Free used car buyer guide / UM / 2016-2020
Kia Sorento common problems and best years
By BYBA Research - how we score cars
Updated 2026-06-12
BYBA Buy Score
6.5/10
2 walk-away risks, 3 serious faults, 3 minor faults documented for this generation, weighted by severity and repair cost. Biggest factor: 3.3 lambda ii v6 head-bolt / head-gasket failure. Score methodology.
The 2016-2020 Sorento is attractive used because it offers three-row practicality for compact-SUV money, but the wrong engine or missing campaign history can erase the saving. The biggest traps are Lambda 3.3 V6 head-bolt/head-gasket failures, Theta 2.4/2.0T bearing or oil-consumption issues, tow-hitch harness fire recall, roll-away/shift-lever recall on some 2016s and high-pressure fuel-pipe work after engine replacement. The least stressful buy is a late 2019-2020 V6 with no coolant/oil mixing history, no tow harness, clean service records and a full recall lookup. Owners should watch coolant level, oil level and hitch wiring because those three checks catch most expensive stories early.
Faults covered
8
Highest risk
3.3 Lambda II V6 head-bolt
Best years
2019-2020
Best buys
- 2019-2020 3.3 V6 AWD/FWD with stable coolant, no oil contamination and no misfire history.
- 2.4 GDI only with KSDS/engine campaign proof and short oil intervals.
- Non-tow-package cars with clean rear wiring and no hitch harness recall exposure.
Inspect hard
- 2016 builds for accelerator pedal, rear suspension weld, seat/seatbelt and roll-away recalls.
- Any V6 for head-bolt thread failure signs: coolant loss, misfire, white smoke, milky oil.
- Any engine-replaced car for 18V907 fuel-pipe recall completion.
Avoid
- 3.3 V6 with unexplained coolant loss or oil/coolant mixing.
- 2.4/2.0T with P1326, rod knock, low oil or denied engine claim.
- Wet or burnt tow-hitch module.
Next checks
Before you contact the seller
Check the car's history first. Then bring the right tools if it still looks worth viewing.
Primary next step
Check history, title, and recall status
The faults above matter more if the car also has accident history, finance flags, missing service records, or open safety recalls.
Viewing kit
Bring the right tools
Four cheap tools catch most of the faults on this page at a Kia Sorento viewing.
Printable workflow
Take the inspection pack
The PDF is the ordered checklist for the viewing: documents, walk-around, test drive, and scan.
Open PDF optionSome links here are partner links. If you buy through one, BYBA earns a commission. The price you pay does not change. How we make money.
Engines and trims
Which Kia Sorento should you buy?
On most used cars, the engine and trim choice changes the risk more than the mileage does. Narrow this down before you start viewing cars.
2.4 Theta II GDI
2016-2020
CHEAP BUT PAPERWORK-DEPENDENT
The 2.4 is common and economical enough, but it sits in the Hyundai/Kia engine-failure universe. Buy only with KSDS/campaign evidence, oil-level discipline and no knock or P1326 history.
2.0 Theta II T-GDI
2016-2020 selected trims
QUICKER, NOT SAFER
The turbo four gives better torque but adds heat, boost hardware and higher repair pricing. It is not the escape route from Theta risk; it needs better history than a normal family SUV.
3.3 Lambda II GDI V6
2016-2020
BEST WHEN COOLANT-STABLE
The V6 suits the Sorento best, but 2016-2017 head-bolt/head-gasket reports and warranty-extension chatter make coolant and combustion-gas checks mandatory. A good V6 is the one to own; a bad one is expensive.
Year notes
Year-by-year buyer advice
Use this to narrow the search before you spend time travelling to view a car.
2016
UM launch year with several recalls: accelerator pedal, rear suspension weld, seats/seatbelts, tow harness and later shift-lever roll-away.
Buyer: Inspect harder than later years; a 2016 needs a complete recall printout.
Owner: Close old campaigns and watch V6 coolant or four-cylinder oil level closely.
2017
Second year; tow harness and engine paperwork remain central.
Buyer: V6 buyers should specifically check head-bolt/gasket symptoms.
Owner: Do not let coolant loss become a repeated top-up habit.
2018
Middle production year with broader trim availability.
Buyer: Good buy when engine records and hitch wiring are clean.
Owner: Scan annually for misfire, knock and AWD faults.
2019
Refresh year in many markets; late UM value improves.
Buyer: One of the better years if the engine is clean and no tow harness is fitted.
Owner: Maintain oil and coolant records; buyers will ask.
2020
Final UM year before redesign; fewer launch-year issues.
Buyer: Best year range for a lower-drama Sorento, but still run recall and engine checks.
Owner: Use final-year resale strength by keeping campaign paperwork complete.
Common problems
Faults to check before buying
What fails, what it looks like, what it costs, and the quick checks you can do at the viewing - ranked by how badly each one can hurt you.
