Why it cuts both ways
The 2016 Sorento (third generation) is comfortable, well-equipped for the money, and available with two- or three-row seating. It came with several engines, but the two that matter for a used buyer are the 2.4-liter “Theta II” GDI four-cylinder and the 3.3-liter V6. The V6 is the reassuring choice; the 2.4-liter carries a real, safety-related engine history you have to take seriously.
The 2.4-liter Theta II engine problem
This is the one that matters most. The 2.4-liter Theta II GDI engine has a documented history of premature bearing failure, oil consumption, sudden engine seizure, and — in the worst cases — engine fires. It was covered by a major class-action settlement and a manufacturer campaign that added a knock-sensor detection software (KSDS) update and extended the engine warranty to 10 years / 120,000 miles. Two catches for a used buyer: the fix and warranty depend on the specific VIN's status, and second-owner warranty terms can differ — so confirm exactly what applies. If you're looking at a 2.4-liter, the KSDS update, engine warranty status, and any knocking noise are the whole decision.
The V6 is the safer pick
The 3.3-liter V6 does not share the Theta II four-cylinder's failure history and is the engine to prefer if the price and condition are right. As with the Equinox and other split-engine cars, the first question is simply which engine is under the hood — and here it's a safety question, not just a reliability one.
Open recalls and the engine campaign — check the VIN
Recall and engine-campaign status is VIN-specific and cannot be assumed from the model year. Look up any 2016 Sorento's open recalls free by VIN at NHTSA; a Kia dealer completes any open recall at no charge. On a 2.4-liter, confirm the knock-sensor (KSDS) software and any engine-related recall are done, and check the remaining engine-warranty coverage for your situation.
What a history report tells you — and what it doesn't
On a car like this, the individual car's history is most of the decision. A history report is a record of what got reported — title brands, reported accidents and damage, odometer readings over time, and service records where they exist. That is what separates a clean, maintained example from a salvage-title or flood car wearing the same badge.
What a history report is not is a forecast, and an absence of records is not proof of a clean past — plenty happens to a car that never gets reported. That is why the honest answer is always the pair: the documented history and an in-person inspection by a mechanic you trust, on the specific car.
On a 2.4-liter especially, look for proof the KSDS update and any engine recall were completed, plus a clean oil-change history — they are the difference between a covered, monitored engine and an unprotected one.
The things to check before you buy
- Which engine Confirm 2.4-liter Theta II four or 3.3-liter V6 first — it is a safety question here.
- KSDS and warranty status On a 2.4-liter, confirm the knock-sensor software is installed and check the engine-warranty coverage for your ownership situation.
- Engine noise and oil Listen for knocking or ticking, check the oil, and ask about consumption.
- Recall status Confirm all open recalls are completed on this VIN.
- Accident and rust The usual panel and underbody checks.
What would make you walk
- A 2.4-liter that knocks or burns oil Especially with the KSDS update and engine recall not done — this is the failure-and-fire risk.
- No engine-campaign or service records on a 2.4-liter On this engine, that protection is much of the point.
- Any sign of prior engine overheating or fire Walk without hesitation.
- Structural damage or rust The usual deal-breakers.