2025 Kia Sorento: Power Train complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 40 owner complaints for the 2025 Kia Sorento that list the power train component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11754281 (filed 08/02/2026): “The engine sputters several times in a single trip, and is available upon request. the engine sputtered and the vehicle stopped in the middle of the road as i was trying to cross 2 lanes of traffic. it has sputtered so bad, i almost rear ended the vehicle in front of me. yes, the dealership conf…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11747831 (filed 07/01/2026): “The transmission is not shifting gears correctly. the engine revs loudly and hesitates for a few seconds before shifting. there were no warning lamps. the vehicle has not been inspected yet. this causes a dangerous situation when driving and accelerating in traffic.…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11732019 (filed 04/18/2026): “In december i submitted a complaint about the powertrain not knowing the extent of the problem. my 2025 kia sorento x-line sx prestige with shy of 48000 miles had a catastrophic and potentially life threatening malfunction with the powertrain. the technicians revealed that the transmission housing …”
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
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (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
- NHTSA complaints API: SORENTO 2025
- NHTSA complaints API: SORENTO HYBRID 2025
- NHTSA complaints API: SORENTO PLUG-IN HYBRID 2025
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