Used 2004 Kia Sorento SUV Consumer Reviews
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Truly a comfortable, spacious and practical SUV!!
kandeemann2001, 12/15/2012
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
43 of 43 people found this review helpful
I bought a 2004 Sorento EX Luxury from a private seller with 75,000 miles. Vehicle was in immaculate condition, but was plagued with issues in the beginning. Had to replace the drive shaft, throttle position sensor, spark plugs and brakes - but after all repairs were done and a thorough fuel injection cleaning service, it drives like brand new. This is truly a remarkable SUV. I'm a law student and wanted a comfortable vehicle to last me for a few years, and even though I had those repair issues, I have no regrets. It's good-looking, spacious, super comfortable and has more than enough power. Shifts are buttery smooth and engine performance is really impressive for an 8 year old vehicle.
buying a used first generation kia sorento
Conner, 11/28/2016
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
30 of 31 people found this review helpful
Here are some tips for test driving a used Kia Sorento. Feel the transmission shift to make sure they are smooth. If you buy the car, don't drive it too hard. My transmission needed to be replaced after 5 years around 100,000 miles. After allowing the engine to warm up check for coolant leaks or faint amounts of steam coming out of the engine block. At 150,000 miles, mine has a leak that causes the cabin to smell like a sweet burning oil/coolant, but you may be able to get rid of the smell by recirculating the AC. As long as the coolant doesn't leak as a liquid onto the pavement it should be small enough to ignore. Feel the suspension, power steering and braking to insure that they feel normal for a car of this age. Spongy brakes are common if the brake fluid has not been flush. Lack of power steering may also be a result of poor maintenance. Make sure that you have the fluids flushed out and replaced properly. If the engine light is on and the code is for a low range switch you should be able to get away without repairing it. that code has been on my car for 5 years no problems. Any major or minor repairs are done at the best price if you go to the dealership, even if the warrenty expired. Kia dealerships have the best repair prices. I got 14 mpg driving in the city on regular gas.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2004 Kia Sorento for sale near you
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Love driving it - hate the recent fixes
Barb, 09/08/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
Original owner. 140,000. Other than the headlight and coolant reservoir issues that ALL 04 Sorentos seem to have, I've replaced the throttle position sensor. Has been reliable and though mostly highway miles, it has never needed brakes (knowing how to drive a stick has helped with that). Doesn't eat tires, and get about 21 mpg. However, PCV and Catalytic Conv. need replacing now. Will be paid off next month and has NO resale value. Will drive it 'til the wheels fall off (fun off road), but hope I can get the parts for my mechanic for the current and upcoming fixes. Almost all must be purchased at the dealer.
Please Buyer Beware
ambeaubian, 06/09/2011
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
34 of 39 people found this review helpful
I foolishly purchased a 2004 Kia Sorento EX, in 2009, to date I have replaced the following, Crankshaft, rings, bearings, head qasket, radiator, oil pump. At a tune of 5300.00, at that time is how much I owed to pay it off. I now have a burning smell and smoke every morning that I drive it..No mechanic knows why it occurs, Also have the lights to be replaced rear and front, at least 6 times, my dash lights do not come on at all. Then the paint is chipping off of the hood. If the car stays running, its semi-reliable . If there is another two grand I have to put in this car. I will be buying a new one...A Ford.
Disappointed owner
Tanya DeMyer, 08/06/2010
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I've had nothing but problems with the electrical - head/tail lights out every 3-4 months, clock, interior lights, thermometer for outside temp all stopped working. Exterior paint started chipping when the car was only 2 yrs old.
Piece of Junk
badluckbetty1, 09/19/2012
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
36 of 43 people found this review helpful
I have the 2004 Kia Sorento and nothing but a piece of junk! Every since I bought it has been nothing but a headache and not minor things major costly items.. water pump, the ignition fried and would start BY ITS SELF!! The relay box went bad, all the belts had to be replaced and now the mechanic at my near by kia dealership says the timing chain is going bad and the car will be ruined if not fixed! The headlight and tail lights go out every other month. Kias are pieces of crap and I will never buy another if you are looking into buying this vehicle please dont save your time and money! ohh by the way my vehicle only has 81,000 miles on it and still falling apart!
