PITSTOP: AWD SYSTEM CONCERN DUE TO TIRE CIRCUMFERENCE - This Pitstop provides information regarding potential concerns with the All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system due to tire sizes of differing circumference. Some customers may complain of a chatter sensation felt in the drivetrain of the vehicle and/or the failure of drivetrain component(s). A difference in tire size (width, aspect ratio, construction, rim diameter etc.) may be the cause.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2016 Kia Sorento steering problems
moderate Owners of the 2016 Kia Sorento have filed 80 NHTSA complaints about the steering, typically surfacing around 50,000 miles at roughly $700 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See steering across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
80
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$700
| Model year | steering complaints |
|---|---|
| 2012 Sorento | 19 |
| 2013 Sorento | 22 |
| 2014 Sorento | 35 |
| 2015 Sorento | 33 |
| 2016 Sorento (this page) | 80 |
| 2017 Sorento | 94 |
| 2018 Sorento | 26 |
| 2019 Sorento | 10 |
| 2020 Sorento | 4 |
2crashes
1fire
When does it fail?
Of the 80 steering complaints filed for the 2016 Kia Sorento, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 80 steering complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 16 model years of Kia Sorento in our records for steering problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering steering on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MDPS WARNING LAMP DIAGNOSTIC INSPECTION & SINGLE PARTS REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information regarding the diagnosis of Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS), also known as Electronic Power Steering (EPS), and parts replacement associated with the âÂÂWarranty Extension Programâ (WTY023) on 2016-2017MY Optima (JF/JFa), 2017MY Optima HEV/PHEV (JF P/HEV), 2016-2017MY Sorento (UMa) vehicles produced in the ranges listed below. The affected vehicles may exhibit the MDPS (also known as EPS) warning lamp âÂÂONâÂÂ. The warranty coverage for repairs related to the MDPS unit due to illumination of the MDPS warning lamp has been extended to 15 years/150
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗WARRANTY EXTENSION: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the notification to owners of the warranty extension program for WTY023. Kia is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for repairs related to the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) unit, also known as Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit, due to illumination of the EPS warning light for all 2016-2017 MY Sorento vehicles from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first,starting from the date the vehicle was first put into service.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗WARRANTY EXTENSION: REIMBURSEMENT FORM - This document is a Reimbursement Request form that was mailed with the customer letter advising them to submit the form if they had paid for repairs for this same matter prior to the warranty extension program launch.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗WARRANTY EXTENSION: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals of the warranty extension program for WTY023. Kia America, Inc., is extending the New Vehicle Limited Warranty coverage for the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) unit, also known as Electronic Power Steering (EPS) unit, from 5 years/60,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, starting from the date the vehicle was first put into service. The power steering uses a motor to assist in steering the vehicle. If the engine is off or if the power steering system becomes inoperative, the vehicle may be steered, but it will require increased steering effort by the driver. This wa
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
Owners of the 2016 Sorento describe two main steering nightmares. First, the Motor Driven Power Steering (MDPS) system fails randomly while driving—steering suddenly becomes rock-hard, a red EPS warning light comes on, and the wheel won't turn without wrestling it with both arms. Only restarting the engine clears it, leaving drivers stranded in the middle of turns or highway lanes. Owners document 30+ incidents each with video, yet dealerships can't replicate the problem using diagnostic scanners and deny warranty coverage.
Second, the steering gets chronically sticky and binding. Drivers report the wheel feels locked at the center, requiring a jerk to move it, then overshoots and jerks the other way—forcing constant corrections to stay in lane. At highway speeds this creates a drunk-driving sensation; one owner wore out 80,000-mile tires in under 20,000 miles. The condition starts around 25,000 to 50,000 miles and worsens progressively. Dealerships initially dismiss it as normal electric steering behavior, then recommend steering column replacement for $1,000 to $5,000. Kia issued a warranty extension and software update, but owners confirm neither fixes the actual problem. Multiple owners are on their second or third steering column replacement and still experience the same sticking. One owner notes Kia forums show at least 18 complaints for the 2016 and 89 for the 2017, yet no recall has been issued.
