2020 Kia Sorento recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2020 Kia Sorento and 138 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (66), unknown or other (25), electrical system (20). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 20–25 mpg combined, depending on engine. 1 recall carries a Park It or Park Outside warning.
The 2020 ranks #5 of 14 Sorento model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (496). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 3.9 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2020 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.
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
This incident occurred on 10/03/26 at approx. 11:45 AM. Location: Squankum-Yellowbrook Rd. (524A) Howell NJ. Temp: 73 F. Road condition: 2 lane rural clear and dry. Description of incident: While driving @ approx. 40 MPH with no on-coming or traffic ahead or behind, the entire right rear passenger window spontaneously imploded, explosively showering the entire rear seat wit…
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving, there was an abnormal banging sound coming from under the hood of the vehicle and the vehicle shuddered abnormally. The contact stated that the Forward Collision Avoidance warning light was temporarily illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed; however, the cause of the…
Driving at highway speed, the vehicle began to make a loud rattling noise that came from under the vehicle. A passerby pulled even with my car and began frantically gesturing. After a few seconds of confusion, me daughter said the she thought the man was saying "it's on fire." We pulled over to the shoulder of the road, exited quickly and realized there was fire visible in the…
Safety ratings
2020 Kia Sorento SUV AWD
2020 Kia Sorento SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2020 Kia Sorento.
Sorento AWD
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Sorento AWD
Auto (S8) · 6 cyl · 3.3 L
Regular
Sorento FWD
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.4 L
Regular
Sorento FWD
Auto (S8) · 6 cyl · 3.3 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2020 Kia Sorento have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2020 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 2020 Kia Sorento?
Based on 138 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (66), unknown or other (25), electrical system (20).
Is the 2020 Kia Sorento safe?
The 2020 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 2020 a good year for the Kia Sorento?
The 2020 ranks #5 of 14 Sorento model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (496). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 3.9 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2020 Kia Sorento get?
EPA ratings for the 2020 Kia Sorento range from 20 to 25 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2020 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.