2015 Kia Sorento Complaint Log

Rear passenger door handle came apart. Handle clicked in place, but came apart each time attempted door opening. Auto shop replaced door handle assembly. Door was unusable. No warning other than handle falling off

I have the airbag and check engine light on and the code SC212

I had an oil change and then went on a road trip, The trip consisted of two days driving and 1300 miles driven. the engine sounded different so I checked the oil and it did not register on the dipstick. Since then I have been checking the oil once a week and have noticed is will be low. The oil can be a quart to a quart and a half low after just 500 miles.

My 2015 Kia Sorento has had issues on and off for years and I have poured so much money into it. I have taken it to the mechanic so many times. It has had the check engine light on for awhile and the mechanic suggested it may just be faulty. He checked it constantly. On Monday my fiancé was taking my son to kindergarten and the car died. This could have been very dangerous. My two sons (6 and 4) were inside. Luckily my fiancé was able to be parked in a safe place. Once we got the car started back up again it began making a Klanking sound and so we decided to park it at home. I looked up the car and after doing some research I found that certain Kia’s in that time frame had recalls for the SAME ISSUES. I looked my specific Kia up and it said I did have a recall. So I called the Kia dealership and we took it in today. The mechanic there said the issues related to the recall on my Kia looked fine (relating to fuel leakage or the spontaneous fires). He said that there was rod bearing failure in the engine and we could take it back because it is not covered under our warranty. We do not have the recall for the engine issues on our specific Kia. I believe we should. We have not been negligent in the issues. This is the same thing many Kia owners are facing right now under that recall. We need help to place that recall and warranty on our Kia as well. I have contacted Kia costumer service and started a claim tonight with them as well. But I want to cover all my bases. We need this car. We have two kids and we don’t have the finances to fix this on our own. This is obviously a Kia issue. This needs to be rectified by Kia. We have had nothing but problems. And spend thousands already. We can’t afford anymore money or time. This Kia is faulty just like the others of it’s time. I’m not sure why ours never had the recall. Please help!!

traveling back from Panama City Beach, on 10/14/2022 Florida with a destination of [XXX]. At approximately 2:15pm, I had to pull off on the median of interstate 65 North bound at mile marker 123 in Greenville, Alabama due to mechanical failure of my 2015 Kia Sorento. The vehicle was smoking/caught fire and had become inoperable. I had my kids get out A.S.A.P. A good citizen called for help. Two Law enforcement cars and a fire engine arrived. Due to the trauma it caused on my kids a police officer provided transportation for us to the Quality Inn Hotel in Greenville, Alabama. Later that evening we ordered a pizza from Papa John’s for something to eat (receipt information included along with bank transaction page). We attempted to leave Greenville, Alabama and return home in a rental car while repairs were done to the Kia. We were informed by Enterprise rental in Greenville, Alabama that they were closed over the weekend and would not have anything available until Monday, October 17th, 2022. Unfortunately Enterprise Rental was the only rental car business in Greenville, Alabama and we would be stuck at the Quality Inn until Monday, October 17th, 2022. It was at that point that Amy my father drove down from Ringgold, GA to pick my kids up and take them home while I waited for repairs to be done to the Kia or to get a rental car, whichever would come first. On Monday, October the 17th, I was informed that repairs to the 2015 Kia Sorento would be prolonged. I then obtained a rental car from Enterprise Rental in Greenville, Alabama , and I continued onto to my original destination towards Ringgold, GA. I arrived at our intended destination late on the night of October 17th, 2022. During our trip home, we were advised that the 2015 Kia Sorento would be towed to Brewbaker Kia at 222 Eastern Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36117. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

paint peeling/rapid delamination on 2015 Kia Sorento (Snow White Pearl color) on both passenger side front and passenger side rear doors. Prior rapid delamination on "A" pillar of both passenger and driver sides and center roof (repaired 2021, out of pocket cost $2000). Rapid delamination began approximately October, 2022, 105,000 miles on vehicle; increasingly becoming worse.

My Kia is pearl white and the paint is peeling off. I've taken it to a body shop and they said it is a factory prep issue and the paint will continue to peel. And it won't be long before the windshield starts leaking. Upon doing research, I've seen many complaints about the problem I am having. I don't think the mileage should matter.....defective paint job is a big issue. What is Kia doing to resolve this? I'm not paying over $4,000 to fix it when it's not a fault of mine.