Same Kia Sorento steering reports on nearby years: 2013 · 2014 · 2015 · 2017 · 2018
Failure modes owners describe
MDPS (Motor Driven Power Steering) Complete Loss / Intermittent Failure
Power steering system fails without warning while driving, requiring extreme physical force to steer. Red EPS (Electric Power Steering) warning light illuminates. Resetting occurs only after stopping vehicle, shifting to park, turning engine off, and restarting. Failures are random and unpredictable with no discernible pattern tied to speed, temperature, or driving conditions.
When: Failures documented from 30,000 miles through 90,000+ miles; one owner reports incidents since 2019 across multiple instances (11/2021, 8/2022, 8/4/2022, 8/18/2022, 8/24/2022, 3/13/2024); another documents 30+ failures over time; some owners experience multiple incidents within months (4/6 through 11/11 timeline at low mileages around 7,000-17,000 miles)
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden loss of power assist making steering wheel extremely difficult to turn; Red EPS warning light on dashboard; Minor shudder in steering wheel prior to full failure; Steering wheel feels very hard or 'locks up'; Difficulty turning wheel in either direction requiring significant arm strength; Power returns only after engine restart
Codes mentioned: EPS warning light (no specific OBD codes found by dealers)
Repairs/costs cited: Kia dealerships unable to replicate issue or find codes using OBD scanners. One owner cited estimate near $5,000 for MDPS repair. Steering column replacement cited in multiple narratives ($1,000-$2,000+). Another narrative references $1,283.94 alternator replacement and $4,276.92 head gasket as related issues.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia issued MDPS Warranty Extension Notice (January 7, 2022) extending coverage to 5 years/150,000 miles. However, owners report dealers deny warranty coverage claiming 'diagnosis cannot validate the condition' or that vehicle is out of warranty. One owner states warranty notice falsely claims 'vehicle steering will continue to be operational' after EPS illuminates, contradicting actual owner experience. Video documentation has been made by owners but Kia dealerships continue to refuse repairs citing inability to reproduce issue.
Sticky / Binding Steering - Resistance at Center
Steering exhibits sticking, binding, or resistance sensation, particularly when centered or during minor corrections. Drivers report feeling a 'catch' or 'notch' in the center position. Initial resistance is followed by sudden release causing over-correction and jerking vehicle. Condition requires constant steering wheel adjustments to maintain lane position. Feels worse at highway speeds (55-75 mph) and on straight roads.
When: Typically begins between 25,000-50,000 miles; progressively worsens; one owner reports problem constant from approximately 30,000 through 70,000 miles; another reports starting around 48,000 miles; some owners note intermittent at first but becoming constant by 75,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel sticks or binds, requiring extra force to initiate turn; Sudden release of resistance after initial pressure applied causing overcorrection; Constant jerking or swerving in lane requiring continuous minor adjustments; Sticky sensation at center position affecting straight-line tracking; Vehicle wanders or drifts, requiring vigilant driver correction; Wheel does not naturally return to center without driver intervention; Erratic steering feedback making vehicle difficult to control; Symptom felt both while stationary and in motion; More pronounced on highway speeds and large sweeping corners; Feeling of driving drunk or driving with impaired control
Codes mentioned: Steering column resistance measured at 5.3 NM (one case), 'Mechanism Failure' message displayed on vehicle info screen (one case), No OBD fault codes in most cases
Repairs/costs cited: Kia dealerships recommend steering column replacement (cost cited as $1,000+ for parts/labor). One narrative states 'the fix is several thousand dollars.' One owner on third steering column replacement still experiencing same issue at 118,000 miles. Steering rack replacement also cited. One owner reports Kia software update attempted but did not resolve issue. Steering column backorder for 3+ weeks noted in one case, suggesting high volume of similar claims. Dealerships initially dismiss as 'normal electric steering' characteristic.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia issued computer/software update to some vehicles as attempted fix, but owners confirm it does not resolve sticky steering. No formal recall issued. Dealerships deny warranty coverage if vehicle is out of 'bumper to bumper' warranty period (typically 3 years/36,000 miles). One owner notes Kia aware of problem based on multiple dealership visits during warranty period, but refuses to guarantee future fixes even if brought back in.