Great Value
kalkoala, 09/28/2003
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
17 of 20 people found this review helpful
The more I look at the my Sorento the more I fall in love. It is a beautiful car that unfortunately gets bad gas mileage. The reason for the poor gas mileage is the ratio between horsepower and weight. If you don't mind the gas mileage its a good buy.
FUEL MILEAGE 20+
harleydad87, 09/30/2013
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
I just purchased an 04 Sorento EX w/ 105k on it. After reading about fuel mileage, we almost took our other vehicle on our day trip Saturday. 309 miles, mostly highway, cruise control at 75, w/ several stops, I still managed to get 20.5 mpgs. So, while 2 mpgs aren't much, I am sure that I could have got 22-23 had I kept speed at 65-70. Way better then the 18 from review.
Great car with 239K miles
Paul, 11/11/2010
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
12 of 14 people found this review helpful
239,000 Miles and is still going strong. I am still very pleased and had no major mechanical issues. It rides very comfortably and has not developed any annoying squeaks or rattles. The interior has held up as well if not better than my previous Acura and Volvo. Great sound system. Maintenance has been about average and I have replaced the timing belt twice at 80K miles and 160K miles. If you are considering the '04 Sorento be sure that the 2 recalls (crankshaft pulley bolt and the intake manifold butterfly valve) have been done. Replace the coolant tank with the redesigned one. no increase in oil use even with 239K miles. Average about 20- 21 MPG HWY. Better than the 19 listed.
Never again
Wyllies, 10/20/2010
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
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 don't 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.
Annoying!
mariebee, 08/26/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 9 people found this review helpful
Bought my Sorento brand new in 2004. Did my homework before I purchased it and people seemed to like it - at that time. I've had it for 6 years now and I've 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. I've had to replace tail lights every year. The last 6 months, I've shelled out over $500 because of coolant reservoir leaks, after I paid off the dang thing.
caveat emptor
mhuntz, 03/06/2011
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
10 of 12 people found this review helpful
don't be fooled by the "rating" for this vehicle. most posts prior to 2007 are positive. after that, a precipitous fall off in satisfaction. intoxication from "new car smell', "i love you's" and chocolates (in the form of warranty promises from Kia) subside. after the romance, sobriety sets in. the love in the relationship gets tested. and when the $$$ strain hits the relationship, your lover (Kia) tells you to no longer believe in their commitment to the relationship. ("sorry about misleading you" , they exclaim, as they refuse to honor their vows (warranty coverage). Best get a divorce from this loser. Hope you had a pre-nup.
Kia does not honor warranty
Lisa, 11/18/2009
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Horrible experience with this model and Kia Corp. Major issues with airbags, electrical , paint, faulty engine parts etc. One of the most undepenable cars I have ever owned. In a 30 year period. Most expensive in short range ownership also. Kia Corp. does not seem to care about the long term of the consumer for their products. If they did they would honor a problem on their known faulty parts. I will NEVER buy or deal with a dealership that has anything to do with this foreign make.
Will never buy Kia again
shawna, 07/11/2010
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
We bought our Sorento 2 years ago with 46,000 miles on it, since then we have had nothing but problems. The clock never worked, and the radio never worked. We have brought it in for recall repairs a number of times. Now at 63,000 miles the engine started rattling, the warning lights came on, and it won't steer. It is our family vehicle and we only average 11,000 miles per year.
WARRANTY NEVER HONORED
Susan, 05/12/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
The vehicle ran great during our test drive, then down hill battle since! We paid cash for the car, over $26K! have spent in excess of $5K that the "warranty" didn't cover...the problems with gas,[do not appreciate the 12 to 15 mpg], the heater or the air conditioner never has worked properly, stalls whenever without warning, all of the mechanics at the "certified" dealerships tell us, "oh, that part[s] is not covered, but you do need another $600.=/- check up!I want a civil action lawsuit brought against these thieves....help me get an attorney to take on the scammers, please. The dealerships and their mechanics are all at fault, the booklet the vehicle came with is extremely misleading!
