time. I left the tire shop and went right to the highway only to find that the noise/vibration was still there. I turned around and immediately went back to the dealership. The Service Manager was not happy to see me and agreed to take the truck out for a drive another day. The Service Writer (a former technician) immediately offered to drive the vehicle and he did. As soon as we reached 118 km/h, he felt and heard the noise/vibration (he called it a groan). He slipped the truck into neutral, but the noise did not go away He commented that it is not a tire problem and we made our way back to the dealership. On the way there I found that this was my wife's best freind's dad...an "IN" at the dealership!
They have had the truck all week. They removed the drive shaft and replaced it with a shaft from a brand new '05 and test drove it, but the sound was still there. They then test drove the '05 with my drive shaft in it and there was no noise, ultimately eliminating the drive shaft as the root cause. They then drove my truck on the highway in 4X4 High wihtout any drive shaft installed, in effect using it in front wheel drive. There was no noise or vibration at all. The ordered all of the gears/interworkings of the rear differential.
The repair was made yesterday and I call for an update. They test drove the vehicle and again, the noise/vibration was still there. They now are completely "stumped" as to what the problem could be. I plan to call the Kia area manager today.
Does anyone know the true solution to this problem?!?!
"They then drove my truck on the highway in 4X4 High wihtout any drive shaft installed, in effect using it in front wheel drive. There was no noise or vibration at all. The ordered all of the gears/interworkings of the rear differential."
if the rear driveshaft was removed and the vehicle was driven, how did they keep the fluid from the trans from leaking out all over the road ?
lets say they capped the back of the trans with something, all the gears in the differental still turn when you drive
as a mechanic i have run into this problem befor and it it usually call "pinion angle misalignment"
that is, if you draw i straigth line through the differental pinion shaft it should be in direct alignment with the drive shaft and trans output shaft (vehicle sitting on the ground usually with a driver), if not the driveshaft will vibrate if the missalignment is too great
the cure for this at the rear of the driveshaft is to change the angle of the differental housing
if it is missaligned at the back of the trans, the fix is not so simple
one of they was of getting around this type of problem is using driveshafts with "constant velosity u-joints" (double joints on both ends)
another way to put is you have a "misalignment problem from the back of your trans to your differental" it is deffinatly in your vehicle
KIA should have spects for allowable angle missalignment of these componets
When you use quotes you must state the other persons exexactords and place them in context.
So with that said..I didn't suggest all Sorentos have poor tires.
The customer's tires had abnormal tire wear . The customer agreed and had them changed. Not here. But at a tire shop which i'm sure gave him a second opinion before installing very nice new tires and an alignment.
I was unhappy to hear the problem was still there, but happy to see the customer.
The service advisor, is friends of the family and keen to fix the car for sure as am I.
The vehicle was road tested without the prpropellorhaft , not a drive shaft taken out.
The vehicle was left here while waiting for parts ( diff pot) on my suggestion that if any information came from KIA , I would be best if the vehicle was here for inspection and road testing.
We are not stumped , but we sure are looking forward to getting this problem fixed and back down the road with a happy customer behind the wheel .
Personally , I would ask not to be quoted ..... Unlessf course i'm in the middle of a day time TV show and I'm a guest star! ... At least be acurrate.
The customer is a great guy , the vehicle is a great SUV .
I've had it out on the highway and the poblem still exists, but they already advised me of that and I'm scheduled to take it back in next week.
I obviously quoted when I should have paraphrased the Service Manager, however, we're on the same page.
To close this message, the dealership has been fantastic through this process and I know that they'll work until it's right.
I bought a Toyota. I have had zero problems, and great gas mileage.
