For the 2014 model year, the Kia Sorento’s engine options stood out from the competition, with a V6 boasting 290 horsepower. However, severe engine and airbag problems leading to expensive overhauls make the 2014 Sorento inferior compared to more popular midsize SUVs.
Key Points
- The 2014 Kia Sorento has five recalls covering fuel leaks, fractured axles, and electrical shorts that can lead to engine stall and fires.
- 2014 Sorrento owners have filed over 600 complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- Kia recalled the 2014 Sorento two times over a brake fluid leak that can cause an electrical short and result in an engine fire.
- The most frequently mentioned problem is engine failure at early mileage, leaving owners with repair bills as big as $9,000.
- Several owners have complained about extremely dim headlights, faulty passenger airbag sensors, and paint peeling off on exterior panels.
Kia Recalled the 2014 Sorento Five Times Over Defects and Problems that Can Lead to Rollaway, Engine Stalls, and Fires
The 2014 Kia Sorento entered the market with a refreshed design and a base 190-hp engine and optional V6 boasting 290 horsepower. Unfortunately, both powertrains are prone to problems, leading to the 2014 Sorento’s five recalls for serious issues that can lead to engine stall and fires.
When you look at the 2014 Sorento’s recalls on the NHTSA website, there is a large warning at the top of the page that reads: “Urgent: Fire Risk When Parked.”
The dire note is regarding the 2014 Sorento’s latest recall, issued in 2021 over the vehicle’s hydraulic electronic control unit, which could short and spark a fire while parked or driving. The recalled Kias include 2014 Sorentos that were previously recalled over the same problem a year earlier.
Kia has advised owners not to park the vehicle in a garage and keep it away from other vehicles and structures until the recall repair is completed.
The remaining recalls include one due to machining errors during the engine manufacturing process that may cause premature bearing wear and lead to engine stall. Another recall was launched over a front axle that can easily fracture and result in vehicle rollaway when parked.
Of least concern is a recall that is only for certain 2012-2017 Sorentos that previously received an engine replacement under an earlier recall. A high-pressure fuel pipe may have been improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
2014 Kia Sorento Owners’ Top Complaint is About Flawed Engines Leading to Expensive Repairs
Both, the 3.3-liter V6 and 2.4-liter inline-four engines available for the 2014 Kia Sorento are plagued with severe problems.
Despite Kia’s effort to provide remedies for flawed engines, many owners have complained about severe powertrain overhauls at early mileage. Out of the 600 complaints registered with the NHTSA, about 250 relate to the engine and powertrain.
According to reports, drivers have experienced sudden stalls without any prior engine-related issues. Some owners said they could restart the engine after pulling over to the side of the road, while some had to get their SUV towed. In either case, owners were told they needed to replace the engine.
According to Car Complaints, some owners have spent almost $9,000 to swap their engine. On average, the problem has occurred after only 67,200 miles of usage.
Some had reported even larger repair bills. “Engine seized, leaving my daughter stranded, and dealer repair costs $19,000 to replace an engine,” says one owner in their NHTSA complaint. “Apparently, there is a defect that causes a bearing to fail, causing major engine damage.”
Malfunctioning Exterior Lights and Faulty Passenger Airbags are Serious Safety Concerns with the 2014 Sorento
One-sixth of the 600 owner complaints about the 2014 Sorento mention the electrical system. Drivers report different electronics malfunctioning, including the backup camera and the radio. However, the most frequently cited issue pertains to the SUV’s headlights not working properly.
In a thread regarding the Sorento’s low-beam headlights on Kia Forums, owners mention that installing lights brighter than Kia’s recommended bulbs have solved the problem. Still, others have no other choice but to replace the entire headlamp assembly for over $1,000.
Due to a defective passenger airbag sensor, owners have mentioned having the “Check Airbag” warning light activated without cause. Kia has not issued a recall.
Some 2014 Sorentos may suffer from paint peeling off of exterior panels, which can damage the SUV’s value and lead to rust and corrosion. The problem is predominantly seen on Sorentos with the Pearl White color.
2014 Kia Sorento’s Reputation is Damaged Due to Widespread Engine Problems
Despite Kia trying to fix various engine problems – including fuel leaks and stalls – through recalls, some owners have reportedly had to spend thousands for engine-related overhauls.
According to real owner reviews on Vehicle History, the 2014 Sorento ranks 13 out of 22 other midsize SUVs, with 4.4 stars out of five.
Based on Kelley Blue Book prices, a used 2014 Sorento goes for about $14,345 to $18,159. Within the same price range, the 2014 Honda Pilot offers better reliability with a potent 250-horsepower engine standard on all trims.
Photos: Kia
