2012 Kia Sorento: Engine complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 475 owner complaints for the 2012 Kia Sorento that list the engine component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11753475 (filed 07/29/2026): “I am filing this complaint regarding a sudden and unexpected engine failure in my 2012 kia sorento lx equipped with the 2.4l theta ii engine. vehicle information: year: 2012 make/model: kia sorento lx engine: 2.4l theta ii vin: [xxx] while driving, my vehicle experienced a sudden engine failure an…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11736289 (filed 05/07/2026): “The contact owned a 2012 kia sorento. the contact’s spouse stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle suddenly lost motive power with no warning lights illuminated. the contact's spouse noticed smoke coming from the front of the vehicle, prompting the contact’s spouse to pull ov…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11734042 (filed 04/27/2026): “The clock spring needs fixed no features including the horn is working in my airbag light is staying on. also i now have a loud knock in my motor i understand this should fall under the extended 15 yr 150k warranty; 2012 kia vehicles (specifically the sorento) with v6 engines are covered under majo…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Internal engine work (lifters, oil consumption, fuel dilution diagnosis) requires engine teardown or dealer software/tests. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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Sources
Page last updated .