Bulbs
WARNING - Working on Headlights
Before working on the headlamp, firmly apply the parking brake, make sure the ignition switch is in the LOCK position, and turn off the lights to avoid sudden vehicle movement and burned fingers or electric shock.
Use only bulbs of the specified wattage.
CAUTION
Always replace a burned-out bulb with one of the same rating. Otherwise, the fuse or wiring system may be damaged.
CAUTION
If you do not have the necessary tools, suitable bulbs, and experience, consult an authorized Kia dealer. In many cases, it is difficult to replace a vehicle light bulb because other vehicle parts must be removed before you can reach the bulb. This is especially true if you need to remove the headlamp assembly to access the bulb(s). Removing/installing the headlamp assembly may damage the vehicle.
✽ NOTICE
After driving in heavy rain or after washing, the headlamp and taillamp lenses may appear frosted. This condition is caused by the temperature difference between the lamp interior and exterior. It is similar to condensation on your windows inside the vehicle during rain and does not indicate a problem with your vehicle. If water leaks into the lamp electrical circuit, have the vehicle checked at an authorized Kia dealer.
Replacing Headlamp, Parking Lamp, Turn Signal Lamp, and Front Fog Lamp Bulbs

(1) High beam headlamp
(2) Low beam headlamp
(3) Front turn signal lamp
(4) Parking lamp
(5) Side marker lamp
(6) Front fog lamp (if equipped)

Headlamp Bulb
WARNING - Halogen Bulbs
- Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas. If the bulb is broken, glass fragments may fly out.
- Always handle them carefully and avoid scratches and abrasions. If the bulbs are lit, avoid contact with liquids. Never touch the glass with bare hands.
- Residual oil may cause the bulb to overheat and burst when turned on. Operate the bulb only after installing it in the headlamp.
- If the bulb is damaged or cracked, replace it immediately and dispose of it carefully.
- Wear protective glasses when replacing a bulb. Allow the bulb to cool before handling.
WARNING. Low beam xenon headlamps (if equipped)
Do not attempt to replace or check the low beam (xenon bulb) due to the risk of electric shock. If the bulb does not work, we recommend having it checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
Headlamp (bulb type) - High/Low

1. Open the hood.
2. Remove the headlight bulb cover by turning it counterclockwise.
3. Remove the socket from the assembly by turning the socket counterclockwise until the protrusions on the socket align with the slots in the assembly.
4. Remove the bulb by pulling it out.
5. Install the new bulb by inserting it into the socket.
6. Install the socket into the assembly by aligning the protrusions on the socket with the slots in the assembly.
Insert the socket into the assembly and turn the socket clockwise.
7. Install the headlamp bulb cover by turning it clockwise.
Turn signal lamp/Parking lamp

1. Remove the socket from the assembly by turning the socket counterclockwise until the socket protrusions align with the assembly grooves.
2. Remove the bulb from the socket by pressing it in and turning it counterclockwise until the bulb protrusions align with the socket slots. Pull the bulb out of the socket.
3. Insert the new bulb into the socket and turn it until it locks into place.
4. Install the socket into the assembly, aligning the tabs on the socket with the slots in the assembly. Insert the socket into the assembly and turn it clockwise.
✽ NOTICE
If the bulb does not turn inside the socket, remove the bulb, rotate it 180° and try again.
Front fog lamp bulbs (if equipped)

1. Remove the front bumper lower cover.
2. Reach behind the rear of the front bumper.
3. Disconnect the power connector from the socket.
4. Remove the socket from the housing by turning the socket counterclockwise until the socket protrusions align with the housing grooves.
5. Install the new socket into the lamp housing by aligning the tabs on the socket with the slots in the housing. Insert the socket into the housing and turn it clockwise.
6. Connect the power connector to the socket.
7. Install the front bumper.
✽ NOTICE
Always adjust the headlamp aim after an accident or when the assembly is reinstalled. Have it done by an authorized Kia dealer.
Headlamp (HID type), front position (LED), bulb replacement
If the bulb does not work, we recommend having it checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
✽ NOTICE
HID bulbs offer better performance compared to halogen bulbs. HID bulbs are rated by the manufacturer to last two times longer or more than halogen bulbs, depending on how often they are used. They may eventually require replacement during the life of the vehicle. Turning the headlamps on and off more often than normal use will shorten the life of HID bulbs. HID bulbs do not fail in the same way as halogen incandescent bulbs. If a headlamp goes out after a period of operation but the bulb lights immediately when the headlamp switch is turned on, the HID bulb most likely needs to be replaced. The components of HID bulbs are more complex than conventional halogen bulbs, so the replacement cost is higher.
Test yourself
A quick Kia Sorento Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.