2018 Kia Sorento Safety Report
2018 KIA SORENTO Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2018 Kia Sorento
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2018 Kia Sorento. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (3) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (240) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 20 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2021 | Compare against the 2021 Kia Sorento with 21 complaints and 4 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2016 | Check the 2016 Kia Sorento before buying across this generation. |
Kia Sorento Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Kia Sorento years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Kia Sorento | 394 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2017 Kia Sorento | 766 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Kia Sorento | 121 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2016 Kia Sorento | 1212 | 8 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2021 Kia Sorento | 21 | 4 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2015 Kia Sorento | 736 | 3 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2018 Kia Sorento Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2018 Kia Sorento, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
67 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Kia onlyExterior Lighting
24 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Exterior Lighting issues Kia onlySteering
22 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Steering issues Kia onlyUnknown Or Other
20 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Kia onlyElectrical System,Exterior Lighting
10 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System,Exterior Lighting issues Kia onlyAir Bags
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Air Bags issues Kia onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Kia Sorento
Reliability Score
The 2018 Kia Sorento receives a reliability score of 80 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2018 Kia Sorento
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2018 Kia Sorento
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Kia Sorento:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil Consumption Engine burning excessive oil, leading to potential performance issues and increased maintenance costs. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Steering Failure Sudden loss of power steering can be dangerous, especially at higher speeds, requiring immediate attention. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Air Bag Malfunction Side curtain air bags may not deploy correctly in a collision, compromising passenger safety. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Exterior Lighting Issues Headlights may intermittently fail, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of accidents. |
Low | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Kia Sorento:
Engine oil consumption issues are common, affecting 23% of vehicles.
Steering problems, including loss of power steering, are reported in 22% of vehicles.
Air bag malfunctions are reported in 8% of vehicles.
Exterior lighting issues, such as headlight failures, are reported in 24% of vehicles.
Recall Details for the 2018 Kia Sorento
The following 3 recalls have been issued for the 2018 Kia Sorento by NHTSA:
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Consequence: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
Consequence: If the steering column separates, it can cause a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cowl crossbar, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC167.
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.
Consequence: If the component detaches during deployment, it may enter the passenger compartment and be a projectile within the vehicle cabin, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall began on December 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC159.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2018 Kia Sorento
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2018 Kia Sorento with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes. 3 involved fires. 2 reported injuries or fatalities.
Paint is peeling on the roof of my Kia by the windshield. No incident has happened this is a manufacturer defect.. My car has never been involved in a car accident. No incidents.
The vehicle’s ignition system began malfunctioning immediately after a recall-related service (Campaign CS2312 – ignition cylinder protector installation) performed on January 9, 2026. Prior to this service, the vehicle had no ignition or electrical issues. After the repair, the ignition key became difficult to turn, and the vehicle intermittently failed to start. Additionally, multiple electrical...
In April, 2025, my vehicle's engine power was significantly reduced while on the highway. I could not keep pace with traffic. My mechanic said there were recalls for the turbo engine but my car was not included. I paid forbthe part and repair. Less than a year later and the car began burning a lot of oil very fast. I add oil weekly. The car has again been losing power and there is still no recall ...
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle started shaking and making a rough sound. The vehicle hesitated while accelerating and lost motive power. A piston failed, causing oil to spray out with enough force to damage the catalytic converter. The vehicle was driven to the dealer for an unknown recall repair, but found to have is...
I have less than 100,000 miles on my 2018 Kia sorento. When I reached probably 50,000 miles this car went DOWN HILL. I feel like I’ve replaced everything on this car. Now every oil change was saying no oil on the dip stick, so I take it to the Kia dealership. They tell me that I need an ENTIRE engine. My car is less than 100,000 miles. I saw something that said if it was under that threshold, it c...
While on the road driving at 35 MPH, the vehicle started to "bog" and losing power and/or acceleration. Had to immediately drive off the road as there were several vehicles behind. As soon as driving off the road, the vehicle died down and would not start again. The check engine light came on. After several minutes the vehicle started again and drove to a secure area to call the tow truck. If the...
On January 30, 2026, I was driving with my daughter from Kansas City to Platte City when the vehicle experienced a sudden and catastrophic mechanical failure. As we approached our exit, the engine unexpectedly revved and the vehicle rapidly decelerated to approximately 30 mph. When I attempted to accelerate, the vehicle was unable to properly gain speed. Upon reaching the top of a hill at an inter...
The contact owned a 2018 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, another vehicle had abruptly attempted to merge into the opposite traveling lane and caused the front end bumper to crash into the Front Driver-side door of the other vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The air bags did not deploy. The vehicle was towed away to a local tow yard. A Traffic Acc...
My speedometer was jumping from 0 to 20 mph while in park. A couple weeks later it did it while I was driving, I was going 25 mph and it jumped to 55 mph. I took it to the shop that day and all 4 of my wheel speed sensors were out, which wasn’t accurately measuring my speed. The shop said it was common with this model and year. Also, my headlights do not work in auto mode. I will have shut my ca...
2018 Kia Sorento 2.4 GDI. In late 2024 a Kia dealer performed an oil-consumption test and confirmed the engine was burning excessive oil. In Feb 2025 the engine long block was replaced. Within about 4,000 miles the vehicle began setting P1326 warnings, misfiring, losing power, and struggling to climb hills. On a highway trip from South Carolina back to Indiana, the vehicle could barely maintain 3...
