Dealer visit checklist

2025 Kia Sorento checklist

Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.

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)

Turbocharged 2.5L engine can develop oil consumption issues if oil changes are neglected beyond 5,000-mile intervals
Infotainment system (Kia Connect) has reported occasional Bluetooth connectivity drops and software glitches requiring resets
Third-row access is tight and the seat itself is best suited for children or short adults, limiting true 7-passenger practicality
AWD variants have shown occasional hesitation or shudder during low-speed torque vectoring in cold weather conditions
Interior plastics on lower trims (LX/S) show visible wear in high-touch areas like the center console lid and door armrests within 2-3 years

Know the typical price: about $31,000 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