Kia is recalling 10,687 Sorento hybrid and plug-in hybrid midsize crossover SUVs because a software issue could cause their headlights and taillights to go dark.
In the affected vehicles, a software logic error with the body domain control unit could cause momentary lighting failure under certain circumstances, according to the NHTSA. Even a momentary loss of headlights and taillights could reduce visibility for the driver, as well as make the vehicle less visible to other road users, increasing the risk of a crash.
2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid
The recall includes 8,937 Sorento Hybrid and 1,750 Sorento PHEV crossovers—all 2025 models—as well as a much larger population of non-hybrid 2024 and 2025 Sorento models. These are refreshed versions with, among other things, new headlights and taillights. But Kia has determined that the fault lies with control-unit software rather than the lighting units themselves.
Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models were refreshed one model year after non-hybrids, which is why the recall applies to only 2025-model-year hybrids and plug-in hybrids. No mechanical changes were made, although the Sorento Hybrid saw a 1-mpg dip in EPA fuel economy to 36 mpg combined. EPA electric range for the plug-in hybrid still hasn’t been confirmed, but it’s expected to be close to the 2024 model’s 32 miles.
2025 Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid
The Sorento Hybrid kept the same base price as before, but several price hikes and the loss of federal EV tax credit qualification mean the Sorento PHEV effectively costs $10,000 more than it did three years ago. The 2025 model was also promptly recalled for a fuel-leak issue.
As with that recall, Kia told the NHTSA that it is unaware of any crashes, injuries, or fatalities related to the lighting issue. The remedy here is a software update, which must be performed at a dealership, but will be done free of charge. Kia expects to mail owner notification letters Feb. 21. Owners can also contact the automaker’s customer service department at 1-800-333-4542 for more information and reference recall number SC331.
