2020 Kia Sorento Is Leaking Oil

Discover the Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2020 Kia Sorento and How to Resolve Them Effectively

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2020 Kia Sorento is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Kia Sorento is leaking oil?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What steps should I take to diagnose the oil leak in my 2020 Kia Sorento?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2020 Kia Sorento, begin with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by locating the leak; inspect the area beneath your vehicle for any visible oil drips or stains, which can provide immediate clues. Next, check the oil level in the engine; a consistently low level may indicate a leak. Pay close attention to the oil filter and drain plug, ensuring they are secure and free from damage. Additionally, examine the gaskets and seals, particularly around the valve cover and oil pan, as these are common culprits for leaks. If the source remains elusive, consider using UV dye in the oil, which can help pinpoint the leak when illuminated with a UV light. Should these steps not yield results, consulting a professional mechanic is advisable for a thorough inspection and expert recommendations. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the oil leak issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2020 Kia Sorento?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2020 Kia Sorento, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is a worn or damaged oil pan gasket, which can deteriorate over time and lead to leaks. Additionally, a faulty or improperly installed oil filter can also result in oil escaping from the engine, making it essential to ensure that the filter is correctly fitted. Another area to inspect is the oil drain plug; if it is loose or damaged, it can cause significant oil loss from the oil pan. Furthermore, leaks can occur from the valve cover gasket, which may wear out and allow oil to seep from the top of the engine. Lastly, a failing oil cooler gasket is another potential source of leaks that should not be overlooked. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to maintaining your vehicle's performance and preventing further engine damage, so regular inspections and maintenance are key to keeping your Kia Sorento in top shape.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2020 Kia Sorento?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2020 Kia Sorento is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. An oil leak can lead to a rapid decrease in oil levels, which compromises the engine's lubrication system. Insufficient lubrication can cause severe wear and tear on engine components, ultimately leading to costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Moreover, the risk of overheating increases significantly when oil levels drop, as the engine relies on oil to dissipate heat effectively. This overheating can result in catastrophic damage, making timely intervention essential. Additionally, oil leaks create safety hazards; oil dripping onto hot engine parts can ignite, posing a fire risk. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of an oil leak promptly to safeguard both your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

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