2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid
Only 21 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 21 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 21 |
| 2022 | 12 |
| 2023 | 30 |
| 2024 | 6 |
| 2025 | 42 |
| 2026 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 21 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
10 of 21 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
For a few days ( especially if is a HOT day (over 80F) ) my 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid with 15,421 miles on it displays a "Refill Inverter Coolant" message. I checked the coolant level and is OK.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240609
We had just received our Sorento back from being in the shop for 4 months due to being in an accident. Part of the repair work was to have the software updated and reprogrammed at a Kia dealership, which was completed.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220218
Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
10 of 21 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing software.
Show complaint excerpts
I have a â21 Sorento hybrid. The refill inverter coolant warning light keeps coming on. The first time it happened was on a road trip. A local dealer told me to check coolant levels and when it was full, told me it was safe to drive.
NHTSA ODI report, 20220429
2 of 21 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
1 of 21 total reports mentions: trailer hitches.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid and 2022 Sorento Plug-in Hybrid vehicles. In the event of a crash, the front driver-side and/or passenger-side seat belt pretensioner(s) may explode upon deployment.
Remedy: Dealers will secure the seat belt pretensioners with a cap, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 17, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC241.
Campaign 22V447000 — check if this car was fixed
Pedestrian alert sounds
Kia America, Inc.
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.
Campaign 22V703000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (10 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (10 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V447000 (seat belts) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V703000 (trailer hitches) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 48% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Kia Sorento Hybrid have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.