Come along as I have a look at a 2015 Kia Sorento that has been at the dealers countless times and another local shop to see why the heck this thing won't start! It cranks over just fine but won't start.... sometimes. The other shop towed it to me to see if we could make heads or tails of it. Let's have a look.
-Enjoy!
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99 thoughts on “Even the kia dealer couldn’t fix it!”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars S. Ashley says:

    Your common sense process of troubleshooting is the only way to go.. the baffling thing to me is…are there really that many service pro’s out there without common sense? Anyways, absolutely brilliant diagnostic work as always!

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Richard Jones says:

    Eric, that is what I call evidence working, find the evidence, or even perhaps a hint of evidence and follow that exact trail. It might take thought, and above all process, (neither of which are always over evident everywhere) and the magic happens. Only it is not magic, it is doing things the right way.

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Duncan Evenson says:

    There is a TSB on that exact fault and repair with Hyundai

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Zippy TheChicken says:

    most likely was the main relay… its a very common problem… however didn't you say there was a fixed main power connector which you jumped to test it but that main power connector could be bad and pushing down on it makes the connection … good luck

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Andres Castro says:

    About muffins, just take both……Cheers from Comox Valley..😃

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars k. roy says:

    very good!

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mark Bren says:

    I'm surprised the kia dealership couldn't figure this one out. Way to go Eric!

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars c cole says:

    nice job . a very common problem on pc boards today especially on vehicles

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Stacy Dornan says:

    Your one smart cookie Mr O

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mel Meter says:

    Another great fix!

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Alan Nilsson says:

    You have just proven that dealership has no one in their shop that bothers to try and diagnose problems or trouble shoot in any way. It is a rare find when a mechanic will try to figure out what is going on when the fuse box is HIT and then the car STARTS…they seem to only care that 'hey, now the car started…so just give it a punch in the fuse box when it won't start for you' and send you on your way. Well done, SMA!!

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Wayne Morfett says:

    Awesome fix common sense great knowledge and not ripping of the customer that’s a win win as far as I am concerned stay healthy take care

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Awesomus Maximus says:

    Dealerships they are all dodgy except Maybe Lexus

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Luis Puga says:

    Well that's your problem…..she's got to get rid of them Batman seat covers. Spotted them right at the beginning.

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars DirectCurrent says:

    One of the best diagnostic videos I have seen. And your logic about going about it is spot on. You are definitely one of the best one-man mechanic shops I've ever seen. Keep up the great work and continue to keep sharing these amazing videos with us. Wish you and the family all the best!👍

  16. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars athhud says:

    No joke, I cheered in my head when you said that you were going to reflow the solder joints! I am so proud of you for not letting the soldering iron scare you away this time. Lol

    I have a feeling that in the times of “everything is back-ordered” you might get more into board repair than you like.

  17. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Alex Brown says:

    Brilliant job, mate. Your diagnostic skills are a pleasure to behold and your patience is extraordinary 🙂

  18. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars noel castle says:

    Another great diagnosis well explained and methodical enjoyable to watch and learn . Makes you wonder why the dealership didn't just replace that fuse/ relay module or at least swap one to test though I suppose it started working and they shipped it and didn't want to put any time into a proper diag. Dealerships seem to he time limited in the diag department. That's a fairly new vehicle I bet good old Whimpies wouldn't have one of those sitting in their yard , $78 seems very cheap but here in Australia we pay big $$$ for our geniune parts due to shipping , lower volumes and our dollar is much weaker than the mighty greenback. Thanks again for the time you put into these high quality videos hope you get paid correctly for your time doing these it cannot be easy time wise owning and running a busy shop , being a husband father and not getting burned out mentally by it all.

  19. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dave P. says:

    Like the Gulf hat.

  20. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars D C says:

    Ya gotta hate when someone fists your box…

  21. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Zheng Shuang says:

    <<TRADING HAS NOT BEEN GOING WELL WITH ME, I HAVE INVESTED A LOT OF TIME AND FAILED, I TRADED ON MY OWN BUT EACH TIME I KEEP LOSING MONEY. I DON'T HAVE GOOD STRATEGIES TOWARDS THE MARKET PLEASE CAN SOMEONE PUT ME THROUGH ON THE RIGHT PATH.

  22. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Zheng Shuang says:

    <<TRADING HAS NOT BEEN GOING WELL WITH ME, I HAVE INVESTED A LOT OF TIME AND FAILED, I TRADED ON MY OWN BUT EACH TIME I KEEP LOSING MONEY. I DON'T HAVE GOOD STRATEGIES TOWARDS THE MARKET PLEASE CAN SOMEONE PUT ME THROUGH ON THE RIGHT PATH.

  23. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Paul westerhaus says:

    you should remove the old solder then solder it back

  24. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Big Bear Venom says:

    Did you order her a new fuse block cover that she put her fist through ?

  25. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mr. Lee says:

    Great one, Thanks Doc.

