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Kia · Mid-Size SUV · 2002–2009

Kia Sorento BL

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
2.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Kia Sorento BL is available with 3 engine variants — from 136 to 170 hp.

2.0 CRDi · Diesel· 140 PS
2006 2009
Be Careful 5 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2.5 CRDi · Diesel· 140 PS
2002 2009
Stay Away! 6 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
2.5 CRDi 170 · Diesel· 163–170 PS
2006 2009
Stay Away! 6 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

The Kia 2.0 CRDi (Diesel, 140 PS) has the D4EA (2.0L CRDi (VGT)) — rated: "Be Careful", 5 known weaknesses.

The Kia 2.5 CRDi (Diesel, 140 PS) has the D4CB (2.5L CRDi (A)) — rated: "Stay Away!", 6 known weaknesses.

The Kia 2.5 CRDi 170 (Diesel, 163–170 PS) has the D4CB (2.5L CRDi (A)) — rated: "Stay Away!", 6 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
✖Severe underbody rust

Underbody rust is a widespread problem on the Sorento BL and significantly impacts MOT inspections. Inadequate factory corrosion protection on cross members and longitudinal frame rails.

Symptoms: Visible rust on cross members, wheel arches and longitudinal frame rails; possible MOT pass only with remediation.
from 150,000 km
Ad Kia Sorento HohlraumversiegelungKia Sorento Unterbodenschutz
 High
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
1,501 complaints · 2002–2009
Engine
265 ⚠ 8
Airbags
251 ⚠ 42
Electrical
226 ⚠ 5
Engine & Cooling
205 ⚠ 1
Powertrain
187 ⚠ 5

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine (265 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (251 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (226 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Sorento BL (2002–2009) — 11 engine-related and 6 vehicle-related. One problem engine: D4CB (2.5L CRDi (A)). Typical issues affect Rust, Gearbox, Body, Steering.

Sorento (D4CB, 2002–2009) — Stay Away!: Fuel tank internal coating delamInates, Timing chain stretch due to late oil changes, Timing chain stretches prematurely. Power: 140 PS.

Sorento (D4CB, 2006–2009) — Stay Away!: Fuel tank internal coating delamInates, Timing chain stretch due to late oil changes, Timing chain stretches prematurely. Power: 163–170 PS.

Sorento (D4EA, 2006–2009) — Be Careful: Premature timing chain stretch, Timing belt snaps without warning, Injector failure due to poor fuel quality. Power: 140 PS.

What to watch out for with the Kia Sorento? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Kia Sorento BL have? +
The Kia Sorento BL has 11 known engine weaknesses and 6 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Kia Sorento BL? +
faq.watch_a_avoid
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: D4EA (2.0L CRDi (VGT)). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the D4CB (2.5L CRDi (A)). Problem engine: D4CB (2.5L CRDi (A)) — stay away!
Which Kia Sorento BL engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Kia Sorento BL — rated: "Decent". {description} 140 hp 2.5 CRDi in the first Sorento BL — punchy and reliable for its age. Not modern, but a workhorse with character.
Is the Kia Sorento BL worth buying used? +
Caution is advised with the Kia Sorento BL — 1 of 2 engine variants are rated 'Stay Away!'. The engine choice is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Kia Sorento BL? +
The Kia Sorento BL is available with engine variants from 136 to 170 hp. Diesel: D4CB (2.5L CRDi (A)), D4EA (2.0L CRDi (VGT)).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee