Solving 2018 Kia Sorento AC Problems: Expert Tips For A Cool Ride
The 2018 Kia Sorento has been reported to have several AC problems. Some common issues include weak air flow, AC not cooling, and unusual noises coming from the AC system. It is advisable to consult a Kia dealership or a certified mechanic to diagnose and resolve these problems.
Are you a proud owner or a prospective buyer of the 2018 Kia Sorento? If so, you’re likely well aware of the importance of a reliable and efficient air conditioning system, especially during those scorching summer months. But what happens when your AC starts acting up? Don’t worry – you’re not alone.
Many 2018 Kia Sorento owners have encountered various problems with their AC units, leaving them in search of solutions. In this blog article, we will delve into the realm of 2018 Kia Sorento AC problems and explore the common issues that owners face.
Whether you’re experiencing weak airflow, strange noises, or a complete lack of cool air, we’ll guide you through the troubleshooting process. As an owner or prospective buyer, it’s essential to have a moderate knowledge level of car maintenance. This article aims to equip you with the information you need to understand and address the AC problems specific to the 2018 Kia Sorento model.
From potential causes to practical solutions, we’ve got you covered. Throughout this article, we’ll provide insightful tips and expert advice, ensuring that you’re well-prepared to tackle any AC issue that comes your way. So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of 2018 Kia Sorento AC problems and find the answers you’ve been seeking, let’s get started.
- [OEM Fit & Quality]: 100% Brand New Item. Direct Bolt-on OE Replacement, Compatible with A-Premium Sorento A/C Condenser
- [Vehicle Fitment]: Compatible with Kia Sorento 2016-2020 L4 2.4L/V6 3.3L
- [Specification]: ①Built-in Receiver Dryer: Yes; ②Built-in Bracket: Yes; ③Core Height (IN): 16.72; ④Core Length (IN): 27.36; ⑤Core Thickness (IN): 0.63; ⑥Fin Height: 5mm
- [Reference Number]: 30015C, 30015, 97606C6500, 97606C6550, 97606C6650, KI3030139
- [Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium A/C Condenser comes with a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee. We offer a wide range of automotive accessories for your peace of mind on the road
- [OEM Fit & Quality]: 100% Brand New Item. Direct Bolt-on OE Replacement A/C Condenser and Receiver Drier Assembly.
- [Vehicle Fitment]: Compatible with 2010-2012 Hyundai Santa Fe L4 2.4L/V6 3.5L; Compatible with 2011-2015 Kia Sorento L4 2.4L, 2014-2015 V6 3.3L, 2011-2013 Sorento V6 3.5L
- [Specification]: ①Built-in Receiver Dryer: Yes; ②Built-in Bracket: Yes; ③Core Height (IN): 20.19; ④Core Length (IN): 32.38; ⑤Core Thickness (IN): 0.57; ⑥Configuration: Parallel Flow; ⑦Fitting Type: Block Fitting
- [Reference Number]: 3882, 3882C, CN 3882PFC, CN3882PFC, 7-3882, 40347, 7013882, HY3030144, 940449, 976061U100, 976061U100AS
- [Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted ac condenser assembly. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind
- Ensures Fast Refrigeration And Defogging: ①Oil Type:PAG 46;②R-efrigerant Type:R134a;③Pulley Grooves: 6;④Pulley Diameter:4.62 inch ;⑤Compressor type:VS18E;⑥Pulley type:Multi-Groove Serpentine;⑦Clutch Included: Yes; ⑧Noise:<72 dB.Our air conditioning compressor supply Stable and Consistent Cooling, It ensures stable and consistent cooling throughout your drive.
- Widely Compatible: PHILTOP AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible withSorento 2015-2018 2.4L, 2016-2018 2.0T.Please confirm your vehicle details and old part number before ordering.
- Guaranteed Compatibility : Replaces OEM part numbers:7513263,CO29318C,97701C6500,168355,97701C6500RU,A76345,276345,T168355,640004,CO29318X,C2973,AC1207672.Verify your vehicle info using the Amazon compatibility checker.
