IllustrationHeadlights and dash lights will suddenly and randomly turn off while driving when using auto setting. Have experienced this multiple times.
2017 Kia Sorento
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
More warning signs than most Sorento years
Owner complaints for the 2017 Kia Sorento are substantially higher than the model-year median of 242.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Sorento years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
730–25K
6625–50K
6050–75K
2975–100K
37100–150K
6150K+
271 reports with mileage · 530 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Engine. Review the 384 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Exterior Lighting. Review the 125 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Steering. Review the 97 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
13 crash reports32 fire reports13 injury reports
Exterior Lighting complaints
125 reportsThe lighting switch assembly has an issue that causes the headlights to turn off at random times. I have only seen it happen when the switch is on the auto setting, but that is the setting I most often use. When the lights go off, the instrument panel display shows that the switch has changed to the parking lights setting, but t…
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The lighting switch assembly has an issue that causes the headlights to turn off at random times. I have only seen it happen when the switch is on the auto setting, but that is the setting I most often use. When the lights go off, the instrument panel display shows that the switch has changed to the parking lights setting, but the physical switch has not been moved. The lights remain off for a few seconds and then switch back to the auto setting. I have also seen issues with the turn signals, such as when I make a left turn and complete the turn, the switch flips to the off position and then the right turn signal turns on by itself. This is a safety risk because the lights randomly turn off at night and it hinders my ability to see in the dark and for other vehicles to see me. It is also a safety risk because other drivers may react based on my turn signal being on, but I don’t intend to move in the direction it is indicating. I have seen this happen multiple times over the past year, but not consistently. The dealer I brought it to was not able to reproduce the issue and did not replace the switch. A dealer has inspected it, but no other parties have. There is no prior warning or messages before it happens.
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated upon activating the high beam headlights, both the internal and external lights failed to operate as needed. The contact stated that the lights had to be manually turned off before returning to normal operation. The contact also mentioned that his wife had driven into a dit…
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The contact owns a 2017 Kia Sorento. The contact stated upon activating the high beam headlights, both the internal and external lights failed to operate as needed. The contact stated that the lights had to be manually turned off before returning to normal operation. The contact also mentioned that his wife had driven into a ditch and scratched the passenger’s side of the vehicle due to the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where he was given an estimate for a diagnostic test and repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 42,600. The VIN was not available.
While headlights are set to "Auto" mode, they will automatically shut off wile driving on multiple occasions. Also, while on "Auto" mode, parked, and vehicle turned off, head lights will turn on. This is a safety issue as driving without headlights is illegal and can cause an accident. Also, if vehicle has headlights on while ve…
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While headlights are set to "Auto" mode, they will automatically shut off wile driving on multiple occasions. Also, while on "Auto" mode, parked, and vehicle turned off, head lights will turn on. This is a safety issue as driving without headlights is illegal and can cause an accident. Also, if vehicle has headlights on while vehicle is parked and turned off, this can cause the battery to drain and vehicle will not turn on. Enabling it driveable. This is a failure within Kia's electrical system/wiring, and needs to be brought to their attention.
Intermittently, while driving, day or night, the headlights will turn on or off for about 30 seconds despite the called for sensor setting. For example, if it is dark outside, the sensors will trigger to turn on the headlight and running lights and vise a versa, when the sensors detect sufficient light, the running and headlight…
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Intermittently, while driving, day or night, the headlights will turn on or off for about 30 seconds despite the called for sensor setting. For example, if it is dark outside, the sensors will trigger to turn on the headlight and running lights and vise a versa, when the sensors detect sufficient light, the running and headlights will turn off. I have only noticed this happens when the headlights are in the "auto" mode position as I don't keep them any other way. I have only noticed it a couple times when the headlights and/or running lights will turn on during the day (bright enough not to trigger the sensor). HOWEVER, it has happened A LOT at night where the lights will turn OFF WHILE DRIVING which causes panic because I'm driving a death machine blindly (nothing bright to mistakenly trigger sensor/no overhead lighting or approaching vehicles, i.e. pitch black). I have not been able to recreate it on demand and it has an unknown, unbiased pattern. I would say that it occurs weekly, up to 2 times per week. I feel that it has happened more often a few seconds after straightening from a turn using the turning signal (but I always use my turning signal). The direction of turn doesn't factor, it'll do it turning left or right. There has been a couple times where I almost have driven off the road and/or hit unseen objects because of having no lights. This has happened enough at night when the lights unwantedly turn off, that I have learned to quickly switch the lights from "auto" to "on" and the lights react/will work and stay on when switched back to "auto". Mechanic unable to recreate issue. No warning lights, messages, or notice of problematic signals (other than the standard "lights on" notification. The attached picture was taken at 4:06 pm on July 29, 2022. It was a hot, sunny day and I was doing 53 on the highway (straight/no curves). My running lights turned on long enough for me to pull out my phone and take a picture.
