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Encouraging response, given that my Sorento only has 500 (yes, five hundred) miles on it (just got it a few weeks ago). I will anticipate improved shifting performance in the miles to come. Thanks for your input.
Still, its a bit frustrating, given that the AT in my wife's 02 Sedona (hence my username) has performed flawlessly from day one. I wouldn't have thought that there would be a significant difference between the two transmissions, other than of course one being a 4 speed while the other is a 5 speed.
That is indeed a strange thing for the dealer to want to keep your keys! Usually the key is still required with remote starters, or is it different with the IMMO, as you would have had an extra part (transponder) installed with your remote starter enabling it to bypass the key chip immobilizer? Normally the dealer should just keep a key serial number on record so you can get a replacement if you lose one or both of the keys you have, because you can't get these keys cut by a locksmith.
which Sorento model do you have. Do you have the regular 4x4 with 4hi and 4lo or do you have the auto 4wd (awd) this could be the difference that you feel. The auto 4wd has a front and rear differential that the tranny must engage at start up. Upon reaching the right gear it should disengage the front diff. until slippage is detected.
jdesjardins - Your dealer probably lied to you about the master key. When you took deliver the car, your sales rep should give you two keys. They are both master keys with KIA logo. There is no valet key, probably for any Kia vehicles. A small metal tag with number on it should come with the master key, on the same key ring. This is your key number. If you lost your key, just go to any Kia dealer (service dept.) for a duplicate key. I don't believe this is different for '04 model. And there is no code or chip inside the key. The parts guy told me when I had my extra key made at the parts dept.
I don't know what book that you were referring to. I assume the manual for your alarm and not the owner manual from Kia.
lok888 is correct there is no chip in the lia keys and your dealer should have given you two keys. I did not get a key tag when we picked our Sorento up but they were able to make extra keys using the VIN number. It tells them what key to punch into the key cutter they have. Also if you go to a good lock smith they can match the kia key to a Hyundia key (I did this as well)
Did you buy the WeatherTech mats yet? I put those window deflectors on about a month ago. I am so satisfied with it. I did see some Auto Vent deflectors with the same installation (inside the window channel) on some cars or pick ups on the streets. I don't remember the year and actual model. The Kia side step bars probably the next item to add on my car. My dealer quoted $400 installed. I hope they can do it within $350 to $380 price range.
Someone mentioned there is no info about the transmission fluid replacement on the owner manual. Isn't it at 30K miles? I think I did several changes on my 10 years old Accord (car sold). And I only used Honda brand ATF fluid. What about Kia cars?
I asked today to my dealer that they change (complete flush) my ATF. And Wow, the synthetic brand put in is incredible ! My Sorento runs so smooth now that this brand is in ! I saw the difference ! They were able to put in about 9-1/2 quarts of this Synthetic ATF.
I have about 7100 kms on my Sorento. I changed my ATF not because of millage but because I want the best for my truck. So I chose a TOP synthetic brand.
And no, the ATF which got in is not from Kia. I did not mentionned the brand because I'm not sure if it's ok to post brand names here.
Brand names are ok here (I type "Edmunds" all the time, lol). Unless you are an Amsoil dealer, in which case we would frown on your self-dealing.
Dealer names are ok, most stuff is fine. We ask that you not post names of salespeople or other individuals who may not want their names broadcast on a public forum. And no promoting competing auto forums please. Check the Member Agreement for more nitty gritty if you wish.
All models of the 2004 Sorento's in Canada come equipped with the engine immobilizer security feature, so the keys will have the chip in them. Remote starters can be installed on these, but they must bypass the immobilizer. The keys will still be required if you were to start the vehicle normally, so that dealer was really out to lunch about not giving the keys to the customer!
The 2003 here in the states when the Sorento came out, has this feature as well. It is a engine imobilizer that picks up a electrical signal of the key making contact in the ignition switch. I had taken my key to a locksmith to get another set made and he has a code reader for all auto makes dupilicate the code and he read no code on the key so no chip. He made the key from a stock Hyundia key, aplain key with no plastic fob, and it worked so again there is no chip in the key. Verified with the service rep on how the imobilizer works I just wish that Kia had a alarm system.
I have 10,000 miles on my Sorento LX 4X4 and I just replaced the tires !! My Sorento came with Kuhmo 798 Radials. They were all wore down to less than 2/32 " tread ... I contacted a KUHMO distributor and found out that the 798 model does NOT have a manufactures limited warranty. These are "ECONOMY TIRES" ususally used in Korea as "Spares". This information was given to me by the tire rack website(distributor). I had a set a Bridgestone Dueler REVO's installed yesterday... Huge improvement on the ride ! I went up a size to a P255/70/16 ! They look great. Bring on the Minnesota snow !!!!!