- ENSURES FAST DEFOGGING AND DEFROSTING – Our air conditioning compressor is crucial for winter visibility. It drives the system to dehumidify the incoming air, quickly clearing frost and condensation from the windshield and windows, ensuring safer driving in cold and wet conditions
- FULLY TESTED & EASY INSTALLATION – The ac compressor with clutch has been examined and tested carefully before its delivery. Air conditioning compressor is pre-filled with oil upon delivery, therefore, there is no need to add oil during initial use. Excessive oil addition may damage the ac compressor
- 【Compatible Vehicles】New AC Compressor Fit for Kia Sorento 3.5L 2011-2012 (Direct Drive)2013, for Sorento 3.3L 2014-2015; fit for Hyundai Santa Fe 2013-2018 3.3L, for Hyundai Santa Fe XL 2013-2019 3.3L
- 【AC Compressor Part Number】97701-1U600, 97701-1U600RU, 97701-1U650, 97701-1U650RU, CO-11349C, 198376, 197376
- 【Product Specifications】Compressor Type VS18E; Grooves 6; Clocking 12; Pulley Diameter (mm) 120; Discharge Port (mm) 16; Suction Port (mm) 23; Gauge Line (mm) 83; Diode (Y/ N) N; Control Valve (Y/ N) Y; OIL TYPE: PAG46;Oil Prefilled: 100±10ML
- 【Important Note】Before installing the air conditioner compressor, the air conditioning system needs to be thoroughly cleaned.Each of our air conditioner compressors contains refrigerant oil, so after installation, you only need to add the refrigerant.
- 【Confirm your vehicle & Service】Before purchasing, verify your vehicle compatibility via Amazon’s ‘Confirmed Fit’ tool located in the top left corner. Our compressor comes with one year guarantee. If you have any questions, please feel free to tell us via message, we will help you at any time. Your satisfaction is our priority.
- STRONG COOLING VEHICLE COMPATIBLE: AC compressor fits for 2003-2006 for Kia Sorento V6 3.5L. Oil Type: PAG46, Pulley Grooves:4, Compressor Type: HS18, Internal Oil Content: 130 ml; Pulley Diameter (mm): 114
- AIR CONDITIONER COMPRESSORS PARAMETER: 57190,58190,1521762,0279,10360191,3016681,638981,CS20139,4716014,5512206,6512206,7512206,977013E200,977013E200RU,255694,275495,TEM255694,TEM275495,2021500,2021500AM,2021500R,2013491,147004,147004NC,7421436,0610168,C1552,C1552R,ACC7004,700746
- NOISELESS AC COMPRESSOR: The air conditioning compressor is the core of the air conditioning system and is responsible for the delivery of air in the entire vehicle’s air conditioning system. ECCPP’s ac compressor pump has excellent performance, and is of top quality and tested to meet OEM standards. However, it is recommended to find a professional technician to install it, because incorrect installation can easily cause product damage
- DURABLE AND STURDY AC COMPRESSOR WITH CLUTCH: The sturdy aluminum structure makes the compressor stable and firm during long-term use. Tested prior to leaving the factory, air conditioner compressors enjoy industry leading quality. It is designed for low vibration, with noise levels below 72 dB, and the interior temperature can reach as low as 62℉ when the compressor is running
- INCLUDED: AC compressor and clutch. All compressors are pressure tested with nitrogen for leaks to ensure their quality. The internal parts are lubricated during production and this item is pre-filled with oil upon delivery; therefore, there is no need to add oil during initial use. Excessive oil addition may damage the ac compressor
- [Vehicle Fitment]: Compatible with Kia Sorento 2014-2015 L4 2.4L (LX)
- [Important Note]: Discharge Line (High Pressure – Compressor to Condenser)
- [Reference Number]: HA113582C, HA 113582C, 977621U500
- [Durable Construction] A-Premium A/C Hose features four-layer hose construction that greatly resists wear and collapse, with a wider operational temperature range for outstanding performance in extreme conditions
- [Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted A/C Hose — Compatible with A-Premium Sorento A/C Hose, We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind
- Reference Numbers: 7013882; 97606 1U100AS; 97606-1U100; 97606-1U100-AS; 976061U100; 976061U100AS; 3882; 679-50285; 7-3882; 73882; ACA84596; HY3030144
- YOUR TRUSTED DIY VIDEO SOURCE: TRQ offers the largest catalog of DIY videos for replacement parts, making installation easier and repairs more accessible. Our mission is to help you “View Before You Do,” with hundreds of new videos added weekly.
- TRUST & COMPATIBILITY: For over 25 years, TRQ has been the premium choice for direct-fit replacement parts. Confirm fitment with the Amazon Garage “confirmed fit” feature and review our full compatibility chart below before purchase.
- EASE OF INSTALLATION: Save time and effort with pre-assembled components designed as direct replacements for the original equipment, ensuring precise fit and eliminating the need for modifications.
