Kia Sorento Trunk Latch Recall: Facts, Myths & Your Next Steps

Search online for Sorento trunk latch problems and you’ll find all kinds of mixed signals, recall headlines, owner complaints, and plenty of speculation. The truth is, most official trunk latch recalls haven’t touched the Sorento, but that hasn’t stopped confusion from spreading.

Sorting rumor from reality matters. Miss a true recall and you could risk your safety. Chase every headline, and you might waste time and money on problems that don’t apply to your SUV. So, which Sorentos are actually recalled? Which trunk latch issues are real, and which are just service bulletins?

Here’s what’s on record, what’s not, and how to get real answers about your Sorento’s trunk latch.

What the Record Really Shows for Sorento Recalls

No Sorento Trunk Latch Recall on File

Dig into the NHTSA database and you won’t find a recall specifically for the Sorento’s trunk latch. The most recent and significant recall, NHTSA 25V-006, has nothing to do with the trunk at all.

That one’s about a software issue in the Body Domain Control Unit, which can cause your headlights and tail lamps to flicker out. Not ideal, but a totally different system than the tailgate or trunk latch.

Where Trunk Latch Problems Actually Show Up

If you’ve seen Kia trunk latch recalls in the news, you’re not seeing things, just the wrong model. Recalls over faulty trunk latches have hit other Kias like the Forte, Rio, and Optima.

Those campaigns covered problems with the emergency release handle, including latches that could crack or stick, creating a real safety risk. But none of those recalls were issued for the Sorento lineup.

Service Bulletins: Not Quite a Recall

That said, Kia has published technical service bulletins (TSBs) for Sorentos with tailgate latch trouble, just not full-blown safety recalls.

The most notable bulletins cover the 2015 and 2016 Sorento, flagging issues where the exterior tailgate latch might fail to open. If you’re seeing a stubborn latch and your Sorento falls in this window, a TSB may get the dealer’s attention even if you aren’t part of a recall.

Why Kia Trunk Latch Recalls Don’t Apply to Sorento

The Models With Real Trunk Latch Recalls

Kia’s big trunk latch recalls have focused on other models, namely, the Forte, Rio, and Optima. Here’s the story: certain 2016–2018 Fortes, 2018–2019 Rios, and 2016–2018 Optimas were all recalled for a trunk latch defect.

The problem? A thermal crack could form in the latch pawl, making the emergency release inside the trunk useless. This was a clear violation of federal safety standards, and it led to multiple rounds of recall notices, part replacements, and owner warnings.

Sorento: No Trunk Latch Recall, Just Service Bulletins

When it comes to the Sorento, none of those trunk latch recalls show up in the official record. Even though owners sometimes report latch troubles, NHTSA hasn’t found a defect that crosses the line into mandatory recall territory for this SUV.

Instead, issues are mostly handled through service bulletins for isolated years and not as widespread safety hazards.

Kia Trunk Latch Recalls by Model

How to Check If Your Sorento Has an Open Recall

Where to Find Your VIN and Why It Matters

If you want to know for sure whether your Sorento has an open recall, you’ll need your 17-digit VIN. You’ll usually find it at the base of the windshield on the driver’s side or on your vehicle registration card. The VIN is the only reliable way to check; recalls can apply to specific batches, so year and model alone won’t cut it.

Checking Your Recall Status Online

Head to the NHTSA recall lookup tool or use Kia’s own recall checker on their website. Plug in your VIN and see if there’s anything open. These databases pull from every active safety campaign, so you’ll get the straight answer, no more guesswork.

What Happens If You Get a Recall Notice

If Kia or NHTSA finds an issue, you’ll get a recall notice by mail, detailing the defect, safety risks, and next steps. Sometimes, if you’re not the original owner or haven’t updated your contact info, the letter might not reach you. That’s why checking online is smart, even if you haven’t seen anything in your mailbox.

Why Rapid Action Matters

Don’t sit on an open recall. Repairs are always free and can mean the difference between a minor fix and a real safety risk. Even if your Sorento hasn’t made headlines, any recall is worth your immediate attention.

What to Do if Your Sorento Is Named in a Recall or TSB

Steps to Take if Your Sorento Is on the List

If your Sorento pops up in a recall or has an active TSB for the tailgate latch, start with the basics. Confirm your eligibility by running your VIN through NHTSA or Kia’s online tools. Don’t rely on word of mouth.

Once you’re in, call an authorized Kia dealer and schedule the free repair. Bring your recall notice or TSB printout and keep every bit of paperwork they give you. Good records help if questions come up later.

How to Handle a Denial or Runaround

Sometimes, dealers make mistakes or aren’t up to speed. If your service advisor says you’re not covered but you believe you should be, ask for a written explanation and escalate to Kia Customer Care (1-800-333-4542).

Make your case clear, reference the recall or TSB number, and back it up with documentation. If you’re still not getting anywhere, file a complaint with NHTSA; this gets attention fast, and sometimes pushes the process forward.

When Official Channels Stall Out

If all else fails, you still have options. Some owners have joined class actions or turned to consumer advocates for extra muscle, especially if the defect causes real inconvenience or a safety risk. Document every call, email, and repair visit. The more details you have, the harder it is for the case to go ignored.

Let me know if you want a visual “owner recall checklist” here, or if you’re set to move on to the final, action-focused wrap-up.

Don’t Wait, Get Ahead of Sorento Recall Fixes

Staying sharp about recalls protects you and your Sorento. There’s no official trunk latch recall for this SUV, but other safety campaigns deserve your attention.

Always check your VIN on the official sites, read any notices carefully, and set up repairs as soon as they’re available. Keep a record of everything. If an issue ever comes up, you’ll be ready to act fast and avoid headaches.

Adam Faris

Adam Faris is the founder and lead editor at Recall Brief, where he covers confirmed recalls, service bulletins, and widespread vehicle issues that often slip past official channels. He focuses on clear, fact-based reporting and breaks down complex problems into plain language so readers know what matters and what to do next.