Good luck Kia owners:);
1. With the engine running, make sure your dome is on DOOR.
2. Open your driver's door. Leave it open.
3. Press the POWER LOCK button on the drivers door to the LOCK position (locks will pop open automatically).
4. Press the POWER LOCK button on the drivers door to the UNLOCK position.
5. Turn off the engine.
6. Start the car.
After completing this steps the domelight started working right away. I payed special attention in order to document it.
also he posted the whole TSB Technical Bulletin that is sent out to the service manager and when you open it go to page it and it explains the diode but it also explains the rear drive shaft thumping problem. I had my drive shaft replace and it has been ok for 6 months so far.
I tried to post my email but Edmunds will not allow it and I cannot get into my profile to see if my email is there so I don't know if you can get back to me or anybody else. I would be gald to email you the pdf of the technical bulliten.j If you cannot get back to me I will post the Technical bulletin number at noon.
mitsubishi forklift (USA) stopped using that engine and switched to a GM V6 partly because of this problem
i hope they disconnect the cat converter befor they de-carbon your motor or IMO it might damage it
Here is my another observation for the Sorento. I think we (EX and sport package owners with foglights) can leave the parking lights and foglights on when you shut off the car, remove key and open any door except the driver's door. I noticed this when I had to open the front passenger's door and insert key in order to close the passenger window. The parking light and foglight switches were at "ON" setting.
Do you see what I see? But I think this can be happened on LX model too.
CAN'T DO LEMON LAW CAR IS TO OLD BY VA. STATE LEMON LAWS
STUCK BETWEEN ROCK AND HARD SPOT..
GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR VIBRATIONS.
thanks
MrShiftright
Host
I bought this Kia used so I don't know what brand gas was used previously.
According to the maintenance forum all brands are not the same. If you use
ARCO or other cheap brands you could have problems because of poor
quality additives. So I have filled up with Chevron whereas before it was
the stuff they sell at the marine base which I doubt is the best gas. My previous car an Acura was fed premium gas always and never had a problem even at 60k miles was perfect. As this is my first venture away from Honda products I am
learning I should have stayed with Honda!
anyone else recieve one of these in the mail? we got this notice - Sept. 23 '05 - letting us know that some 2005 Sorento's equipped with a 3.5 liter engine may be in violation of Federal and/or California On-Board Diagnostic systems and that some models with this engine have experienced a malfunction indicator light illumination. they wwill replace the parial wheeel guard with a full size wheel gaurd - all we had to do was schedule an appointment. we did WEEKS ago and still have not had this done yet! :mad: the part has not come in! i can't understand what is taking so long - even if it was being shipped from Korea it should have gotten here. i wanted to find out if anyone else has gotten this notice and what action was taken at your local dealership. was it done in a timely manner?
other than that - not a complaint about my Sorrie
Princess
to bumper.I am new to kia and bought it based on the warranty but having to deal
with uneducated uncaring service departments was not expected.Being a small
company KIA is always combined with a bunch of other brands at dealers and there is no way a mechanic can know all those vehicles.My wife has a new Highlander Limited and if I had a lot of money I would have gotten another one
but at $30000 no way.So I got this used KIA that is loaded with gadgets like the
Toyota and is built better than the CRV I had.I thing for sure it is different not like the Highlander which has the personality of a toaster.
this one concerns the passenger air bag light - it may be turned off in the presence of an adult in the passenger seat under certain conditions. they need to update the programming in the Sorento OCS electronic control module int he front seat cushion. :surprise:
Thanks
dar
One thing I have noticed on many Sorento's is there always seems to be at least one lamp that seems to blow out. I have seen some of the tail lamps including brake lights, sometimes it's one of the driving lights. I have had the vehicle under 1 week and my noticed that one of my brake lights was out. I went back to the dealer (KIA) and they replaced the lamp.
Just curios about the various issues the Sorento might have. I don't have any vibration issues, the dome lights are working. The clock seems to keep time. I have the 3.5 engine and gas mileage is a bit less than I hoped for but I knew that going in.
I plan on driving this vehicle next year from Texas to Florida so I picked up a factory 2 peice bra.