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2003 Kia Sorento recalls and problems

The 2003 Kia Sorento has 1 safety recall and 305 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
305
Crashes / fires
10 / 3
Injuries / deaths
12 / 1

Recalls may cover only some 2003 Kia Sorento vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 Kia Sorento recalls

Recall 05V-353: Fuel System, Gasoline

Reported Aug 4, 2005 · 2,935 vehicles affected · KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.

Problem: Certain sport utility vehicles may experience a fuel leak from fuel tubes near the fuel tank due to an interference fit with the vehicle floor panel.

Risk: Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.

Fix: Dealers will replace a section of the fuel line. The recall began on october 10, 2005. Owners may contact kia at 1-800-333-4542.

2003 Kia Sorento problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Engine and Engine Cooling83
Engine43
Fuel System, Gasoline41
Fuel/Propulsion System34
Air Bags32
Steering31
Electrical System30
Power Train23
Suspension17
Service Brakes, Hydraulic16
Exterior Lighting16
Structure13

Most reported parts

  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System — 11
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 9
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor — 9
  • Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Belts and Associated Pulleys — 7
  • Air Bags › Frontal — 6
  • Steering › Hydraulic Power Assist System — 5
  • Air Bags › Frontal › Sensor/Control Module — 5
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 5

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 74,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2003 Kia Sorento complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Air Bags · reported Mar 20, 2025
For some reason, KIA has halted production of the Air Bag Clock Spring mechanism for 2003 Kia Sorento's EX with cruise control. In my opinion, this was a vital component of the Air Bag safety system for any vehicle. So why the halt in the production of this vital part. Kia part #93490-3E160. Maybe the NHTSA can get an answer to this. I'm sure I not the only one driving a 2003 with the Air Bag light illuminated.
Engine · at 60,000 miles · reported Aug 30, 2019
The contact owned a 2003 kia sorento. While driving at 60 MPH, the contact stated that smoke came from out of the vents. The contact pulled over on the shoulder and exited the vehicle. There were sparks coming from the engine and the vehicle caught on fire. A police report was filed and there were no injuries reported. The vehicle was totaled and towed away. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000. Th VIN was not available.
Engine · at 202,699 miles · reported May 13, 2019
The contact owns a 2003 kia sorrento. The contact stated that while driving at 45 MPH, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact also mentioned that a 'snow' warning light illuminated as well. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic for a diagnostic test or repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 202,699.
Fuel/Propulsion System · at 150,000 miles · reported Nov 6, 2018
When pumping gas there is a sudden spewing of gasoline out of the tank and all over me. I managed several times to get a few gallons in by pumping slowly but the next day the gas gage reads empty and has actually run out of gas several times! So not only AM I having a problem putting gas in, it is immediately draining or leaking out!
Fuel/Propulsion System · at 155,000 miles · reported May 16, 2018
After purchasing car from private seller I discovered that when trying to pump gas, my fuel sprays back out all over myself, my vehicle, and the ground. Have even had it spray into my eyes. Did research and saw that this is a very common occurrence for this year/make/model. I believe its a fire and safety hazard and should have been recalled years ago!

Other Kia Sorento years

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Compare all Kia Sorento years · All Kia models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Kia Sorento have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2003 Kia Sorento: 05V-353 (fuel system, gasoline). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Kia Sorento?

Owners report engine and engine cooling problems most often (83 reports), followed by engine (43). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 74,000 miles.

Are Kia recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.