- Additional specifications below
- Vehicle Fitment: Heater Blower Motor for Elantra 2007-2008, 2013-2020, 2011-2012 1.8L, 2009-2010 2.0L; Sorento 2011-2020; Optima 2012-2020, 2011 2.4L; Santa Fe 2007-2020, 2024-2025 2.5T; Santa Fe Sport 2018, 2013-2017 2.4L/2.0T; Telluride 2020-2023; Forte 2014-2018; Sedona 2011-2012, 2014-2021; Genesis 2009-2016; Elantra GT 2013-2020; Sonata 2011-2015 2.4L, 2016-2019 2.0L; For Tesla S 2012-2016; GV80 2021-2024; Stinger 2018-2023; GV70 2022-2024; G70 2019-2023; G80 2017-2024
- Vehicle Fitment: for Veracruz 2007-2012; Cadenza 2014-2020; Azera 2011-2017; Forte5 2014-2018; Elantra Coupe 2013-2014; Equus 2011-2016; G90 2017-2022; Santa Fe XL 2019; Forte Koup 2014-2016; Amanti 2007-2009; K900 2019-2020; Tucson 2015-2017 Reference Number: OE Replacement HVAC Blower Motor, Directly Fit. Reference Number- PM4036,97113A9010,SK700258,971134Z000,97113D5000,97113A4000,KI3126112,700258,971131U000,971132B005,97113B8000.①Number of Ports:2;②Wattage:270W;③Speed:3000 RPM;④Rotation:CCW;⑤Connector Gender:-;⑥Voltage:12V.
- High Peformance: This blower motor draws air into the vehicle’s climate control system and forces it into each vent. The air purified by the heater or evaporator core provides a comfortable ride environment for the passengers, reduces the fatigue of the driver, and improves the safety of driving
- OE Quality: We offer OE quality blower motors and complete cooling fan assemblies. Every KAX part number is application specific to provide OE fit, form, and performance to ease installation
- KAX serve: No risk shopping, if you have any quality issues, please feel free to contact us via Amazon message center. We always stand behind our products and are committed to providing responsive customer service
- Fitment for A/C Compressor with Clutch: for Kia Sorento 3.5L 2003 2004 2005 2006
- Air conditioning compressor for car OE part Number: 6512206 CS20139 0306977013E200RU CNS58190 97701-3E200RU AC58190 97701-3E200 977013E200 977013E200RU
- AC Compressor Specifications: Compressor Type: HS18; Pulley Grooves: 4; Pulley Diameter (mm): 114; Material: Aluminum Alloy; Oil Type: PAG46; Clutch Included: Yes; Oil Prefilled: 160 ml. Notes: The item is with oil when sent to you, so there is no need to add oil when you use it the first time. But you need to add the refrigerant, please add them to 70-80%, dont need to fill up.
- Fast Cooling And Durable: Our A/C compressor delivers powerful, near-instant cooling. Feel the refreshing temperature drop within seconds of startup, turning your hot car into a comfortable oasis, fast. Engineered for rapid relief. And our AC compressor is engineered for endurance. Built with premium-grade components and rigorously tested, it ensures consistent, powerful cooling performance mile after mile and season after season. Your long-term comfort, guaranteed.
- Warm Tips: Please carefully check your vehicle year/make/model/engine with our description Amazon fitment. You could read our description carefully, and it will tell you more about the fitment.In addition, you can compare them with pictures first. Before installing the ac compressor with clutch please clean the cooling system pipe of the your car, If sundries or metal shavings in the cooling system pipe make the system stuck,it will shorten the life of the parts dramatically.
- 【Compatible Vehicles】New AC Compressor Fit for Kia Sorento 2012-2014 2.4L; fit for Hyundai Santa Fe Sport 2013-2018 2.0L 2.4L; Note: for Compressor Type VS18E Only, Not VS18M or VS18
- 【AC Compressor Part Number】198377, 197377, 97701-1U500, 977011U500, 977011U500RU, CO-29105C
- 【Product Specifications】Compressor Type VS18E; Grooves 6; Voltage 12; Pulley Diameter (mm) 120; Discharge Port (mm) 17; Suction Port (mm) 23; Gauge Line (mm) 91.5; Control Valve (Y/ N) Y; OIL TYPE: PAG46;Oil Prefilled: 100±10ML
- 【Important Note】Before installing the air conditioner compressor, the air conditioning system needs to be thoroughly cleaned.Each of our air conditioner compressors contains refrigerant oil, so after installation, you only need to add the refrigerant.
- 【Confirm your vehicle & Service】Before purchasing, verify your vehicle compatibility via Amazon’s ‘Confirmed Fit’ tool located in the top left corner. Our compressor comes with one year guarantee. If you have any questions, please feel free to tell us via message, we will help you at any time. Your satisfaction is our priority.
2018 Kia Sorento AC Problems: Common Issues and Solutions

1. Weak Airflow
One of the most common problems reported by 2018 Kia Sorento owners is weak airflow from the air conditioning vents this problem also present in the Kia Soul Air Conditioner. If you feel that the air coming out of the vents is not as strong as it used to be, there could be a few potential causes.
