2022 Kia Sorento Problems | Transmission Failure, Stalling, and Fire Risk Recall

The 2022 Kia Sorento has generated a growing number of complaints involving transmission failure, loss of power, stalling, and electrical defects that may pose a fire risk. While marketed as a reliable midsize SUV, some owners report recurring issues that affect safety and drivability.

Public complaint data and recall information show that transmission-related problems are among the most serious concerns, with some drivers experiencing sudden loss of power while driving.

For California consumers, these types of repeated defects—especially when they persist after multiple repair attempts—can trigger protections under the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act.

What’s the Problem

The most significant issue reported in the 2022 Kia Sorento involves the vehicle’s transmission system, particularly in models equipped with the turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission.

Owners have reported:

  • Hesitation during acceleration

  • Jerking or slipping between gears

  • Sudden loss of drive power

  • Complete transmission failure

These issues are not just performance complaints—they can create serious safety risks when the vehicle loses power unexpectedly.

In addition to transmission concerns, some drivers report engine hesitation or stalling, as well as electrical defects tied to wiring components.

Allegations

Owners of the 2022 Kia Sorento have described recurring drivability issues that interfere with normal use of the vehicle. These include reports of vehicles shutting off mid-drive, transmission failure at relatively low mileage, and inconsistent performance that dealerships struggle to diagnose.

Consumer complaints describe:

  • Vehicles losing power while driving

  • Intermittent jerking without diagnostic codes

  • Vehicles shutting off unexpectedly

These types of issues, particularly when they occur repeatedly and are not repaired after multiple visits, may support a claim that the vehicle suffers from a defect that substantially impairs its use, value, or safety.

Recall/TSB

One of the most significant recalls affecting the 2022 Kia Sorento is NHTSA Recall 22V-760, which involves a defect in the transmission oil pump.

According to Kia, this defect can:

  • Cause a loss of hydraulic pressure

  • Trigger warning messages

  • Lead to a loss of drive power

The manufacturer’s remedy includes inspection and replacement of the transmission or related components where necessary.

Another serious issue involves an electrical defect tied to the tow hitch wiring harness, identified in NHTSA Recall 25V-649.

This condition may:

  • Cause a short circuit

  • Increase the risk of fire

  • Occur even when the vehicle is parked

These types of defects—especially those involving loss of power or fire risk—are the kinds of conditions that frequently appear in lemon law claims.

Symptoms

Owners experiencing problems with a 2022 Kia Sorento may notice:

  • Transmission slipping, jerking, or hesitation

  • Loss of acceleration or power

  • Vehicle shutting off while driving

  • Warning messages related to drivetrain or engine

  • Electrical issues or burning smells near the rear of the vehicle

Some complaints specifically describe vehicles losing power at relatively low mileage or shutting off without warning, creating hazardous driving conditions.

How to Proceed

  • Document Issues: Keep detailed records of all repairs and communications with the manufacturer. While at the dealership, ensure that all of your complaints are noted in the work order that you receive when you first drop off your vehicle.

  • Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: While the law doesn't specify an exact number, generally, if the same problem persists after four or more repair attempts, or if the vehicle is out of service for more than 30 days cumulatively, it may qualify as a "lemon."

  • Monitor Symptoms: Any loss of power, transmission slipping, or stalling should be taken seriously. If your vehicle shuts off while driving or feels unsafe, stop driving and have it inspected immediately.

  • Contact Valero Law: If your 2022 Kia Sorento has ongoing transmission, engine, or electrical issues that have not been fixed after multiple repair attempts, you may be entitled to relief under California Lemon Law.

Call Valero Law

If your 2022 Kia Sorento has repeated transmission problems, stalling issues, or electrical defects that the dealership cannot fix, you may have a valid lemon law claim.

Valero Law, APC represents California consumers in cases involving defective vehicles. You may be entitled to a vehicle repurchase, replacement, or cash compensation.

Call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 or complete our free Lemon Law case evaluation today. Cases are handled on a contingency basis, which means there is no cost to you unless there is a recovery.

Joshua Valero