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    Kia Sorento Gearbox & Transmission Problems

    Are you having problems with the transmission of your Kia Sorento? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest Kia Sorento transmission issues & faults. We have answered all of the most frequently asked questions relating to problems with the Kia Sorento transmission.

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    Kia Sorento 2016: Transmission downshifting
    Answered by Graham Smith · 17 October 2019

    It wouldn’t hurt to change the fluid, but it’s more likely to be in the valve body.

    Kia Sorento 2018: Is it four wheel drive?
    Answered by Iain Kelly · 21 May 2018

    The Kia Sorento range sold in Australia is either front wheel drive or all wheel drive. Kia does not sell a rear wheel drive Sorento Down Under so your choice of the SLi, GT Line and SPORT models are front wheel drive and all wheel drive.

    Best manual mid-size SUV?
    Answered by Graham Smith · 2 February 2017

    All of the models you list would do the job you want well, so it comes down to personal choice. Add in the Kia Sorento and you have the field pretty much covered. The Sorento generally gets the most ticks from CarsGuide reviewers.

    Kia Sorento 2015: Transmission problem
    Answered by Paul Gover · 14 February 2016

    Kia Australia is aware of the problem, which is related to how the lockup clutch works in the transmission. The lockup points are currently set at 62km/h and 80-85km/h and Kia believes this is why you find it so noticeable. Kia spokesman Kevin Hepworth says: "We have reported this to Korea and have asked them to look at improvements".

    Kia Sorento 2012: Turning off overdrive for towing?
    Answered by Graham Smith · 30 May 2012

    We asked Kia for advice, which was "there is no overdrive as such in your car, it has just the six gears, and there is no lockout. The recommendation is that when towing you let the six-speed gearbox drive it as a full automatic and allow the gearbox to do its work. It is not recommended to use the manual mode to force gears to hold as there is a higher risk of overheating the gearbox. The exception to that rule is if the manual mode is used sensibly to help with engine braking on steep descents."

    Disclaimer: You acknowledge and agree that all answers are provided as a general guide only and should not be relied upon as bespoke advice. Carsguide is not liable for the accuracy of any information provided in the answers.
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