Fourth-generation Kia Sorento crossovers can develop engine, transmission, suspension and electronics problems after 100,000 km. The YouTube channel "Avto Plus" examined the weak points of the used crossover and outlined the costs owners should expect, according to infohub.kz.

The review covers the pre-facelift version, which has been produced since 2020. Modifications on Kazakhstan's secondary market may differ, so it is important to check the specifications of a specific vehicle before buying.

According to automotive journalist Pyotr Bakanov, one of the main issues with the 2.2 Smartstream D4HE diesel is the timing belt. Under the maintenance schedule it is inspected at 120,000 km, but early failures have been reported in practice. Experienced owners therefore advise checking the belt as early as 75,000 km.

It is also important to monitor the accessory drive belt: if it snaps, debris can get under the timing belt and damage the engine.

Other weak points of the diesel include oil leaks around the oil filter housing, the rear crankshaft seal and the valve cover. Fuel injectors may also need attention at around 120,000–130,000 km.

With the 2.5 Smartstream engine, much depends on oil quality and change intervals. This affects the condition of the hydraulic lifters and the timing chain tensioner. A characteristic noise on startup is a reason to check the tensioner.

Leaks also occur where the cylinder block meets the oil pan. The thermostat may need replacing at around 100,000 km, and the fuel pump can begin to run erratically. Injector problems are more often reported after 150,000–160,000 km.

As Bakanov notes, the six-speed automatic is considered the most trouble-free, but its oil is best changed roughly every 30,000–40,000 km. The eight-speed automatic paired with the 3.5 V6 engine dislikes aggressive starts and high loads. Torque converter wear contaminates the oil and causes jerking during gear changes.

The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission in the diesel version requires particular attention. After 120,000–130,000 km, problems may arise with the pump and the countershaft bearing. The clutch and dual-mass flywheel also have a limited service life.

The Sorento's chassis is generally not considered weak, but front stabilizer links and control arm bushings often wear out by 70,000–90,000 km. Front wheel bearings may start humming after 70,000–80,000 km, while shock absorbers and rear bushings may need replacement closer to 100,000–150,000 km.

On all-wheel-drive vehicles, the transfer case and the intermediate shaft splines should be checked and protected from moisture and dirt.

The paintwork easily picks up chips and scratches, the chrome can cloud as early as the third or fourth year, and the headlights can fog up. Electronic faults include failures of the front parking sensors, infotainment system, rear-view camera, seat heating and blind spot monitoring.

In the reviewer's opinion, the "Kia Sorento" cannot be called an unreliable crossover, but a thorough inspection is essential before buying. It is important to check not only the vehicle's mechanical condition but also how its electronic systems perform while driving.

Earlier, Kursiv Auto reported that Kia may delay the new generation of the Sorento and limit itself to a facelift.