IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020 Kia Sorento (MQ4)

The MQ4 Sorento launched in 2020 and reached UK showrooms in 2021 with a 2.2 Smartstream CRDi and eight-speed wet DCT, plus a 1.6 T-GDi hybrid. A plug-in hybrid followed later in 2021.

What changed for 2020

  • •New N3 platform with a 35mm longer wheelbase and a 2.2 Smartstream CRDi diesel mated to an eight-speed wet DCT.
  • •1.6 T-GDi self-charging hybrid with a 1.62kWh battery and six-speed automatic; PHEV added later in 2021.
  • •All UK cars all-wheel drive, with dual 12.3-inch displays and remote smart parking on higher trims.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Corroded rear brake discs and uneven pad wear on low-mileage seven-seaters.
  • !DPF and EGR faults where the diesel is used for short school runs.
  • !Tyre wear and suspension bush play from the car's 2.1-tonne kerb weight.
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

8-Speed Wet DCT Electric Oil Pump Fault (2.2 CRDi Recall)

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

On 2.2 CRDi diesel models, an internal soldering fault in the transmission electric oil pump (EOP) circuit board could trigger a fail-safe mode, cutting propulsion after a 20-second warning.

Est. Repair Cost: £0 (Recall SC250)
Warning Signs:

"Stop safely" transmission warning, Loss of drive after countdown, Transmission fault code P1C2D03

What to Inspect:
  • Confirm DVSA recall SC250 / R/2022/272 has been completed
  • Check transmission control module software revision
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated
Official Recalls & Reference Documents:

12V Auxiliary Battery Parasitic Drain (HEV/PHEV)

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid variants can experience 12V battery drain when parked for several days, often caused by connected services (Kia Connect) keeping control modules awake.

Est. Repair Cost: £100–£280
Warning Signs:

Car fails to start after standing for 48+ hours, "12V Battery Discharging" warning, Keyless entry unresponsive

What to Inspect:
  • Check dealer service history for BMS software updates (TSB ELE323)
  • Test 12V battery state of health
  • Verify if 12V Battery Reset switch recovers vehicle
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Infotainment and Digital Cluster Screen Glitches

MinorElectrics & Electronics

The dual curved display can suffer occasional boot freezes, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto dropouts, and intermittent backup camera lag.

Est. Repair Cost: £0–£200 (Software update)
Warning Signs:

Touchscreen freezing on startup, Reversing camera image delayed by several seconds, Bluetooth audio stutter

What to Inspect:
  • Verify current infotainment firmware version in system settings
  • Test smartphone mirroring
  • Test all parking cameras
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2020 Kia Sorento (MQ4)

  • Confirm the 8DCT electric oil pump recall (SC250) has been completed.
  • On hybrids, check the 12V battery and ask for the BMS software updates.
  • Test every seat, the third-row release and the powered tailgate.
2021–2022
Check a 2020 Kia Sorento (MQ4) by Registration