I am getting new Rotors/ Pads/Calipers installed on my Sorento next week by my dealer. I only have 10,000 miles.... Is this a common problem with these SUV's? When I brake, my steering wheel shimmy's side to side, my front end wobbles, etc. In my opinion, this was caused by over torquing of the Lug nuts by my dealer when they balance my tires @ 2,000 miles.
Forgive my bad typing when I wrote "KEYS" I actually meant the remote UNLOCK/lock radio transmiters not the keys themselves.
I did get my keys! The raido transmitters given to me were the ones that came from the " remote starter" manuf.
The dealer simply kept the Kia issued push button gizzzmos. The dealer has agreed to hand them over since I paid for them. I will Kia,s remote unlock/lock transmitters if I ever remove the remote starter unit (if it ever fails that is.)
Dealer was unable to provide me with the secret IMMO bypass PIN code. he indicated having talked to Kia Canada and confirmed that "my" PIN code to manually byapss the IMMO function, was in fact the PIN code listed "as an example" in the owner's book !
That means that every KIA SORENTO in Canada is coded with the same PIN code... !!! not very good if TRUE !
Dealer said he is waiting for some special computer to alter the default PIN code, Untill then, if I ever have IMMO problems I am to use the one listed in the book (user manual).
The dealer did specify that without the colored master key he would be unable to program a replacement ???? By the way I do have the little metal plate and number that came with the keys.
sorry for the confusion .....I did get all my keys !
At my next service visit...I expect a true "Personal Identification Number" not a default one !!! :-(
jdesjardins - I hope you really mean the keyless remote control this time. The car (EX model in US) comes with two controls and two keys. If you are talking about aftermarket alarm with remote starter, the dealer or the installer need to decode the remote control (not the key). We all thought that you are talking about decoding the key and there is no clip or code inside the key. I think you can still use the factory remote control but without the remote starter function. This is the reason why your dealer didn't give you the remote. And they should give you the factory remote controls as a spare unit. BTW, may I ask how much did you pay for? Is the remote starter come with an active alarm system? And I still don't understand about the PIN.
jdesjardins - I hope you really mean the keyless remote control this time. The car (EX model in US) comes with two controls and two keys. If you are talking about aftermarket alarm with remote starter, the dealer or the installer need to decode the remote control (not the key). We all thought that you are talking about decoding the key and there is no clip or code inside the key. I think you can still use the factory remote control but without the remote starter function. This is the reason why your dealer didn't give you the remote. And they should give you the factory remote controls as a spare unit. BTW, may I ask how much did you pay for? Is the remote starter come with an active alarm system? And I still don't understand about the PIN.
In my user manual , there is a section explaining the IMMO display. IMMO flashes 6 times when starting the Sorento.
The book says that in the case of IMMO staying lit for whatever reason the owner can manually bypass the IMMO bilizer function by manually keying in the PIN code. In the case of 2345 for example... the owner must alternate the key between ACC and ON at a certain rate and intervals to "morse code" in the PIN value 2345. Alternate ACC-ON 2 shots then 3 shots then 4 shots then 5 shots and IMMO is suppose to go off . Then you start the car normally
Hence, a PIN code is required presumably for each Sorento otherwise any crook would know to use 2345 as the sequence to manually bypass the IMMObilizer function.
I assume a few things here, since I do not have technical specs on the immo function itself.
Maybe a simple parking lot jockey could copy the keys, get one's address on the registration in the car and then do a night time visit at home to steal the car by manually bypassing the IMMO with the standard PIN code 2345.
Not knowing any better till my dealer says otherwise, the Sorento seems to be like a 1000 Fort Knox each having the same coded lock on the front gate !
what I paid for it.... ? If you are talking the remote starter/anti-theft feature it was $500 at the dealer. I probably paid to much but if anything goes wrong......it ain't going to be ping-pong between the dealer and another supplier !!
The car... I paid $29826 less $11,00 trade X 1.15 for taxes = $21650 CDN (includes a/c tax, registration etc...)
I then added the trailer hitch(3500lb)for $500 and the remote starter/anti-theft for $500 ($1000+taxes= $1150) Grand total $22,800 CDN after trade in.
Aside from gas... the only little bug is the rear door latch which needs an extra firm hand to lock down good. So far so good but the honeymoon has only been going 2 weeks ! The car feels great, turns great and firm, accelerations are fully adequate for me. Looking forward to a long trip to test it out milage wise.