Possible Causes
- Clogged air filter
- Faulty blower motor
- Issues with the fan or blower resistor
Solutions
To address weak airflow, start by checking the air filter. A clogged air filter can restrict the amount of air that enters the cabin, resulting in reduced airflow. If the filter is dirty or clogged, replace it with a new one. Additionally, a faulty blower motor or issues with the fan or blower resistor can also cause weak airflow. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
2. Strange Noises
Unusual noises coming from the air conditioning system can be quite bothersome. If you notice any strange sounds when you turn on the AC in your 2018 Kia Sorento, it’s important to identify the source of the issue. Here are a few potential causes for strange AC noises:
Possible Causes
- Loose or damaged fan blades
- Debris in the blower motor
- Malfunctioning compressor
Solutions
If the noises are related to loose or damaged fan blades, the best course of action is to have them repaired or replaced. Debris in the blower motor may also cause strange noises, so it’s advisable to clean the motor and remove any obstructions. In the case of a malfunctioning compressor, it is recommended to seek professional assistance for diagnosis and repair.
3. Lack of Cool Air
One of the most frustrating problems 2018 Kia Sorento owners face is a lack of cool air when the AC is turned on. If you find that the air blowing out of the vents is not cold, there are a few potential reasons to consider.
Possible Causes
- Low refrigerant level
- Compressor issues
- Faulty condenser
Solutions
If the refrigerant level is low, it may be necessary to have the system recharged by a professional. Compressor issues and faulty condensers can also lead to a lack of cool air. In such cases, it is recommended to consult a qualified technician for accurate diagnosis and repair.
4. Unpleasant Odors
Another common issue reported by 2018 Kia Sorento owners is the presence of unpleasant odors when the air conditioning system is activated. These odors can range from musty smells to a foul stench. Understanding the possible causes can help you address this problem effectively.
Possible Causes
- Bacterial or mold growth in the evaporator coil
- Dust and debris in the air filters
- Improper cleaning and maintenance
Solutions
To eliminate unpleasant odors, it’s crucial to address the underlying causes. Bacterial or mold growth in the evaporator coil can be treated with specialized cleaning solutions. Regularly replacing or cleaning the air filters can also help prevent the buildup of dust and debris that can contribute to unpleasant smells. Lastly, proper cleaning and maintenance of the entire AC system can go a long way in ensuring a fresh and odor-free cabin environment.
5. Electrical Issues
Some 2018 Kia Sorento owners have reported electrical issues related to the air conditioning system. These problems can manifest as intermittent operation, failure to turn on or off, or erratic temperature control. When dealing with electrical issues, it’s important to exercise caution and consider seeking professional help.
Possible Causes
- Wiring problems
- Faulty controls or sensors
- Issues with the AC control module
Solutions
Electrical issues can be complex and require expertise to diagnose and repair. If you suspect wiring problems, it’s best to consult a qualified electrician or mechanic. Similarly, faults with controls, sensors, or the AC control module may require professional attention. It’s important to prioritize safety and consult a professional to avoid any potential risks or further damage.
In conclusion, 2018 Kia Sorento owners may encounter various AC problems that can affect the performance and comfort of their vehicles. From weak airflow to strange noises, lack of cool air, unpleasant odors, and electrical issues, there are several potential challenges to be aware of. However, with proper troubleshooting and, if necessary, professional assistance, these problems can be effectively addressed. Remember to prioritize regular maintenance and address any issues promptly to ensure a reliable and efficient air conditioning system in your 2018 Kia Sorento.
I can’t believe Mechanics don’t know How to Recharge AC system correctly!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are common AC problems in a 2018 Kia Sorento?
How can I tell if my AC compressor is failing?
Why is my AC blowing hot air?
How often should I recharge my AC in a 2018 Kia Sorento?
Can I fix AC problems in a 2018 Kia Sorento myself?
Final Summary: Common AC Problems in 2018 Kia Sorento and How to Address Them
In conclusion, 2018 Kia Sorento owners may face a range of AC problems that can impact the performance and comfort of their vehicles. These issues include weak airflow, strange noises, lack of cool air, unpleasant odors, and electrical problems.
To address these problems, it is important to troubleshoot and, if needed, seek professional assistance. Weak airflow can be caused by a clogged air filter, faulty blower motor, or issues with the fan or blower resistor.
Checking and replacing the air filter is a good first step, but further diagnosis may be needed from a professional mechanic. Strange noises may result from loose or damaged fan blades, debris in the blower motor, or a malfunctioning compressor. Repairs or cleaning may be necessary depending on the specific issue.
Lack of cool air can be due to a low refrigerant level, compressor issues, or a faulty condenser. Recharging the system or consulting a technician may be necessary. Unpleasant odors can stem from bacterial or mold growth in the evaporator coil, dust and debris in the air filters, or improper cleaning and maintenance.
