2021 Kia Sorento Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Multiple recalls related to fire hazards from trailer hitch wiring, fuel system, and HVAC systems require diligent verification of completed repairs.
- A powertrain recall concerning potential transmission oil pump malfunction and loss of drive power needs confirmation of service.
- Despite a high recall count, consumer complaints are minimal, suggesting proactive manufacturer response or issues not yet widely reported by owners.
- The 2.5L engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive offers balanced performance for daily driving.
2021 Kia Sorento
Critical Failure Risk
Recalls have addressed potential electrical shorts in the trailer hitch harness module, exacerbated by moisture and debris, leading to a fire risk. This can manifest as malfunctioning trailer lights or, more critically, electrical fires.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$3,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Families seeking a practical and comfortable three-row SUV with a good safety rating.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers prioritizing absolute mechanical simplicity and minimal potential for future repairs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Kia Sorento Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Kia Sorento.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 6
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 24
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Most Common Issues
1. Trailer Hitch Wiring Electrical Faults
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Fuel System Leaks
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Trailer Hitch Wiring
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Kia Sorento reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Kia Sorento is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 11. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2021 Kia Sorento for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 24 MPG. Seating capacity is 6.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Kia Sorento?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Kia Sorento is 7.2/10. Overall score is 7.2/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.8/10. Practicality 4.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Kia Sorento?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Trailer Hitch Wiring at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Trailer Hitch Wiring Harness (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $100 • Max: $300).
What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Kia Sorento?
Base MSRP is $29,390.
What engine is in the 2021 Kia Sorento?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.5.
What transmission does the 2021 Kia Sorento use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Sorento, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Kia Sorento?
EPA combined estimate is 24 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Kia Sorento?
14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Kia Sorento?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Sorento, seating capacity is 6.
What body style is the 2021 Kia Sorento?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Sorento, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Kia Sorento use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Sorento, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Kia Sorento?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Kia Sorento?
This model year has 11 official safety campaigns listed.