Wow, that key issue was confusing. It was actually a keyless entry remote and not a key!
lok888, I had a remote starter/alarm installed on my '03 Sorento 2 weeks after picking it up, in mid Oct. It is a solid 2way unit with full LCD display for main remote. It works well with all of the needed features. Remote starters are very handy and convenient in the winter. I had one on my previous vehicle and did not think twice about putting one in the Sorento. The addition of the alarm this time was necessary for insurance purposes and the fact that these are sharp looking suv's and would likely attract the eyes of a car thief at some point. Overall, my insurance increased for the new Sorento, but the new premium was lowered by ~$30/yr if I had an audible alarm installed.
My system is an UltraStart 4355 LR-AM ... $650 Can installed with keyless entry for doors and the rear hatch window. American models are available to, you can check them out at the website www.ultrastarters.com
netcam - I have been thinking about this since I bought my Sorento in December. I had an alarm with remote starter on my last car for 10 years. It was very handy in the winter or hot summer. I had no problem with the system, car engine or ignition switch. I have quote for $350 installed for the whole system at a local auto alarm shop. They probably use Python or Viper brand. The one (Compustar?) with LCD display cost around $500. The guy told it works the same like others, but it costs more with the LCD screen. Oh! Most systems can be upgraded like remote power windows & sunroof operation, hook up to the horn & flashing headlights. Some remote controls look like a pager with vibrate function.
Hey guys, just spoke with a co-worker and she told me the worst Sorento story so far. Thins went like this:
-Oct. 2002 - She purchases a Sorento, first lot that came here. - Jan. 2003 - While parking at a mall, power locks go crazy, start to engage, disengage super fast. She takes the car to the dealer, they said problem was some electric part and that it would be months until the part gets here. Instructed her to temporarily lock/unlock the car using the key. - Between Feb. 2003 and Sept.2003 battery went dead two times and several other electrical problems occurred. She did mentioned that an aftermarket alarm was installed in the SUV, but it was later removed by [u]cutting the cables[/u] by her dealer since they said it was causing problems. No further explanation was given by the dealer. They just handed over to her the control module with the wires cutted.
- Then, Oct. 2003... while leaving her house, she smelled something burning. Seconds later smoke was in the cabin. She stopped the car and ran out. To make a long story short, the cabin caught fire. YES, FIRE! The whole dash melted down. Front seats, windshield and inner roof liner damaged. "Fortunately" some security guards saw the thing and came with extinguishers and eliminated the fire. I saw the pics and believe me it was sad!
Now insurance doesn't wanna cover since it was not theft, wreck or vandalism. I can already hear them blaming the aftermarket alarm system. Also, they said fire originated in the car's computer.
Lynx station wagon's steering column. I took off from home and started cruising down the street. On start-up I heard a faint little "pop" come from the ignition area. I went another 200 feet or so and "pufftt" a little flame pops up on top of my steering wheel. I leaned up and blew it out. It puffed back up again and as I turned onto a busy street near my home the flame got higher and I realized I wasn't gonna stop this one. I parked by a payphone and dialed up 911. The firetruck was there in about 3-4 minutes but by that time the fire had really started consuming my dashboard and steering wheel. They put it out in seconds but the damage was already done. I took it in to a shop and it ended up needing a new wiring harness, steering wheel/column and dash assembly. Oh, here's the good part. It was deemed not fully coverable by my insurance because my poilicy said that they would only cover the part that the mechanics/adjuster determined STARTED the fire. I believe it was the wiring harness. The other two parts I had to pay for myself. They insisted on this decision and had the agreed-upon policy there to back them up so I had to abide by it. Of course, it was not cheap to fix. If I can recall correctly the insurance company footed the labor bill and the wiring harness and I had to pay $400 or so for the other two parts. Also, the dash they installed had to be painted red(my Lynx's interior was red and the exterior was white). There were numerous delays in getting it back from them and it was a bit of a headache as I recall. I wouldn't recommend the experience to anyone!
This reminds me a frighten experience on 1991 Toyota Corolla (car sold) several years ago. My car suddenly stopped in the middle of the street during a snowy day. Then I smelled something burning and saw smoke coming from the steering wheel column. Luckily, there was no fire.
My car towed to the garage. A machine found an electrical problem with the aftermarket foglights and power door locks. My car had no power door locks. I added it in junction of the aftermarket auto alarm. However, I didn't have any problem with my other car ('93 Accord, car sold) with these aftermarket items.
