Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
2012 Kia Sorento Recall
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Frequently Asked Questions
8 common questions answered
What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2012 Kia Sorento?
The NHTSA lists 21 recalls affecting the 2012 Kia Sorento across brakes, fuel system, engine, transmission and other components. Key components include the brake HECU (possible brake fluid leak leading to electrical short), fuel-pump/high-pressure fuel pipe issues (risk of fuel leak), multiple engine-related recalls (bearing wear, possible engine fire or seizure), and other items such as axle shaft, trailer wiring, seatbacks and seat belts. All recalls cited here are recorded by the NHTSA; Nalley Kia can confirm your vehicle’s specific status and next steps.
How do I check if my 2012 Kia Sorento has an open recall?
You can check open recalls by entering your VIN at NHTSA.gov or contact Nalley Kia and we will check for free. If you prefer, call Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542 or bring your vehicle to our service center in Lithonia for a dealer VIN check and inspection. When you’re ready, schedule service online and our factory-trained technicians will verify any open campaigns at no charge.
How much does a 2012 Kia Sorento recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs are performed free of charge to the owner under Kia’s recall program. At Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA we perform all recall repairs using OEM parts and factory-trained technicians at no cost to you. If additional non-recall repairs are needed, ask about our service specials or service financing to pay later.
Can I get my 2012 Kia Sorento recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Recall repairs must be completed by an authorized dealer to ensure OEM parts, warranty compliance, and correct software/diagnostics. Independent shops cannot perform official manufacturer recall completion in many cases; Nalley Kia is your certified Kia franchise dealer for free recall repairs. Contact Nalley Kia to schedule appointment and ensure the recall is documented and closed with Kia.
How long does a 2012 Kia Sorento recall repair take?
Repair time varies by recall: many inspections and fixes take under a day, while engine or replacement assemblies can take longer. Common fixes like HECU inspection or fuel pipe replacement are typically same-day or next-day at Nalley Kia depending on parts availability. We recommend you schedule service so our team can estimate turnaround and, if needed, advise on loaner or shuttle options.
Does an open recall affect my 2012 Kia Sorento's trade-in or resale value?
An unresolved recall can lower resale or trade-in value because dealers and private buyers often check NHTSA records and require recalls be completed. Having recalls resolved at Nalley Kia protects your value and provides documentation that the vehicle is safe and recall-compliant. For trade options, visit our appraisal page: sell your car online.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2012 Kia Sorento recall?
Open recalls can sometimes affect inspection outcomes depending on the component and state rules; safety-related recalls are of particular concern for inspections. To avoid issues, bring your vehicle to Nalley Kia for free recall completion and documentation before inspection time. If you need help scheduling or have questions about inspection timing, our service advisors will assist and offer service specials or financing options if unrelated repairs are needed.
2012 Kia Sorento Recall Summary
There are 21 recall records affecting the 2012 Kia Sorento in NHTSA databases. For free completion of any open recall, contact Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA or schedule service online. This summary is based on NHTSA recall records and Kia communications.
Recall Service & Dealership Highlights
Protect Your Resale Value
The 2012 Kia Sorento has multiple NHTSA-recorded recalls that, if left unresolved, can reduce trade-in and resale value and complicate private sales. Buyers and dealers increasingly run VIN checks and consult the NHTSA database before purchase; an open recall flag can lower offers or delay closings. Completing recall repairs at a franchised dealer like Nalley Kia in Lithonia restores market confidence by providing documented manufacturer repairs performed with OEM parts and factory procedures. Our service team will replace or repair affected parts—such as fuel pipes, axle shafts, seatback frames or brake HECU units—so your vehicle meets manufacturer standards and you keep top dollar when selling or trading. Protect your investment by addressing recalls promptly; we also offer trade-in guidance and a streamlined appraisal process at https://www.nalleykia.com/sell-your-car-online.htm to show the value difference between resolved and unresolved recall status.
Your Certified Recall Experts
Nalley Kia is your local certified Kia dealer near Lithonia, GA, staffed with factory-trained technicians who use OEM diagnostic tools and Kia-approved parts to complete recall repairs correctly and safely. For the 2012 Kia Sorento our team follows Kia and NHTSA procedures for inspections and repairs, including HECU inspection for brake fluid intrusion, high-pressure fuel pipe replacement when required, and engine assembly checks where machining issues or bearing wear were reported. We prioritize safety and compliance, which protects you, your family, and your vehicle’s warranty status. Our service center serves Lithonia, Decatur, Conyers and the greater Atlanta area, and we emphasize quick, documented recall completion—always free of charge under the manufacturer program. If you need an estimate or want to confirm availability, schedule appointment online and ask about current service specials and service financing options to handle any additional non-recall work.
Safety Risks You Can't Ignore
Prompt recall action for the 2012 Kia Sorento is essential because several recalls relate directly to fire, engine seizure, loss of steering or unintended vehicle movement—serious outcomes that threaten driver and passenger safety. For example, brake fluid leaking into the HECU can cause an electrical short and increase the risk of an engine compartment fire; damaged high-pressure fuel pipes after engine work can leak fuel; machining faults in engines have been linked to premature bearing wear and potential engine seizure. Ignoring these recalls not only endangers safety but may affect insurance claims and liability in an incident. At Nalley Kia we treat recall repairs with urgency: inspections and necessary replacements are performed at no cost by technicians trained on Kia procedures, using OEM replacement parts. Protect yourself and others by contacting us to schedule service today.
