The problem
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Kia Sorento vehicles manufactured October 19, 2009, to January 31, 2013. In the affected vehicles, if excessive force is applied to the gear shift lever, the brake-shift interlock mechanism may chip or crack allowing the transmission being able to be shifted out of "Park" without the brakes being depressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection."
The risk
Without requiring the brake to be pressed, the vehicle may be unintentionally shifted out of Park, allowing it to roll, which may result in a crash.
The fix
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake-shift interlock mechanism, free of charge. The recall began on November 9, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC124.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 15V-626 (15V626000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | SC124 |
| Manufacturer | Kia America, Inc. |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission |
| Report date | October 6, 2015 |
| Owners notified | November 9, 2015 |
| Vehicles affected | 377,062 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 15V-626 repair free?
Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake-shift interlock mechanism, free of charge. The recall began on November 9, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC124.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 377,062 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.