Fault 1
3.3 Lambda II V6 head-bolt / head-gasket failure
Affects
Mostly 2016-2017 V6 reports, but inspect all 3.3 V6 cars.
Symptoms
Coolant loss, overheating, misfire, white smoke, milky oil, combustion gas in coolant.
Typical repair cost
EUR 2,000-4,500 head work; EUR 5,000-10,000+ engine replacement.
Codes / scan clues
P0300-P0306 misfire codes; overheating may not store a useful code.
Root cause: Head clamping can be lost when threads/bolts fail, allowing gasket leakage between coolant, oil and combustion.
Quick check
- Check coolant level cold and look for dried residue.
- Inspect oil cap/dipstick for milkiness.
- Scan misfire counters after warm drive.
- Use block-test/pressure-test if any coolant story appears.
Buyer note
A V6 with coolant loss is not a casual bargaining chip.
Owner note
Stop driving at the first overheat and document every dealer contact.
Fault 2
2.4 / 2.0T Theta engine bearing, knock and oil consumption
Affects
Four-cylinder Sorento models, especially poor oil history.
Symptoms
P1326, limp mode, rod knock, low oil, flashing MIL, engine stall.
Typical repair cost
Warranty may cover qualifying rod-bearing failures; EUR 4,000-9,000 otherwise.
Codes / scan clues
P1326, P0300-P0304, oil-pressure warnings.
Root cause: Bearing wear/oiling faults and oil consumption can lead to knock or seized engine.
Quick check
- Cold-start and listen below the engine.
- Scan for P1326 and cleared codes.
- Review oil service and consumption notes.
- Confirm KSDS/update status before purchase.
Buyer note
Do not buy a four-cylinder Sorento on hope; buy it on paperwork.
Owner note
Leave P1326 active and involve Kia before any independent teardown.
Fault 3
Tow-hitch harness module fire recall
Affects
2016-2020 Sorento with genuine Kia tow hitch harness under 22V703.
Symptoms
Trailer-light faults, burnt smell, battery drain, moisture around hitch module.
Typical repair cost
Recall free; EUR 150-700 harness diagnosis.
Codes / scan clues
Trailer/body electrical short faults.
Root cause: Moisture/foreign material can short the tow-hitch module PCB.
Quick check
- Confirm if a Kia tow harness is fitted.
- Inspect rear module and connector for corrosion.
- Run 22V703 / SC249 status.
- Reject melted or aftermarket-spliced wiring.
Buyer note
The hitch harness is a fire recall item, not just towing equipment.
Owner note
Park outside if instructed and complete the campaign.
Fault 4
2016 shift-lever roll-away recall
Affects
Certain 2016 Sorento under 22V612.
Symptoms
Shifter does not lock correctly, vehicle can roll, Park interlock odd behavior.
Typical repair cost
Recall free; EUR 300-900 shifter assembly repair outside coverage.
Codes / scan clues
Usually none.
Root cause: Faulty automatic transmission shift lever components can prevent proper locking.
Quick check
- Run 22V612 on all 2016 VINs.
- Park on mild slope and verify Park/EPB behavior.
- Check shifter detents and interlock.
- Ask for campaign invoice.
Buyer note
A 2016 Sorento must prove its launch-year recalls are closed.
Owner note
Use the parking brake and complete the shifter campaign.
Fault 5
High-pressure fuel pipe after engine replacement
Affects
2016-2017 Sorento that had engine replacement under recall/warranty/KSDS-related work.
Symptoms
Fuel smell, wet high-pressure line, rough start, fire risk.
Typical repair cost
Recall free; EUR 300-1,000 outside campaign.
Codes / scan clues
Fuel pressure/trim faults possible.
Root cause: Fuel pipe can be damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during engine replacement.
Quick check
- Ask if the engine was replaced.
- Inspect high-pressure line and fittings.
- Run 18V907 status.
- Smell for fuel after warm restart.
Buyer note
A replacement engine needs matching fuel-line paperwork.
Owner note
Fuel smell after engine work is an immediate dealer case.
Fault 6
2016 rear suspension weld recall
Affects
Certain 2016 Sorento under 16V480.
Symptoms
Rear clunk, alignment pull, uneven tire wear, recall open.
Typical repair cost
Recall free; EUR 500-1,500 if suspension parts are damaged outside coverage.
Codes / scan clues
None.
Root cause: A rear suspension component may not have been properly welded.
Quick check
- Run 16V480 on 2016 VINs.
- Inspect rear suspension arms and tire wear.
- Road test over bumps.
- Check alignment history.
Buyer note
Launch-year suspension recalls should be closed before purchase.
Owner note
Keep alignment records after recall work.
Fault 7
AWD coupling / driveline binding
Affects
AWD Sorento, especially mismatched tires or towing use.
Symptoms
Binding in tight turns, rear clunk, AWD warning, vibration.
