2018 Kia Sorento · symptom sheet
Check engine light or misfire
- 31owner reports
- 88,000median miles
- 0involved a crash
Newest report Sep 18, 2026 · checked Oct 2, 2026
138 of the 254 complaints on this car are about the engine. 31 of those describe misfire.
Tick what matches of 31 reports
Misfire on other Sorento years
Report counts are for each model year on its own, so a newer car has had less time to collect them. Model years with too few reports of it for a sheet: 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025.
What this problem usually is
These reports start with the check engine light. Many describe the engine running rough or shaking at idle, a P0300-series code, or a catalytic converter code. A worrying number say the light was flashing. Owners often list ignition coils or spark plugs already replaced, and the light coming back afterward.
What got replaced
Owners who name the part that was replaced mention the sensor (5 reports) and the spark plugs (3 reports).
Recalls and investigations
No recall on the engine covers the 2018 model year as of Oct 2, 2026.
NHTSA investigations into the engine on the Sorento
Loss of motive power. Closed jul 23, 2024.
Loss of motive power. Closed dec 12, 2023.
Engine fires. Closed feb 5, 2024, led to recall 23V-877.
Engine oil pressure switch leak. Closed jun 26, 2023.
Non-crash vehicle fires. Closed dec 22, 2021, led to recall 20V-088.
Non-crash vehicle fires. Closed may 10, 2019, led to recall 18V-907.
Scope and timeliness. Closed dec 22, 2021, led to recall 17V-224.
Fuel spill during refueling. Closed dec 21, 2011.
When it happens
The middle half of failures fell between 57,000 and 111,500 miles, from the 15 reports that gave a mileage.
What owners wrote
“Complete engine failure inspected by Westgate Kia Service Dept, Wake Forest, NC Service manager confirmed that known issue and recall in effect for 2018 Kia Sorrento same issue but because manufactures parts are only covered when made in certain locations. mine not covered. He did agree it was exact same issue but declined to assist. Warning sign / flashing check engine light.”
Filed Sep 18, 2026
“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.”
Filed Dec 11, 2025
Should you keep driving it?
This page can't tell you that. 0 of 31 reports involved a crash. Owners who file are the ones who had a bad experience, and nobody checks their reports. If the problem affects steering, braking, power or a fire risk, treat it as a safety fault and have it inspected before a long or high-speed drive.
File your own report with NHTSA. Complaint counts are how a problem gets an investigation. How reports land on this sheet.
Guide Which lights mean pull over now? Warning lights by color and urgency
Other problems on this car
- Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing 48 reports
- Engine stalls or loses power while driving 41 reports
- Headlights too dim or fail 30 reports
- Burns oil or oil level rises 26 reports