2018 Kia Sorento Recalls, Problems & Safety Rating

3 safety recalls on file

The 2018 Kia Sorento has 3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.

Owners have filed 255 complaints with NHTSA, including 12 crashes, 11 fires, 11 injuries.

The most-reported problem area is Engine (107 reports).

3Recalls
255Owner complaints
12Crashes reported
n/aNHTSA safety rating
Is the repair still open on your Sorento?

A recall covers specific vehicles. Your VIN shows whether yours still needs the free repair.

2018 Kia Sorento recalls

Tow hitch wiring can short and cause a fire

Recall 22V703Sep 19, 202270,887 vehicles affected

The tow hitch wiring harness module on these vehicles can accumulate debris and moisture on its circuit board.

Steering Column May Separate, Causing Loss of Steering

Recall 18V656Sep 21, 201897 vehicles affected

The welding on a crossbar that connects to the power steering column in certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles may be improper.

Side curtain airbag part may detach and become a projectile

Recall 17V784Dec 8, 20172,014 vehicles affected

On certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles, a component on the side curtain airbags may detach when the curtain airbag inflates.

Most common 2018 Kia Sorento problems

Problem areas named in the 255 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.

Problem areaReports
Engine107
Exterior Lighting41
Unknown Or Other37
Electrical System30
Steering26
Fuel/Propulsion System13
Forward Collision Avoidance11
Air Bags10
Power Train9
Structure9

What owners report

2026-10-06, Engine
My 2018 Sorento is consuming oil excessively. I’m having to add oil between changes, and I’m now experiencing reduced acceleration under load. I have been told by a few different parties that this has become a common problem with Kia’s. I want an oil-consumption test performed and I want the VIN checked for all engine campaigns, warranty extensions, KSDS coverage, and open recalls
2026-09-18, Engine
Complete engine failure inspected by Westgate Kia Service Dept, Wake Forest, NC Service manager confirmed that known issue and recall in effect for 2018 Kia Sorrento same issue but because manufactures parts are only covered when made in certain locations. mine not covered. He did agree it was exact same issue but declined to assist. Warning sign / flashing check engine light.
2026-09-15, Electrical System
Vehicle: 2018 Kia Sorento VIN: [XXX] Kia Corporate Case #: XXX My 2018 Kia Sorento experienced a catastrophic engine failure (“holes in the block”) while under warranty. The vehicle lost power, emitted heavy smoke, and became completely inoperable. Kia America has refused to repair the engine and has delayed providing the required written denial for my warranty claim. This vehicle has also suffered five break-ins, and Kia has two active recalls for my year and model that were never performed, including a theft‑prevention recall. My vehicle is part of a nationwide class‑action lawsuit involving engine defects and theft vulnerabilities. Because Kia America delayed resolving my warra
2026-08-27, Fuel/Propulsion System
The High Pressure Fuel Pump failed while driving on highway. I took it to the Kia dealership and they told me of the issue. There were no prior warnings of issues Kia recalled all 2019-2020 kia sorentos with this same issue. This component should not have failed at 63k miles and Kia should extend their warranty to previous models with the same High Pressure Fuel Pump problems under The High-Pressure Fuel Pump Warranty Extension (WTY034).
2026-08-26, Forward Collision Avoidance
The abs module has failed. Yes vehicle is available for inspections if wanted and would be appreciated. Had it scanned by dealership and it’s too expensive to fix. Lights on are abs. Traction control. Auto hold. Autonomous braking. Thank you

2018 Kia Sorento questions

Does the 2018 Kia Sorento have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA lists 3 safety recalls for the 2018 Kia Sorento: Tow hitch wiring can short and cause a fire; Steering Column May Separate, Causing Loss of Steering; Side curtain airbag part may detach and become a projectile. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.

What are the most common problems with the 2018 Kia Sorento?

Based on 255 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Engine (107), Exterior Lighting (41), Unknown Or Other (37).

How do I check if a recall on my 2018 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.

Other Kia Sorento years

Other 2018 Kia models