Starter location

It is under the car in a bad spot sandwiched between the engine block and the catalytic converter. Here are tow guides that will help you get he job done and a picture from the internet. Take some time and you can get it done.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/jack-up-and-lift-your-car-safely

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Here is the starter from Amazon made by Kia which when you are replacing it I would go for becasue there is nothing worse than putting it back together and have a rebuilt unit poop out and you will need to do the job all over again.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00L2PGXYE/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=2carprcom-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00L2PGXYE&linkId=9c87e022f02ec8ce452c082b336aac19

Please let us know what happens and upload pictures or videos of the problem.

Cheers, Ken

Do I need to remove anything to take starter off to replace it?

You will need to raise the car and disconnect the battery cable before you begin. Here is a guide that will show you what you are in for when changing the starter motor.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken

What has to be removed in order to get to the starter? Do the engine have to come out?

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

The engine doesn't need to be removed, but Kia was nice enough to make it a nightmare.

First, make sure you disconnect the battery before doing any work. Next, safely lift the vehicle and remove the skid plate (if your vehicle has one). After that, you need to lower the exhaust from the exhaust manifolds. Once that is done, remove the heat shield from the starter (I believe there are three bolts). Once it is off, you can then access the wiring and the mounting bolts.

I wish I had pictures and specific directions for the procedure, but they are not available from the manufacturer.

Here is a link to this same question:

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/2005-kia-sorento-starter-located-on-this-sorento

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe

Thank you so much!! You are absolutely amazing!! Wishing happy holidays