Recalls · problems · safety

2021 Kia Sorento: recalls and problems

5 recalls and 38 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is engine.

5recalls
38complaints
0crashes reported
0fires reported
0injuries reported
1 recall with a “do not drive” or “park outside” warning

Check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA straight away and follow the instructions in the notice.

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Engine16 · 42%
  • Power Train14 · 37%
  • Electrical System12 · 32%
  • Unknown Or Other8 · 21%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System5 · 13%
  • Steering1 · 3%
  • Vehicle Speed Control1 · 3%
  • Trailer Hitches1 · 3%

What owners report

Power Train

The transmission in my kia sorento intermittently does not engage when shifting from park to drive. it will take 5 to 10 seconds for the gear to engage. when this occurs, the car is free-wheeling and will roll away. this is especially dangerous if you are on a slope or hill. i of course am applying the brake when shifting out of park, but their is no warning or indication that the transmission is, or isn't engaged. i

Power Train

Car will lose power sporadically ,go into limp mode . need to shut off ignition,restart and then fine till next time!

Power Train

The contact owns a 2021 kia sorento. the contact stated that while driving out of the driveway at 20 mph, the vehicle lost drive power. the check engine warning light illuminated after the failure. the vehicle was towed to the local dealer, and the contact was informed that the vehicle had not produced dtc: sc250 associated with nhtsa campaign number: 22v760000 (power train). the related code was p1c2d03 - electric

Steering,Unknown Or Other,Engine

While driving my 2021 kia sorento, the electronic power steering suddenly failed/intermittently cut out while the vehicle was in motion. the steering wheel became extremely stiff and difficult to turn, making the vehicle very hard to control and creating a serious risk of a crash. i had to muscle the wheel to get out of traffic turn the vehicle off and on several times before steering worked again. because the steeri

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2021 Kia Sorento SUV FWD Later Release★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2021 Kia Sorento SUV AWD Later Release★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2021 Kia Sorento SUV AWD Early Release★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★
2021 Kia Sorento SUV FWD Early Release★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering SORENTO, SORENTO HYBRID. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.