No warning lights or signs of anything, my car is up to date with all services have receipts in hand. Car just jerked a little and sounded like a loud banging noise under the hood. Went and brought it to Kia to determine I needed an engine. Car only has 108,000 miles on it.

Unknown

I own a 2015 Kia Sorento in Snow White Pearl. I have 2 Complaints: 1.) The paint is peeling off of the hood. I have read many reviews online where similar issues are happening with Kia vehicles manufactured in a similar timeframe that have issues with SWP peeling off of the hood and the pillars. My car, specifically, is peeling in both the hood and the pillar. Photos attached. 2.) Our vehicle's steering wheel, when we travel over 60mph, squeaks as if it is loose metal. It sounds like a sharp squeak. It only happens when we are traveling at high speeds on the highway. Not while turning or at slow speeds. It is not a rodent or anything like that because we've had a dealership check it out. The dealership did not know the source of the squeak and recommended we got a new steering column and replaced a few other components to fix this squeak (Over $1,500, I'll be happy to share the estimate receipt). Upon searching on Google, I've seen there were more than enough posts about Kia vehicles' steering wheels squeaking to think it's a problem specific to our vehicle. This is s forum of Kia owners who have a Kia vehicle squeaking:: https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/2022-kia-sorento-x-line-s-squeaking-noise-in-steering-wheel.355478/ This is a video I stumbled upon of a Kia vehicle squeaking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lgdf7d2NQYg

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that paint was peeling off from the vehicle roof frame, causing it to rust. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the paint was defective and it was a known failure. The dealer referred the contact to the manufacturer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while her husband was driving 40 MPH, the engine started sputtering and failed to accelerate upon depression of the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light illuminated on the instrument panel during the failure. The contact's husband was able to drive the vehicle home and later had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle with a blown head gasket which resulted in engine failure. The manufacturer was notified about the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 107,000.

Low beam headlights are so dim, Si don't allow my wife to drive at night. Had dealer look at them and change bulbs with a small improvement, but after a while they have gotten so dim that even I don't like driving at night.

The paint is peeling off of my car all the way to the metal in multiple places. Causing rusting.

Snow white pearl paint has peeled after a rain storm. No evidence of issues before hand. Several other complaints on this paint color doing the exact same thing. Paint should not peel off after rain.

Two things- 1) Headlights replaced in March and dim again, cannot see 50’ in front of the car. 2) Driving on interstate the car sputtered and skipped and missed beats, would not go 55 mph. I left the interstate because it was night and cats were flying up on me. I was 140 miles from home and had to take a regular road at 10pm until 2am.

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at night at various speeds, the headlights were very dim. The contact stated that the viewing distance was short. The contact used the high-beam headlights to see the road clearly. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the headlight bulbs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure persisted. The contact called the local dealer and was informed the chrome reflectors might not be aligned. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 77,553.

SC197 completed 11/06/2020, SC212 completed 07/272021. recently found brake fluid leak results on my garage floor several times, but not after each use of vehicle? Also having to replace brake light bulbs often ,because apparently one will fail and all remaining stay on as if one was riding the brake pedal?

My 2015 KIA Sorento at around 90,000 miles started getting areas where the paint is bubbling. At 98,975 miles after a hard rain (no hail) a large spot of paint peeled off on the passenger side pillar around window. It is also starting on hood and above windshield. The color of my is Snow White Pearl. I have reported it to KIA and have a case # [XXX]. They are not responding to my emails. August 29. 2022 is the date of the major peeling. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

2015 Kia Sorento with Snow White Paint has large areas of paint rapidly pealing off. In various spots the paint is pealing off in large chunks and has had no prior damage to the area. After going to multiple body shops I was informed that this is a common problem with this color and model year of this car. It is due to a defect in the painting process.

Snow white pearl paint is chipping on the front end. Started on driver side front quarter panel now its on hood and front bumper. This is so irritating!!!! I can't even wash my car without something chipping!!! The cost to repaint those areas is around $5500.00. Kia really needs to get this issue fixed. They are about to loose a cash paying customer if not.

2105 KIA SORENTO. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO NUMEROUS SAFETY RECALLS FOR THIS VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALER DECLINED TO HONOR THE RECALL. THE DEALER CHARGED THE CONSUMER A FEE FOR THE REPAIRS. *JS

I was driving when the car did a complete stop and the tires was smoking

The vehicle is leaking water inside the car cabin. The front passenger and driver side are soaked with water. If the air conditioner comes on, it sounds like I’m boiling water. It also fogs the windows from the inside.

