Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Some of the most common problems with the 2025 Kia Sorento include electrical system malfunctions, engine performance concerns, and occasional transmission issues.
These problems have led to owner complaints and, in at least one case, an official safety recall. Notably, the Sorento was recalled under NHTSA Campaign Number 25V-006 due to a software defect in the Body Domain Control Unit, which could cause a loss of headlights and taillights.
This article explores the key mechanical and electrical complaints reported by Sorento owners so far, including real-world symptoms, affected components, and what drivers can do if they believe their vehicle may qualify as a lemon
Common 2025 Kia Sorento Problems
- Transmission: Transmission Slipping; Hesitation; “Catching” in Between Gears; Rough or Delayed Shifting; Transmission Failure; Transmission Software Issues
- Electrical System: Battery Drain; Headlight/Taillight Failure; Infotainment System Issues; Dashboard Warning Lights; Lane-Keeping Assist or Adaptive Cruise Control
- Engine: Hesitation; Stalling; Excessive Oil Consumption; Rough Idling or Vibrations during Cold Starts; Check Engine Light
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2025 Kia Sorento Transmission Problems
One of the most commonly reported transmission issues in the 2025 Kia Sorento involves the transmission slipping or hesitating, particularly during acceleration or when shifting between gears.
This behavior may affect driving performance and could be an early sign of mechanical or electronic issues.
Another issue mentioned by some drivers involves rough or delayed shifting, especially at lower speeds or when the vehicle is started from a cold state.
These gear changes can feel abrupt or sluggish, potentially making daily driving less smooth or comfortable.
While most of these complaints appear to involve drivability rather than catastrophic failure, some cases have cited complete transmission failure.
In addition to mechanical concerns, some transmission problems may be tied to the vehicle’s transmission control module (TCM) software.
When software-related, these issues are sometimes correctable through updates performed by the dealership.
It’s advisable for owners experiencing transmission trouble to check whether Kia has issued any technical service bulletins (TSBs) or recalls addressing their specific concern.
Staying on top of routine maintenance, such as timely transmission fluid changes and regular system inspections, can help prevent serious problems.
Fortunately, the 2025 Kia Sorento is covered under Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which typically includes transmission repairs.
If you’re noticing symptoms that point to a transmission issue, it’s a good idea to contact your dealership promptly to ensure the problem is properly diagnosed and addressed as soon as possible.
2025 Kia Sorento Electrical System Problems
One of the more frequently mentioned electrical concerns involves unexpected battery drainage, sometimes occurring even when the vehicle has been parked for extended periods.
This issue could stem from a faulty alternator, a weak battery, or parasitic power draw from components that remain active when the engine is off.
Some 2025 Kia Sorento drivers have reported dashboard warning lights appearing randomly or persisting without any verifiable system faults, which may point to software or sensor calibration inconsistencies.
Additional complaints have surfaced regarding the infotainment system. Some users have experienced screens freezing or rebooting unexpectedly, along with Bluetooth pairing problems and delays in response to touchscreen inputs.
These issues, though not reported universally, can interfere with the user experience and are often addressed through software updates.
There have also been occasional concerns with driver assistance features such as lane-keeping assist or adaptive cruise control acting unpredictably, which might be related to sensor misalignment or glitches in the vehicle’s control software.
It is also important to note that the 2025 Kia Sorento is subject to an official recall under NHTSA Campaign Number 25V-006, issued on January 13, 2025.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a software error in the Body Domain Control Unit (BDC) may result in the loss of low beam headlights and taillights.
This defect violates Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, “Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment,” and poses a potential risk of reduced visibility while driving.
To remedy the issue, Kia dealers will update the BDC software at no cost to owners. Affected owners can contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 and reference recall number SC331.
Additional information is also available through the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or online at nhtsa.gov.
2025 Kia Sorento Engine Problems
Engine-related problems with the 2025 Kia Sorento have been reported by some owners. One of the most frequently mentioned issues is engine hesitation, particularly noticeable during acceleration in models equipped with the 2.5L turbocharged engine.
