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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.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

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

Steering complaints

97 reports
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25,000 miles · Mar 13, 2019
Electrical SystemSteeringVehicle Speed Control

AS I AM DRIVING OVER 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE WILL LOSE ALL POWER AND CAUTION LIGHTS ILLUMINATE ON THE DASH, RADIO TURNS OFF, POWER STEERING GOES OUT, CAR DECREASES SPEED. THE CAR IMMEDIATELY TURNS BACK ON, BUT THERE IS NO ACCELERATION TO THE VEHICLE. THIS HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN THE LAST 5 DAYS AND IT HAPPED 3 TIMES TODAY MARCH 12,…

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AS I AM DRIVING OVER 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE WILL LOSE ALL POWER AND CAUTION LIGHTS ILLUMINATE ON THE DASH, RADIO TURNS OFF, POWER STEERING GOES OUT, CAR DECREASES SPEED. THE CAR IMMEDIATELY TURNS BACK ON, BUT THERE IS NO ACCELERATION TO THE VEHICLE. THIS HAS HAPPENED 3 TIMES IN THE LAST 5 DAYS AND IT HAPPED 3 TIMES TODAY MARCH 12, 2019. ALL INCIDENTS WERE ON CITY STREETS, WHILE GOING STRAIGHT AT SPEEDS 40 MPH OR MORE. THE LAST TIME, WAS WHILE I WAS MAKING A RIGHT TURN GETTING ON THE FREEWAY. AFTER EACH OCCURRENCE, I WOULD SAFELY PULL OFF THE ROAD, TURN THE VEHICLE OFF, WAIT A COUPLE SECONDS AND TURN THE CAR BACK ON. THE CAR WOULD RESUME BACK TO NORMAL. I HAVE NOTICED THAT AFTER THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED, WHEN I DO THE FIRST ATTEMPT TO TURN THE CAR ON, IT DOES NOT TURN OVER.

NHTSA ODI #11186630

14,000 miles · Mar 12, 2019
Steering

STEERING WHEEL FEELS VERY LOOSE. IT GIVES YOU THE SENSATION THAT THE CAR IS MEANDERING BUT IT IS NOT. YOU HAVE TO CONSTANTLY CORRECT THE STEERING WHEEL AND IT IS NOT ALWAYS RESPONSIVE. ALSO, IT FEELS LIKE IT IS STICKING WHICH CAUSES AN OVER CORRECTION AND YOU SUDDENLY HEAD INTO THE LANE NEXT TO YOU. THIS HAPPENS ESPECIALLY AT SP…

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STEERING WHEEL FEELS VERY LOOSE. IT GIVES YOU THE SENSATION THAT THE CAR IS MEANDERING BUT IT IS NOT. YOU HAVE TO CONSTANTLY CORRECT THE STEERING WHEEL AND IT IS NOT ALWAYS RESPONSIVE. ALSO, IT FEELS LIKE IT IS STICKING WHICH CAUSES AN OVER CORRECTION AND YOU SUDDENLY HEAD INTO THE LANE NEXT TO YOU. THIS HAPPENS ESPECIALLY AT SPEEDS OVER 50MPH. VERY UNCOMFORTABLE DRIVING. FEELS VERY UNSAFE.WIFE REFUSES TO DRIVE THE CAR. I'M CONCERNED THE CONDITION COULD GET EVEN WORSE AND CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. I SEE NO RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT THERE SHOULD BE ONE. IT IS A SIGNIFICANT SAFETY CONCERN. PLEASE LOOK INTO IT AND HAVE KIA DO THE RIGHT THING.

NHTSA ODI #11186205

35,000 miles · Mar 12, 2019
Steering

STEERING IS STICKING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. STICKING IS SLIGHT BUT REQUIRES CONSTANT OVERCORRECTION TO GET IT TO UNSTICK. USUALLY OCCURS ON LONG, STRAIGHT STRETCHES OF DRIVING. ISSUE IS INTERMITTENT AND DEALER CANNOT REPLICATE, OF COURSE.

