2018 Kia Sorento recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2018 Kia Sorento and 255 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (107), exterior lighting (41), unknown or other (37). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 21–22 mpg combined, depending on engine. 1 recall carries a Park It or Park Outside warning.
The 2018 ranks #7 of 14 Sorento model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (496). It has 3 recalls vs. an average of 3.9 per model year.
Recalls 3
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Kia Sorento. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Trailer hitches
Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Risk: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Steering · electric power assist system
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
Risk: If the steering column separates, it can cause a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cowl crossbar, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC167.
Air bags · side/window
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.
Risk: If the component detaches during deployment, it may enter the passenger compartment and be a projectile within the vehicle cabin, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall began on December 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC159.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
My 2018 Sorento is consuming oil excessively. I’m having to add oil between changes, and I’m now experiencing reduced acceleration under load. I have been told by a few different parties that this has become a common problem with Kia’s. I want an oil-consumption test performed and I want the VIN checked for all engine campaigns, warranty extensions, KSDS coverage, and open reca…
Complete engine failure inspected by Westgate Kia Service Dept, Wake Forest, NC Service manager confirmed that known issue and recall in effect for 2018 Kia Sorrento same issue but because manufactures parts are only covered when made in certain locations. mine not covered. He did agree it was exact same issue but declined to assist. Warning sign / flashing check engine light.…
Vehicle: 2018 Kia Sorento VIN: [XXX] Kia Corporate Case #: XXX My 2018 Kia Sorento experienced a catastrophic engine failure (“holes in the block”) while under warranty. The vehicle lost power, emitted heavy smoke, and became completely inoperable. Kia America has refused to repair the engine and has delayed providing the required written denial for my warranty claim. This ve…
Safety ratings
2018 Kia Sorento SUV AWD
2018 Kia Sorento SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Kia Sorento.
Sorento AWD
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Sorento AWD
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L · Turbo
Regular
Sorento FE AWD
Auto (S6) · 6 cyl · 3.3 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Kia Sorento have?
NHTSA lists 3 recalls for the 2018 Kia Sorento, most recently for trailer hitches (09/19/2022). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Kia Sorento?
Based on 255 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (107), exterior lighting (41), unknown or other (37).
Is the 2018 Kia Sorento safe?
The 2018 Kia Sorento earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings. It has 1 recall with a Park It or Park Outside warning, so check your VIN.
Is the 2018 a good year for the Kia Sorento?
The 2018 ranks #7 of 14 Sorento model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (496). It has 3 recalls vs. an average of 3.9 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2018 Kia Sorento get?
EPA ratings for the 2018 Kia Sorento range from 21 to 22 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2018 Kia Sorento in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: SORENTO, Sorento.