2018 Kia Sorento recalls and problems
The 2018 Kia Sorento has 3 safety recalls and 255 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2018 Kia Sorento recalls
Recall 22V-703: Trailer Hitches
Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Risk: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: 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. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Recall 18V-656: Steering
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
Risk: If the steering column separates, it can cause a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cowl crossbar, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC167.
Recall 17V-784: Air Bags
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.
Risk: If the component detaches during deployment, it may enter the passenger compartment and be a projectile within the vehicle cabin, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall began on December 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC159.
2018 Kia Sorento problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 107 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 41 | |
| Unknown or Other | 37 | |
| Electrical System | 30 | |
| Steering | 26 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 13 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 11 | |
| Air Bags | 10 | |
| Power Train | 9 | |
| Structure | 9 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 8 | |
| Service Brakes | 8 |
Most reported parts
- Structure › Body — 9
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 7
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 3
- Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 2
- Lane Departure › Assist — 2
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 1
- Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights › Switch — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 49,000 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 2018 Kia Sorento complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kia Sorento years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2018 Kia Sorento have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2018 Kia Sorento: 22V-703 (trailer hitches), 18V-656 (steering), 17V-784 (air bags). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Kia Sorento?
Owners report engine problems most often (107 reports), followed by exterior lighting (41). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 49,000 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.