CarRecallWatchThe 2011 Kia Sorento has 7 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 1,520 complaints with NHTSA, including 42 crashes, 63 fires, 50 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Engine (284 reports).
NHTSA rates it up to 4 stars overall for crash safety, depending on the version.
2011 Kia Sorento recalls
Engine Fire Risk While Driving: Free Software and Engine Repair
Some 2011 Kia Sorento vehicles may develop an engine compartment fire while being driven.
Brake control module short can cause engine fire
The hydraulic electronic control unit (HECU), which runs the antilock brake and traction control system, may develop an electrical short.
Vehicle Can Shift Out of Park Without Brake Pressed
On certain 2011-2013 Kia Sorento vehicles built between October 2009 and January 2013, the brake-shift interlock mechanism can chip or crack if excessive force is applied to the gear shift lever.
Most common 2011 Kia Sorento problems
Problem areas named in the 1,520 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Engine | 284 |
| Structure | 269 |
| Power Train | 266 |
| Electrical System | 247 |
| Unknown Or Other | 214 |
| Air Bags | 183 |
| Exterior Lighting | 102 |
| Service Brakes | 72 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 64 |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 61 |
What owners report
left side of driver's seat isn't locking in place. A 2016 model year was recalled for a seat weld break, but appears 2011 is a problem as well.
I parked my car in the driveway and about 10 min later my car just ignited into flames from underneath the vehicle by the gas tank and i have video from 3 different angles on my security cams that show when i parked the vehicle there was no fire or flames or smoke and about 8 min later you can see a single flame just ignite under the car, and watch it spread and the location of the flame is in back driverside by gas cap and tank
The contact owns a 2011 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked on the roof of a parking garage, the vehicle caught on fire unexpectedly. The emergency services were called to the scene, and the fire department extinguished the fire. A Police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic; however, the cause of the fire was not yet determined. The dealer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and provided a case number. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.
Driver Airbag light is illuminated
Just bought this from a private seller last week and was driving to work. The engine suddenly caught fire and the car essentially exploded and melted.
2011 Kia Sorento safety rating
| Version | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 Kia Sorento SUV 4WD | ★★★★ 4-star | 4 | 4 | 4 (16.9% rollover risk) |
| 2011 Kia Sorento SUV FWD | ★★★★ 4-star | 4 | 4 | 4 (17.5% rollover risk) |
2011 Kia Sorento questions
Does the 2011 Kia Sorento have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 7 safety recalls for the 2011 Kia Sorento: Engine Fire Risk While Driving: Free Software and Engine Repair; Brake control module short can cause engine fire; Vehicle Can Shift Out of Park Without Brake Pressed; Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch; Power Train:Driveline:Driveshaft. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2011 Kia Sorento?
Based on 1,520 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (284), Structure (269), Power Train (266).
How safe is the 2011 Kia Sorento?
NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings program gives the 2011 Kia Sorento up to 4 out of 5 stars overall; ratings vary by version, see the table above.
How do I check if a recall on my 2011 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.