NHTSA ODI #11186200

1,000 miles · Feb 27, 2019
Steering

PURCHASED NEW IN 2018, THE 2017 SORENTO AWD VEHICLES STEERING FROM THE SHOWROOM FLOOR WAS FINE. AFTER ROUGHLY 1000 MILES, THE STEERING HANGS AS I'M DRIVING INTO A 12:00 POSITION. AS SPEEDS INCREASE ON HIGHWAY, THE LEVEL OF EFFORT TO PULL THE STEERING WHEEL PAST THIS LOCKING POSITION INCREASES SOMEWHAT. ALSO AT HIGHWAYS SPEEDS TH…

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PURCHASED NEW IN 2018, THE 2017 SORENTO AWD VEHICLES STEERING FROM THE SHOWROOM FLOOR WAS FINE. AFTER ROUGHLY 1000 MILES, THE STEERING HANGS AS I'M DRIVING INTO A 12:00 POSITION. AS SPEEDS INCREASE ON HIGHWAY, THE LEVEL OF EFFORT TO PULL THE STEERING WHEEL PAST THIS LOCKING POSITION INCREASES SOMEWHAT. ALSO AT HIGHWAYS SPEEDS THE CAR WANDERS ALL OVER THE ROAD REGARDLESS OF THE TYPE OF ROAD SURFACE. UNDERSTANDABLY GROOVED CONCRETE PAVEMENT CAN CAN THIS TO SOME DEGREE BUT THE SORENTO DOES IT EVEN ON FLAT SMOOTH, BRAND NEW BLACKTOP ROADS. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AS YOU HAVE TO PULL THE STEERING WHEEL STRONGLY IN THE DIRECTION OF THE ROAD AND THEN IT UNLOCKS SO TO SPEAK AND OVER STEERS THE CAR IN THE INTENDED DIRECTION. I'VE TRIED EVERYTHING TO TRY TO CORRECT THE ISSUE. 1). TURNED OFF STEERING WHEEL CENTERING FUNCTION IN THE VEHICLE SOFTWARE. 2). UNDER INFLATED THE TIRES APPROX 5 LBS. 3). OVER INFLATED THE TIRES BY 2-3 POUNDS. 4). CHANGED STEERING WHEEL TILT ANGLE. I AM VERY AFRAID OF THIS VEHICLE NOW. PARTICULARLY WHEN MY GRANDKIDS ARE IN IT. WE BOUGHT THIS 3RD ROW SEATED CAR FOR THEM. WHEN MY WIFE IS DRIVING THE CAR ALONE I'M PARTICULARLY CONCERNED SHE MAY HAVE A SERIOUS ACCIDENT! THIS AUTOMOBILE WAS NOT AN INEXPENSIVE MODEL. I CAN'T AFFORD TO TAKE A HUGE LOSS SELLING THE CAR BECAUSE THIS INFORMATION IS WIDELY DISTRIBUTED ACROSS THE INTERNET AND NO ONE IS LIKELY TO BUY IT ANYWAY. PLEASE, HELP US ON THIS ISSUE. I LOVE THE CAR IN GENERAL BUT I'VE OWNED OLD JUNKERS THAT STEERED BETTER AND THIS START AT ONLY 1000 MILES. IT'S BAD ENOUGH THAT THERE WILL BE SERIOUS ACCIDENTS BECAUSE OF THESE ISSUES. THANK YOU FOR ALLOWING US TO POST OUR CONVERENS HERE

NHTSA ODI #11182712

14,000 miles · Feb 26, 2019
Steering

AT SPEEDS STARTING AT 30 MPH THE STEERING WHEEL BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE AND THERE IS SOME RESISTANCE IN TRYING TO TURN IT. WITH ENOUGH PRESSURE YOU CAN OVERCOME THE RESISTANCE BUT IN DOING SO YOU TEND TO OVER STEER THE VEHICLE AND HAVE TO CORRECT FOR THAT. THE FASTER THE VEHICLE IS TRAVELING THE MORE PRONOUNCED THIS PROBLEM IS. IT …

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AT SPEEDS STARTING AT 30 MPH THE STEERING WHEEL BECOMES UNRESPONSIVE AND THERE IS SOME RESISTANCE IN TRYING TO TURN IT. WITH ENOUGH PRESSURE YOU CAN OVERCOME THE RESISTANCE BUT IN DOING SO YOU TEND TO OVER STEER THE VEHICLE AND HAVE TO CORRECT FOR THAT. THE FASTER THE VEHICLE IS TRAVELING THE MORE PRONOUNCED THIS PROBLEM IS. IT IS AS THOUGH THE STEERING WHEEL HAS LOST ITS FLUIDITY AS IF CAUSED BY VERY LOW TIRE PRESSURE OR A CROSS WIND EVEN THOUGH NEITHER OF THOSE CONDITIONS ARE PRESENT. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE FOR 2 REASONS. FIRST, IT IS DIFFICULT TO KEEP THE VEHICLE IN ITS LANE. SECOND, IT IS VERY FATIGUING TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE WITH THIS DEFECT. IN MID DECEMBER OF 2018 I DROVE THE VEHICLE FROM OCONOMOWOC, WI TO DES MOINES, IA AND THE PROBLEM WAS PERSISTENT THE ENTIRE DRIVE AND THEN AGAIN A COUPLE OF DAYS LATER ON THE RETURN TRIP. AS A RESULT THIS DEFECT DRIVING REQUIRES EXTRA CONCENTRATION AND IS FATIGUING TO SAY THE LEAST. I NOTICED THE PROBLEM AS EARLY AS SEPTEMBER OF 2018. BUT THE LONGER DRIVE IN DECEMBER OF 2018 CITED ABOVE CONFIRMED THE MAGNITUDE OF THE PROBLEM AND THE POTENTIAL DANGERS ASSOCIATED WITH IT. THE PROBLEMS REMAINS ONGOING AND IS UNAFFECTED BY WEATHER CONDITIONS, THOUGH WIND SEEMS TO EXACERBATE INTENSITY SOMEWHAT.