It sounds like your co-worker has an improper installed aftermarket auto alarm system. I don't believe it is the car's problem. My questions are: Was she having the power locks problem after the alarm system has installed? Why the fire occurred in October when the control module unit was removed in September.
Anybody notice if your wipers start wiping (if left on the previous night) when starting the Sorento with a remote starter.
In bad icing or snow conditions where the wipers are frozen in, remote starting the 2004 LX Sorento causes the wiper motors to force needlessly against the "ice-in" wipers. This could lead to burnt wiper motors or blown fuses on the wiper circuit. My previous Caravan never engaged the wiper motors on a remote start ! Is this a Sorento problem or a remote starter not having been hooked-up properly to bypass the wiper motors on a remote start mode. ???
I also did the same thing for my last car (Honda Accord) and left the wiper on. I used the remote starter the next morning and the wipers were operated. Luckily, it wasn't any snow or ice when the wipers were turned on. I think your dealer should take care of it.
I had a problem with a remote start on my 99 Chevrolet Blazer. A few weeks after it was installed I remote started it, then entered the SUV with a very strong smell of smoke. I thought it was going to catch fire. It didn't, but the next time I went to remote start it, the SUV would only run for one second and the engine would shut-off and the security light was flashing. The SUV would not run with remote start, only when using the key to start. It turns out that the remote start electronic module that provides the "fake" security code from the key to the computer burnt up! They replaced the box for free, but I for a while I really didn't want to use the remote start. This was installed aftermarket by large retail chain.
Can't tell you how many cars I've seen in mall parking lots with wipers in mid stroke or the intermittent "park" position. Takes a second to move the lever to OFF.
I pretty much like a lot about Sorento. The only thing preventing me from buying it is the quality. It does not matter how many years of warrantees they have for it if the car is bad, because the long warrantees will become frequent visit to the shop.
Many professional reviews of Sorento are very good. Really interested in the true owner's view about it.
While I'm a new owner, I also would say the quality build appears to be there with the Sorento. I paid particular attention to exterior sheet metal/body parts alignment when buying mine because it was going to replace a '92 Pathfinder which had been built tight as a drum and never squeaked or rattled, with every part fitting like a jigsaw puzzle. I found the Sorento's hood/doors/tailgate/bumper lines were tight and equal on both sides of the vehicle, similar to my old Pathfinder. Mechanically it has been flawless so far, just had to become adjusted to some of the newer technology features and how they operated (ie. abs brake system, a/c operation). The engine is so quiet at idle that there is no body vibration felt, I can hardly tell it is running without checking the tach! The only real mechanical issue may be that rear drivetrain vibration at speed problem reported by others which I was aware of from reading this forum and made sure to check for that during test drives.
The Jeep Liberty was one of a few other suv's that I was looking at and comparison shopping with the Kia and after seeing it just felt the build and interior layout/quality was less appealing to me than the Sorento. And now I have just seen here that the '02, '03 Liberty has been issued with a recall, so maybe I have made the right decision so far!
netcam - I am glad that you enjoy your Sorento as much as I do. What model did you get? I has few issues (transfer case, horn, anti-freeze coolant bottle replacement) with mine but my dealer had taken care of all. It did give me a bad taste in my mouth when these things happened. Luckily, no major mechanical problem or recall for Sorento.
BTW, do you have 4WD (either LX or EX)? I have found this thump feeling at the rear wheels when I left my foot on brake and just about to take off after I stop for light. This thump feeling is especially strong when I stop from high speed then take off again. I found most Sorento 4WD owners with the same observation from other car discussion website.
We have had our loaded EX since March 15 - over 10k miles, and not a single problem! We've taken 4 road trips, and each time I love this SUV more and more. The ride, quietness, build quality, features, etc. for the price are outstanding. My experience has been great, and I recommend the Sorento without any reservations.
lok888 - I have the LX 4WD. I do not have any thump feeling from the rear wheels after stopping from low or high speeds. Have been impressed with the braking so far, can stop on a dime with these 4 wheel disc brakes. Very smooth and straight, with no pull to either side.