My car had an issue that was covered under a class action lawsuit. I even had an extended Warranty which was still valid at the time. I was intimidated by the warranty company when they said well if there is carbon build up in the engine the cost of the repair is on you. So I didn't have it fixed and the engine blew up and is now inoperable in my driveway. So bottom line I couldn't get KIA to hel...
I was driving and when I lost all power steering the lights on the dash came on for power steering and traction I could not steer at all it was so hard to drive . I reported it right away and had my car check out there is a recall on the power steering but they are saying my car was made in April and the recall starts for cars made in June . Well now they are saying I need a new steering column wh...
Noticed excessive oil consumption that turned into burning oil when the exhaust turned back of car black. Engine started knocking due to gummed up spark plugs. Replaced the spark plugs but within weeks the new plugs where gummed up as well. Took to Kia for diagnosis and potential repair for theta 2 class action. Mechanic confirmed damaged spark plugs, piston issues and needs for new engine.
1. at night when i toggle hi beams the light black out and i have to jiggle the toggle 2. My HECU assembly is out, I have about 7 lights on my dash.
Excessive oil consumption
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Sorento. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was heavy white smoke coming from the exhaust pipes. There was no warning light illuminated. Upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for an oil change, the contact was informed that there was an oil leak coming from the engine. The contact had her son inspect the vehicle, and he discovered that...
The engine suddenly failed while I was driving on the highway. The vehicle lost power without warning, which created a dangerous situation. I had to pull over and have the vehicle towed.
Engine is burning oil at a rate of almost one quart per week. The engine can be felt shaking when driving. The engine light came on and states there is a P0303 Cylinder 3 misfired detected.
Started the car and heard a knocking sound. No check engine or low oil light on the dash. Dealership said the bearing clearance test was too great, causing the connecting rod to knock inside the engine. Dealership said I need an engine replacement. Engine is 3.3L Lambda II engine which has been reported to have this issue.
I was driving from richlands coming home and my vechial kept trying to die on me like i didnt have any gas and then i had to suddenly pull off the side of the road without any power and i sat their and even try to restart the vechial and it wouldn't start back then a woman come out of nowhere in an ambulance and i was trying to tell her that it was alright and she was trying to tell me that the v...
Showing 20 of 240 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2018 Kia Sorento
NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.
Component: Engine
Opened 2022-09-12 · Closed 2023-12-12
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received a letter dated July 13, 2022, petitioning the Agency to initiate a safety defect investigation into loss of motive power allegations attributed to oil drain pan assembly failures on certain Hyundai Motor America, Inc. and Kia America, Inc. vehicles spanning Model Years (MY) 2005-2021. The Petitioners cited examples of complaints indicating that the subject vehicles were experiencing rapid loss of engine oil due to oil drain plug...
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Kia Sorento
Has the 2018 KIA SORENTO been recalled?
Yes, the 2018 KIA SORENTO has 3 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2018 KIA SORENTO have?
The 2018 KIA SORENTO has 240 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 10 involved crashes. 9 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2018 KIA SORENTO?
The 2018 KIA SORENTO received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 KIA SORENTO?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2018 KIA SORENTO involve engine (67 complaints), exterior lighting (24 complaints), steering (22 complaints). Other affected components include unknown or other, electrical system,exterior lighting, air bags.
How many crash reports does the 2018 KIA SORENTO have?
There are 10 crash reports associated with the 2018 KIA SORENTO out of 240 total complaints (4.2% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2018 KIA SORENTO have?
There are 10 fire reports for the 2018 KIA SORENTO out of 240 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2018 KIA SORENTO?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 KIA SORENTO.
How many injuries are reported for the 2018 KIA SORENTO?
9 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2018 KIA SORENTO. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2018 KIA SORENTO?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2018 KIA SORENTO is research thoroughly before purchasing. It has 240 complaints, 3 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2018 KIA SORENTO?
The components with the most failures on the 2018 KIA SORENTO are: 1. ENGINE (67 complaints), 2. EXTERIOR LIGHTING (24 complaints), 3. STEERING (22 complaints), 4. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (20 complaints), 5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING (10 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 67 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2018 KIA SORENTO?
Be cautious of engine oil consumption and steering issues, as these can affect performance and safety. Regular maintenance is crucial. The 2018 KIA SORENTO has 240 NHTSA complaints and 3 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2018 KIA SORENTO?
The 2018 KIA SORENTO receives a reliability score of 80/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 240 owner complaints, 3 recalls, and 20 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Oil Consumption and Steering Failure.
What are the known issues with the 2018 KIA SORENTO?
Known issues with the 2018 KIA SORENTO include: Engine Oil Consumption, Steering Failure, Air Bag Malfunction, Exterior Lighting Issues. These are based on patterns found across 240 NHTSA complaints. 3 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
Can the engine oil consumption issue be fixed?
Yes, the issue can be addressed by replacing the oil and checking for any underlying mechanical problems.
What should I do if I experience sudden loss of power steering?
Pull over safely and contact a mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue immediately.
Are there any recalls related to the 2018 KIA Sorento?
Yes, there are recalls for trailer hitches, steering, and air bags. Check for recalls and have them addressed.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of engine oil consumption and steering issues, as these can affect performance and safety. Regular maintenance is crucial.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Kia Sorento
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Kia Sorento. The data includes 240 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 10 fire incidents, 9 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Kia Sorento an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16