IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2018 Kia Sorento (UM)

The 2018 facelift sharpened the front end and replaced the KX-4 with GT-Line, while later cars gained an eight-speed automatic. It kept the 2.2 CRDi and seven-seat layout that made the Sorento a tow-car staple.

What changed for 2018

  • •New grille, bumpers and LED lighting; GT-Line replaced KX-4 as the range-topper in late 2018.
  • •Eight-speed automatic offered on the 2.2 CRDi in place of the earlier six-speed unit.
  • •Revised instrument panel and updated infotainment graphics.

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !EGR cooler and DPF blockage on low-mileage diesels, often flagged by smoke readings.
  • !Corroded brake pipes and rear subframe areas on salted winter cars.
  • !Rear coil spring fracture and worn anti-roll bar bushes.
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 2018 Kia Sorento (UM)

  • Check the eight-speed automatic's fluid history and feel for flare between ratios.
  • On GT-Line cars, test the panoramic sunroof for leaks and blocked drains.
  • Ask whether the car has towed; a transmission cooler and rear damper check are worthwhile.
2016–20172019–2020
Check a 2018 Kia Sorento (UM) by Registration