NHTSA (USA)CriticalPark Outside
At a glance
What can fail
The hydraulic electronic control unit may short electrically, potentially causing an engine compartment fire while the vehicle is parked or driving.
This page covers 5 recalls, 873 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2012 Kia Sorento.
20–23 mpg combined
10.2–11.8 L/100km
Sport Utility Vehicle - 4WD
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 3 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
The 2012 Kia Sorento draws the bulk of its complaints around the engine, which accounts for well over a third of all reports filed. Owners commonly describe check engine lights coming on, engine misfires, sputtering under acceleration, and sudden loss of power, sometimes accompanied by smoke from the engine bay. Knock sensor codes and oil-related concerns come up repeatedly, with some owners noting that mechanics flagged the potential for broader engine failure after diagnosis. Brake complaints, while much lower in volume, include reports of reduced stopping performance and unexpected pedal behavior. Airbag-related reports frequently center on the clock spring, where owners describe the horn and steering wheel controls going inoperative alongside an illuminated airbag warning light. A smaller number of engine-related reports involve oxygen sensor monitors failing to reach a ready state after battery disconnection, which has left some owners unable to pass emissions testing.
873
Total Complaints
21
Crash-Related
75
Fire-Related
22
With Injuries
By System
The 2012 Kia Sorento has 5 recalls, with the most serious being multiple engine compartment fire risks that can occur while the vehicle is parked or in motion.
Two separate recalls cover fire hazards originating in the engine compartment, one of which specifically affects vehicles that previously had their engine replaced under an earlier recall or warranty repair, where a fuel leak near an ignition source can start a fire. On the engine side, there is also a risk of premature internal bearing wear that can cause the engine to seize suddenly while driving. A separate recall covers vehicles where the brake-shift interlock mechanism can chip or crack if the gear selector is forced, allowing the transmission to be shifted out of Park without pressing the brake pedal and leaving the vehicle free to roll. All five recalls carry the same severity rating, and prior repair history under related campaigns may determine whether certain recalls apply to a specific vehicle.
At a glance
What can fail
The hydraulic electronic control unit may short electrically, potentially causing an engine compartment fire while the vehicle is parked or driving.
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the HECU fuse at no charge to restore proper electrical function.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
An engine compartment fire can occur while driving due to fuel or engine oil leaks and engine issues.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect for leaks, test the engine, repair or replace the engine as needed, and update the knock sensor software.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The high pressure fuel pipe connecting to the fuel pump may have been damaged, misaligned, or improperly torqued during a previous engine replacement, causing potential fuel leaks.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe as needed at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Manufacturing errors during engine production may cause bearings inside the engine to wear out prematurely.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect your engine and replace it if needed, at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
Rough handling of the gear shift lever can crack the brake-shift interlock mechanism, allowing the transmission to shift out of Park without pressing the brake pedal.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the brake-shift interlock mechanism at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.