2018 Kia Sorento steering problems

The 2018 Kia Sorento has 26 steering complaints filed with NHTSA — 8% of the year's total, and down from the prior model year.

Steering complaints

Share of year

Crash-involved

Related recalls

Steering complaints by year

Sorento steering complaints by model year. Red bars are years to avoid.

Related recalls

18V656000SteeringSeptember 21, 2018 · 97 units

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.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the cowl crossbar, free of charge. The recall began October 26, 2018. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC167.

What owners report

“In January 2024 I started getting power steering issues and multiple warning lights related to the electrical systems. I took my vehicle to Car Pros Kia for inspection and repair on 2/1/2024. They took it for a test drive at which time it caught fire. ”
Complaint filed with NHTSA · Steering · February 1, 2024 · fire

Common questions

How many steering complaints does the 2018 Kia Sorento have?

NHTSA has 26 complaints about the 2018 Kia Sorento steering — 8% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Are there recalls for the 2018 Kia Sorento steering?

Yes — 1 NHTSA recall campaign for this model year is tied to the steering: 18V656000.

Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.

Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.