Do not buy!
soccerella, 08/06/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I loved my Kia at first. It was a great size..it drove smooth. Then after only 2 months a part broke which was fortunately being recalled. Now not even a year later it overheated and the crank shaft broke. will be 5-7 thousand dollars to fix. Paid cash for the car and now I'm out 6200. Can't even trade it in. If you have these problems tell them to look at the coolant leak before they fix anything else. That's where the major problem comes from. Once it starts overheating it's over. Thanks for nothing Kia.
Love it too much
Lee, 03/27/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have a dilemma.I love my manual transmission Sorento too much and it is aging. I bought it new in Feb 05 and have about 200000km on it. It pulls the 15' boat and loaded double snowmobile trailer.The guys are impressed that I am always right behind them on any trips.I have had a few of the problems others mentioned (coolant bottle leak, head lights burn out, fuel gauge fluctuates, occasionally speedo and cruise cut out) but nothing major.It is manual and as with other manuals I have had 2nd is getting stiff to shift into especially when the engine is not well warmed up.I am considering replacing it due to age/mileage and can't find another manual SUV with all the features I want. Ieeee!
DONT BUY THIS JUNK!!!!!
sniper_munkee, 01/12/2011
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Constant disappointment. I was told it would take over 5000.00 to fix this junker. It's been sitting for over a year since I found that out. Now I don't know what to do and I'm still making payments on it.
Never again
Cricket, 11/18/2006
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Every month has been problems & when you try to trade it - be sitting down because you won't get offered much. The last time I handed the dealership the keys & said just pay it out & I'll leave - THEY didn't want it - what does that tell you! I bought it fully loaded with all the bells & spent a lot in add one's - which as long as it doesn't move it looks really pretty. At 32,000 km the tranny started on fire while pulling my new trailer that was rated 8000 pounds less then what the Kia is to be able to haul. This was the 1st new vehicle I've every bought & I kick myself every day for doing it.
Extreme Disappointment
R. Effingham, 10/13/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
4 of 6 people found this review helpful
Reading these reviews is like listening to myself complain about this car. I have paint peeling off the roof & mirros, my sunroof won't close properly, I have rust on the trunk, I've replaced two back lights & one front, currently have coolant leaking so heater won't work, have had a/c recharged & again it's 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 I'd walk away. But can't imagine anyone would pay what I owe for what's left of the car. After replacing the coolant reservoir my next expense will be to have the rust spots repaired. Fun. fun.
Don't waste your money
billg, 08/09/2005
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is the 2nd Sorento we purchased. The first had a thumping in the drive shaft, after three replacements and a redesigned one and many other leaks and issues Kia bought it back. Mistakenly, I though it could be one bad SUV in a field of good ones. The second has leaky seals, a broken oil pressure sensor and now the rear differential went out in it, all at less than 15,000 miles. We take excellent care of our vehicles, my other truck has over 200K miles. Yes, the warranty is good, but what is the point if vehicle is always in the shop. Please do not waste your money on this SUV.
Great Value, Safe, minor inssues
sbettencourt21, 07/27/2010
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have had my Sorento for almost 2 years now and it has been very reliable I have had a couple problems with sensors which were covered under warranty. I feel I got a great deal on the car and I feel extremely safe in it with my children. Repairs I have had to pay for were very low cost such as lights which have to be replaced on any car. The 4wd works great in the snow on steep hills I have never been happier with a vehicle and there is plenty of leg room for my height. however back seat would be a tight squeeze for 3. We currently only fit 2 car seats
RUSTED KIA SORENTO, SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE
Lawrence Austin, 05/02/2016
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
My rear axle rusted through and broke at 60,000 miles. DO NOT BUY KIA
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
I love my Kia
Roxy, 02/16/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My Kia is an 04 and currently has 92k miles on it. I have changed the oil regularly, just got new tires last year, needed to change the tail lights about once a year. Other than that-new brakes...havent had a problem until now. I have an oil leak and the mechanic has to take the engine apart to find the leak. Said it would be $300-$400. So, not bad for 92k miles. I love my Kia-have had fun driving it. I will keep it until it dies! The gas mileage isnt very good but it is paid off due to the 0% financing I got on it when purchased new. I was rear ended by a very large truck going 45 mph and I was at a complete stop with my baby in the back seat. This Kia took the hit from hell like a champ.
