2025 Kia Sorento: stuck in gear or won't shift

Filed Apr 23, 2026 · Airbags, Brakes · MA

I am submitting this revised complaint to correct a prior report that was not accurately documented during a phone submission. Vehicle: 2025 Kia Sorento (259 miles at purchase) Within approximately two months of ownership (~3,000 miles), the vehicle began experiencing serious safety-related issues, including intermittent stalling, braking problems, and electrical malfunctions. Symptoms include: •Vehicle stalled and failed to restart, leaving me stranded •Radio/display screen went blank •Heating/climate system became nonfunctional •Vehicle would not shift into neutral •Persistent burning odor inside and outside the vehicle These issues raise concern about a potential fire risk. In May 2025, the vehicle was inspected by two separate dealerships, both of which reported no issues. The condition worsened, resulting in a complete failure requiring towing. A dealership later identified “electrical issues,” but key symptoms were not documented. A second dealership has since stated the vehicle is operating normally; I disagree, as I believe the root cause has not been resolved. Issues began at ~3,000 miles, with major failure at ~22,000 miles. I have contacted Kia and requested a buyback due to repeated failures and safety concerns. This request was denied twice; a goodwill credit was offered but not accepted. This complaint is submitted to report ongoing safety defects involving stalling, braking, electrical failure, and a potential fire risk.

Filed Mar 2, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · FL

I am reporting a loss of propulsion event in a 2025 Kia Sorento S AWD. The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of drive power when pressing the accelerator. The engine did not respond normally and the vehicle entered a reduced power (limp mode) condition. Stopping in the middle of major intersections, [XXX] and then [XXX] and [XXX] at 4:30 pm. This vehicle is subject to Recall 25V548 involving engine connecting rod bolts, which warns of possible engine damage and loss of propulsion. The dealership (Gettel Kia of Bradenton, FL) stated they were unable to duplicate the issue. The recall language states that engine damage or loss of propulsion may occur and could create a safety hazard. This event occurred at approximately moving from a stop position to ? mph on [XXX]] with approximately 1,936 miles on the vehicle. As I drove it home it would disengage and reengage. I am concerned about the safety of continued operation given the recall notice and the propulsion failure experienced. VIN: [XXX] Please advise. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Nov 9, 2025 · Electrical, Engine · CA

Fourth time we've had the car go into limp mode. Now at the dealer for third time. Driver was driving and the car went into limp mode after activating the cruise control follow function. Husband was behind in our Toyota Tacoma truck and was able to pick her up with California Highway Patrol to get off the highway into a parking lot to tow her. No warnings, no messages on the dash. She was unable to accelerate to highway speeds and was capped, and felt that there was very little to no predictable responsiveness in the car's acceleration. Car now at dealership.

Filed Oct 31, 2025 · Acceleration, Engine · 4,000 miles · NJ

The contact owns a 2025 Kia Sorento. The contact stated while driving on the highway at 60-65 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly decelerated to 20 MPH and the vehicle went into LIMP Mode. The contact stated that the message “Vehicle Speed Restricted to 20 MPH” was displayed. The failure had occurred four times while driving. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to identify or duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a case. The failure mileage was approximately 4,000.

Filed Mar 5, 2025 · Acceleration · TX

Outside temp was 33 degrees F with a slightly lower windchill. I started the car and, when I accelerated to 30 mph, my car began to beep and the dashboard indicated the speed was limited to 30 mph. It went into limp mode and resisted when I tried to go above 30. We were towed to Kia but they could not replicate the issue and said it may have been due to the cold. A Google search showed others with 2025 model Kias also had the issue and they also happened during colder temps. I was glad I was on a 40 mph road and not a highway or it could have been a dangerous issue. There was no indication of any issue until I tried to accelerate to 30 mph. It drove fine the night before when it was also below freezing.