In rare cases, drivers have also reported stalling at low speeds or while idling. These symptoms may be related to fuel delivery inconsistencies or software calibration issues, though no formal service campaigns have been announced at this time.
Another area of concern involves excessive oil consumption, with a few owners noting the need to top off oil more frequently than expected, especially during the early stages of ownership.
While this has not been confirmed as a systemic defect, it is something being watched closely within owner forums and may be affected by engine break-in periods or driving conditions.
Some drivers have also encountered the check engine light activating unexpectedly. In many of these instances, the cause is traced back to minor sensor faults or emissions-related components, which are often resolved through software updates or component replacements performed by the dealership.
For models equipped with the turbocharged engine, occasional complaints have surfaced about turbo lag or high-pitched whining noises.
These reports have not been linked to widespread turbocharger failure but may reflect isolated issues with boost response or wear in related components.
Additionally, a few owners have described rough idling or vibrations during cold starts. This cold start roughness could be tied to engine mount performance or the air-fuel mixture calibration during engine warm-up.
Owner Complaints – 2025 Kia Sorento
“Outside temp was 33 degrees F with a slightly lower windchill. I started the car and, when I accelerated to 30 mph, my car began to beep and the dashboard indicated the speed was limited to 30 mph. It went into limp mode and resisted when I tried to go above 30. We were towed to Kia but they could not replicate the issue and said it may have been due to the cold. A Google search showed others with 2025 model Kias also had the issue and they also happened during colder temps. I was glad I was on a 40 mph road and not a highway or it could have been a dangerous issue. There was no indication of any issue until I tried to accelerate to 30 mph. It drove fine the night before when it was also below freezing.”
“Was turning right onto the road when the steering locked up and every safety warning light came on. My car literally stopped moving in the middle of the road. I wasn’t literally right down the road from my house so thankfully I was able to get the car back to my house. The steering felt worse than not having power steering.”
“2025 Sorento Hybrid with 10.8k miles, and stranded me AGAIN last night. No check engine light, nothing. First time about 2 weeks ago, dealership couldn’t recreate the problem, since no check engine light it doesn’t record an issue so no error codes. I was 30min in last time, this time 7min in heading home and failed me.”
When to Invoke the Lemon Law
If your 2025 Kia Sorento is experiencing repeat mechanical or electrical issues—such as engine hesitation, stalling, electrical malfunctions, or persistent warning lights—that has been repaired under the manufacturer warranty, you may have grounds for a lemon law claim.
Lemon laws exist to protect consumers who purchase or lease a new vehicle that turns out to be defective within the manufacturer’s warranty period.
To qualify, the defect typically must still be present after a reasonable number of attempts to fix it and must substantially impair the vehicle’s use, safety, or value.
If your Sorento meets these criteria, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle, a manufacturer buyback, or cash compensation.
In the case of a buyback or replacement, Kia may deduct a usage fee based on how many miles you drove before the problem first appeared.
If a replacement vehicle is offered, and it’s a more expensive trim or model year, you might be asked to pay the difference.
In many states, if your lemon law case is successful, Kia may also be required to cover your attorney’s fees and costs, allowing you to seek legal representation without paying out of pocket.
If your 2025 Kia Sorento has spent an unusual amount of time in the shop for the same recurring problem, it may be time to explore your legal options and find out whether you qualify for relief under your state’s lemon law.
Fight for What’s Fair: Call the Lemon Law Experts
Since 2009, the Lemon Law Experts have helped thousands of consumers resolve vehicle defects through legal remedies backed by state and federal warranty laws.
If your 2025 Kia Sorento has been in the repair shop repeatedly for the same issue—especially if it affects the vehicle’s safety, reliability, or value—you may be entitled to compensation, and our team is here to help.
Whether you’re seeking a refund, a replacement vehicle, or cash compensation, we work to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Every claim is handled with personal attention and legal precision, and if your case qualifies under your state’s lemon law, Kia may be required to pay your attorney’s fees.
If you’re unsure whether your 2025 Sorento meets the criteria, reach out to the Lemon Law Experts for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us at (877) 885-5366 or fill out our online form to get started today.
