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
- 137
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Engine
Campaigns on file for 2020
Opened by NHTSA
48% of complaints
Complaints per year
2020: 137 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2003 | 305 |
| 2004 | 220 |
| 2005 | 307 |
| 2006 | 242 |
| 2007 | 154 |
| 2008 | 217 |
| 2009 | 55 |
| 2010 | 3 |
| 2011 | 1,519 |
| 2012 | 878 |
| 2013 | 983 |
| 2014 | 986 |
| 2015 | 753 |
| 2016 | 1,259 |
| 2017 | 805 |
| 2018 | 254 |
| 2019 | 433 |
| 2020 | 137 |
| 2021 | 252 |
| 2022 | 190 |
| 2023 | 126 |
| 2024 | 43 |
| 2025 | 76 |
| 2026 | 7 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine
48% · 66 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Driving at highway speed, the vehicle began to make a loud rattling noise that came from under the vehicle. A passerby pulled even with my car and began frantically gesturing.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-26
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, 2024-07-10
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, 2023-09-06
Also filed under Firerelated
Electrical system
15% · 20 reportsMost commonly citing wiring and horn.
Show 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, 2026-07-12
Also filed under Air bags
Power train
13% · 18 reportsShow complaint excerpts
The contact called on behalf of his daughter who owns 2020 Kia Sorento.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-07-29
Fuel/propulsion system
7% · 10 reportsTrailer hitches
7% · 9 reportsSafety timeline
1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2022-09-12Defect petitionClosed 2023-12-12 Loss of Motive Power
-
R
2023-07-27Trailer hitches22V703000 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.
Buy-smart checklist
2020 Kia Sorento — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 66 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 20 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 18 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 22V703000 · Trailer hitches
Other years of this model
See all years ranked →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 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.