Generations
UM — Second Generation
2010–2020
2.2 CRDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Kia Sorento problems ranked by severity. We track 8 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Engine recall (Theta II)
The Theta II petrol engine fitted to some second-generation Sorentos is subject to a critical manufacturer recall due to potential catastrophic engine failure. Manufacturing defects in the connecting rod bearings can cause sudden engine seizure without warning, potentially while driving at speed. This recall affects specific production runs and engine serial numbers. Unrecalled vehicles pose a significant safety risk and may suffer complete engine failure at any mileage.
What happens if ignoredIf bearing failure occurs, the engine will seize suddenly and completely, potentially causing loss of power steering and braking assistance while driving. This creates a significant safety hazard. Engine replacement costs £8,000-£12,000. Vehicles subject to unresolved recalls may be uninsurable.
Main dealer
£0–£0
Parts only
£0–£0
VOSA-2019-001
Dangerous
Subframe structural corrosion (XM/UM)
The first-generation Sorento suffers from severe structural corrosion in the load-bearing areas around subframe, spring, and suspension mounting points. MOT data shows this model fails at 548.9 times the national fleet average for prescribed area structural weakening. The corrosion typically starts internally and may not be visible until the structure is significantly compromised. This affects vehicle safety and controllability, making it one of the most serious defects found on this generation.
What happens if ignoredSevere structural corrosion can compromise vehicle safety and make the vehicle dangerous to drive. In extreme cases, suspension mounting points can separate from the body structure. Most structural corrosion failures result in immediate MOT failure and require extensive welding repairs costing £1,500-£4,000, often exceeding the vehicle's value.
Independent garage
£1,500–£3,000
Specialist
£2,000–£4,000
Parts only
£200–£800
Major
Turbo failure (UM)
The D4HB 2.2-litre diesel engine suffers from turbocharger failures, typically manifesting as bearing wear in the turbo's rotating assembly. This is often caused by oil starvation due to blocked oil feed lines or delayed oil changes, but can also occur due to ingestion of debris through a failed air filter. Failure usually develops gradually with increasing smoke and reducing boost pressure, but can be sudden if the compressor wheel disintegrates. This is one of the most commonly reported faults on the second-generation Sorento diesel.
What happens if ignoredComplete turbo failure results in severe loss of power and potential engine damage if debris enters the cylinders. A replacement turbocharger including fitting typically costs £1,200-£2,000. The vehicle remains driveable but with significantly reduced performance and poor fuel economy.
Independent garage
£800–£1,500
Specialist
£1,000–£1,800
Main dealer
£1,500–£2,500
Parts only
£600–£1,200
Major
DPF issues (UM)
The diesel particulate filter (DPF) on the D4HB engine blocks with soot if the vehicle is mainly used for short journeys or stop-start driving. The system requires regular high-temperature regeneration cycles which only occur during sustained motorway driving. When blocked, the DPF warning light illuminates and the vehicle enters limp mode. This is particularly common on vehicles used primarily for school runs or urban driving where the DPF cannot reach the temperatures needed for automatic regeneration.
What happens if ignoredA completely blocked DPF causes the vehicle to enter limp mode with severe power reduction. Professional regeneration costs £150-£300, but severely blocked filters may require replacement at £800-£1,500. Continued driving with a blocked DPF can cause engine damage.
Independent garage
£500–£1,200
Specialist
£600–£1,400
Main dealer
£800–£1,800
Parts only
£400–£1,000
4 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Kia Sorento fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Restriction in free movement of the braking system
Brakes · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 213x the fleet average
Sample: 7,106 tests
Towbar fault
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 189x the fleet average
Sample: 1,193 tests
Suspension component fractured or
Suspension · 150k+ miles
MOT failure rate: 186x the fleet average
Sample: 2,371 tests
Axle or kingpin wear
Suspension · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 116x the fleet average
Sample: 9,474 tests
Transmission joint, belt or chain so worn it is
Bodywork · 80-100k miles
MOT failure rate: 72x the fleet average
Sample: 7,516 tests
Fuel system leaking, or missing or ineffective ...
Bodywork · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 60x the fleet average
Sample: 2,786 tests
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Related
- Kia Sorento buyer's guide
- Kia Sorento service history check
- Kia Sorento service schedule & costs
- Kia Sorento MOT failure rates
- Kia Sorento price guide
- How to check Kia service history
- Buying a car without service history
- Kia Sorento car check £7.49
- Free car faults check
- Free MOT failure rate check
- Free car check
Kia Sorento reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Kia Sorento?
The Kia Sorento has 8 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Engine recall (Theta II), Subframe structural corrosion (XM/UM).
Is the Kia Sorento reliable?
The Kia Sorento has 2 dangerous and 4 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Kia Sorento problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.