NHTSA ODI #11182485

30,000 miles · Feb 18, 2019
Steering

BETWEEN 25PM AND 75MPH THE STEERING IN MY 2017 KIA SORENTO BECOMES STICKY AND NOTCH LIKE. THERE IS NO SMOOTHNESS IN THE TURN OF THE WHEEL. AT HIGH SPEEDS (45MPH AND HIGHER) THE PROBLEM BECOMES EXTREMELY NOTICEABLE. THE CAR FEELS VERY UNSAFE WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THE CONSTANT CORRECTION IN MY DIRECTION OF TRAVEL MAKE…

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BETWEEN 25PM AND 75MPH THE STEERING IN MY 2017 KIA SORENTO BECOMES STICKY AND NOTCH LIKE. THERE IS NO SMOOTHNESS IN THE TURN OF THE WHEEL. AT HIGH SPEEDS (45MPH AND HIGHER) THE PROBLEM BECOMES EXTREMELY NOTICEABLE. THE CAR FEELS VERY UNSAFE WHILE TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THE CONSTANT CORRECTION IN MY DIRECTION OF TRAVEL MAKE FOR A VERY UNEASY AND UNCOMFORTABLE DRIVE ON THE HIGHWAY. THE NEED TO CORRECT DIRECTION LEADS TO A VERY UNSAFE OVER-CORRECTION. THE PROBLEM WASN'T NOTICEABLE UPON ORIGINAL PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE. CURRENTLY HAVE 30K MILES. PROBLEM BECAME EXTREMELY NOTICEABLE AROUND THE 20-22K MARK. EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED ASAP.

NHTSA ODI #11180957

30,000 miles · Feb 6, 2019
Steering

WHILE DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEEDS THE STEERING LOCKS AND YOU CAN'T MAKE MINOR ADJUSTMENTS TO STAY IN YOUR LANE OF TRAVEL WITHOUT HAVING TO APPLY HEAVY PRESSURE TO BREAK IT FREE. THIS CAUSES YOU TO OVER CORRECT. BROUGHT IT IN TO KIA IN JANUARY AFTER A COMPLETELY MISERABLE 4 HOUR TRIP TO NEW ORLEANS AND THEY SAID IT WAS FIXED. DROVE AN…

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WHILE DRIVING HIGHWAY SPEEDS THE STEERING LOCKS AND YOU CAN'T MAKE MINOR ADJUSTMENTS TO STAY IN YOUR LANE OF TRAVEL WITHOUT HAVING TO APPLY HEAVY PRESSURE TO BREAK IT FREE. THIS CAUSES YOU TO OVER CORRECT. BROUGHT IT IN TO KIA IN JANUARY AFTER A COMPLETELY MISERABLE 4 HOUR TRIP TO NEW ORLEANS AND THEY SAID IT WAS FIXED. DROVE AN HOUR HOME AND EVERYTHING WAS GOOD. FEW DAYS LATER IT BEGAN AGAIN AND IS GETTING WORSE.

NHTSA ODI #11174883

21,000 miles · Jan 27, 2019
Steering

LX MODEL AWD. PURCHASED AT 21K MILES, CURRENTLY HAS 33K MILES. STEERING CAN BE DESCRIBED AS "STICKY" WITH MICRO STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENTS NEEDED TO KEEP THE CAR TRACKING STRAIGHT. AS THE WHEEL IS TURNED LEFT OR RIGHT THERE IS A DELAY AND SMALL LAG OR BUMPING FELT UNTIL THE ACTUAL STEERING ADJUSTMENT IS TRANSFERRED TO THE CARS W…

