IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2015 Kia Sorento (UM)

The UM Sorento reached the UK in 2015 with a 2.2 CRDi diesel, six-speed automatic, optional all-wheel drive and KX-1 to KX-4 trims. Seven seats and strong braked towing ability made it a caravan favourite.

What changed for 2015

  • •2.2 CRDi diesel with 197bhp, six-speed automatic and optional Dynamax all-wheel drive.
  • •KX-1 to KX-4 UK trim ladder with seven seats and a powered tailgate on higher grades.
  • •New unibody platform and a longer wheelbase than the XM it replaced.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Diesel smoke and DPF faults on cars used for short trips and school runs.
  • !Corroded rear brake discs and poor parking-brake efficiency.
  • !Worn rear suspension bushes and broken coil springs on heavy tow cars.
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

AWD Dynamax Electro-Hydraulic Coupling Wear

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The Magna Dynamax AWD coupling can suffer internal clutch pack wear or pump failure if tyres are unevenly worn or fluid changes are ignored.

Est. Repair Cost: £600–£1,400
Warning Signs:

Binding or shuddering during tight full-lock turns, Whining sound from the rear differential, AWD warning light on dash

What to Inspect:
  • Perform slow full-lock turns on tarmac
  • Inspect all four tyre tread depths for uneven wear
  • Check service history for differential oil changes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

2.2 CRDi EGR Valve Carbon Clogging & DPF Issues

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

Urban short trips cause soot buildup in the EGR valve and cooler, leading to sticking valves, reduced power, and frequent DPF warning lights.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£950
Warning Signs:

Check Engine Light with EGR fault codes, Sluggish acceleration below 2,000 rpm, Excessive black smoke under load

What to Inspect:
  • Check DPF soot loading levels with diagnostic scan
  • Inspect EGR valve history
  • Take on extended test drive up to motorway speeds
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Rear Suspension Self-Levelling Damper Leaks

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

Higher-spec models fitted with rear self-levelling shock absorbers (Nivomat) can develop hydraulic leaks, causing the rear end to sag and bounce over road undulations.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£900
Warning Signs:

Rear of car sitting low after standing, Excessive bounce over speed humps, Oily fluid weeping down rear dampers

What to Inspect:
  • Visually inspect rear dampers for fluid misting
  • Check ride height on level ground
  • Review MOT records for rear shock advisories
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2015 Kia Sorento (UM)

  • Listen for turbo whistle and check for a recent DPF or EGR clean on high-mileage diesels.
  • Test the all-wheel-drive system on full lock for binding or shudder.
  • Inspect the towbar, electrics and rear dampers for evidence of heavy caravan use.
2016–2017
Check a 2015 Kia Sorento (UM) by Registration