Don't Waste Your Money
Gary Kelemen, 01/08/2009
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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 isn't worth owning. Run away from KIA!!
Hmmm rethink your Kia sorento purchase
ITSMECHRISTYMARIE, 03/15/2010
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Like most sorento owners, I too have replaced tail lights, headlights, clock doesn't work, cd player has a cd stuck in it. Now I was driving home across the state and it overheated and engine shut off. I don't know what happened or if its covered. I still owe beau coup $$$ on it so if it's not covered do I just walk away from the loan? I'm not paying for a car that I cant drive or afford to fix. We'll see if they are more helpful at my dealership that what others have experienced.
BEWARE of KIA !!
LWaylett, 03/25/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
KIA Motors does not honor their warranties by FIXING the defects in their vehicles. My 2004 Sorento has had MANY bulbs replaced and Kia service said they did not know what the problem was. Now that my warranty has expired, I find that KIA DID know the harness wiring needed to be replaced so fix the reoccurring problems of headlights/tail lights going out. They knew this back in 2006, and made those changes on their new vehicles in 2007.
Simple Test
ka ka ka KIA!, 12/04/2003
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Drive the rest, then go drive the "Sorento" (a coastal city in Italy) with the exception of gas mileage (because of the gear ratio) there is no question which vehicle looks best inside & out! It is fun to drive, but I cannot rate reliability for it's too new, but based on the quality I see and feel, I gave it a "9", plus it's got 10yr/100000 warranty to the original owner, 60000 if you transfer warranty to a second owner. Hope this helps!
Great except for headlights
wisconsin owner, 01/09/2009
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have 78K miles on my 2004 Sorento. I have had great luck with the engine and original brakes and tires both lasted 75K miles. But I have replaced front headlights 9 times. Different bulb types, with gloves on, both at the same time, but they never last more than 6 months. Frustrating!!
Sorento review
Ricardo, 02/15/2006
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car has outperformed any car I have had in the past including Hondas, GM, Ford, Chrysler, etc. Most comfortable car I have ever owned, also the power is unreal. It's got to have more than the 200 horses advertised. No problems with anything ...dealer is less than desirable though.
Satisfied Consumer
T Fuller, 04/03/2006
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A big fan of the 5 speed transmission and rear wheel drive. The Sorento handles well in all conditions - particularly off road in difficult situations. Have been able to get out of wet muddy conditions with ease. Hugs the ground well, even on steep incline. Had some electrical problems - cruise control was inoperable - new fuse required only. I am rough on vehicle with many km's but maintain it well. Find pick up off the mark slow at times. Have had the Sorento 2 years with 72,000 km's and just purchased my second with delivery later this week. New one has sideboards for easier child access.
Positive comments
Ed, 01/06/2005
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Just a plain Jane in black that doesn't attract a lot of attention but can stay out of the way of oncoming traffic with power to spare. 5 Speed option is well spaced with plenty of 2nd gear torque for low end accelleration. Quality paint and trim make a Sunday wash a real treat since the effect is stellar. Easy to use power steering effort. Controls are well within reach and easy to use. Good visibility in all directions unobstructed by conservative head rests in the rear. Lots of dealer installed options. Consider the rubber cargo floor mat, it is a bargain. Superior door fit on all sides/rear.
Not very impressed
momof2, 06/23/2008
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought the car used, was told that it is in great condition, well not a week later we were in the shop for a noise that I can't even explain, was told by KIA mechanic that it is the ABS doing a self check, the sound has never gone away, then received a recall for a crank shaft bolt the had to have the rear door hinge replaced and the light bulbs are constantly burning out, and now the Check engine light keeps coming on for a transmission code p0700, and I was told there is nothing wrong with the car. I will never buy another KIA again, the people that work there are rude and they need to make a better vehicle.
