2018 Kia Sorento
This year's complaint volume is within 30% of this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2003 | 305 |
| 2004 | 220 |
| 2005 | 307 |
| 2006 | 242 |
| 2007 | 154 |
| 2008 | 217 |
| 2009 | 55 |
| 2010 | 3 |
| 2011 | 1517 |
| 2012 | 876 |
| 2013 | 980 |
| 2014 | 983 |
| 2015 | 747 |
| 2016 | 1245 |
| 2017 | 799 |
| 2018 | 251 |
| 2019 | 421 |
| 2020 | 132 |
| 2021 | 241 |
| 2022 | 185 |
| 2023 | 117 |
| 2024 | 37 |
| 2025 | 72 |
| 2026 | 4 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
41% of complaints: engine — 103 distinct reports on file.
FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle lost all power while depressing the accelerator pedal without warning.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240423
Also filed under ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
I am a working parent filing a formal complaint against Kia America and Classic kia of Carrollton for non-compliance with the Theta II Class Action Settlement mandates.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260820
16% of complaints: exterior lighting — 41 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing switch and bulbs.
12% of complaints: electrical system — 29 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery.
FIRE10% of complaints: steering — 26 distinct reports on file.
FIRE5% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 13 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall began on December 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542.
Campaign 17V784000 — check if this car was fixed
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cowl crossbar, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC167.
Campaign 18V656000 — check if this car was fixed
Loss of Motive Power
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
2018 Kia Sorento — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (103 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (41 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (29 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 17V784000 (air bags) has been completed.
- Verify recall 18V656000 (steering) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V703000 (trailer hitches) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2018 Kia Sorento reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2018 Kia Sorento is rated "typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Kia Sorento?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 41% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Kia Sorento have?
3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.