Overheating Issue and Check Engine Light in 2004 Kia Sorento - Possible Thermostat Concerns

Hey there, Had a pretty similar headache with my 2001 Kia Sorento a while back. The check engine light turned on, and the temp was rising like it was summer in hell. First thoughts? Thermostat or coolant issues just like yours. Yet, when I got my beast to the garage, they found a different problem altogether. Turns out it was a damaged wiring harness that was messing up the whole show. Don't ask me how it happened - I'm as skillful at the wheel as they come. Anyway, apparently, this damage was disrupting the signal to the cooling fans, which led to the overheating and the check engine light popping up. Did I sweat bullets when I heard the news? Nope. Was the problem serious? Yes and no. It's a pain because the wiring harness is like the car's central nervous system. But once they fixed it, the car was cool as a cucumber again. So, don't rule out that it could be some other component throwing a wrench in the works and not necessarily the thermostat. Hope that eases your headache a bit! Cheers!

Hey! Wow, that's much of a surprise! A damaged wiring harness who would've thought... Thanks for sharing your experience, it's definitely relieving to hear it wasn't all doom and gloom in the end. Just out of curiosity, do you recall how much you had to shell out for that fix? Also, since you've had it repaired, has your Kia acted up in any other interesting ways? Cheers!

Hey! You bet, happy to share. The fix for the fried wiring harness set me back around 110 Euro, pocket change compared to an engine overhaul, right? Plus, since the mechanic sorted it out, it's been smooth sailing. The coolant thermostat issue, in particular, called it quits - no more steaming engine or glaring check engine light. Apart from that, my trusty Kia's been behaving herself. Just the routine maintenance and the odd tire change here and there, if that counts as "interesting." Anyway, hope this helps you out! Cheers!

Hey! A hundred and ten Euro surely won't break the bank, will it? I'm glad to hear your Kia's been on good behaviour since then. It does reassure me quite a bit. I suppose I'll be booking an appointment at the garage soon to diagnose the real culprit behind my woes. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience and suggestions, genuinely appreciate it! Best of luck with your adventures on the road! Cheers!