I do have a remote starter installed, so thought I would test the wiper thing and did find that mine will operate as well if left on. I don't think this is a problem/issue though as I suspect the wiper motor is working from a live circuit tied to the engine running or a fuse that the starter module has to be hooked into (ie. park lights). I don't leave the wipers on anyway so this won't affect me. As said by dekester, pretty easy to turn them off! The Kia wiper de-icer feature has been great for frost and snow/ice conditions. That feature and the heated mirrors/rear defrost are being used a lot by me now that winter has set in.
lok888... I think that the thump feeling that we are experiancing really affects the EX models that have the Luxury package. I think and I feel that it's the AWD version with the Torque on Demand system may be causing this especially since the Sorento also has Limited slip in the rear axle and from what I see it has something to do with ABS. I bet the computers are trying to sense the TOD with the AWD and ABS so that when everything is stopped and your ready to go the Limited slip in the rear end is trying to release. Again this is my conclusion from reading many post of those that have a EX model. My service manager has no clue as of yet. As long as it keeps on running I can live with the thumping as long as there is no crunching sound.
I have the 4WD EX, but no TOD andI think I also have the same "thump" described above. It is really rare, and only happens when I let off the brake and don't accelerate, but then only once in a while. Maybe occurs more often after abrupt stops. Is this the same symptom? If it is, then it may narrow it down to the 4WD or limited slip, or possibly the ABS system.
Doesn't sound like anyone has nailed the cause yet.
I've had mine for 11 months, 8200 mi. Only problems were a loose connector on the purge valve (emissions control) and a failed MAF sensor, which by the way is a Bosch component. These both occurred at 1500mi. and did not affect the car. I've used it getting through deep snow, long trips and towing up to 2500lb and I have truly enjoyed this vehicle.
dried - Same thing with mine, 4WD EX with TOD (has LSD). Same thing happens when it brakes from high speed. I feel the thump from rear wheels when I let off the brake and before take off. So far, hciaffa, dried, dbgindy and me have the same observation (not consider a problem). All have EX 4WD with TOD except dried's Sorento.
I have 4WD EX with TOD. I have also experienced the thump when I let off the brake and begin to accelerate, especially if I have braked from a high speed very quickly. The first time it happened, I was a bit startled. But it seems to be normal so I just tune it out.
When I was looking around for my next SUV, before I even went to a dealership I would do all the research for the vehicle on the net. From the Edmunds reviews, these forums, and other review sites you can practically find out more about the vehicle than the salesperson knows.
When checking out the Sorento, like you I read a majority of very positive reviews with no real problems. One auto journalist had a vehicle with this vibration and mentioned it as very bothersome and I read of a few owners on this forum with it, so I was looking for that when doing test drives. From the description of the vibration occurring in a certain speed window only it sounds to me like something is not balanced properly. This could be due to improper wheel alignment, drive shaft alignment, loose u-joint, etc. Since I don't have this problem it is obviously preventable and fixable, IMO. It's likely that a majority of owners do not have this problem, and only the few who do have reported them here. Every vehicle that you research here, you will find owners that have a problem in common, decide how important it is and look for these in the test drives.
I'm not sure if the '04 models have this vibration or if Kia has recognized it as a problem and fixed it. I can tell you that my Sorento was a late production '03 and so far it has none of the little problems or annoyances that have been reported here from owners that were buying the first '03 models at this time last year. The few TSB bulletins out have only applied to the early production Sorento's so they would have been fixed in mine. Lately I have been listening for the crackling sound from the heater ducts that some owners noted last winter, so far have not heard anything with my heater now in use daily. And from the above posts on the rear 'thump', it sounds like that is maybe a normal effect with the AWD/limited slip differential combination.
Hope those comments helps you some in your decision, good luck with whatever suv you end up buying!
I'll chime in with the same observation regarding when and how the thumping occurs after moving off from a complete stop. I would not suspect the limited slip differential for 2 reasons. First, it appears only TOD transfer case vehicles exhibit the problem, even though the standard 4WD system also includes a LSD. Second, the LSD is a mechanical unit that uses spring-loaded carbon clutches and metal discs to lock both rear wheels together. The way it is set up, the default arrangement is wheels locked. When the Sorento turns a corner and the outside wheel has to turn faster, the clutches allow for this by slipping. My guess is the problem is in the TOD transfer case. It utilizes a computer-managed clutch to determine the percentage of power transmitted to the front or rear axle. IIRC, the clutch in the transfer case uses a "duty cycle" type of modulation to achieve power distribution. The clutch is "cycled" (by the computer) from full lock to full unlock depending upon input information from the wheel or transmission speed sensors. As far as remote starters go, I would avoid them at all costs. Heck, you can buy them around here for about $29.95 but the true cost is invisible. Yeah, have them installed by some high school kid at the local mass merchandiser. No wiring diagrams, no training, just let him wing it. As long as it seems to work, you're out the door! The Sorento like many other vehicles today, uses a "body" computer. That's what allows it to shut off your lights after you left them on for a while or lock your doors after you unlock them with the remote and walk away without getting in. I was planning to alter the operation of some of the electrical devices until I checked the Sorento service manual- too many circuits pass through that body computer. It's just not worth the effort. Apologies for the extensive posting.