2017 Kia Sorrento burns excessive amounts of oil between oil changes, more than 4 quarts. Eyebrow and rear parking lights come on their own, even after the car has been off for several hours without touching Kia or keys.
When the headlights are on "auto", they shut off at night while I'm driving. This has happened when I have been traveling out of state on dark highways and it is very dangerous. It is available to be inspected. I have not taken it in to get checked. I have not been able to use the "auto" feature because I do not want to take tha…
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When the headlights are on "auto", they shut off at night while I'm driving. This has happened when I have been traveling out of state on dark highways and it is very dangerous. It is available to be inspected. I have not taken it in to get checked. I have not been able to use the "auto" feature because I do not want to take that kind of risk.
While I was driving on the interstate my head lights and dashboard lights went out. My lights were in auto mode. The next morning my park lights were on with the light switch in auto mode.
The auto lights turn off randomly during night operation
While driving at night down an unlit roadway, the headlights turned off. I was the passenger and my wife the driver. She touched the light control arm and they came back on. She said this has happened about 5 times, all at night. It takes about 3-5 seconds to get the lights to come back on. We were on a back country road driving…
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While driving at night down an unlit roadway, the headlights turned off. I was the passenger and my wife the driver. She touched the light control arm and they came back on. She said this has happened about 5 times, all at night. It takes about 3-5 seconds to get the lights to come back on. We were on a back country road driving about 55 mph which means we drove anywhere from 240 feet to 400 feet down the highway in the dark. This is a safety concern. I have also discovered some of the vehicle's lights come on at random while parked in the garage. I have also discovered the battery dead on 3 occasions. I assume these issues are related.
Official recalls
422V703000 · Trailer Hitches
Sep 19, 2022
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
18V907000 · Engine; Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
Dec 19, 2018
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
17V586000 · Engine And Engine Cooling:engine
Sep 21, 2017
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017 Sorento vehicles equipped with 3.3L engines. The engine crankshaft may have been improperly heat treated and may fail.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the crankshaft fails, the engine will stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A failed crankshaft also increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the crankshaft, and, as necessary, replace the engine sub assembly, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC153.
