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 6 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
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Build the inspection planFaults 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.
DrivetrainHigh
Binding at low speeds, scrubbing noises from the rear axle, or an illuminated 4WD warning lamp due to Dynamax AWD coupling pump failure.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-80,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Perform a tight figure-of-eight manoeuvre at low speed on the forecourt. Listen for drivetrain binding or juddering from the rear, and check the instrument cluster for AWD error lights.
SuspensionHigh
Rear end sagging or excessive bouncing over bumps. High-specification UK models feature self-levelling rear shock absorbers which are prone to leaking and are costly to replace.
- Typically appears
- 60,000-90,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Visually assess the rear ride height for sagging. Shine a torch behind the rear wheels to inspect the damper bodies for heavy fluid misting or active oil leaks.
Body / ExteriorMedium
Panoramic sunroof rattles over uneven surfaces, binds during operation, or gets stuck off its tracks due to degraded guides and lack of lubrication.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Fully open and close the panoramic sunroof twice. Observe for jerky, uneven movement, listen for grinding noises, and check the rubber weather seals for tearing.
Electrical / BodyMedium
Smart power tailgate fails to open fully, drops back down unexpectedly, or emits a loud grinding noise due to internal failure of the spindle drive struts.
- Typically appears
- 50,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Operate the power tailgate using both the key fob and the boot lid button. Ensure it opens fully without manual assistance, holds its maximum height, and closes smoothly.
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?
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Build my inspection planKia 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.
What is the timing belt replacement interval on the 2.2 CRDi engine?
The 2.2-litre CRDi diesel engine, which powers the vast majority of UK Sorento models, utilises a timing chain rather than a rubber timing belt. This chain is designed to last the lifetime of the engine and requires no scheduled replacement, provided routine oil services are strictly adhered to.
How does the seven-seat configuration impact boot space and practicality?
With all seven seats raised, boot capacity is limited to 142 litres, which is only suitable for a few shopping bags. Folding the third row flat expands the load area to a highly practical 605 litres. The third-row seats are best reserved for children due to restricted legroom.
Are there any specific maintenance requirements for the Dynamax AWD system?
While Kia often markets the AWD system as sealed for life, preventative maintenance is highly recommended to prevent coupling failure. Dealers should advise replacing the transfer case and rear differential fluids every 40,000 miles. Neglected fluid can lead to pump failure and expensive replacement of the electro-hydraulic coupling.
Other Sorento model years
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