Kia Sorento Maintenance and Repair

hamby

I have owned my Sorento for three years and can say it is the best vehicle you can buy. I take to the office and off-road and it has never let me down.

I will be very truthfull--its a great car!!!

pao

my only complaint is that its factory scheduled maintenance is intensive and can be expensive.....timing belt needed at 60K for some models.....come on.....fluid flushes very 30K....based on driving styles...normal or severe...and based on the owners manual..most US drivers fall under the severe conditions.......and if you dont follow and document the scheduled maintenance at the correct times....warranty work can be questioned........

I have an 03 EX AWD...and no problems at all with it...with 82K on it....gas mileage could be better..but the 07s are rated at 18/23

hover

I think I wrote here a few weeks ago that we were having a real starting issue.Would only start, first start of the day, using the remote start.Even then, the alarm would go off.For the most part that would be the only time that would happen..However, it started getting worse, so off to the dealer we go.Car was there for 8 days as they tried to figure out the problem.Finally, they replaced the entire computer system, and the entire remote start and alarm systems....Now it seems to be ok.Well see after a few days

jimmybennett

I have an '06 Sorento EX 4X2. It has 3100 miles on it now. We purchased it in August. On occaison, when going through the gears, it will hesitate or jerk like there is a miss in the engine or something. It has the five speed auto transmission. I can go for several days and it doesn't happen. Then, on a day like today, it will do it several times. It seems to occur mostly between 2nd and 3rd gears. It is a very noticeable jerk that even the passenger can feel. I saw another online post where someone said theirs seemed to have trouble shifting from 2nd to 3rd. I have only been in for the 3000 mile service. I haven't mentioned it to the service department because I know it is one of those things that they won't be able to duplicate it. It has done it since I purchased it and seems to have not gotten any worse or better. At first, I thought it was the A/C compressor kicking on, but now that we have colder weather and I'm not using the A/C I realize that's not it.

Other than that, I do not have any complaints. I really like the vehicle. It is the perfect size, really fun to drive and maneuver, and has more than enough power to get you from point A to point B. I also really like the appearance of it. MERRY CHRISTMAS!

ktoken

I noticed in an earlier post that the dome light diode was a common problem. I am taking my '03 EX into the dealer next week for electrical issues and a problem with the dome light, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Has anyone else had this problem? I have also had issues lately with my low beam headlights blowing out. I have replaced them 2 or 3 times in the last month/month and a half. Any help would be appreciated regarding the dome light. The last time I mentioned it to the dealer, the service woman looked at me like I had three heads and of course, it worked when she opened the doors.

ktoken

I am taking my '03 EX into the dealer next week for electrical issues and a problem with the dome light, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Has anyone else had any electrical problems? I had to have an ignition coil replaced over a year ago, then the battery went bad and ever since, I have had some sort of electrical problem. One headlight will go, I'll replace it, then a tail light will blow, I'll replace that then another headlight. The problem seems to just keep moving around from bulb to bulb. I have replaced bulbs 2 or 3 times in the last month/month and a half. Last year I changed all the headlights out to the Sylvania Silverstar bulbs and have been told by a mechanic friend that since they burn at a hotter temp, there might not be enough ventilation to disperse the heat, therefore, they burn out. Other than the light issues and a bad ignition coil over a year or so ago, I haven't had any other mechanical problems. The only other problem I have is cosmetic, the black paint has peeled off my right wiper arm and it has started to rust. I'll be taking that up with the dealer next week as well.

If anyone has any comments regarding the light issue, I would really appreciate the input. Thanks and Happy Holidays to everyone whatever one you may celebrate.

lusigep

I have had the same issues -- but only with the headlights - I have replaced the left one 3 times and the right one twice over the last year -- I have been using the silverstar bulbs but I recently found some cheaper (half the price) ones at wal-mart that so far have worked.

this has to be an electrical problem, I have owned cars a lot longer than this one where I have never had to change the bulbs -- I bought this 03 brand new off the lot, I am now at 84K miles --

right now I am getting new brakes and rotors put on -- apparently the rotors are not easy to get, there are 2 dealers in Nashville, TN which do not have rotors to fit an 03 sorento. they have to be ordered from some place in New Jersey.

any other comments regarding the light issue would be greatly appreciated!
Happy New Year!

