TobiMeyer86
2014 Kia Sorento Diesel Engine Issues: Persistent Pre-glow Light, Excessive Smoky Emissions, and Failed DPF Regeneration
DPF regeneration failure
Black smoke from exhaust on acceleration
Poor fuel economy
Longer cold start time
Pre-glow light won't turn off
Car won't start
Check engine light on
4 comment(s)
Hey champ! Yeah, the ride with my old Sportage was a bit bumpy for a while there, particularly with that dodgy glow plug throwing a spanner in the works. To answer your question, getting those babies changed wasn't exactly pocket change - it ran me about 560€, if I remember correctly. A hefty amount, sure, but honestly, way better than leaving my engine struggling and burning through my diesel stash faster than a raging campfire. As for any other issues, knock on wood all seems to be running smoothly since the defect was sorted out. The glow plug that was on the blink was most likely worn out, and since I got it replaced, my cold starts have been a breeze and no more ominous black smoke on acceleration. The good ol' check engine light has taken a permanent vacation too. So, all things considered, I'd say it was worth the cost. Hope this lends a bit of insight!
Oh 560€ sounds like a fortune! But again, seeing how you're now having a smoother drive with less diesel guzzling, it does sound worth it. Thanks for sharing your experience. This kinda confirms my suspicion about the glow plug. I suppose it's time to brave the mechanic's again. But hey, if I can get rid of this stubborn check engine light and the smoke exhaust, well worth a shot. Alright cheers guys, off to get my hands dirty. Wish me luck!
Hey! I've picked up on what you're describing as I,had a same situation with my old 2011 Kia Sportage. The glow plug indicator light seemed like it was taking forever to go out, with regen issues, black smoke…the whole nine yards. Turned out, it was indeed the glow plug. It was showing its age with extra wear and tear plus had a defective issue. Can't be quite sure but probably it got too hot too often. The mechanic was actually good, cracked it open and replaced all four plugs. Engine took less time to warm up and the problematic smoke disappeared, as did the never-ending light. Though had a bit less issues at the start with a cold engine. This wasn't exactly a picnic, but it wasn't a train wreck either. It's a serious issue in the sense that you don't want to leave it too long, but it was definitely fixable. So I reckon you might be on the right track suspecting the glow plug. Hope this helps!