2022 Kia Sorento Safety Report
2022 Kia Sorento: Strong Crash Ratings, but Multiple Fire & Drive Power Recalls and High Complaint Volume
AI Safety Analysis for the 2022 Kia Sorento
Reliability Score
The 2022 Kia Sorento receives a reliability score of 60 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2022 Kia Sorento
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2022 Kia Sorento:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loss Of Drive Power/Transmission Issues NHTSA complaints and a recall (POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION) indicate instances where the vehicle loses motive power, often due to transmission oil pump issues or other powertrain malfunctions, increasing crash risk. Several complaints describe the vehicle going into 'limp mode' or failing to accelerate. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Fire Hazard (Hvac Blower Motor & Tow Hitch) Two separate recalls address fire risks: one for inadequate HVAC blower motor wiring and another for tow hitch harness issues. The HVAC recall specifically mentions a fire risk, and one complaint references a fire-risk recall with no available remedy. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Rearview Camera Failure A recall (BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA) notes that mounting clips for the rearview camera may break, causing the camera to malfunction or dangle, reducing rear visibility and increasing crash risk. Several complaints directly mention the camera bracket breaking. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Sunroof Explosion/Shattering Multiple complaints describe the panoramic sunroof spontaneously shattering or exploding while driving or parked, creating a loud noise and showering glass into the vehicle. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Turbocharger Oil Leak/Engine Fire Risk A recall (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER) identifies a potential crack in the turbocharger oil supply pipe, leading to an oil leak and increased risk of engine compartment fire. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Electrical System Malfunctions/Blank Screens Complaints mention instrument panel going blank, various sensors and alarms glitching, and check engine lights illuminating, sometimes requiring vehicle restarts to resolve. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2022 Kia Sorento:
The most frequently reported issue, with 24 complaints, often involves loss of drive power, transmission malfunctions, or the vehicle entering 'limp mode,' aligning with a major recall.
With 18 complaints, issues include engine sputtering, sudden loss of power, and the need for engine replacement, some potentially linked to turbocharger oil leaks or EGR unit failures.
19 complaints fall into this category, often describing general malfunctions, sensor glitches, or issues not fitting specific component categories.
7 complaints, primarily related to rearview camera failures and sunroof issues, including spontaneous shattering.
5 complaints, directly related to the recall concerning fire hazards from the tow hitch harness.
5 complaints, though specific details are not provided, this component is critical for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2022 Kia Sorento
Is the 2022 Kia Sorento safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2022 Kia Sorento received strong crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side). However, it has 166 complaints, 4 crashes, 1 fire, and 4 injuries reported. Six recalls address significant safety concerns, including fire risks, loss of drive power, and rearview camera failures. While it performs well in controlled crash tests, the numerous recalls and complaints suggest potential real-world reliability and safety issues.
What are common problems with the 2022 Kia Sorento?
The most reported issues for the 2022 Kia Sorento are related to the POWER TRAIN (24 complaints), ENGINE (18 complaints), and UNKNOWN OR OTHER (19 complaints). Specific common problems include loss of drive power, transmission malfunctions, rearview camera failures, spontaneous sunroof shattering, and various electrical system glitches. Several recalls also highlight fire risks associated with the HVAC blower motor and tow hitch, as well as turbocharger oil leaks.
Are there any fire risks with the 2022 Kia Sorento?
Yes, there are multiple fire risks identified for the 2022 Kia Sorento. Two separate recalls address potential fire hazards: one due to inadequate HVAC blower motor wiring (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS) and another related to the tow hitch harness (TRAILER HITCHES). Additionally, a recall for the ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER warns of an oil leak from the turbocharger pipe that could lead to a fire.
How does the 2022 Kia Sorento perform in crash tests?
The 2022 Kia Sorento performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an Overall 4-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for Frontal crash, an excellent 5 stars for Side crash, and 4 stars for Rollover resistance.
What should I look out for if buying a used 2022 Kia Sorento?
If considering a used 2022 Kia Sorento, prioritize verifying that all 6 recalls have been addressed. Specifically, inquire about the HVAC blower motor wiring, tow hitch harness, transmission oil pump, rearview camera mounting clips, turbocharger oil supply pipe, and spare tire. Also, be aware of potential issues like sudden loss of power, sunroof integrity, and general electrical system reliability, as these are common complaint themes.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2022 Kia Sorento boasts good crash test ratings, the high volume of complaints and six significant recalls, including fire and loss of drive power risks, warrant caution. Prospective buyers should ensure all recalls have been completed and be prepared for potential powertrain or electrical issues.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2022 Kia Sorento
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2022 Kia Sorento. The data includes 166 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 6 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 4 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2022 Kia Sorento an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 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.