CarRecallWatchThe 2008 Kia Sorento has 3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 217 complaints with NHTSA, including 15 crashes, 9 fires, 17 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Air Bags (67 reports).
2008 Kia Sorento recalls
Moisture in ABS Module Can Cause Engine Fire
Moisture can enter the anti-lock brake (ABS) module in certain Kia Sedona and Sorento vehicles and cause an electrical short.
Most common 2008 Kia Sorento problems
Problem areas named in the 217 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Air Bags | 67 |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 44 |
| Engine | 35 |
| Electrical System | 32 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 28 |
| Power Train | 23 |
| Service Brakes | 19 |
| Exterior Lighting | 13 |
| Unknown Or Other | 12 |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 8 |
What owners report
Their brake lights are NOT working even when stopped during stopped traffic there is no indication of them braking
I took my car to a mechanic. Said ABS Control Module failed. This is a safety issue and should be replaced. Brakes are not stopping as well as they should should and don't vibration while going down a steep incline. Had to push really hard for the brakes to stop. Just put me and my family at risk. No warning lights. During testing by the mechanic he noticed the car shifts to the side when putting on the brakes.
My 2008 Kia Sorento parked inside a garage for 2 days, not running, not idling, without the key in the ignition, all of a sudden cut fire by itself, consuming the entire engine compartment and part of the front seat, and also caused substantial damage to the the garage. Filed a claim with Kia which denied responsibilities. The incident occurred in December 26, 2025, and was waiting for Kia decision before further action
My ABS sent codes saying there's moisture in the ABS Module,Brake Light Switch may malfunction are cause Accidents due to malfunction of Brake Lights...
The ABS brakes in slippery/snowy/icy when pressed hard will make a noise and feel in the brake pedal that will be like a warning that they are going to lock up and you will go sliding. One time I went sliding into an intersection because this happened with the ABS brakes. The ABS light did not come on nor the ECS light because I was in 4x4. It started happening a year ago in winter time. Currently it has not been inspected or fixed.
2008 Kia Sorento questions
Does the 2008 Kia Sorento have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls for the 2008 Kia Sorento: Moisture in ABS Module Can Cause Engine Fire; Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch; Air Bags:Frontal:Sensor/Control Module-Inactive. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2008 Kia Sorento?
Based on 217 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (67), Electronic Stability Control (Esc) (44), Engine (35).
How do I check if a recall on my 2008 Kia Sorento has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.