16V862000 · Electrical System; Trailer Hitches
Nov 30, 2016
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Trailer Hitches
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Electrical System
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence: If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
3PE23019 · Loss Of Motive Power
Opened Nov 13, 2023 · Closed Jul 23, 2024
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine; Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:seals/gaskets
On November 13, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23-019) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power relating to head gasket and/or head bolt failure in Model Year (MY) 2016-2017 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the 3.3 L Lambda II engine. When the investigation was opened, ODI had received 13 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) related to reports of loss of motive power. In an information request letter dated November 30, 2023, ODI requested technical information and failure data relating to the alleged defect in the subject MY 2016-2017 Kia Sorento as well as several peer vehicle populations which share the 3.3 L engine. In its February 26, 2024, response to ODI’s information request, Kia provided 2022 customer complaints (including techline and field reports) and 1738 warranty claims representing 2411 unique vehicles within the subject vehicle population. Of the customer complaints provided by Kia, they identified only 53 unique allegations of a loss of motive power resulting from the alleged defect. Kia determined that the remaining reports were minor vehicle drivability or engine performance issues. ODI reviewed the information provided by Kia, along with additional VOQs submitted to NHTSA following the opening of the investigation. When eliminating duplicative reports across the data sources, the total number of allegations of loss of motive power relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles is 77, representing an incident report rate of 59 per 100,000 vehicles. The MY 2016 Kia Sorento exhibited both the highest overall complaint rate and loss of motive power report rate across all subject and peer vehicle populations, representing an incident report rate of 102 per 100,000 vehicles. Across all data sources, there are no allegations of crashes or fires relating to the alleged defect. The one injury incident reflected in the failure summary table above is related to a consumer who was reportedly burned (minor burn requiring medical attention) while attempting to remove the coolant reservoir cap following a loss of motive power event. In their response to ODI, Kia described that if the threads of a head bolt hole in the subject engine becomes damaged, the clamping force between the cylinder head and engine block can decrease in the area of the affected head bolt. Kia’s assessment of the alleged defect is that when the failure occurs, drivers are provided with numerous warning signs prior to a potential loss of motive power event. According to Kia, potential warning signs associated with this failure include coolant leak/consumption or noticeable coolant odor, engine oil leak/consumption, engine temperature gauge rising to “H” (hot), check engine light illuminating, engine cooling fan remaining on following the engine being shut off, HVAC system not functioning properly, unusual engine noise, difficulty starting the vehicle, and smoke/condensation emitting from the engine compartment or exhaust. Through both its review of the information provided by Kia and outreach to consumers, ODI confirmed that there is reasonable detectability present in the vast majority of occurrences of the alleged defect. To mitigate the alleged defect, Kia increased the engagement depth of the head bolt threads for all subject engines, beginning in May 2017. ODI’s analysis of the failure data demonstrates that this corrective action correlates with a much lower incident report rate for engines produced following the change (8 per 100,000 vehicles for the MY 2018-2020 Kia Sorento). In December 2023, Kia launched extended warranty campaign WTY035 covering failures associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Through its investigation, ODI identified the following peer vehicle populations, which were produced prior to the corrective action and exhibit failure rates comparable to the subject vehicles: MY 2014-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2015-2016 Kia Sedona, and MY 2014-2017 Kia Cadenza equipped with the 3.3 L engine. Through discussions with ODI during the investigation, Kia decided to launch extended warranty campaign WTY039 in May 2024, which covers these peer vehicle populations through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Based on analysis of the failure data indicating a low incident report rate of loss of motive power for the alleged defect, and in consideration of the warning signs which frequently occur from head gasket and/or head bolt failure in the subject engines, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:seals/gaskets
