Kia Sorento FWD
Kia · Cars · 2025
Kia Sorento FWD
85
25 complaints
status.verdict
status.safe
status.safe_sub
product.specifications
specs.g_fuel_economy
specs.city_mpg20
specs.highway_mpg29
specs.combined_mpg23
specs.annual_fuel_cost$2950
specs.ghg_score5 / 10
specs.g_engine_drivetrain
specs.engine_size2.5 L
specs.cylinders4
specs.fuel_typeRegular
specs.transmissionAutomatic (AM-S8)
specs.drivetrainFront-Wheel Drive
CO₂382 g/mi
specs.g_classification
specs.vehicle_classSmall Sport Utility Vehicle 2×2

specs.data_sourced_from FuelEconomy.gov (specs.energy_dept)

product.complaints_section25 total
KIA SORENTO 2025 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
medium
The contact owns a 2025 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that an unknown, sticky fluid had spilled through the slits of the mode selector which was a dial that can be selected for driving during different road conditions. Upon start of the vehicle, the 4WD mode selector would intermittently flash on the instrument panel. In addition, the contact stated the mode selector would remain stuck in eco drive and that the contact could not switch out of the mode selector. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where upon a diagnostic, it was discovered that an unknown, sticky substance had entered the mode selector through the slits in the mode selector. The contact agreed to have the part replaced; however, the part for the repair was on backorder. The manufacturer was notified of the failure where they refused to offer any assistance with the vehicle's repair. The vehicle remained in the dealer's possession and had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.
NHTSAUSMay 2026Source →
KIA SORENTO 2025 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
high
The contact owns a 2025 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the braking system became inoperable and failed to function properly. Additionally, while the vehicle was parked, it failed to start and lost motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the electrical system had failed and needed to be repaired. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was then taken to another dealer, where it was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000.
NHTSAUSApr 2026Source →
KIA SORENTO 2025 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
high
I am submitting this revised complaint to correct a prior report that was not accurately documented during a phone submission. Vehicle: 2025 Kia Sorento (259 miles at purchase) Within approximately two months of ownership (~3,000 miles), the vehicle began experiencing serious safety-related issues, including intermittent stalling, braking problems, and electrical malfunctions. Symptoms include: •Vehicle stalled and failed to restart, leaving me stranded •Radio/display screen went blank •Heating/climate system became nonfunctional •Vehicle would not shift into neutral •Persistent burning odor inside and outside the vehicle These issues raise concern about a potential fire risk. In May 2025, the vehicle was inspected by two separate dealerships, both of which reported no issues. The condition worsened, resulting in a complete failure requiring towing. A dealership later identified “electrical issues,” but key symptoms were not documented. A second dealership has since stated the vehicle is operating normally; I disagree, as I believe the root cause has not been resolved. Issues began at ~3,000 miles, with major failure at ~22,000 miles. I have contacted Kia and requested a buyback due to repeated failures and safety concerns. This request was denied twice; a goodwill credit was offered but not accepted. This complaint is submitted to report ongoing safety defects involving stalling, braking, electrical failure, and a potential fire risk.
NHTSAUSMar 2026Source →
KIA SORENTO 2025 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
high
This is the 4th time car is unable to start after being parked for one day and it had to be jump starting. At first I thought it was some accessory, specifically a dashcam and aftermarket ambient lights, so I disconnected both and I even turned off the wireless charging pad and disable the function to turn the lights on when doors open and it didn't help, dead car again after 1 day parked. Car was purchased new in august of 2025 and this issue started this past january coincidentally after an OTA update in december. Today, I got the 12v battery tested at my local Advance Auto Parts and battery health came out good, battery level was low (as supposed after a jump start) and it only recommended a recharge. So the issue lies inside the electrical system of the car and to my surprise this parasitic draw is not new, in online forums a lot of owners talk and complaint about this specific issue, even here I found a similar complaint and I wonder why there's not at least a technical bulletin from KIA addressing this issue. Finding out the cause of the battery draining fast is imperative because if overlook this can evolve into something more serious because we don't know what it is that is "always on" drawing big amounts of power and can clearly be classified as a fire hazard. I remember having the same issue with my old car, a 2019 Kia Sorento EX, and it was solved with a simple computer update (NOT the map or infotainment update), it was a firmware only available at the dealership. I just hope this could be the case this time and KIA can respond in a timely manner to solve this issue.
NHTSAUSFeb 2026Source →
KIA SORENTO 2025 FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
medium
I am reporting a loss of propulsion event in a 2025 Kia Sorento S AWD. The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of drive power when pressing the accelerator. The engine did not respond normally and the vehicle entered a reduced power (limp mode) condition. Stopping in the middle of major intersections, [XXX] and then [XXX] and [XXX] at 4:30 pm. This vehicle is subject to Recall 25V548 involving engine connecting rod bolts, which warns of possible engine damage and loss of propulsion. The dealership (Gettel Kia of Bradenton, FL) stated they were unable to duplicate the issue. The recall language states that engine damage or loss of propulsion may occur and could create a safety hazard. This event occurred at approximately moving from a stop position to ? mph on [XXX]] with approximately 1,936 miles on the vehicle. As I drove it home it would disengage and reengage. I am concerned about the safety of continued operation given the recall notice and the propulsion failure experienced. VIN: [XXX] Please advise. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSAUSFeb 2026Source →
product.discussion0 product.comments
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product.status_history
status.certifiedstatus.safe4 Jun 2026
Lemon Score: 89. 11 data points. v3 scoring.
status.uncertainstatus.certified31 May 2026
Lemon Score: 92. 5 data points. v3 scoring.
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