From 2003 to 2021 the Kia Sorento either has an engine with a timing belt or with a timing chain depending on the model and trim level. However, all of its engines are interference from 2003 to 2021.
A combustion engine relies on either a timing belt or timing chain to maintain the proper timing and distance between its pistons and the intake valves and exhaust valves in the combustion chamber.
An old or damaged timing belt is prone to failure, which could lead to catastrophic engine damage and an expensive repair bill. A timing chain is less prone to failure but should still be inspected by a licensed mechanic once the engine has 60,000 or more miles.
It is generally recommended to change the timing belt starting at 60,000 miles, whereas a timing chain is usually good for the life of the vehicle.
Scroll down for the timing belt data for your particular Kia Sorento.
| Year | Engine | Belt Or Chain | Interference | Service Interval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2.5L 4 Cyl. 191 hp | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2021 | 2.5L 4 Cyl. Turbo 281 hp (Smartstream G2.5 T-GDi) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2020 | 1.6L 4 Cyl. Turbo Hybrid 227 hp (Smartstream G1.6 T-GDi) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2020 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 185 hp (Theta II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2020 | 2.5L 4 Cyl. Turbo 281 hp (Smartstream G2.5 T-GDi) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2019 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 185 hp (Theta II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2019 | 3.3L V6 290 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2018 | 2.0L 4 Cyl. 260 hp (Theta II T-GDi) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2018 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 185 hp (Theta II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2018 | 3.3L V6 290 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2017 | 2.0L 4 Cyl. 260 hp (Theta II T-GDi) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2017 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 185 hp (Theta II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2017 | 3.3L V6 290 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2016 | 2.0L 4 Cyl. 260 hp (Theta II T-GDi) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2016 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 185 hp (Theta II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2016 | 3.3L V6 290 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| Year | Engine | Belt Or Chain | Interference | Service Interval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 191 hp (Theta II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2015 | 3.3L V6 290 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2014 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 191 hp (Theta II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2014 | 3.3L V6 290 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2013 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 191 hp (Theta II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2013 | 3.5L V6 276 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2012 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 175 hp (Theta II) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2012 | 3.5L V6 276 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2011 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 175 hp (Theta II) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2011 | 3.5L V6 276 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2010 | 2.4L 4 Cyl. 175 hp (Theta II) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2010 | 3.5L V6 276 hp (Lambda II MPI) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2009 | 3.3L V6 242 hp (Lambda) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2009 | 3.8L V6 262 hp (Lambda) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| Year | Engine | Belt Or Chain | Interference | Service Interval |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 3.3L V6 242 hp (Lambda) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2008 | 3.8L V6 262 hp (Lambda) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2007 | 3.8L V6 262 hp (Lambda) | timing chain | interference | lifetime miles |
| 2006 | 3.5L V6 192 hp (Sigma) | timing belt | interference | 60k miles |
| 2005 | 3.5L V6 192 hp (Sigma) | timing belt | interference | 60k miles |
| 2004 | 3.5L V6 192 hp (Sigma) | timing belt | interference | 60k miles |
| 2003 | 3.5L V6 192 hp (Sigma) | timing belt | interference | 60k miles |
MyBestVehicle.com is a website designed to quickly find data and specs on your particular vehicle.
Consult with the vehicle's owner's manual or a licensed mechanic to confirm the engine type in your car.
Timing belt replacements can be expensive, but if a timing belt fails it will leave you stranded on the road and could damage your engine beyond repair.
When replacing a timing belt, it is normal to replace the water pump and belt tensioner while they are easily accessible.