Kia 2.2 CRDi AWD
High-output four-cylinder diesel with strong torque and good refinement. Robust compacted graphite iron construction — check injectors and high-pressure pump at high mileage.
Muscular family SUV
200 hp diesel in the modern Sorento UM offers genuine touring capability. Muscular shove, refined delivery — family diesel at a high level.
Engine Weaknesses 6
The variable-geometry turbocharger of the D4HB can seize through resinified oil or deposits in the vane mechanism, resulting in power loss or complete turbo failure. Regular high-quality oil changes are essential.
Symptoms: Gradual power loss, boost pressure fault code (P0299), white smoke from exhaust on turbo oil leak
The timing chain of the 2.2 CRDi (R-engine) tends to elongate from around 150,000 km. Late oil changes and frequent short trips accelerate wear considerably. Preventive replacement is recommended.
Symptoms: Rattling or clattering on cold start, rough idle, engine warning light, engine damage possible in severe wear.
Leaking injectors allow exhaust gases to escape into the cylinder head (blow-by effect). The engine oil carbonises, the oil strainer blocks, the oil supply breaks down and the engine sustains damage. Known issue of the R-series.
Symptoms: Heavy smoke, increased oil consumption, engine oil coagulates, in severe cases engine failure with seized piston or bearing damage.
The D4HB 2.2 CRDi in the Sorento and Stinger shares EGR problems with other Kia diesels: valve sticks from soot, fault codes appear, engine power drops noticeably below 2,000 rpm.
Symptoms: Judder at low rpm, engine warning light, increased fuel consumption, poorer exhaust values
The 2.2 CRDi's particulate filter blocks up with frequent short-trip use. Vehicles with a lot of urban driving and little motorway use are particularly affected.
Symptoms: DPF warning light, power drop, increased consumption, engine protection programme may activate.
At higher mileages D4HB engines show oil leaks at the valve cover gasket and oil sump gasket. The seals age through thermal cycling and high oil temperatures in turbodiesel operation.
Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, oil smell after driving, oil level dropping between changes
Vehicle Weaknesses 3
The PTC heating element can overheat due to a faulty connector and cause a fire. Recall for model years 2015–2016 with replacement of the PTC unit.
Recall for model years 2015–2017: a control software fault causes daytime running lights and brake lights to fail. Kia installed a free software update.
Faulty seat heaters are reported on the Sorento UM by multiple owners. The heating elements in the driver's seat are frequently affected. Workshop costs can be considerable depending on vehicle age and warranty status.
Reports & Tests
3471 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2015–2020). Most reported: Engine (1683), Other (530), Electrical (358).