2012 Kia Sorento electrical system problems

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

1. Filed Feb 14, 2026IAElectrical SystemOther / UnknownSuspension

   My kia Sorento shocks are really bad seems like it bounces Alot More than normal and heard a squeak coming from the shocks also hard to get the to turn when Im park and electric seems to glitch with bulbs going out faster and radio acting like it shorting out since the wiring was replaced it does this

   NHTSA complaint #11717957 · source
2. Filed Mar 6, 2025HIBrakesElectrical System

   The downhill break control (DBC) and the traction control system is is engaged and eliminated in the dash. It causes smoke or steam to come from under the hood after it is driven. This is the second time this issue has happened. I spent over $3,000 and six months getting this fixed last time. If there is not a recall on these things it should be recalled and fixed without me having to pay for it again. I believe it should have been covered the first time it happened.

   NHTSA complaint #11646638 · source
3. Filed Oct 17, 2024SCElectrical SystemEngineOther / Unknown

   There is a recall on my vehicle. I received my first letter in May2024. I took it to dealership and they ran test but said they couldnt fix the recall bc Kia hasn't sent them the remedy so they sent us home. I called Kia customer service and they said when remedy is ready I'll get another letter. I just got that letter a few days ago and called dealership (Superior kia Orangeburg SC). They will fix recall but trying to charge me for testing again claiming it's because recall…

   NHTSA complaint #11620470 · source
4. Filed Aug 28, 2024MEFireElectrical SystemEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion

   On August 23rd 2024, I drove this vehicle all day. But, upon reaching our final destination (ER department entrance) smoke began rolling out from under the hood. Once getting out to inspection the vehicle someone hollered for a extinguisher. I turned to look at the vehicle and I could see underneath of the 2012 kia sorento had flames. My son was still in the car so my mother and I ran to get him out of his rear facing carseat and ran away from the vehicle. At this time the…

   NHTSA complaint #11611298 · source
5. Filed Aug 1, 2024MDElectrical SystemFuel, Hybrid & EV PropulsionOther / Unknown

   While driving, the RPMS go to zero and the car stops and I lose all power. Yes, it's a safety risk to me and other drivers because it shuts off while driving. Someone following behind me can run into me. Yes, I took it to Ourisman Kia of Catonsville twice - They reproduced it happening the 2nd time I dropped it off after showing them a video of what happens. They said they don't know how to fix it. No, the vehicle was only inspected by the dealer. See video attached…

   NHTSA complaint #11605807 · source
6. Filed Jul 22, 2024FLElectrical SystemEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion

   My 2012 Kia Sorento has a recall for the motor, and I had taken it to Kia for an inspection and the dealer stated to me that my car does not have a recall on it. Recently my car stalled on the road while I was driving, and it nearly caused an accident because someone behind me had to break suddenly to stop.

   NHTSA complaint #11603692 · source
7. Filed Jun 24, 2024TNFireElectrical SystemEngine

   While waiting for notification that the remedy part was available for this car, it caught on fire. It caught on fire on 6/20/2024. The car is a total loss and it was a very dangerous situation.

   NHTSA complaint #11596263 · source
8. Filed May 21, 2024TXElectrical SystemOther / Unknown

   Unknown… This is what happened. I was at a stoplight first car in line. While waiting for the light the car just shut off without warning. It would not go into park, key would not turn, the dashboard was lit up & radio on. I turned on my flashers. I called a tow and kept doing everything to get the car to start after about 15 -20 minutes or so I finally got it to go in park turn the key and it started and the car drove like it never happened. It didn’t make a noise before…

   NHTSA complaint #11589898 · source
9. Filed May 20, 2024OHElectrical System

   Q: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? A: The electrical problem started with battery power drainage. After two battery replacements, other electrical problems started to occur. Turn signal lights would not work, windows would not open or close, the left headlamp failed, was replaced, but did not work, all warning lights stayed on. Q: How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? A: The various…

   NHTSA complaint #11589692 · source
10. Filed May 11, 2024NCElectrical SystemEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion

    The manufacturer of Kia has not resolve the fire issue to the vehicles. The recall has not be looked into or updated since letter in 2022. I’ve asked multiple Kia reps when the recall will be handled and was told there is no remedy. This recall is super dangerous and is a liability when driving on highways or long travel. My car can catch on fire at any time and nothing is being handled to resolve the issue.

    NHTSA complaint #11588239 · source
11. Filed May 5, 2024INElectrical SystemEngine

    Kia issued a recall in September of 2023 that affects the HECU. I have received one interim notice but nothing since and it’s been 7 months. I am concerned about mine and others safety and would like an update on the recall.

    NHTSA complaint #11587049 · source
12. Filed Apr 17, 2024NCElectrical System

    Kia america, inc. Submitted a safety recall report on september 25, 2023, (nhtsa recall #23v-652) detailing the risk of an engine compartment fire due to an electrical short circuit of the hydraulic electronic control unit (hecu). I was notified on november 14, 2023, that my vehicle was subject to this recall and that i would be notified again when the remedy part (a new fuse) was available. Kia is recommending afffected owners park their vehicle outside and away from…

    NHTSA complaint #11583649 · source

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology