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.
2020 Kia Sorento problems
A 2020 Kia Sorento is now 6 years old, so an average example has covered around 81,000 miles. The final model year of the generation · generally the most sorted build, so mileage, servicing and condition matter more than build-year faults. Check the state safety inspection and service history alongside the documented faults below, which are sorted by whether a 2020 car has usually reached the mileage where they appear.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
The 2020 Kia Sorento is 6 years old, so an average example has covered roughly 81,000 miles. At that mileage 2 of the documented faults are already due, so check those first.
Faults a 2020 example has usually reached
Documented onset mileage is at or below the ~81k miles an average 2020 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 2020 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.