it has a lot of very good information in it and I agree with you on the remote starter dealy, BTW. Have somebody at Circuit City take care of it and hold them to any warranty they offer(if you should have trouble-probably you won't). 'Nuff said, Sam Elliott.
brooklyn1951 - Thanks for your inputs. I assume that you have 4WD with TOD like me, dried, hicaffa and lilac044. We all have the same observation and no one know if this is a problem with the transfer case or limited slip differential. But I have my transfer case replaced at 7500 miles (now over 12000 miles). My dealer explained it was an internal failure with the transfer case and its modular. It was like driving (especially when turning) in 4Lo but it was in AUTO. I observe the same thump feeling before and after the replacement. I checked out the Isuzu Trooper (4WD with TOD) discussion and found no such observation from the owners.
[quote]And from the above posts on the rear 'thump', it sounds like that is maybe a normal effect with the AWD/limited slip differential combination.[/quote]
I bought my LX 4WD (without TOD) Sorento back in Sept. 2002. In 2003, my dealer installed the LSD found on the EX model.
This summer, I had this " thump " at stops; which I never had in 2002. So I'm pretty sure that this thump sound comes from the LSD.
my 03 LX will likely be going in soon to investigate what I thought was a driveline vibration at low speed under moderate throttle -- but I discovered tonight that I had a pretty good engine vibration at about 3000rpm, in park. Any comments/similar experiences?
I have a Silver 4WD EX since last December and have the thumping from the rear after releasing the brakes from a stop. Again, it doesn't happen all the time. It seems like it is intermittent. I called my dealership, and they said to bring it in, but I'm afraid from reading these post over the last year that KIA has not found a resolution, or that this may be normal for the 4WD version.
Comments
Normally the dealer should just keep a key serial number on record so you can get a replacement if you lose one or both of the keys you have, because you can't get these keys cut by a locksmith.
I don't know what book that you were referring to. I assume the manual for your alarm and not the owner manual from Kia.
Someone mentioned there is no info about the transmission fluid replacement on the owner manual. Isn't it at 30K miles? I think I did several changes on my 10 years old Accord (car sold). And I only used Honda brand ATF fluid. What about Kia cars?
I have about 7100 kms on my Sorento. I changed my ATF not because of millage but because I want the best for my truck. So I chose a TOP synthetic brand.
And no, the ATF which got in is not from Kia. I did not mentionned the brand because I'm not sure if it's ok to post brand names here.
Dealer names are ok, most stuff is fine. We ask that you not post names of salespeople or other individuals who may not want their names broadcast on a public forum. And no promoting competing auto forums please. Check the Member Agreement for more nitty gritty if you wish.
Steve, Host
The ATF my dealer put in is from AMSOIL. I chose this brand name because of their reputation.
Steve, Host
In my opinion, this was caused by over torquing of the Lug nuts by my dealer when they balance my tires @ 2,000 miles.
I did get my keys! The raido transmitters given to me were the ones that came from the " remote starter" manuf.
The dealer simply kept the Kia issued push button gizzzmos. The dealer has agreed to hand them over since I paid for them. I will Kia,s remote unlock/lock transmitters if I ever remove the remote starter unit (if it ever fails that is.)
Dealer was unable to provide me with the secret IMMO bypass PIN code. he indicated having talked to Kia Canada and confirmed that "my" PIN code to manually byapss the IMMO function, was in fact the PIN code listed "as an example" in the owner's book !
That means that every KIA SORENTO in Canada is coded with the same PIN code... !!! not very good if TRUE !
Dealer said he is waiting for some special computer to alter the default PIN code, Untill then, if I ever have IMMO problems I am to use the one listed in the book (user manual).
The dealer did specify that without the colored master key he would be unable to program a replacement ???? By the way I do have the little metal plate and number that came with the keys.
sorry for the confusion .....I did get all my keys !
At my next service visit...I expect a true "Personal Identification Number" not a default one !!! :-(
In my user manual , there is a section explaining the IMMO display. IMMO flashes 6 times when starting the Sorento.
The book says that in the case of IMMO staying lit for whatever reason the owner can manually bypass the IMMO bilizer function by manually keying in the PIN code. In the case of 2345 for example... the owner must alternate the key between ACC and ON at a certain rate and intervals to "morse code" in the PIN value 2345.
