EngineCritical
Theta II 2.4L/2.0T engine failure and oil consumption (recall/warranty history matters).
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for knock; confirm knock-sensor recall and any engine work; check oil level.
2016 Kia Sorento problems
A 2016 Kia Sorento is now 10 years old, so an average example has covered around 135,000 miles. This is the first model year of the generation · early-build cars carry the highest share of teething faults and the most recall activity, so check the service history for completed recall work. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2016 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2016 Kia Sorento is 10 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 135,000 miles. At that mileage 2 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
Faults a 2016 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~135k miles an average 2016 car has covered.
HVACLow
AC performance complaints.
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Confirm cold AC.
Faults that appear at any mileage
Age, electronics and build-related issues that are not mileage-driven.
ElectricalLow
Infotainment/UVO glitches.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test the screen and connectivity.
TransmissionLow
Harsh shifts on some units.
- Typically appears
- Any
- What to inspect
- Test-drive for smooth engagement.
Inspecting a 2016 Kia Sorento?
Generate a tickable pre-purchase checklist for this exact year, mileage and variant · add photos and notes as you inspect.
Check this exact carKia Sorento · frequently asked questions
Is the Kia Sorento reliable?
It's good value; the Theta II engine risk makes recall and service history essential.
Which Sorento engine to choose?
The 3.3L V6 avoids the Theta II 2.4L/2.0T concerns and is well-regarded.
What should I verify?
Knock-sensor recall completion and any engine replacement history.