Kia Sorento Problems in the UAE | Jordan Car Inspection

This article gives you a short guide to Kia Sorento problems from the team at Jordan Car Inspection Center.

The Kia Sorento is one of the sport utility vehicles (SUVs) that combines strong performance, luxurious comfort and modern design. Thanks to these strengths, it has become a popular choice in many global markets, especially in the Middle East. However, like any other car, a used Kia Sorento can come with some problems. This usually happens when it was not inspected properly or not maintained correctly. In this article, we review the main problems that used Kia Sorento owners face and how to deal with them.

1. Engine Problems

Kia Sorento engines are known for their reliability and fuel economy. However, some problems can appear over time:

Excess oil consumption: In some older models, oil may leak or be consumed abnormally because of worn piston rings or valves.
Worn timing belt: In models that use a timing belt instead of a chain, the belt must be replaced periodically. This is usually every 60,000 to 100,000 kilometres, to avoid major problems.
Fuel injection problems: Fuel injectors can become clogged or damaged, which leads to weak performance and higher fuel consumption.

2. Gearbox Problems

The automatic gearbox in the Kia Sorento is usually reliable, but it can face some problems:

Worn automatic gearbox: In older models, the automatic gearbox can wear out over time and need repair or replacement.
Gearbox overheating: This can damage the internal parts or mean the oil must be changed frequently.
High repair costs: Repairing or replacing the gearbox in a Kia Sorento can be expensive, especially in older models.

3. Suspension and Brake Problems

The Kia Sorento has a strong suspension system that gives comfort while driving. However, this system can face some problems:

Worn shock absorbers: These parts can wear out quickly if the car was used off-road or in harsh conditions.
Fast brake pad wear: Because of repeated daily use, the brakes may need frequent replacement.
Car vibration while braking: This may be caused by unbalanced tyres or worn brake discs.

4. Electrical and Electronics Problems

The Kia Sorento is not known for complex electronic systems. Even so, some problems can appear:

Dashboard faults: Inaccurate warning messages may appear, or some indicators stop working.
Air-conditioning problems: The AC may stop working properly because of a refrigerant leak or a damaged compressor.
Battery drain: If the car is not started for a long time, the battery’s efficiency may drop or the battery may fail.

5. Corrosion and Exterior Damage

The Kia Sorento uses high-quality materials in its body. However, some older models can be prone to corrosion or rust:

Rust on the underside: If the car was exposed to harsh weather or salt water, signs of rust may appear on the underside.
Fast tyre wear: Because of repeated daily use, tyres may wear faster than average.

6. Relatively Low Maintenance Cost

Unlike many luxury cars, the Kia Sorento has a relatively low maintenance cost compared with other brands. However, some parts, such as the gearbox or the AC, can be very expensive if the car is old.

Kia Sorento Problems by Model Year

The weak points of the Kia Sorento differ from one generation to another. Below, we explain each generation and what to focus on when you inspect the car before buying.

First Generation (BL): 2003–2009 models. It includes the Sorento 2007 and 2008, after the 2007 update that added 3.3-litre and 3.8-litre V6 engines.

Best-known problems: The 3.5-litre V6 engine in the early models uses a timing belt, and if the belt snaps, the engine is damaged. Owners of the 2003 model reported repeated complaints about a loose crankshaft pulley bolt. Recall campaigns also covered the ABS unit in 2007–2009 models because of moisture leaking in and a possible fire. They also covered the brake light switch in 2007–2011 models.

What to check before buying: Proof that the timing belt was changed on the 3.5 engine, any noise from the crankshaft pulley, the ABS and airbag warning lights, the brake lights, and the condition of the chassis and the four-wheel drive.

Second Generation (XM): 2010–2014 models, with an update in the 2014 model. It includes the Sorento 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014.

Best-known problems: The best-known weak point is the 2.4-litre engine from the Theta II family: early wear in the connecting rod bearings, which shows up as a regular knocking sound and may end with the engine stopping. As a result, 2011–2014 models with this engine, in both GDI and MPI versions, were recalled in several campaigns. The 2011–2014 models were also recalled because the ABS control unit can cause a short circuit and a fire in the engine bay.

What to check before buying: Listen to the engine on a cold start and during acceleration. Check the oil level and oil consumption, and look for the oil pressure light or a flashing engine light. Also make sure the recalls were carried out, or that there is an invoice for an engine replacement.

Third Generation (UM): 2015–2020 models, with updates in 2018–2019. It includes the Sorento 2016 and 2020.

