2020 Kia Sorento
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than 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 | 877 |
| 2013 | 981 |
| 2014 | 984 |
| 2015 | 749 |
| 2016 | 1248 |
| 2017 | 800 |
| 2018 | 251 |
| 2019 | 424 |
| 2020 | 133 |
| 2021 | 242 |
| 2022 | 185 |
| 2023 | 119 |
| 2024 | 39 |
| 2025 | 72 |
| 2026 | 5 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
48% of complaints: engine — 64 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The engine light consistently comes on and off. When you go to diagnose problem it would read- because the engine light would stay on. Two mechanics looked at it, and are saying itâs a failing fuel pump. And itâs not working correctly.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240710
The vehicle was not even 3.5 years old, it had been serviced in February 2023 and there was no warning before the fire began. The vehicle stopped accelerating and I immediately pulled over.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230906
Also filed under FIRERELATED
My 2020 Kia Sorento stalled and shut off while driving and eventually stopped working completely, requiring it to be towed to a Kia dealership.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260818
14% of complaints: electrical system — 19 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing wiring and horn.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Driving on highway at 65, traction control light, airbag light, parking light, bcw warning, all came in at the same time. I was able to pull off to the side and re start engine to clear the lights.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260712
Also filed under AIR BAGS
14% of complaints: power train — 18 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact called on behalf of his daughter who owns 2020 Kia Sorento.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260729
7% of complaints: trailer hitches — 9 distinct reports on file.
FIRE7% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 9 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRESAFETY TIMELINE
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
2020 Kia Sorento — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (64 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (19 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (18 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V703000 (trailer hitches) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2020 Kia Sorento reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2020 Kia Sorento is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2020 Kia Sorento?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 48% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2020 Kia Sorento have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.