Kia’s ignition on older models is insufficient with standards. They are refusing to do anything about the fact that there is not an immobilizer on the ignition and the vehicle can be stolen with a USB. A recall needs to be made so that they are required to install a fix for those that own Kia models affected. If there is a different agency this should be reported to please respond so I may contact them.

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made knocking sounds and a burning odor was detected. The contact pulled over before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who advised her to tow the vehicle to the dealer. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to tow the vehicle to the dealer for the diagnostic test. The failure mileage was approximately 173,023.

Air bag light stays on now…

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the brakes and the steering wheel seized inadvertently, and the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to veer to the side of the road. The contact stated that she attempted to roll up the windows, but the vehicle failed to respond. The vehicle failed to restart after several attempts. The check engine warning light, ABS warning light, and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence, and then to a Triple A certified mechanic, where the battery and the alternator were replaced; however, the failure recurred. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the failure was related to the electrical system; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. Additionally, the contact stated that the sunroof failed to open or close unless the sunroof switch was depressed several times. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V331000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 127,000.

The engine started to sound weird and stopped in the middle of the road that couldve created an accident should there have been other vehicle iw as pregnant at that time We contacted kia and they wouldnt change the engine since we didnt replace the knock sensor but we never received the mail and they confirmed thag mail was not sent to us.

The engine on my well-maintained 2015 Kia Sorento went into limp mode a few weeks ago in the desert of SW Utah. I was fortunately near a small town with a gas station, where I limped in and checked the oil. I had recently been in for routine oil change so I was surprised to find it was completely out of oil. I added oil and it seemed to operate normal again, and I made it back home to Des Moines where a week later the engine began knocking upon startup and acceleration. I didn’t even have the opportunity to bring it in to a mechanic because it died on the road (no injuries or traffic incidents, fortunately). I made some calls and learned that this was an issue for many Sorento models. My Sorento didn’t qualify for the new engine, but the local Kia dealership did offer me $200 for a trade-in.

The vehicle has stalled 3 separate times in the rain.

Transmission failed, unable to shift vehicle gears. Vehicle repaired by Certified Manufacturer's dealer. Unknown if part available for further inspection. No lamps or warnings prior to vehicle failure.

My 2015 Kia Sorento LX is peeling paint on the passenger side pillar after a hard rain. I have found many other complaints about the same thing from other Kia Sorento owners after some looking. There should be no reason for the paint to be peeling like this and needs to be repaired before rust begins. My Sorento is available for assessment at any time. This began the night of July 9th, 2022.

2015 Kia Sorento w/ 69k miles- All routine maintenance records. Engine started acting sluggish & making a loud knocking with no indication light displayed on dashboard. Thankfully was not on major highway or outcome would have be dangerous. Took it in to independent mechanics was told needs new engine, decided to take to local Kia dealership where new engine diagnosis confirmed. Was informed engine was not covered due to lack of code and quoted $8,500 for complete manufactured long block replacement, would take 4+ weeks & rental car at own expense. I own two other kia vehicles (2015 forte & 2021 kia soul GT- which I will be forced to trade in for safer vehicle.) I am outraged to find all 3 are being recalled for the similar issues and that Kia is not taking responsibly for these issues and sticking previously loyal customers to pay for their mistake. Please do not risk yourself, your children and other drivers getting one of these dangerous vehicles which are designed to fail.

I bought this car used and never thought to check any problems associated with headlights. The first time I drove it at night, I stopped to see if the lights were even working. I took it to my local garage who has taken care of all my vehicles from Chevrolet S10 to BMW X5. They changed out the bulbs and made no difference. He then contacted various auto parts companies to order the housing for both headlights. The part is priced approximately $600 to $700 each plus his labor. I don’t take this car on the road at night unless absolute necessity. I planned to drive this car for a short period and then give to my grandson. Now, not a chance. He would be safer on the road with a skateboard and a flashlight and he lives in the city of Atlanta. Never have I driven a vehicle that felt more unsafe than this car. In the past, I had a commercial drivers license so I am capable of driving day, night, rain, and shine. Not in this car! This is a problem identified and reported for many years and appears no action has been taken to require Kia to make the cars safe for drivers of their cars as well as the risk to other vehicles and drivers on the road.