tobyamp

I also have a 2003 and have had several dash bulbs go as well as headlights, the headlights I've replaced each side at least 3 times. I finally checked the voltage and found out that the Kia's voltage is about 16VDC--on the plus side of the bulbs rating. As far as the dash lights are concerned slightly dim them and it will increase the life--since I have done that, there is no problem. The head lights are a problem. I have some 24V halogen on order, this should solve that problem.
Good Luck and Happy New Year.
Tom

ktoken

Per the dealer, there is something wrong with the main fuse box that is causing a "surge" and blowing the bulbs. They have ordered the part and I am scheduled to have it replaced tomorrow. I hope this works. For their sake it better anyway or they will have to deal with my evil twin LOL! Good luck with the brakes, I had a mechanic friend of mine do mine, luckily, no new rotors were involved, just new pads. I was surprised they lasted as long as they did considering the way I drive. It's an '03 with approx. 38k miles on it and this was the first time I had to get the brakes done. Not bad! I'll let you all know if the new fuse box works out. Thanks to all for your inpu!! Happy New Year!!!

clofty

Hi Slacky,
How'd you go with your problem? Did you contant Kia direct? I'm interested in taking a car back to Oz in next couple of years but live in USA. I won't be able to find one here but boy would I like to pay the US prices in Oz!

beyond_help

as far as the electrical issues go i found a very questionable main geound circuit connection between the under hood power distribution/fuse box and the fender. follow the neg wire to see where it is bolted to the fender

mine was a black plated bolt (some plating does not conduct electricity wey well) and the face of the hole including the threads were heavly painted, this main ground connected was poor at best, so i fixed it

alot of electrical problems are eventually traced to poor ground circuits

in addition if your batt OEM is over 2 1/2 years old just replace it, batts can cause strange problems even if they test ok

if this thing (sorento) starts with the light thing, that will be the "last straw" so to speak, it will go and i will get a REAL and DEPENDABLE suv :lemon:

lusigep

oh yeah -- the dash lights I forgot about --
the dial for the AC and some of the other random buttons on the center console have gone out -
let me know how the 24V bulbs work --
thanks
Happy New Year
Lee

fthkp1

I too had been happy with my purchase of my Sorento, but I would like to warn people of the increase in issues that I have had as I near the end of my bumper to bumper warranty.

1. the same electrical issues that no one can figure out completely - although my headlights have been fine for the last few months

3. mysterious engine light, not because of the gas cap, something maybe to do with evap system

2. crankshaft bolt broke - other parts were broken at this time, 1 month in the shop

3. just had that slow leak antifreeze tank issue, had car overheat, and had to have tank, thermostat replaced

4. car is currently in the shop, don't completely know why yet - had to have it towed in with roadside assistance (as it died completely 3 days after previous problem). All I know so far is that some things came loose in the engine, and timing belt gone too...

-the only good thing was that I was smashed from behide pretty hard and barely felt it, about $10,0000 in repairs - so the frame is safe
-I am now wishiing that I had got something else and am looking into extended warranties
-so other owners, keep your ears open, as if you've read about a problem and haven't had it yet, you may have it soon (because that is what has happened to me)

tobyamp

Welcome to the Sorento Club! :sick:
Looking at your list---I think we have the same vehicle!
I had the crankshaft bolt break twice, the second time it screwed up the engine and Kia had to replace it! :lemon:

jimmybennett

Well, I finally decided to take it in after it hesitated one morning on the way to work. It was sort of scary. Turned out to be some kind of ground cable that controls when the transmission shifts, etc. They had to order the parts and I had to take it back in. Also, my outside temperature gauge would have wacky temps, but works perfectly since this cable was replaced.

lok888

May I join you? My 2003 Sorento EX AWD(53K miles now) has a long repair list too. But they weren't that serious as yours. I estimated all warranty repairs since day 1 is $8000 to over $10000. I looked at the bill (dealer's copy) for my last warranty repair in two months ago. It was like $1900 plus two weeks of dealer's loaner. AND my time (= money) too!

pao

as with any internet forum...%95 of the time you only here about the problems......while it is unfortunate......all makes and models have issues........and I do feel for those that have the problems..major or minor......