Will never buy a Kia again
Tonya, 07/22/2008
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I loved this car until the windshield washer pump went out three times. I have a headlight go out about once a month. After changing the timing belt at 60,000 miles the engine locked up and the dealer told me it needed a whole new motor which would not be covered by warranty. I took it somewhere else and had it fixed for $600, no new motor needed after all! A CD is stuck in the CD player. The paint has chipped all over. The gas gauge is broken so I have to remember to reset the trip meter every time I fill up. The back passenger door latch keeps falling off. Poor MPG. Every time I have taken the car in, my complaints are not covered by the "bumper to bumper, 100,000 mile warranty."
Safety
sc2665, 06/17/2004
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I recently flipped my sorento 3 times and landed on the roof. There was so much reinforcemnt in the doors and roof that when the wrecker flipped it over to haul it off we were able to open all 5 doors and the roof had hardly caved in at all. HIGHLY recommended I will be buying another. The three kids and my self were unhurt except for some sore muscles. I'd like to see a honda or mazda say that about one of their SUV's
JUNK
Amber Shank, 07/21/2008
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned this car for five months, in the first month it broke down on me and left me sitting 3 times ( one of the times in the middle of the road, and almost got hit by a school bus with my one year old daughter in the back seat) Have replaced the radio, 2 headlights, TPS sensor, Oh and it just left me sitting on the PA turnpike with my 2 children in 90 degree weather, cause the transmission went out. And it only took Kia 2 1/2 hours to get someone to tow it. If you want to throw your money down the toilet then by all means buy a Kia. I will never buy another Kia ever again, it's not safe, not dependable, and the gas mileage SUCKS!
I'm Pleased Overall
John Schleifer, 07/12/2009
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I"ve had the car for over 5 years now. I wanted to get quality and resale. However, the resale and problems are not that must different than American cars which I've always purchased. Not too many problems, but, as usual, when taking the car in for the minor problems, under warranty, they "cannot duplicate condition." However, now that my warranty has expired, they seem to find the issues ricght away when I'm paying for the repairs. Go figure. Probably my last Kia. Problems included: leaking radiator overflow tank, Air-Bag light, outdoor temperature guage (ner repaired by the way). Gas Miliage is terrible. My wife's Cheyy Avalanche gets better miliage!
Initial enthusiasm has drained
Brian, 02/01/2009
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
After overcoming many minor problems (tail lights burning out, clock not working, door ajar constantly coming on, etc.), I thought that overall I enjoyed driving my little SUV. Heat has now stopped working and I think it to be a cracked coolant reservoir which seems to be a recurring problem with Kia Sorento. This needs to be a warranty issue - if you don't fix the problem - your engine will overheat!! Crankshaft bolt failing three times and the numerous times I've had to spend trying to get all of the minor things fixed, my patience is waning. Problems are getting more serious and my time is too valuable to be spending in the shop. Love the style, fun to drive - but wouldn't recommend.
A KIA? I like it!
jjsteil, 07/11/2004
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Was sold on this vehicle based on what I read from owner reviews here on Edmunds. Solid vehicle. Excellent workmanship similar to what you see in an Acura or Toyota product. You get a lot more vehicle for your money that what you would get buying from Ford, GM or other imports. Have logged over 20,000 miles no problems. Did not know till I purchased vehicle the transmission is manufactured in Japan, we all know what level of quality comes from that country. Smoothest ride of any SUV or pick up I test drove. Contrary to what the Toyota salesman told me, I think this vehicle will have a good resale value.