On November 13, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23-019) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power relating to head gasket and/or head bolt failure in Model Year (MY) 2016-2017 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the 3.3 L Lambda II engine. When the investigation was opened, ODI had received 13 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) related to reports of loss of motive power. In an information request letter dated November 30, 2023, ODI requested technical information and failure data relating to the alleged defect in the subject MY 2016-2017 Kia Sorento as well as several peer vehicle populations which share the 3.3 L engine. In its February 26, 2024, response to ODI’s information request, Kia provided 2022 customer complaints (including techline and field reports) and 1738 warranty claims representing 2411 unique vehicles within the subject vehicle population. Of the customer complaints provided by Kia, they identified only 53 unique allegations of a loss of motive power resulting from the alleged defect. Kia determined that the remaining reports were minor vehicle drivability or engine performance issues. ODI reviewed the information provided by Kia, along with additional VOQs submitted to NHTSA following the opening of the investigation. When eliminating duplicative reports across the data sources, the total number of allegations of loss of motive power relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles is 77, representing an incident report rate of 59 per 100,000 vehicles. The MY 2016 Kia Sorento exhibited both the highest overall complaint rate and loss of motive power report rate across all subject and peer vehicle populations, representing an incident report rate of 102 per 100,000 vehicles. Across all data sources, there are no allegations of crashes or fires relating to the alleged defect. The one injury incident reflected in the failure summary table above is related to a consumer who was reportedly burned (minor burn requiring medical attention) while attempting to remove the coolant reservoir cap following a loss of motive power event. In their response to ODI, Kia described that if the threads of a head bolt hole in the subject engine becomes damaged, the clamping force between the cylinder head and engine block can decrease in the area of the affected head bolt. Kia’s assessment of the alleged defect is that when the failure occurs, drivers are provided with numerous warning signs prior to a potential loss of motive power event. According to Kia, potential warning signs associated with this failure include coolant leak/consumption or noticeable coolant odor, engine oil leak/consumption, engine temperature gauge rising to “H” (hot), check engine light illuminating, engine cooling fan remaining on following the engine being shut off, HVAC system not functioning properly, unusual engine noise, difficulty starting the vehicle, and smoke/condensation emitting from the engine compartment or exhaust. Through both its review of the information provided by Kia and outreach to consumers, ODI confirmed that there is reasonable detectability present in the vast majority of occurrences of the alleged defect. To mitigate the alleged defect, Kia increased the engagement depth of the head bolt threads for all subject engines, beginning in May 2017. ODI’s analysis of the failure data demonstrates that this corrective action correlates with a much lower incident report rate for engines produced following the change (8 per 100,000 vehicles for the MY 2018-2020 Kia Sorento). In December 2023, Kia launched extended warranty campaign WTY035 covering failures associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Through its investigation, ODI identified the following peer vehicle populations, which were produced prior to the corrective action and exhibit failure rates comparable to the subject vehicles: MY 2014-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2015-2016 Kia Sedona, and MY 2014-2017 Kia Cadenza equipped with the 3.3 L engine. Through discussions with ODI during the investigation, Kia decided to launch extended warranty campaign WTY039 in May 2024, which covers these peer vehicle populations through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Based on analysis of the failure data indicating a low incident report rate of loss of motive power for the alleged defect, and in consideration of the warning signs which frequently occur from head gasket and/or head bolt failure in the subject engines, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
Engine
On November 13, 2023, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened a Preliminary Evaluation (PE23-019) to investigate allegations of loss of motive power relating to head gasket and/or head bolt failure in Model Year (MY) 2016-2017 Kia Sorento vehicles equipped with the 3.3 L Lambda II engine. When the investigation was opened, ODI had received 13 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) related to reports of loss of motive power. In an information request letter dated November 30, 2023, ODI requested technical information and failure data relating to the alleged defect in the subject MY 2016-2017 Kia Sorento as well as several peer vehicle populations which share the 3.3 L engine. In its February 26, 2024, response to ODI’s information request, Kia provided 2022 customer complaints (including techline and field reports) and 1738 warranty claims representing 2411 unique vehicles within the subject vehicle population. Of the customer complaints provided by Kia, they identified only 53 unique allegations of a loss of motive power resulting from the alleged defect. Kia determined that the remaining reports were minor vehicle drivability or engine performance issues. ODI reviewed the information provided by Kia, along with additional VOQs submitted to NHTSA following the opening of the investigation. When eliminating duplicative reports across the data sources, the total number of allegations of loss of motive power relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles is 77, representing an incident report rate of 59 per 100,000 vehicles. The MY 2016 Kia Sorento exhibited both the highest overall complaint rate and loss of motive power report rate across all subject and peer vehicle