Alternate ACC-ON 2 shots
then 3 shots
then 4 shots
then 5 shots
and IMMO is suppose to go off . Then you start the car normally
Hence, a PIN code is required presumably for each Sorento otherwise any crook would know to use 2345 as the sequence to manually bypass the IMMObilizer function.
I assume a few things here, since I do not have technical specs on the immo function itself.
Maybe a simple parking lot jockey could copy the keys, get one's address on the registration in the car and then do a night time visit at home to steal the car by manually bypassing the IMMO with the standard PIN code 2345.
Not knowing any better till my dealer says otherwise, the Sorento seems to be like a 1000 Fort Knox each having the same coded lock on the front gate !
what I paid for it.... ? If you are talking the remote starter/anti-theft feature it was $500 at the dealer. I probably paid to much but if anything goes wrong......it ain't going to be ping-pong between the dealer and another supplier !!
The car... I paid $29826 less $11,00 trade X 1.15 for taxes = $21650 CDN (includes a/c tax, registration etc...)
I then added the trailer hitch(3500lb)for $500 and the remote starter/anti-theft for $500 ($1000+taxes= $1150) Grand total $22,800 CDN after trade in.
Aside from gas... the only little bug is the rear door latch which needs an extra firm hand to lock down good. So far so good but the honeymoon has only been going 2 weeks ! The car feels great, turns great and firm, accelerations are fully adequate for me. Looking forward to a long trip to test it out milage wise.
lok888,
I had a remote starter/alarm installed on my '03 Sorento 2 weeks after picking it up, in mid Oct. It is a solid 2way unit with full LCD display for main remote. It works well with all of the needed features. Remote starters are very handy and convenient in the winter. I had one on my previous vehicle and did not think twice about putting one in the Sorento. The addition of the alarm this time was necessary for insurance purposes and the fact that these are sharp looking suv's and would likely attract the eyes of a car thief at some point. Overall, my insurance increased for the new Sorento, but the new premium was lowered by ~$30/yr if I had an audible alarm installed.
My system is an UltraStart 4355 LR-AM ... $650 Can installed with keyless entry for doors and the rear hatch window.
American models are available to, you can check them out at the website www.ultrastarters.com
-Oct. 2002 - She purchases a Sorento, first lot that came here.
- Jan. 2003 - While parking at a mall, power locks go crazy, start to engage, disengage super fast. She takes the car to the dealer, they said problem was some electric part and that it would be months until the part gets here. Instructed her to temporarily lock/unlock the car using the key.
- Between Feb. 2003 and Sept.2003 battery went dead two times and several other electrical problems occurred. She did mentioned that an aftermarket alarm was installed in the SUV, but it was later removed by [u]cutting the cables[/u] by her dealer since they said it was causing problems. No further explanation was given by the dealer. They just handed over to her the control module with the wires cutted.
- Then, Oct. 2003... while leaving her house, she smelled something burning. Seconds later smoke was in the cabin. She stopped the car and ran out. To make a long story short, the cabin caught fire. YES, FIRE! The whole dash melted down. Front seats, windshield and inner roof liner damaged. "Fortunately" some security guards saw the thing and came with extinguishers and eliminated the fire. I saw the pics and believe me it was sad!
Now insurance doesn't wanna cover since it was not theft, wreck or vandalism. I can already hear them blaming the aftermarket alarm system. Also, they said fire originated in the car's computer.
What do you guys think?
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
My car towed to the garage. A machine found an electrical problem with the aftermarket foglights and power door locks. My car had no power door locks. I added it in junction of the aftermarket auto alarm. However, I didn't have any problem with my other car ('93 Accord, car sold) with these aftermarket items.
It sounds like your co-worker has an improper installed aftermarket auto alarm system. I don't believe it is the car's problem. My questions are: Was she having the power locks problem after the alarm system has installed? Why the fire occurred in October when the control module unit was removed in September.
starting the Sorento with a remote starter.
In bad icing or snow conditions where the wipers are frozen in, remote starting the 2004 LX Sorento causes the wiper motors to force needlessly against the "ice-in" wipers. This could lead to burnt wiper motors or blown fuses on the wiper circuit. My previous Caravan never engaged the wiper motors on a remote start ! Is this a Sorento problem or a remote starter not having been hooked-up properly to bypass the wiper motors on a remote start mode. ???
-mike
I pretty much like a lot about Sorento. The only thing preventing me from buying it is the quality. It does not matter how many years of warrantees they have for it if the car is bad, because the long warrantees will become frequent visit to the shop.