Loose / Unresponsive Steering at Speed
Steering becomes loose or unresponsive, particularly at highway speeds (50-75 mph). Vehicle pulls to one side or rocks/sways side-to-side requiring constant correction. Steering input feels delayed or requires significant effort without proportional response. Can occur during turns or straight-line driving.
When: Occurs across wide mileage range from 26,000 miles onward; one case documented at 4,000 miles; another at 20,000 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Steering becomes very loose at highway speeds; Vehicle pulls to right or left side; Car rocks back and forth or makes quick side-to-side movements (50-80 mph); Unresponsive steering input or delayed response; Vehicle difficult to keep in lane between lines; Requires significant pressure/effort to turn steering wheel; Vehicle veers or sways constantly on straightaways
Codes mentioned: No codes mentioned in narratives
Repairs/costs cited: One case involved dealer performing front alignment, new brakes, tire balance, inspection, and new tires at $1,000+ cost without resolving steering issue. Dealer attributed to tires/suspension, not steering system. Issue recurred after repairs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers unable or unwilling to address steering as root cause. Manufacturer not notified in multiple cases.
Steering Wheel Locks / Becomes Hard to Turn
Steering wheel suddenly becomes difficult or impossible to turn, locking into position. Often occurs while turning, requiring extreme physical force to regain control. Can occur at any speed including highway. Accompanied by red steering wheel warning light. Resolved only by restarting vehicle.
When: Documented at speeds from low speed (35 mph residential areas) to highway speeds (60-80 mph); one case at 4,000 miles; multiple cases at highway speeds; incidents span 2018-2024
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel locks or becomes extremely difficult to turn; Red steering wheel warning light with exclamation point illuminates; Loss of steering control, vehicle veers uncontrollably; Steering wheel seized/non-responsive; Requires extreme force and muscle to turn wheel; Occurs during turns causing vehicle to go off-road or into curbs; Problem resolves only after engine restart; No warning prior to occurrence
Codes mentioned: Steering wheel warning light (red icon with exclamation point)
Repairs/costs cited: One case required steering column replacement costing $1,000+. Another required steering console replacement. Some diagnostics inconclusive (dealer unable to identify cause at 4,000 miles). One owner waiting for part replacement at dealership for 6 weeks.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia issued Extended Power Steering Warranty referenced by owners. One owner notes having 'paper from Kia headquarters for it to be fixed free of charge within the warranty date' but warranty expired making repair unavailable. Manufacturer personnel inspected one vehicle but repair status not provided.
Electrical Steering System Malfunction - Wiring/Connection Issues
Steering system experiences electrical failures including bad wiring connections in steering wheel circuit or electrical steering column issues. Problem may be linked to broader body control module (BCM) or electrical system failures.
When: Issues documented at various mileages; one case specifically called out steering wheel wiring failure after 6+ weeks in shop; related to BCM issues noted at multiple mileages
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel circuit wiring failure; Electric steering column malfunction; Steering control unresponsive due to electrical fault; Problem often accompanied by other electrical issues (door locks, lights, gauge illumination)
Codes mentioned: Overheat code related to steering (one case)
Repairs/costs cited: Steering column replacement cost $1,000+ for parts/labor. One case showed steering wiring required repair, part on backorder. Battery replacement attempted in one case ($500+ for OEM Kia battery) without resolving steering issue; steering column then diagnosed as needing replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealership inspections have attempted diagnosis but parts often on backorder suggesting systemic issue.
Synthesized from 80 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
Has a steering control issue. I am now on my 3rd steering columm replacement. They do not correct the sticky on center steering control issues. Kia has not come up with a workable solution for this. I have had it to 3 dealers so far. They all say the steering column needs to be replaced. Now out of warranty. This car is difficult to drive and control . I have had this problem since I bought it…
When driving the steering wheel will go to the left and stick ,then I will have to bring back to right or the steering will stay to the left.this has happen many times.this is a potential dangerous situation.there are multiple reports on this situation.I am concerned...
Had steering trouble with your 2016 Kia Sorento?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2016 Kia Sorento?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 80 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $700 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Across the 33 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most steering failures cluster between 27,000 and 64,000 miles, with the median around 50,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 27,000; a quarter make it past 64,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2016/Kia/Sorento.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.