2018 Sorento SX - Battery Draining Fast, Auto Start/Stop Not Working

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Dan C. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:09 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Hey everyone, I'm having a persistent issue with my 2018 Kia Sorento SX. Lately, the battery seems to be draining really fast, especially if the car sits for a couple of days. I've had to jump-start it twice this month.

On top of that, the auto start/stop feature hasn't been working at all. It just says 'Auto Stop/Start System Unavailable' on the dash. I'm wondering if these issues are related.

I've checked the battery terminals, and they seem clean and tight. Any ideas on what could be causing this? Could it be a parasitic draw or something else electrical?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode guidance (Kia · Electrical & electronics)

Summary: For 2018 Sorento SX - Battery Draining Fast, Auto Start/Stop Not Working, work through these steps on your 2016+ vehicle:

  1. Confirm the symptom — note when it happens (cold start, highway, after fuel fill, etc.).
  2. Scan codes — save all pending/stored DTCs; don't clear until you've recorded them.
  3. Check TSBs & recalls — look up your VIN for open campaigns and known fixes.
  4. Inspect the obvious — related fuses, connectors, fluid level, and recent repairs.
  5. Test the common fix — follow model-specific service procedures; one change at a time.
  6. Escalate if needed — burning smell, no brakes, overheating, or stalling in traffic → shop visit.

Owner reported: Hey everyone, I'm having a persistent issue with my 2018 Kia Sorento SX. Lately, the battery seems to be draining really fast, especially if the car sits for a couple of days. I've had to jump-start it twice this month.

On top of that, the auto start/stop feature hasn't been working at all. It just says 'Auto Stop/Start System Unavailable' on the dash. I'm wondering if these issues are related.

This is educational guidance, not a substitute for hands-on diagnosis.