populations, representing an incident report rate of 102 per 100,000 vehicles. Across all data sources, there are no allegations of crashes or fires relating to the alleged defect. The one injury incident reflected in the failure summary table above is related to a consumer who was reportedly burned (minor burn requiring medical attention) while attempting to remove the coolant reservoir cap following a loss of motive power event. In their response to ODI, Kia described that if the threads of a head bolt hole in the subject engine becomes damaged, the clamping force between the cylinder head and engine block can decrease in the area of the affected head bolt. Kia’s assessment of the alleged defect is that when the failure occurs, drivers are provided with numerous warning signs prior to a potential loss of motive power event. According to Kia, potential warning signs associated with this failure include coolant leak/consumption or noticeable coolant odor, engine oil leak/consumption, engine temperature gauge rising to “H” (hot), check engine light illuminating, engine cooling fan remaining on following the engine being shut off, HVAC system not functioning properly, unusual engine noise, difficulty starting the vehicle, and smoke/condensation emitting from the engine compartment or exhaust. Through both its review of the information provided by Kia and outreach to consumers, ODI confirmed that there is reasonable detectability present in the vast majority of occurrences of the alleged defect. To mitigate the alleged defect, Kia increased the engagement depth of the head bolt threads for all subject engines, beginning in May 2017. ODI’s analysis of the failure data demonstrates that this corrective action correlates with a much lower incident report rate for engines produced following the change (8 per 100,000 vehicles for the MY 2018-2020 Kia Sorento). In December 2023, Kia launched extended warranty campaign WTY035 covering failures associated with the alleged defect in the subject vehicle population through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Through its investigation, ODI identified the following peer vehicle populations, which were produced prior to the corrective action and exhibit failure rates comparable to the subject vehicles: MY 2014-2015 Kia Sorento, MY 2015-2016 Kia Sedona, and MY 2014-2017 Kia Cadenza equipped with the 3.3 L engine. Through discussions with ODI during the investigation, Kia decided to launch extended warranty campaign WTY039 in May 2024, which covers these peer vehicle populations through 15 years or 180,000 miles, whichever comes first. Based on analysis of the failure data indicating a low incident report rate of loss of motive power for the alleged defect, and in consideration of the warning signs which frequently occur from head gasket and/or head bolt failure in the subject engines, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
DP22003 · Loss Of Motive Power
Opened Sep 12, 2022 · Closed Dec 12, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug back outs, resulting in loss of motive power and/or catastrophic engine damage. Additional complaints were provided which alleged that the oil drain pans lack sufficient structural integrity and are susceptible to cracking. The petition itself can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI number 11481745. On September 12, 2022, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Defect Petition (DP22-003) to evaluate the Petitioners’ request. The Petitioners have provided additional complaints within four supplemental letters dated January 31, 2023, March 21, 2023, May 23, 2023, and August 4, 2023. ODI’s evaluation included the review and analysis of the complaints and supporting information submitted by the Petitioners, as well as additional complaints submitted directly to NHTSA which referenced either the oil drain plug or a crack in the oil pan. After reviewing the available data, ODI has not identified evidence that would support opening a defect investigation into the oil drain pan assemblies of the subject vehicles. Based on a review of the available information, a loss of motive power resulting from an oil drain plug back out has not occurred between the initial sale of a vehicle and the completion of its first oil change. If during an oil change service, a technician fails to remove the existing drain plug gasket before installing a new gasket, it is likely that a proper seal between the drain plug and the oil pan will not be made. An improper seal between the drain plug and oil pan could lead to the backing out on the drain plug, resulting in the sudden loss of oil while driving. Additionally, the provided examples of oil pan cracks were localized to the immediate vicinity of the oil drain plug and/or appeared to be the result of direct-contact with a tool during servicing. There is no information to support that a vehicle-based defect exists relating to the oil pan assembly, and instead the documented incidents are related to the failure to follow the proper maintenance procedures during oil change service. In October 2023, Hyundai published a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) that provided detailed instructions for oil change service on its gasoline powered vehicles, specifically highlighting the need to remove and replace the existing drain plug gasket prior to reinstalling the drain plug. After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, the information already in NHTSA's possession, and the potential risks to motor vehicle safety implicated by the petitioners' allegations, NHTSA does not believe that a formal investigation is warranted. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA’s reasons for denial of the petition will be published. The reference numbers for the complaints to NHTSA cited by the petitioner can be found in the petition submission documents in the public file for DP22-003. To review those complaints and the additional complaints ODI added to its evaluation which are cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
