Kia Sorento Engine Recall: Which Sorento Models May Qualify?
Some Kia Sorento vehicles may fall under Kia engine settlement or warranty-extension programs, but coverage depends heavily on year, engine, VIN, KSDS status, and failure cause. V6 Sorento models are generally not part of the Theta II engine settlement pathway.
Lifetime
Warranty Coverage
2011 – 2019
Covered Model Years
6
Active Recall Campaigns
1-800-333-4542
Kia Consumer Affairs
Eligible Kia Sorento Model Years
The following Kia Sorento model years may fall under engine settlement, recall, or warranty-extension pathways. Eligibility depends on your exact engine, VIN, KSDS/software update status, maintenance history, and dealership findings — not the model year alone.
No Mileage Limit
For qualifying vehicles, the Theta II settlement provides a lifetime warranty on the engine short block assembly with no mileage restrictions — but eligibility still depends on VIN, engine type, KSDS status, and manufacturer review.
Active Recall Campaigns for Kia Sorento
Reference these NHTSA recall numbers in all communications with the dealer and manufacturer.
20V750
NHTSA Recall Campaign
20V751
NHTSA Recall Campaign
21V077
NHTSA Recall Campaign
21V078
NHTSA Recall Campaign
NHTSA 953
NHTSA Recall Campaign
NHTSA 954
NHTSA Recall Campaign
Common Kia Sorento Engine Failure Symptoms
Document any of these symptoms with dates and photos before contacting the dealer.
Engine knocking or rod knock noise
Oil pressure warning light
Check engine light with P1326 code
Engine stalling at highway speeds
Excessive oil consumption (more than 1 quart per 1,000 miles)
Engine vibration or shaking at idle
Sudden loss of power while driving
Engine seized or complete engine failure
Why Kia Dealers Deny Sorento Warranty Claims
These are the most common denial tactics — and why each one can be challenged.
"No KSDS update" — Not a valid reason. Kia's own April 2022 policy removed KSDS as a prerequisite for engine bearing failure claims.
"Lack of maintenance records" — Magnuson-Moss Act protects you. Kia must prove the missing maintenance caused the failure.
"High mileage vehicle" — No mileage limit exists under the Theta II settlement. Lifetime coverage applies regardless of odometer reading.
"Used oil not meeting spec" — Kia must prove the oil caused the failure, not just that a different oil was used.
"Pre-existing condition" — The Theta II defect is a manufacturing defect present from the factory, not a pre-existing condition.
Watch: Kia Sorento Engine Recall Explained
Carl Adams from Carl's Garage walks through exactly what Kia Sorento owners need to know about the engine recall, how to fight warranty denials, and what steps to take right now.
Video by Carl's Garage on YouTube — subscribe for the latest Kia & Hyundai recall updates.
Kia Sorento Engine Recall — FAQ
Important: This page is for educational recall, warranty, and settlement guidance only. It does not guarantee that your vehicle qualifies for a free engine replacement, reimbursement, recall repair, or warranty approval. Eligibility depends on your exact year, model, engine, VIN, recall/campaign history, KSDS or software update status, maintenance records, mileage, failure symptoms, dealership inspection, and current manufacturer policy. Always verify your VIN through NHTSA, Kia, Hyundai, or the official settlement lookup before assuming coverage.