Im one of those owners who hasnt experienced major issues with my 03 EX AWD........83K on the car.....no problems..other than the coolant bottle replaced......still have OEM brake pads....rotors...though turned twice......and no shifting issues or transmission issues.....though the sorie has had all KIA recommended scheduled maintenance as well.....not necessarily in a timely manner..but it has been done......so this is just one post for a sorie that hasnt had any problems to speak of in 3 years and 83K on the road...

howardskid

First, Hicaffa, much thanks for all the help you give the Kia S. folks. You are so right on the tire size criticality. I just wish Kia would get that word out to its mechanics. Due to a minor collision, I had to have one front tire replaced. The body shop put on a different tire of the same size, one that the TireRack even lists as having the same diameter. But for some reason it took 20 fewer rotations per mile. The new tire was not H rated though, and compounding the difference may have been that the other tires were worn. Almost immediately, I started having problems with the differential. I took it into the dealership and they replaced the differential, but after a couple of weeks the problem came back. Thinking something had to be going on, I did some investigating and found the tire size issue being discussed here. I then replaced all four tires with new Bridgestone Alenzas (which I really like, by the way), and the problem immediately disappeared.

rcoverdell

Mine also has wacky temps. It says it 32 when it's 70 outside. Had it serviced and they told me it was normal!!??

caffienefrog

i have not had any problems with my headlamps going out on any regular basis, but right now... one of them is out. i want to relace it myself, but seem to have to take the entire front end off of the car to do it! anyone have any ideas? our warranty was voided by KIA when we had a satellite radio installed, SO BEWARE!!!! that warranty crap is crap. also, i have problems with my tailights not working properly. every month or so, one or the other either goes off when you tap the brakes, or stays on all the time. sucks. i love the feel, mileage and everything, but it was not worth the price overall. too many costly little issues.

lusigep

caffienefrog - I can walk you through it, you don't have to take off the front end --- you really just need a socket wrench -- there are 3 screws around the headlight, one on top and 2 on the front. Once you remove them, pop the entire headlight out. on the back there is a cap that looks similar to a gas cap for the car, unscrew that and you should see the back of the actual lightbulb assembly. sqeeze the metal prongs to unlock the lightbulb and remove the lightbulb. don't forget to replace the cap on the back of the headlight before you snap it back into place. it's not fun to realize that after you have already put the screws back in. email me at 1leescott@gamil.com if you have any questions.

pao

what was the justification for voiding a warranty for installation of a sat radio....semantics here...a warranty cant be voided..but warranty work can be denied for a certain issue if it can be proven that an aftermarket item contributed to the fault in the first place...I cant see where a Sat radio cause any problem..can you provide us more information here

when you replace headlamp bulbs..replace both at the same time..and dont get fingerprints on the bulbs..wipe them clean before you close up the headlamp..they do burn hot....and contamination on the bulb and lead to issues as well...

phantom2b

:mad: A shredding HGV tyre has wiped out the ariel on my 2003 Sorento. Is it a difficult job to replace :confuse:

jbear5

When should the timing belt be changed? The dealer quoted us $625 to change the timing belt and the tensioner pulley? Is that too expensive? We currently have 65,000 miles.

stever

You didn't say what year yours was. The Edmunds Maintenance Guide says the belt needs to be changed at 60,000 mile intervals.

The whole 60k service for my zipcode for an 05 EX 4WD is estimated at $636, but that includes changing plugs, fuel filter, fluids, etc.

pao

for an 03 sorie.....I went to two different dealerships and each broke out a separate price for the 60K serivce and the timing belt change....if you can get a dealer to do both for $600 you are lucky.......the cheapest I could find in Northern VA...was $450 for the 60k service....and $400 for the timing belt..whether together or separate services...

in order to maintain drive train warranty the timing belt must be changed out....and the dif fluids changed out on time IAW with the scheduled maintenance.....All KIA models are very scheduled maintenance intensive in order to maintain the drive train warranty...and the services arent cheap IMHO

waknn0

Initially, my 2003 Kia Sorento had a perfect door lock/ security system. suddenly, the system became very erratic. The doors do not lock automatically again when I'm inside with the ignition on as was the case. Even the lock button on the driver's door does not control the locks anymore. Can somebody advise what I can try?

waknn0

My AC only works when the control button is at the maximum. What can I do to rectify this?

Also, the clock on the dashboard has suddenly gone blind & blinks light intermittently.

ashoraka

Steve;

Where did you find a dealer in Northern VA to do the 60K service for $450 and timing belt for $400?

Thanks

stever

That was Pao who found those prices. I just hear about Northern Virginia mechanics when my sister calls me to complain (she's near the W Va line). :sick:

pao

Dulles Motorcars in Leesburg VA for the timing belt.....and I went to a local goodyear auto service dealer for the 60K service.....I provided him all the parts as I could get them cheaper...but they did the installation

my 60k service was the plugs and flush and replace fluids in the differentials...I have a AWD 03 EX

satterlee

Have a 04 Sorento EX (bought new)it is loaded and Just love it. Have taken it to the dealer 3 times. Why? For oil changes only. Every 3 thousand miles. What a better way to prevent problems than with preventative maintenance. The fit and finish is perfect. No rattles, squeeks of any kind. When we buy another new vehicle it WILL be another Kia Sorento.