Typical repair cost
EUR 300-700 service/diagnosis; EUR 1,200-3,000 coupler/differential work.
Codes / scan clues
AWD coupling, wheel-speed or transfer faults.
Root cause: Tire mismatch and load stress wear AWD clutch/coupler components.
Quick check
- Full-lock circles in a car park.
- Check all four tires match in size and tread depth.
- Scan AWD module.
- Inspect rear diff/coupler for leaks.
Buyer note
AWD is useful only if the driveline has not been abused.
Owner note
Replace tires as a set and service fluids.
Fault 8
Panoramic roof / interior water leak
Affects
Sorento trims with panoramic roof.
Symptoms
Wet headliner, musty smell, damp carpet, body electrical glitches.
Typical repair cost
EUR 150-500 drain clean; EUR 800-2,500+ if modules/carpets are damaged.
Codes / scan clues
Body module low-voltage/communication faults.
Root cause: Blocked drains or seal leaks route water into cabin trim.
Quick check
- Smell cabin before AC.
- Inspect roof corners, A-pillars and carpets.
- Test sunroof, locks and windows.
- Look under cargo floor after rain.
Buyer note
Water leaks are acceptable only when caught before electronics suffer.
Owner note
Clear drains and dry carpets immediately.
Inspection pack
Printable checklist for the viewing
The free page helps you decide whether the car is worth seeing. The paid guide is the ordered, printable checklist you use at the car.
Documents
- Recall printout for 2016 launch recalls, 18V907, 22V612 and 22V703.
- Oil and coolant service history.
- Any V6 warranty-extension or head-gasket correspondence.
- Tow-hitch installation/removal records.
Walk around
- Inspect hitch wiring, coolant reservoir, oil cap and rear suspension.
- Check tire match and AWD fluid leak signs.
- Look for roof water stains.
- Smell engine bay for fuel or coolant.
In the car
- Check ABS/airbag/engine lights.
- Test shifter interlock and parking brake.
- Operate sunroof, locks, windows and HVAC.
- Scan misfire counters after warm-up.
Test drive
- Cold-start engine noise check.
- Highway pull watching temperature.
- Full-lock AWD binding test.
- Hot restart fuel-smell check.
Scan tool
- Engine, ABS, AWD and body scan.
- P1326/misfire/oil-pressure history.
- Fuel trim and catalyst monitors.
- Save recall screenshots.
Bottom line
Buy: Buy a late 2019-2020 V6 with stable coolant, clean recall history and no hitch wiring drama, or a four-cylinder only with stronger-than-average oil and KSDS records.
Avoid: Avoid V6 coolant-loss cars, four-cylinder knock/P1326 cars, open 2016 safety recalls and tow-hitch harness uncertainty.
Quick answers
Kia Sorento buyer questions
The short versions of what this page answers in full.
What are the most common Kia Sorento 2016-2020 problems?
The highest-impact documented faults are: 3.3 Lambda II V6 head-bolt / head-gasket failure; 2.4 / 2.0T Theta engine bearing, knock and oil consumption; Tow-hitch harness module fire recall. This guide covers 8 faults in total, each with symptoms, typical repair costs, and checks you can do at a viewing.
Which Kia Sorento years are the best to buy?
2019-2020 stand out in this generation. Buy a late 2019-2020 V6 with stable coolant, clean recall history and no hitch wiring drama, or a four-cylinder only with stronger-than-average oil and KSDS records.
Which Kia Sorento should I avoid?
Avoid V6 coolant-loss cars, four-cylinder knock/P1326 cars, open 2016 safety recalls and tow-hitch harness uncertainty.
Is the Kia Sorento 2016-2020 a reliable used buy?
BYBA scores it 6.5/10 (buy with checks). 2 walk-away risks, 3 serious faults, 3 minor faults documented for this generation, weighted by severity and repair cost. Biggest factor: 3.3 lambda ii v6 head-bolt / head-gasket failure.
Get updates when this guide changes
Recalls get added, repair costs shift, and new fault patterns show up in the data. Leave an email and we'll tell you when the Kia Sorento guide gets a meaningful revision. Nothing else, no selling your address.
Research basis
- api.nhtsa.gov: recallsByVehicle
- api.nhtsa.gov: recallsByVehicle
- static.nhtsa.gov: RMISC-22V703-5474.pdf
- static.nhtsa.gov: RMISC-22V703-6870.pdf
- kia-forums.com: sorento-with-the-3-3l-v6-gdi-engine-failure.365313
- reddit.com: 18mn6m3
- reddit.com: 14bthcv
- carcomplaints.com: engine.shtml
- nhtsa.gov: recalls
- reddit.com: wx6nr4
- reddit.com: engine_recall
- carcomplaints.com: 2016
- kia-forums.com: 2016-2020-sorento-forum.369
- carcomplaints.com: Sorento