DP21002 · Engine Oil Pressure Switch Leak
Opened Nov 12, 2021 · Closed Jun 26, 2023
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Engine; Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:pressure/temperature Sensor
In a letter dated September 30, 2021, Mr. Gerald James (the petitioner) requested that NHTSA conduct an investigation of the Model Year (MY) 2015-2017 Kia Sorento equipped with 3.3L V6 ?Lambda? engines for ?severe oil leaks? from the oil pressure switch (OPS) that could ?lead to engine failure? with little warning to the driver. Mr. James based this request on his own experience and data found in NHTSA?s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database. NHTSA reviewed the material cited by the petitioner, information submitted by Kia, NHTSA?s testing, and other pertinent information in NHTSA databases.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-002 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed an analysis that included evaluation of the petitioner?s vehicle, searches of ODI complaints from vehicle owners, non-dealer field reports, manufacturers? supplemental information relating to design of the component, and component testing performed by ODI.On December 16, 2021, ODI and Kia North America performed a joint inspection on the petitioner?s vehicle. ODI and Kia agreed the OPS was leaking oil and observed oil in the crevices atop the engine block. The vehicle received a new replacement OPS and was delivered back to the petitioner. The original part that was removed from the subject vehicle was retained by ODI for further analysis.As of December 30, 2022, for the MY 2015-2017 Kia Sorento population of 161,519 vehicles with 3.3L engine, NHTSA reviewed internal data and has identified no consumer complaints or field reports in its database, with unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), citing engine failure or stalling related to the petition?s allegation of defective OPS. When combined with the supplemental warranty and technical analysis from the manufacturer, field report and customer complaint data in response to the Information Request letter sent, NHTSA identified no unique VINs alleging engine failure or stalls caused by OPS leaking on the subject vehicles named in the petition.On April 4, 2022, the Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) performed testing of the petitioner?s component (OPS) based on testing protocol consistent with Kia?s specifications for the subject vehicle. The testing involved the petitioner?s original OPS in a controlled system to replicate the subject vehicle?s oil pressure, flow, and temperature. VRTC determined that a vehicle would have to miss more than a dozen oil change intervals to reach low engine oil capacity. Testing also revealed the OPS would operate, as manufacturer intended, illuminating the vehicle?s MIL to alert the driver of lower oil pressure.In April of 2022, Kia North America issued a warranty extension that extended the coverage of the Oil Pressure Switch from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles on MY 2014-2018 Sorento, MY 2014-2016 Cadenza, and MY 2015-2018 Sedona vehicles, all equipped with the 3.3L Lambda engine. The extended warranty coverage includes diagnosis, repair, and applies to customers experiencing engine oil leaking from the engine or if the engine oil pressure warning light stays illuminated after the engine is turned on.After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, testing performed by VRTC, technical information provided by Kia, the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that an engine failure due to the alleged defect is likely and does not warrant a formal investigation. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be publi
Additional source detail variants (2)
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:oil/lubrication:pressure/temperature Sensor
In a letter dated September 30, 2021, Mr. Gerald James (the petitioner) requested that NHTSA conduct an investigation of the Model Year (MY) 2015-2017 Kia Sorento equipped with 3.3L V6 ?Lambda? engines for ?severe oil leaks? from the oil pressure switch (OPS) that could ?lead to engine failure? with little warning to the driver. Mr. James based this request on his own experience and data found in NHTSA?s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database. NHTSA reviewed the material cited by the petitioner, information submitted by Kia, NHTSA?s testing, and other pertinent information in NHTSA databases.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-002 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed an analysis that included evaluation of the petitioner?s vehicle, searches of ODI complaints from vehicle owners, non-dealer field reports, manufacturers? supplemental information relating to design of the component, and component testing performed by ODI.On December 16, 2021, ODI and Kia North America performed a joint inspection on the petitioner?s vehicle. ODI and Kia agreed the OPS was leaking oil and observed oil in the crevices atop the engine block. The vehicle received a new replacement OPS and was delivered back to the petitioner. The original part that was removed from the subject vehicle was retained by ODI for further analysis.As of December 30, 2022, for the MY 2015-2017 Kia Sorento population of 161,519 vehicles with 3.3L engine, NHTSA reviewed