afrayedknot

I have a o6 3.5L V6 Sorento and I bought a aftermarket performance module that attaches to the Iat sensor which will increase horsepower by 40. Can anyone please tell me where the location of this sensor is, it has only two wires going to it {||} this is what the female side of plug would look like. I have no idea where to look please help. :confuse:
Richard

lucient

Has anyone found the solution to the strange vibration that happens at 2500 rpm?. My sorento starts to vibrate at about 2400,no matter what the speed, and then dissapears at around 3000. The problem is that I have to drive at about 75 miles an hour on the highway to get it to stop. Sound like a balance issue to me. I have read in previous posts about changing to drive shaft bushing to rotating the drive shaft itself. It seems to be a common problem but what is the solution?

mxzingh

My 06 Sorento - both low beams blew today and my left tail light. The 2 front side yellow lights are out too. However, I do not recall if they ever light up. I just happened to Google this issue today and I found this VERY USEFUL forum. Aditionally, there is a huge vibration in the front when breaking at speeds between 50-80 miles. I guess it dealer time. This is my 1st issue after 18K.

esj1

My '03 Sorento stalled and died last week. It first made a clunking metallic sound then shuddered; all the dash board lights came on and then it stalled out. Took it to the dealer who has informed me that the variable intake control system valve has desinagrated and parts have fallen into the engine. They have hemmed around that the engine may be a total loss but they cannot give me any firm answer without doing a complete exploratory by taking the engine apart ($$$). Of course, I am the second owner so it will not be covered by warranty as I am over 70K miles.
Has anyone heard of this problem. I had no warning at all. It just happened one day. The mechanic says this the worst she has ever seen!!

beyond_help

this is an known issue with 3.5 v6 engines and kia should have recalled all of them to be fair to the consumer

it happened to me at 4800 miles, also this engine has a problem keeping the front crankshaft pully on this also happened to me, IMO this engine is junk :mad:

esj1

Has anyone had any luck having Kia replace the valve? I will not have as much of a problem with paying for the labor if I could just get the actual part covered - it is costing $450. Also, did the pieces of the valve fall into your engine and do damage. The mechanic is telling me that this is very possible and they cannot quarentee that I won't have considerable engine damage that won't be apparent until it just fails.

kbeas

'05 Sorento - Has anyone had issues with the Sorento's full time 4 wheel drive? Mine has been locking up the front wheels when I turned on pavement. (Just like the manual locking hub style 4 wheel drive systems) It took the dealer a week to fix it, by replacing a sensor. Two weeks later its snowing, no 4 wheel drive. The dealer had my car for a week the first time to figure out the problem. This time I asked for a loaner, they won't give me a car because KIA doesn't give loaners out. Anyone with problems with the full time 4 wheel drive?

lok888

I had a problem with the transfer case on my '03 Sorento (EX, AWD, TOD) like around 7500 miles. Car drove like it was in "4Lo" mode while I had "Auto" mode on any surface. My dealer replaced the transfer case and modular. Took them over a week for backordering parts and repair. They gave me a loaner for a week because it was undriveable.

mrichardson

Next time you have to replace the rotors, which we know you will, loan out a set of gear pullers from your nearest auto parts store. All the major ones will let you borrow them free. They're basically three hooks that latch to the back of a gear (or rotor) with a screw in the middle. Use and impact wrench and it will slowly (or quickly compared to the hammer method) work the rotor off. I was about to use a torch to heat it up and figured I'd try this first. Worked great.

mrichardson

Next time you have to replace the rotors on a Kia Sorento, which we know you will, loan out a set of gear pullers from your nearest auto parts store. All the major stores will let you borrow them free. They're basically three hooks that latch to the back of a gear (or rotor) with a screw in the middle. Use and impact wrench and it will slowly (or quickly compared to hammering it off) work the rotor off. I couldn't even get it to think about coming off with a hand-held sledge. I was about to use a torch to heat it up and figured I'd try this first. Worked great. It would probably work with a large ratchet. You may need a breaker bar.

ajcosta3

While driving on Pa. turnpike Feb.15th, my KIA sorento lost power. I was able to get off to side and jumped out, engine caught fire due to manufacturer defect in power steering hose either loosened or frayed spilling fluid into engine.
Luckily I was able to escape without injuries and my insurance co. compensated the total loss. I had one call from a KIA rep. It was under full warranty and took six weeks to finally settle. This model needs to be recalled. KIA has offered no comment and no further contacts. Very disturbing. I've since purchased a 2007 Subaru Outback and will never recommend any KIA or Hyundai products.

