By David Bledsoe 
Understanding Brake Light Issues
Addressing brake light malfunction in a 2016 Kia Sorento involves recognizing common issues and knowing how to report them formally. Knowing the common problems and the complaint process is crucial for effective troubleshooting and resolution.
Common Brake Light Problems
One of the most frequent issues reported by Kia Sorento owners is the brake lights not working but the third LED brake light still functioning (Kia-Forums). This could suggest a defective brake light switch or wiring. Another common problem involves brake lights that are partially operational, which may indicate faulty wiring or other electrical issues (Kia Forum).
| Common Problems | Possible Causes |
|---|---|
| Brake lights not working, but third LED working | Faulty Brake Light Switch, Wiring Issues |
| Brake lights partially working | Wiring Issues, Electrical Problems |
NHTSA Complaint Process
If you’re experiencing these or any other safety issues with the brake lights on your 2016 Kia Sorento, it’s important to report them to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This allows the agency to review the complaint and determine if an investigation or a recall is warranted (NHTSA).
To file a complaint:
- Visit the NHTSA website.
- Select “File a Complaint” and follow the instructions.
- Provide detailed information about the brake light issues, including how and when the problem occurs.
Filing a complaint ensures that your concern is documented and can help others who may be facing the same issue. For more information on other Kia-related problems and solutions, you may find our articles on kia sorento radio not working and kia sportage key fob not working useful.
By understanding these common brake light issues and knowing how to file a complaint, you can take the necessary steps to ensure your Kia Sorento remains safe and functional.
Causes of Brake Light Malfunction
Faulty Brake Light Switch
One common issue reported with the 2016 Kia Sorento is that the brake lights are partially working, which could indicate a problem with the brake light switch or wiring. The brake light switch is responsible for activating the brake lights when the brake pedal is pressed. If this switch malfunctions, the lights may not turn on or off as required.
Symptoms of a Faulty Brake Light Switch:
- Brake lights do not activate when the pedal is pressed.
- Brake lights remain on even when the pedal is not pressed.
- Partial activation of brake lights.
To address this issue, the switch should be inspected and replaced if necessary. Issues with the parking brake switch can also cause problems, often due to exposure to moisture and dirt or weather conditions (R1 Concepts).
Wiring Issues
Wiring issues are another major cause of brake light malfunctions. Poor wiring or a broken connection in the circuit could cause the brake lights to not turn off or fail to activate. This can include loose connections, corroded wires, or damaged harnesses.
Common Wiring Issues:
- Loose or corroded wiring connectors.
- Broken or frayed wires.
- Faulty grounding.
To diagnose wiring issues, it’s essential to inspect the wiring harness and connectors associated with the brake light circuit. Variances in voltage levels can also be a clue that there’s a wiring problem requiring detailed examination (R1 Concepts).
Parking Brake Light Problems
The parking brake light on the dashboard should turn off once the parking brake is fully disengaged. However, if the light remains on, it may indicate various issues.
Common Causes:
- Low Brake Fluid Level: If there is a leak or a problem within the brake system, it could cause the fluid level to drop and the light to remain on. Continuously adding brake fluid without identifying the root cause should prompt a visit to a mechanic (R1 Concepts).
- Faulty Parking Brake Switch: Debris, dirt, or moisture can affect the switch, causing the light to stay on.
- Wiring Problems: Similar to the issues described above, faulty wiring can also impact the parking brake light.
| Common Issues | Causes |
|---|---|
| Brake lights not activating | Faulty brake light switch, wiring issues |
| Brake lights staying on | Faulty brake light switch, internal short circuits |
| Parking brake light staying on | Low brake fluid, faulty parking brake switch, wiring issues |
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Solutions for Brake Light Troubleshooting
Brake Handle Inspection
A common reason for a malfunctioning brake light in the 2016 Kia Sorento can be a defective brake handle. If the brake handle isn’t fully lowered due to issues such as contaminated or reduced fluid levels, worn-out brake pads, or a faulty master cylinder, it can cause the brake light to remain on (R1 Concepts). It’s essential to inspect the brake handle’s position and ensure it is properly engaged or disengaged.
- Check for fluid contamination
- Inspect brake pads for wear and tear
- Evaluate master cylinder functionality
Checking Brake Fluid Levels
Another factor that can cause the brake light to stay on is a low brake fluid level. Brake fluid levels can drop due to leaks or other issues in the braking system. If brake fluid is constantly being added, it may indicate an underlying problem that requires professional attention (R1 Concepts).
| Issue | Potential Cause |
|---|---|
| Low Brake Fluid | Leaks, Faulty Brake System |
Always ensure that the brake fluid reservoir is filled to the recommended level and check for any possible leaks in the brake lines or connections.
Addressing Wiring Concerns
Wiring issues or broken connections in the circuit could be the reason for a persistent brake light. A thorough inspection of the wiring and the brake light switch is necessary to rule out any loose or damaged wires. Variations in voltage levels within the components can indicate a problem (R1 Concepts).
- Inspect wiring harness for damage
- Ensure all connections are secure
- Look for voltage inconsistencies
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Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) Overview
TSB #PS675 Details
Technical Service Bulletin PS675 addresses an issue specific to the 2016 Kia Sorento’s brake lights. This TSB outlines troubleshooting and repair instructions for a recurrent malfunction where the brake lights fail to illuminate when the brake pedal is pressed. This can often be related to a faulty brake light switch that needs replacement. For more information about troubleshooting brake lights, visit kia braking problems.
TSB #PS539 Information
Technical Service Bulletin PS539 covers a broad spectrum of electrical issues, including problems with the brake light system. Brake lights not functioning can be due to wiring problems or a malfunctioning electrical component. Ensuring the integrity of the wiring system is crucial for diagnosing and fixing this issue. Refer to checking brake fluid levels for preliminary troubleshooting steps.
TSB #047 Explanation
TSB 047 dives into more specific issues related to brake components. Problems mentioned include potential malfunction of the parking brake light, and other related systems. This bulletin provides detailed instructions for inspecting and diagnosing the specific parts that might cause the brake lights to fail.
TSB #TSBCHA084_R6 Update
TSBCHA084_R6 provides an update to previously released technical service bulletins regarding the brake lights on the 2016 Kia Sorento. It includes revisions in diagnostic procedures and repair techniques. These updates ensure that the most current and effective methods are used to resolve brake light malfunctions. For other electronic issues, see kia display screen not working.
TSB #PS720 Guidance
The guidance from TSB PS720 is focused on ensuring proper functionality of the brake light system through regular maintenance and checks. It discusses the importance of examining the brake light switch and related wiring connections regularly. Consistent with other TSBs, this bulletin emphasizes the need for quick diagnosis and repair to maintain vehicle safety. For more on related problems, see kia bluetooth not working.
By understanding the Technical Service Bulletins associated with the 2016 Kia Sorento, owners can effectively troubleshoot and resolve brake light issues. It’s crucial to follow the guidelines and updates provided in these bulletins to maintain the safety and performance of the vehicle.