Best-known problems: Engine complaints continued in the 2.4 GDI and 2.0 turbo versions, and the 2016 model tops owners’ engine complaints. In 2019, Kia added a software update to these engines for a knock sensor detection system (KSDS), which puts the car into limp mode when it detects bearing wear. Recalls also include the tow hitch module in 2016–2022 models because of a possible short circuit and fire.

What to check before buying: The same engine checks. Also ask the seller whether the engine has been replaced and check the fuel connections around it. Test the gearbox, and check the tow hitch if there is one.

Fourth Generation (MQ4): from the 2021 model to the present, with an update starting with the 2024 model. Recent GCC versions come with a 2.5-litre engine with a 6-speed gearbox, or a 3.5-litre V6 with an 8-speed gearbox.

Best-known problems: No widespread engine problem is known so far, unlike in the two previous generations. The main recall campaigns concern the 2.5 turbo version. One is a fault in the electric oil pump of the dual-clutch gearbox that can cause a loss of drive power (2021–2022 models). Another is a possible fuel leak from the high-pressure pump connection (2021 model). The 2021–2023 models were also recalled because of the AC fan wiring harness, due to a possible fire.

What to check before buying: Confirm the actual engine and gearbox type, especially in imported cars. Then check how smoothly the car pulls away from a stop, and check for any burning smell from the AC vents.

Note: Whether a car is covered by recall campaigns depends on its chassis number. So ask an authorised dealer in the UAE to check the VIN for any open campaign.

Kia Sorento 2025 and 2026: What to Check?

The Sorento 2025 and 2026 belong to the fourth generation after the update. They are still recent, so there is not enough data on their long-term faults. Most of what has been recorded for them are software or manufacturing recalls, not recurring mechanical problems:

Lights: A software fault in the body control unit can switch off the low-beam headlights and the rear lights in 2024–2025 models. It is fixed with a free update. Test all the lights.
Instrument display: A software fault may blank the display in some 2025–2026 models. It is fixed with a remote update or at the dealer.
Spare tyre: It may be non-compliant in some 2026 models, which affects the ABS and traction control systems when it is used.
Computer scan and warranty: Read the stored faults even if the dashboard shows no warnings, review the dealer service history and warranty validity, and for the hybrid version ask for a high-voltage battery check.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Kia Sorento

Is the Kia Sorento 2011 and 2012 Worth Buying?

The most important thing to check in them is the 2.4-litre engine, because of the connecting rod bearing problem. A car whose engine was replaced at the dealer, or one that passes the inspection with no knocking sound or oil consumption, may be a reasonable choice. The V6 versions were not covered by these recalls, but they need a full inspection like any car of this age.

Which Sorento Models Have the Most Complaints?

According to owner complaints, the 2016 model comes first for engine complaints, followed by 2015 and then 2012. These numbers reflect the number of reports, not a confirmed failure rate. However, they confirm the importance of checking the engine in 2011–2016 models.

Is the Sorento 2015 Second or Third Generation?

It could be either. The third generation was launched in Korea in August 2014 and sold as a 2015 model in some markets, while in other markets the 2015 Sorento stayed second generation. Check the shape and the chassis number before you compare prices.

Is the Sorento 2020 the New Shape?

No. The 2020 model is the last year of the third generation, and the fourth generation started with the 2021 model. So the third-generation checks apply to the Sorento 2020, mainly the condition of the engine and its service history.

How Do I Know Whether the Recalls Were Carried Out on the Car?

Ask an authorised dealer in the UAE to check the VIN for open and completed campaigns on the car. It is also advisable to ask the seller for the invoices of any repair done under a recall campaign.

Whatever the model year, do not rely only on how the car looks or on what the seller says. Inspect the Sorento before buying at Jordan Car Inspection Center, where we run a computer scan to read the faults stored in the control units, together with a full mechanical inspection of the engine, gearbox, suspension and brakes. That way you know the car’s real condition before you pay for it.

Tips to Avoid Problems When Buying a Used Kia Sorento

Full car inspection: Have the car checked by car maintenance specialists to make sure there are no hidden problems.
Review the service history: Make sure the car was serviced regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Check the mileage: Cars that have covered long distances may be more prone to mechanical problems.
Buy from a trusted source: Try to buy the car from an authorised dealer or a trusted seller.
Test the basic systems: Make sure all systems work, such as the AC, the lights and the brakes.

To learn about vehicle registration and renewal requirements in the UAE, visit the official website of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).