ajcosta3

replying to message #1685, I recently posted my 2004 KIA Sorento engine fire which totaled the car. Insurance investigation said the power steering hose had come loose or cracked spilling fluid into engine. I was on the turnpike at the time and fortunately was alone and able to get out safely. Had no response from KIA. My insurance settled with me. I brought this car new and it was under full warranty. Never experienced any problems until this. 49.000 miles and I had it serviced and oil changes every 3,000 miles.

nomokias

I have had this and every other problem with my Kia. No kidding. The last time I took it in, the service department said that I have experienced all of the weaknesses they were aware of. They forgot to mention electrical (My engine started on fire while I was driving it. Still waiting on the investigation results.) Back to the headlights. I had my left one go out in December. I had it replaced when I had the oil changed. 8 weeks later the right one went out. I scheduled an appointment with the Kia dealer. Before I could make it to that appointment, the left one went out again while I was driving down the street with my grandson in the car. Once I realized the problem, I turned my brights on and had to use them until I got it fixed. The dealer said that we can't use the after market reasonable priced lights. We have to use there lights. It cost amost $100.00 to replace the 2 bulbs. I will never buy another KIA in my life. Problems started at 40,000 miles and didn't quit. The best thing about the KIA is the number for the free towing they put on the window. But beware, they will tow the KIA, but not a trailor. So if your car breaks down, it is your responsibility to pay for a trailor to get towed, even though it is the KIA's fault you are stranded. I have also be adding rental car insurance to my policy. The engined burned up and I don't have a rental.

nomokias

It does have a great warranty - I just didn't expect to have to use it so much!!! It's just a matter of time.

pao

I have an 03 Sorento EX (purhased new in Oct 03) with all options available at the time.......that has given me no problems at all.....the only thing fixed under warranty was a sticking rear gate.....other than that...regular oil changes..a new battery, one set of BFG Long Trail T/As, still have original rotors...turned twice now, one set of brake pads....scheduled maintenance almost on time......only changed coolant at 54K and diff, trans fluids, timing belt and tuneup at 80K, all within acceptable limits of my KIA dealership.....have replaced both headlights, one tail light, and one fog light...all highway miles...just wished it got better MPG...but knew that when I made the purchase.....still getting about 16/20 MPG..next will replace the accessory drive belts..then drive it till it falls apart.....

fthkp1

Well the last time it was in, it got the engine replaced, that took like 4 weeks. Then about 3 weeks later, the same bolt broke again. The last time they gave me a "special bolt" that won't break. I just want to make people aware if they purchase a used one, as the warranty is the only thing that saves this car.

taomerni

I bought our Kia last year with 34k miles on it .. the tires were bad so the dealer put new tires on it . We now have 41k on it and I noticed last night that the front tires are both wore on the inside edge pretty bad . When we bought the vehicle they said the alignment was good and put the new tires on .... I was suspicious that the tires were wore bad with one tire being worn to the steel belt with 34k miles on it but then I came to this forum and seen that the stock tires were not known for lasting long so I didn't put too much weight on this . The vehicle goes down the road straight as an arrow .. But i am wondering why the inside of the front wheels are wearing ??? anyone got any clues ?? Also to update my 1 year of ownership .. I had the Sylvania bulb blow out again .. 3 headlights since we owned it .. 2 on drivers side .. 1 on passenger side .. Any clues or help why ??? the battery ground cable seems to be good.. everything I read led to the battery but it starts the vehicle good and I can't see how the battery would cause the headlights to burn out ..the warranty will be out soon .. Its a 2003 with 41k miles on it .. We like it and want to keep it , but will we get 4 more trouble free years with this vehicle ?? Opinions welcome

pao

I would have the alignment checked regardless of how it drives.....dont know what kind of tires the dealer replaced the bad ones with..but sure they probably werent top of the line ones from any name brand.....I have BFG Long Trail T/As on mine....and they have lasted fine...almost 50K on them now....90K on our sorie......they run about $116 at Cosco/BJs or the whole sale clubs....did experience your problem with ours....and nothing an alignment didnt fix....opted for the three plan..one price..and I take it back as many times as needed to check the alignment...have it done very time I rotate the tires....which I do about eveyr 10K

blubs blowing are a notorious problem with the sorie....dont know if its a electrical issue or ECM issue....keep a set on hand unfortunately....otherwise you can see my 90K report above...just insure you do all the schedule maintenace....fluid changes (trans and dif) and time belt...when required.