The paint is chipping off my 2015 Kia Sorrento. It’s especially bad right above my windshield but it’s chipping in a couple other areas and progressing quickly. It only has 90,000 miles on it. This should not be happening.

Pearl white paint is peeling off on both sides of windshield and hood. Air bag light stays on.

On June 20, 2022 my KIA Sorento with 137,170 miles stopped suddenly in traffic on the interstate during morning rushhour. I had no engine light warning. The vehicle would not restart. I inspected under and behind the vehicle for any issues and found none. I motor was locked up and upon checking the oil, the stick was dry. I had the vehicle towed to the KIA dealership that has serviced the vehicle since it was purchased. I was present when they put the vehicle on the lift and found no fluids on the underbody. I had them drain any remaining oil. 1.5 qts were left. Upon additional inspection the passenger side of the engine had some oil residue near the pressure sensor. The vehicle was due for an oil change within 2k miles. One month prior I checked the oil and the level was fine. The vehicle had never used oil before. Dealership wanted to charge $12k for a motor that had 165,000 miles on it. I was able to replace motor with another that had 64K miles for $8,500 at my personal mechanic. I've notified KIA numerous times and they deny any issues with the motor. I received a letter from KIA six months prior to the motor locking explaining there might be an issue with the Oil Pressure switch and sudden loss of oil, It stated they would cover any chages. I'm still fighting with KIA. I've owned five KIA's, this is my last one.

Paint peel, only happening on shiny white pearl coat.

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact depressed the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle failed to respond; instead, the vehicle gradually lost forward momentum and decelerated. The contact pulled off the highway. The contact turned off the vehicle and attempted to restart the vehicle however, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact opened the hood and smelled a burning odor. The contact checked the oil dipstick and saw that the dipstick was dry. The contact had recently had an oil change performed. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or mechanic to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 186,000.

Engine caught fire while driving out of state with family on highway. Recall notice said to repair only if ABS light turns on. Light never appeared. Kia refusing to repair/replace engine.

My problem is with the headlights, in that the condenser lens for the low beam lights has clouded so badly that driving at night has become so dangerous. I have changed the bulbs twice in an effort to correct the problem to no avail. And with the sealed unit not able to be disassembled to clean the lens, my only option is to replace the units at approximately $800 each. This condition in my opinion should not have occurred.

This car goes into "limp mode" with no warning. You will be driving along and all of a sudden, you lose power. So, you can go from 55mph down to 28mph with no warning that this is going to happen. It just does. The engine in this vehicle was junk when it came off of the line, due to sub par metal used in the engine bearings. Knock sensor has been replaced to no avail. Harness has been replaced twice. At this time it's been at my local dealership for over 3 weeks and they still haven't diagnosed the problem this time. This vehicle isn't safe.

The contact owns a 2015 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was confirmed that the engine had failed. The engine was replaced with an OEM engine. On another occasion, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the same independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the catalytic convertor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure; however, no assistance was provided because the mileage had exceeded 100,000. The failure mileage was 106,000.

The lowbeam headlights are extremely dim. The high beams are just fine, but the low beams are so dim that it's dangerous driving anywhere at night without the high beams on. I have replaced the bulbs, and a voltage test right before the headlight assembly show significantly less than the 12V standard. At night, when high beams are dangerous to other drivers, I mainly rely on the fog lights to provide at least a little bit of light. The fog lights are significantly brighter than the low beams, which seem nonexistent.

Engine blew

As I was driving 85mph, I received a kick back on the vehicle and couldn't drive more than 60mph. Took it to the nearst KIA dealership and their service technician stated I was out of oil. I was due for an oil change but was only over 200 mile at most from my previous oil change 5,000 miles ago. I had the vehicle towed to the KIA dealership where they perform all my service and maintenance work. They came to the conclusion that the oil was being burned through the engine and the only repair was a new engine. No lights ever came on on the dashboard to let me know that there was a problem with my vehicle.

brake caliper failed and destroyed brakes, rotors and caused vehicle to shake when brakes applied

I was driving and engine started to loose power and knocking. Pulled over and discovered that no oil was in the engine. Oil has always been changed every 4000 miles. No oil meter warning displayed on the dashboard.

The headlights do not illuminate down the road. Visibility at night is greatly impaired. Taken to dealers twice. First dealer in NM said it was just the way they were. Second dealer in Texas did realign the lights. Better but still very poor. I have installed the brightest bulbs allowed by law,