2021 Kia Sorento Reliability ReportKeepScore 85/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid
Quick Facts · 2021 Kia Sorento
- Scores 3 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2022 Kia Sorento earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: powertrain (2.5t dct) (moderate severity).
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittings.
2021 Kia Sorento: Buy or Avoid?
The 2021 Kia Sorento represents a confident step forward in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of style, features, and generally strong reliability. While early production models experienced a few significant recalls and some common new-generation tech quirks, these issues are largely resolvable, making it a sound used vehicle purchase for families seeking value and capability.
Biggest Strengths
- Excellent manufacturer's warranty (if transferable)
- Strong safety ratings and advanced driver-assistance systems
- Modern interior design and feature-rich infotainment
2021 Kia Sorento — Known Trouble Spots
The systems that break first on the 2021 Kia Sorento. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.
Safety Recalls on the 2021 Kia Sorento
4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Kia Motor America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Sorento and 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.
TRAILER HITCHES
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
What breaks on the 2021 Kia Sorento?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Kia Sorento — Year-by-Year Comparison
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Kia Sorento. Click any year for its full report.
Competing 2021s Worth a Look
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 2021 Kia Sorento
Parts and accessories matched to your 2021 Kia Sorento
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Frequently Asked Questions
Just bought a 2021 Kia Sorento? Keep it that way.
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