Dealer visit checklist
2019 Kia Sorento checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
This is a year to avoid
- • 3.1x more owner complaints than nearby model years
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2019 Kia Sorento problems to check
- Theta II 2.4L engine oil consumption — some owners report burning a quart every 1,000-2,000 miles, worth monitoring with regular checks
- Transmission hesitation or rough shifts on the 2.4L/6-speed combo, particularly in stop-and-go traffic — a software update or fluid flush often helps
- Infotainment system (UVO) connectivity glitches including Bluetooth dropping and touchscreen lag, usually addressed with system resets or updates
- Steering column clicks or rattles reported around 60,000-80,000 miles, often traced to clock spring or column shroud
- Hydraulic brake booster failure has been flagged in some 2019 models — verify this recall (SC193) has been completed before purchasing
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- TRAILER HITCHES: Kia America, Inc.
- BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA: Kia America, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $21,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away