internal data and has identified no consumer complaints or field reports in its database, with unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), citing engine failure or stalling related to the petition?s allegation of defective OPS. When combined with the supplemental warranty and technical analysis from the manufacturer, field report and customer complaint data in response to the Information Request letter sent, NHTSA identified no unique VINs alleging engine failure or stalls caused by OPS leaking on the subject vehicles named in the petition.On April 4, 2022, the Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) performed testing of the petitioner?s component (OPS) based on testing protocol consistent with Kia?s specifications for the subject vehicle. The testing involved the petitioner?s original OPS in a controlled system to replicate the subject vehicle?s oil pressure, flow, and temperature. VRTC determined that a vehicle would have to miss more than a dozen oil change intervals to reach low engine oil capacity. Testing also revealed the OPS would operate, as manufacturer intended, illuminating the vehicle?s MIL to alert the driver of lower oil pressure.In April of 2022, Kia North America issued a warranty extension that extended the coverage of the Oil Pressure Switch from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles on MY 2014-2018 Sorento, MY 2014-2016 Cadenza, and MY 2015-2018 Sedona vehicles, all equipped with the 3.3L Lambda engine. The extended warranty coverage includes diagnosis, repair, and applies to customers experiencing engine oil leaking from the engine or if the engine oil pressure warning light stays illuminated after the engine is turned on.After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, testing performed by VRTC, technical information provided by Kia, the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that an engine failure due to the alleged defect is likely and does not warrant a formal investigation. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be publi
Engine
In a letter dated September 30, 2021, Mr. Gerald James (the petitioner) requested that NHTSA conduct an investigation of the Model Year (MY) 2015-2017 Kia Sorento equipped with 3.3L V6 ?Lambda? engines for ?severe oil leaks? from the oil pressure switch (OPS) that could ?lead to engine failure? with little warning to the driver. Mr. James based this request on his own experience and data found in NHTSA?s Vehicle Owner Questionnaire (VOQ) database. NHTSA reviewed the material cited by the petitioner, information submitted by Kia, NHTSA?s testing, and other pertinent information in NHTSA databases.On November 12, 2021, ODI opened Defect Petition DP21-002 to evaluate the petitioner?s request. ODI performed an analysis that included evaluation of the petitioner?s vehicle, searches of ODI complaints from vehicle owners, non-dealer field reports, manufacturers? supplemental information relating to design of the component, and component testing performed by ODI.On December 16, 2021, ODI and Kia North America performed a joint inspection on the petitioner?s vehicle. ODI and Kia agreed the OPS was leaking oil and observed oil in the crevices atop the engine block. The vehicle received a new replacement OPS and was delivered back to the petitioner. The original part that was removed from the subject vehicle was retained by ODI for further analysis.As of December 30, 2022, for the MY 2015-2017 Kia Sorento population of 161,519 vehicles with 3.3L engine, NHTSA reviewed internal data and has identified no consumer complaints or field reports in its database, with unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN), citing engine failure or stalling related to the petition?s allegation of defective OPS. When combined with the supplemental warranty and technical analysis from the manufacturer, field report and customer complaint data in response to the Information Request letter sent, NHTSA identified no unique VINs alleging engine failure or stalls caused by OPS leaking on the subject vehicles named in the petition.On April 4, 2022, the Vehicle Research and Test Center (VRTC) performed testing of the petitioner?s component (OPS) based on testing protocol consistent with Kia?s specifications for the subject vehicle. The testing involved the petitioner?s original OPS in a controlled system to replicate the subject vehicle?s oil pressure, flow, and temperature. VRTC determined that a vehicle would have to miss more than a dozen oil change intervals to reach low engine oil capacity. Testing also revealed the OPS would operate, as manufacturer intended, illuminating the vehicle?s MIL to alert the driver of lower oil pressure.In April of 2022, Kia North America issued a warranty extension that extended the coverage of the Oil Pressure Switch from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles on MY 2014-2018 Sorento, MY 2014-2016 Cadenza, and MY 2015-2018 Sedona vehicles, all equipped with the 3.3L Lambda engine. The extended warranty coverage includes diagnosis, repair, and applies to customers experiencing engine oil leaking from the engine or if the engine oil pressure warning light stays illuminated after the engine is turned on.After a thorough review of the material submitted by the petitioner, information already in NHTSA's possession, testing performed by VRTC, technical information provided by Kia, the potential risks to safety implicated by the petitioner's allegation, NHTSA does not believe that an engine failure due to the alleged defect is likely and does not warrant a formal investigation. Therefore, the petition is denied. A Federal Register Notice (FRN) further detailing NHTSA?s reasons for denial of the petition will be publi