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LX MODEL AWD. PURCHASED AT 21K MILES, CURRENTLY HAS 33K MILES. STEERING CAN BE DESCRIBED AS "STICKY" WITH MICRO STEERING WHEEL ADJUSTMENTS NEEDED TO KEEP THE CAR TRACKING STRAIGHT. AS THE WHEEL IS TURNED LEFT OR RIGHT THERE IS A DELAY AND SMALL LAG OR BUMPING FELT UNTIL THE ACTUAL STEERING ADJUSTMENT IS TRANSFERRED TO THE CARS WHEELS. THIS OCCURS AND IS MORE PRONOUNCED AT HIGHER SPEEDS. IT IS NOTICEABLE AND CONCERNING WHEN TRYING TO HOLD THE CAR STRAIGHT ON A LONG STRETCH OF HIGHWAY. MY CONCERN FROM A SAFETY POINT, IS THAT THE STEERING MECHANISMS WILL FAIL OR FREEZE UP. BESIDES THE FACT THAT DRIVING THE CAR IS ANNOYING TO OPERATE LIKE THIS AND CAUSES FATIGUE, THERE IS DEFINITELY SOMETHING NOT RIGHT AS I HAVE READ FROM MANY FORUMS ONLINE. I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT ELSE ABOUT THE KIA SORENTO, BUT THIS STEERING ISSUE VERY CONCERNING. HAVE ALREADY RULES OUT TIRES, ALIGNMENT ETC. THE FEELING IN THE STEERING WHEEL IS PRONOUNCED AND NOT SOMETHING I HAVE EVER FELT IN ANY CAR I HAVE EVER DRIVEN IN 45 YEARS.

NHTSA ODI #11172367

18,000 miles · Jan 2, 2019
Steering

WHILE DRIVING, THE STEERING WHEEL SITUATED AT 12:00 O'CLOCK STICKS IN THAT POSITION ENOUGH THAT IT REQUIRES THE DRIVER TO MOVE THE WHEEL BACK TO THE 12:00 O'CLOCK POSITION. ANY SLIGHT CORRECTION MAKES THE VEHICLE SWERVE. THIS ACTION OCCURS WHEN CORRECTING TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT. THIS GIVES THE APPEARANCE THAT THE DRIVER IS IMPAIRE…

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WHILE DRIVING, THE STEERING WHEEL SITUATED AT 12:00 O'CLOCK STICKS IN THAT POSITION ENOUGH THAT IT REQUIRES THE DRIVER TO MOVE THE WHEEL BACK TO THE 12:00 O'CLOCK POSITION. ANY SLIGHT CORRECTION MAKES THE VEHICLE SWERVE. THIS ACTION OCCURS WHEN CORRECTING TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT. THIS GIVES THE APPEARANCE THAT THE DRIVER IS IMPAIRED. IT DOESN'T MATTER WHETHER DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY OR TWO LANE CITY STREET. IT WOULD APPEAR THAT THE POWER STEERING IS TO BLAME. I HAD THE VEHICLE IN FOR REGULAR SERVICE BUT NOTED THE ISSUE. THE CAR WAS RETURNED TO ME BUT WAS TOLD NOTHING COULD BE FOUND. I DOUBT SERIOUSLY THEY EVEN DROVE THE CAR. IT DOESN'T HAPPEN WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN A STATIONARY POSITION. SCHEDULING ANOTHER CHECK UP THIS WEEK. PLEASE NOTE BELOW THAT I JUST STATED A DATE OF OCCURRENCE. THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN ONGOING SINCE PURCHASE JANUARY 2017

NHTSA ODI #11164486

10 miles · Jan 1, 2019
Steering

STEERING HAS BEEN STICKING WHILE DRIVING. I'VE HAD TO FORCEFULLY CORRECT THE STEERING WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY AND CAR FEELS VERY UNSTABLE AND UNSAFE. I TOOK THE CAR TO SEVERAL DEALERS WHOM HAVE ACKNOWLEDGED THE EXISTENCE OF ISSUES AND HAVE SAID TO ME THERE MAYBE BE SOME SOFTWARE UPDATES COMING TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. I'VE ALSO PUT …

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STEERING HAS BEEN STICKING WHILE DRIVING. I'VE HAD TO FORCEFULLY CORRECT THE STEERING WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY AND CAR FEELS VERY UNSTABLE AND UNSAFE. I TOOK THE CAR TO SEVERAL DEALERS WHOM HAVE ACKNOWLEDGED THE EXISTENCE OF ISSUES AND HAVE SAID TO ME THERE MAYBE BE SOME SOFTWARE UPDATES COMING TO ADDRESS THE PROBLEM. I'VE ALSO PUT IN A COMPLAINT TO KIA CONSUMER AFFAIRS OVER THE ISSUE AND I HAVE FAILED TO GET ANY FEEDBACK. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE, I REALLY REMAIN APPREHENSIVE ABOUT DRIVING THE VEHICLE AT THIS POINT.

NHTSA ODI #11164414

Official recalls

4

22V703000 · 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

3

PE23019 · 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

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