3 Star Reviews for 2004 Kia Sorento

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.49/5 Average
435 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The LX model is now available with a sport package that includes a new five-speed manual transmission, side step bars, Michelin tires, alloy wheels, roof rack, leather-wrapped steering wheel and keyless entry. A two-tone gray interior color scheme is also new, and metallic interior accents replace last year's wood grain accents.

Pros:
  • Great value, long list of standard features, solid construction, true off-road capability, lengthy warranty coverage.
Cons:
  • Mediocre fuel economy, harsh ride over sharp impacts.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 435.00
  • Bad Bad Bad - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Looks great, love all the options, but would never buy again! Too many major mechanical problems! 40,000 miles I have almost a whole brand new engine. The radio display went, new radio. New power steering rack, new driveshaft. And now the recall of the part that I have already replaced once. The paint is also peeling is some spots!

  • Dont Waste Your Money - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    At 80000 miles, the ICV valve broke and damaged the engine. After 2 months of warranty work, there is a persistent oil leak that the only dealership within 30 miles cannot fix. I spent $600 on auto rental during warranty repair. It just isnt worth owning. Run away from KIA!!

  • Constant Recalls - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    It seems like it has been recalled for faulty engine bolt, now a recall for the induction replacement valve, plus service has been less than friendly. Take it to the dealer, walk into the service dept and they look at you like you have two heads! No "Welcome to KIA Service or Good Morning" just stares, like they just saw a deer in the headlights!! Wouldnt buy another one! Too much hassle for the money. I would take a chance on an American SUV! Called to get an appointment with the Service Dept. at the local KIA Dealer that advertises that they are open until 7:30 p.m. (called at 4:45 p.m.) - everyone had gone home! Wont Use BEYER VOLVO/KIA EVER! They could care less! Dont be fooled by the looks

  • Small and thirsty - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I let the style cloud my judgment. This LITTLE SUV is a BIG gas guzzler! I average 12-13 miles per gallon. Most of my driving is city but its not much better on the highway, 18 mpg at best. Does this little SUV need such a big engine? My 2004 KIA Sorento has been very reliable for the 2-plus years Ive owned it, except for the battery and stereo/CD player that have been replaced under warranty. It took nearly 3 months to get the stereo/CD player but the battery was replaced in one visit. I havent had any non-operation problems.

  • Annoying! - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Bought my Sorento brand new in 2004. Did my homework before I purchased it and people seemed to like it - at that time. Ive had it for 6 years now and Ive had to buy a new battery every year for 5 years because the factory installed CD (which was replaced twice) was using up all the juice. Ive had to replace tail lights every year. The last 6 months, Ive shelled out over $500 because of coolant reservoir leaks, after I paid off the dang thing.

  • Its just ok - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I fell in love with the exterior look of the Kia Sorento, which clouded my ability to like any other SUV in its class. I like my Kia, but wish I had been more selective, and taken more time looking. It drives nice enough, has enough power, but, the back seat is cramped. I wish I could mention the dealership where I bought this SUV. I would not recommend it! Test drive the Mazda Tribute or the Hyundai Santa Fe. I should have considered one of these two.

  • Extreme Disappointment - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Reading these reviews is like listening to myself complain about this car. I have paint peeling off the roof & mirros, my sunroof wont close properly, I have rust on the trunk, Ive replaced two back lights & one front, currently have coolant leaking so heater wont work, have had a/c recharged & again its not working, light on radio and clock go out, bent steering shaft, and many other little items. Very disappointed, and if I thought I could get what I owed Id walk away. But cant imagine anyone would pay what I owe for whats left of the car. After replacing the coolant reservoir my next expense will be to have the rust spots repaired. Fun. fun.

  • I wish I didnt buy one - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I bought a 2003 kia and I hate it .. I have so many problems with it .. First with a bad motor now the 4x4 drive dont work at all .. its a 100% lemon car and kia will not fix it ... Its been in the shop 4 times in less then 6 months ...I will never buy another kia as long as I live

  • Will never buy another Kia - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    Bought my 2004 Kia Sorento used in July 09. Had the bolt drop off three times, since. First two, it was under warranty. Shortly after the second fix by Sports Auto World in Bourne, it developed a new symptom, a burning smell. Took the car to the dealer, he was gone. (along with $1500 for an extended warranty that he never bought) Executive Kia, in New Bedford, MA took it in, and now, it was the Main Gasket?? I asked about the bolt issue, they assured me it was "fine." It died 3 days later. They claim they didnt touch it. Not under warranty. Too bad. I havent even had the car a full year! Replacing Bolt repeatedly is not reasonable expense.

  • Never again - 2004 Kia Sorento
    By -

    I bought this car used with 50k miles. I had issues within the first week and Precision made me take it to Kia (warranty) and they said we were good. Then it has been down hill. Headlights go out constantly, 4wheel drive constantly on (when the switch is off) check engine light and airbag light is constantly on. I have put money in this car that I dont have and the last time I took it in there were 6 new recalls within it. I will never by a Kia again. The worst part is the trade in value is not good either. So instead of paying this off and using it I will have to get another vehicle and continue making payments. I am stressed driving this car especially with my kids in it.

Kia Sorento Reviews By Year:
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