I had no problems, worries or hesitation
jamesjean, 07/19/2004
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
this car is reliable
Constant Recalls
C. Murray, 06/25/2008
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
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!! Wouldn't 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! Won't Use BEYER VOLVO/KIA EVER! They could care less! Don't be fooled by the looks
Yes, lots had to be fixed, but is hella fun offroa
VancouverGuy, 02/07/2021
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
2004 Sorento LX bought in 2010 with 65,000 miles on it. Now has 130,000 miles. Had to fix usual maintenance stuff, plus crankshaft pos sensor, fuel pump, fuel injectors, radiator, valve cover gasket. I lucked out, mine was one that got an Aisin transmission - same as in the '04 Tacoma. This car is a GREAT stealth off-roader! No one expects to see a Kia tooling around on the hills with the jeeps. But it has good ground clearance, true 4wd with a low range, body on frame setup with a solid rear axle, and good power. I have a lot of fun with it!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Saying Goodbye to my Kia
Michelle, 07/24/2009
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my Kia for almost 5 years now. I really loved my Kia, it was a lot of car for such a reasonable price. I replaced my headlights and tail lights twice a year. A/C has never worked right (which can isn't good when you live in AZ). Dealership always tells me that it's running fine, so I have given up. The last two years I have put in a lot of money into the vehicle (I can't even remember all the things I have had done and of course not covered by warranty any longer).I am afraid that I will only be putting more into it the near future, so it is time to say goodbye. Dealing with the dealership was a joke and the overall cost to own this vehicle was much more than I had expected.
Gas Mileage
rbiggs, 11/29/2003
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the second KIA that my family owns. We bought a 2003 Sedona Van and love both of them. Regarding the gas mileage,I found that the Ford Explorer with a V6 engine gets the same mileage as the Sedona and Sorento. The Chevrolet Trail Blazer also gets the same, so I feel the 15 to 20 miles a gallon is about average for a V6. also the V6 in the KIA is a larger V6 than most.
will never buy kia wouldn't recommend
Angie, 08/26/2008
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We've had problems with this SUV from the word go, (bearing & brakes & engine bolt recall) when you called Kia, they give you the run around, I wish I never seen this SUV. Money gone out the window!
LUV my KIA
Mel Schlobohm, 12/21/2009
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
If you off-road, this is fun fun fun. Very little problem. 70000mi strong and it seems to get better. Left me stranded once but KIA had a tow vehicle to help within 30 min. (crank position sensor broke). It is very strong in 4wd low - wow. I can drive with the big boys no problem. Wish there were performance parts available.
Will never buy another Kia
Artouchette, 04/09/2010
2004 Kia Sorento LX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
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 didn't touch it. Not under warranty. Too bad. I haven't even had the car a full year! Replacing Bolt repeatedly is not reasonable expense.
Can't Stop Driving It!
New Kia Owner, 10/08/2004
2004 Kia Sorento EX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Honestly when pricing the Kia I really dind't expect too much. But this car not only has everything (ex) but it drives just as good as SUV's costing 10- 20 thousand dollars more. I actually got the new 2005 EX 2 wheel drive and got it for much cheaper than what most are even paying. I walked out after tax an licencse for 21,000. The 05's have the new Shiftronic automatic which provides hours of fun for me. The feautures are endless, my parents have been checking them out for some time and actually like it more than their Mercedes ML 500. The gas mileage is also much better with the new automatic system, I am getting 18 city and 23 hwy right now in mine. Thats
Please Recall This Junk
sniper_munkee, 01/24/2012
2004 Kia Sorento LX Rwd 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 7 people found this review helpful
So two months after I purchased this used no warranty they told us it'd take over 4000 to fix so it's been sitting in my backyard for the last three years. Still making payments on it.
Disappointed
T. Brown, 10/25/2007
2004 Kia Sorento EX 4WD 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car new and all I can say is that only an idiot (and that includes me) would pay $28,000 for this Korean piece of crap. Problems are too numerous to list, however have been covered under warranty up to this point. Too bad I don't get reimbursed for all my time sitting in the service dept waiting area. The mileage issue has nothing to do with engine size. The transmission is not geared properly which is why at 70 mph you tach out at 2800 rpm. Car needs a 5th gear. The vehicle is also rusting on the inside of the doors (the car has been garaged every day since bringing it home). The car is now worth only 13k and has every option on it that KIA offers. Will never buy another KIA.