Many professional reviews of Sorento are very good. Really interested in the true owner's view about it.
Mechanically it has been flawless so far, just had to become adjusted to some of the newer technology features and how they operated (ie. abs brake system, a/c operation). The engine is so quiet at idle that there is no body vibration felt, I can hardly tell it is running without checking the tach!
The only real mechanical issue may be that rear drivetrain vibration at speed problem reported by others which I was aware of from reading this forum and made sure to check for that during test drives.
The Jeep Liberty was one of a few other suv's that I was looking at and comparison shopping with the Kia and after seeing it just felt the build and interior layout/quality was less appealing to me than the Sorento. And now I have just seen here that the '02, '03 Liberty has been issued with a recall, so maybe I have made the right decision so far!
Liberty recall info at:
http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20031108/NE- - - - - WS08/111080135
BTW, do you have 4WD (either LX or EX)? I have found this thump feeling at the rear wheels when I left my foot on brake and just about to take off after I stop for light. This thump feeling is especially strong when I stop from high speed then take off again. I found most Sorento 4WD owners with the same observation from other car discussion website.
I do not have any thump feeling from the rear wheels after stopping from low or high speeds.
Have been impressed with the braking so far, can stop on a dime with these 4 wheel disc brakes. Very smooth and straight, with no pull to either side.
I do have a remote starter installed, so thought I would test the wiper thing and did find that mine will operate as well if left on. I don't think this is a problem/issue though as I suspect the wiper motor is working from a live circuit tied to the engine running or a fuse that the starter module has to be hooked into (ie. park lights). I don't leave the wipers on anyway so this won't affect me. As said by dekester, pretty easy to turn them off!
The Kia wiper de-icer feature has been great for frost and snow/ice conditions. That feature and the heated mirrors/rear defrost are being used a lot by me now that winter has set in.
Duncan
Doesn't sound like anyone has nailed the cause yet.
I've had mine for 11 months, 8200 mi. Only problems were a loose connector on the purge valve (emissions control) and a failed MAF sensor, which by the way is a Bosch component. These both occurred at 1500mi. and did not affect the car. I've used it getting through deep snow, long trips and towing up to 2500lb and I have truly enjoyed this vehicle.
I am still looking for my next car and my first SUV.
When checking out the Sorento, like you I read a majority of very positive reviews with no real problems. One auto journalist had a vehicle with this vibration and mentioned it as very bothersome and I read of a few owners on this forum with it, so I was looking for that when doing test drives. From the description of the vibration occurring in a certain speed window only it sounds to me like something is not balanced properly. This could be due to improper wheel alignment, drive shaft alignment, loose u-joint, etc. Since I don't have this problem it is obviously preventable and fixable, IMO.
It's likely that a majority of owners do not have this problem, and only the few who do have reported them here. Every vehicle that you research here, you will find owners that have a problem in common, decide how important it is and look for these in the test drives.
I'm not sure if the '04 models have this vibration or if Kia has recognized it as a problem and fixed it. I can tell you that my Sorento was a late production '03 and so far it has none of the little problems or annoyances that have been reported here from owners that were buying the first '03 models at this time last year. The few TSB bulletins out have only applied to the early production Sorento's so they would have been fixed in mine. Lately I have been listening for the crackling sound from the heater ducts that some owners noted last winter, so far have not heard anything with my heater now in use daily.
And from the above posts on the rear 'thump', it sounds like that is maybe a normal effect with the AWD/limited slip differential combination.
Hope those comments helps you some in your decision, good luck with whatever suv you end up buying!
Hope you enjoy your truck.
As far as remote starters go, I would avoid them at all costs. Heck, you can buy them around here for about $29.95 but the true cost is invisible. Yeah, have them installed by some high school kid at the local mass merchandiser. No wiring diagrams, no training, just let him wing it. As long as it seems to work, you're out the door!
The Sorento like many other vehicles today, uses a "body" computer. That's what allows it to shut off your lights after you left them on for a while or lock your doors after you unlock them with the remote and walk away without getting in. I was planning to alter the operation of some of the electrical devices until I checked the Sorento service manual- too many circuits pass through that body computer. It's just not worth the effort.
Apologies for the extensive posting.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
I bought my LX 4WD (without TOD) Sorento back in Sept. 2002. In 2003, my dealer installed the LSD found on the EX model.
This summer, I had this " thump " at stops; which I never had in 2002. So I'm pretty sure that this thump sound comes from the LSD.