Check Your VIN Today
Not sure whether your 2012 Kia Sorento is affected? You can check your VIN at NHTSA.gov, or let Nalley Kia verify it for you at no charge and advise on next steps. When you bring your vehicle to our Lithonia service center, technicians will perform a comprehensive recall check, inspect listed components (brakes, fuel system, engine, axle, suspension and safety restraints), and complete any open recall repairs free of charge under Kia’s recall campaigns. Typical minor recall work may be same-day, while larger repairs can require parts ordering; our advisors will provide a clear timeline and options. We also offer convenient scheduling, loaner/shuttle options when available, and service financing if non-recall repairs are suggested. Visit our online scheduler to schedule service and use our service specials for added savings.
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Recall Summary
21 recalls found · All repairs FREE
Brake
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Consequence
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 15, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.
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Brake2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2013-2015 Optima and 2014-2015 Sorento vehicles. Brake fluid may leak inside the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU), possibly resulting in an electrical short.
Consequence
If the HECU short circuits, there is an increased risk of an engine compartment fire.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the HECU for leaking brake fluid and replace the HECU if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 15, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC197.
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Fuel Pump5
FREE5 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2011-2017 Optima, 2012-2017 Sorento and 2011-2018 Sportage vehicles that previously received an engine replacement under recall number 17V-224, warranty, or the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) Product Improvement Campaign. The high pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak.
Consequence
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action
Kia has notified owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC172.
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Engine4
FREE4 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
Consequence
An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia is currently developing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update, which when available, will be performed by dealers free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
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Transmission1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured October 19, 2009, to January 31, 2013. In the affected vehicles, if excessive force is applied to the gear shift lever, the brake-shift interlock mechanism may chip or crack allowing the transmission being able to be shifted out of Park" without the brakes being depressed. As such
Consequence
Without requiring the brake to be pressed, the vehicle may be unintentionally shifted out of Park, allowing it to roll, which may result in a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake-shift interlock mechanism, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin November 24, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC124.
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Axle Shaft1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors Corp. is recalling certain model year 2014 front wheel drive Sorento vehicles manufactured January 7, 2013, through March 12, 2013; and equipped with 2.4 liter engines. Due to a manufacturing issue, the right front axle shaft may fracture.
Consequence
A fractured front axle may result in a loss of power to the wheels. Additionally, if the vehicle is parked without the parking brake applied, it may roll away. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front axle shaft assembly, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in September 2013. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542 . Kia's recall number is SC099.
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Air Bag1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The side curtain air bags on these vehicles have a component that may detach during deployment of the inflatable curtain air bag.
Consequence
If the component detaches during deployment, it may enter the passenger compartment and be a projectile within the vehicle cabin, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver and passenger side curtain air bags, free of charge. The recall began on December 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC159.
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Steering Column1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles. The cowl crossbar that connects to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) steering column may be improperly welded, allowing the steering column to separate.
Consequence
If the steering column separates, it can cause a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cowl crossbar, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin October 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC167.
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Trailer Brake Light2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to August 25, 2016, and 2017 Sportage vehicles manufactured December 10, 2015, to August 26, 2016. The affected vehicles are equipped with an accessory trailer hitch wiring harness that, due to a malfunction of the tow hitch module, may result in the trailer brake lights being constantly illuminated. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Consequence
If the trailer brake lights stay illuminated while being used, other drivers may be confused, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the trailer tow hitch harness, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC142.
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Seat1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured March 3, 2016 to March 21, 2016. The driver's seatback frame may have been produced with inadequate weld joints and, as a result, the seatback may not function as designed in the event of a rear-end collision.
Consequence
In the event of a crash, the driver seatback frame could break and fail to restrain a seat occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the welds and replace the driver seatback frame, as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin on December 9, 2016. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC140.
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Rear Suspension1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sorento vehicles. A component of the rear suspension may not be properly welded.
Consequence
The improper weld may break, affecting the rear suspension alignment, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the welds at the rear suspension cross-member, replacing the rear cross-member assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 27, 2016. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service Department at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC137.
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Seat Belt1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured October 23, 2014, to December 10, 2014. The affected vehicles have a front passenger seat belt whose buckle latch assembly may prevent the front passenger from fastening the seat belt.
Consequence
If the front passenger seat belt cannot be latched, an occupant sitting in the front passenger seat has an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger seat belt buckle cover, free of charge. The recall began on August 18, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC123.
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Accelerator Pedal1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL
Defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2016 Sorento vehicles manufactured October 27, 2014, to January 29, 2015. Due to an improperly soldered component in the accelerator pedal assembly, the driver may not be able to accelerate the vehicle.
Consequence
If the vehicle is unable to be accelerated, there is an increased risk of a crash.
Corrective Action
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the accelerator assembly, free of charge. The recall began on February 19, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC115.
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