  26. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars J.P. Simen☆ says:

    I'm the Greatest in the World! The problem is, it ain't Got No gas innit. Sling Blade style.

  27. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Brandon Cartwright says:

    Serious question about can high and low. Lets say i use an add a fuse in a fuse box for switch power on a head light circuit for fog lights. The reason is irrelevant but if that power wire was ran next to can bus wires or looped around can bus comm wires, could it interfere with the can signal. Amp power wires can cause feed back in rca leads, so could the can signal be sensitive enough to pick up outside noise if the wires are not shielded enough?

  28. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Inspired Mechanics says:

    Diagnostics 101… Work the problem. And you have proven this truly works if committed to it each time. Awesome job and video as always 👍

  29. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Zacharyt54 says:

    Mrs. O sticking it to the man! Don't mess with that, lady!

  30. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Kent Diego says:

    I repair a lot of old electronics. Re-flowing the solder at pins is often needed. For intermittent problems is is the first thing to do. It is a good solid repair that will last many years.

  31. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Slingbart says:

    did you order a new fuze box top? or put some water proof tape over it.
    I believe it was the connectors underneath shorted and as you pushed it, it made contact. similar to a power supply connector to a MB.
    Still another well made entertaining video and content, better than CBS, NBC or FOX

  32. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Marc Grobe says:

    Good job Eric! You stumbled across KIA Engineers field testing their new Anti-theft Device.

  33. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars don box says:

    A systematic approach is a right way to go Eric. Good Work!!!

  34. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars rorannerusan says:

    Great job Eric. I know the new leadless solders suck and don’t always last long. The joints break easy from vibration and heat. Maybe some one will fix them cheap someday using good solder.

  35. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Infinite Velocity says:

    I'd ship it. Just need a duct tape job over the cover to prevent water from intruding…

  36. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Brett Millett says:

    I’m a software engineer. How you proceeded with the diagnosis is pretty much how I tackle a software bug. You’d make a good engineer. Heck, auto-mechanics these days should just call themselves engineers. Well, at least the ones who can do this like you can. 👍

  37. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Sandmansa says:

    That's interesting to know. The local Kia dealer near me wants to sell you the whole dang fuse box for an insane amount of money. So, instead. I just went to a local U-pull it yard and grabbed a pocket full of them. Seems to be a fairly common issue with Kia Sorento's.

  38. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeff Kottwitz says:

    Absolutely love your videos Eric

  39. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeff Kottwitz says:

    I definitely agree it is always super frustrating when it starts and you can't figure out why…

  40. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars will d says:

    Ivan just lost his shit after this one

  41. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Marc miIIs says:

    I would of just wired a wackamole hammer to the air intake and sent it. jk

  42. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Marshallz79 says:

    Hey Eric, shoulda said put your fist through that like and subscribe buttons lol 👍

  43. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars David Pruitt says:

    As an engineer and someone that used to do IT help, I can appreciate looking stuff up. 90% of my "solutions" involve googling and reading the answer on stackoverflow. I would rather have a mechanic that's willing to spend a few minutes reading instead of hours randomly poking around.

  44. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars BigOwlBrain says:

    By the time you had cut to the kitchen, I had suspected that a relay was likely going to be the issue based on the size of the hole in that fuse box cover. I did not expect it to be on a circuit board and as a separate block inside the fuse box.

    It makes little sense to have to mold additional plastic bits and manufacture a board which cost extra to produce rather than design the overall fuse box the correct way. Even if needing circuit isolation it would have been doable. If in a pinch and needing to get it running quick if it was a bad relay, it would have also been nice to be given the option to swap around relays just to get it running.

    Once can certainly say though that it wasn't designed to force you to bring it to the Kia dealer to fix it, because apparently they can't !

  45. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Andrew Parry says:

    Real question is.. was it chocolate or Berry you ate??

  46. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars khrwjt says:

    When I hit the Like button I almost put my fist through it.

  47. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars David Pruitt says:

    If you fix an intermittent by problem by whacking it how are you suppose to diagnose it?

  48. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Nunya Bidness says:

    WAIT!!!! Which muffin did you choose???? We neeeeeeeeeeeeeed to know!!

  49. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars David Ward says:

    I got a 2003 Yukon Denali with 6.0. If you ever get chance can you please do a Chevy/GMC oil pan gasket replacement???

  50. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Waccoon says:

    Just yesterday, I was watching Dave's channel (EEVblog) about automotive-grade electronic parts and how they need to withstand extreme vibration and temperature. I can't say the auto manufactures REALLY take that stuff seriously when I hear about cold solder joints bringing one of these machines to its knees. I mean, geez… it's not like lead-free solder is old tech at this point. You'd think they'd have perfected it by now.

    You are the man, Eric! Folks like you make the world a better place by keeping our old (and new) junk a runnin'.

  51. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars tvdetectivefan says:

    According to Joe's Classic video games, usually those solder joints at the ends will break leaving a tell-tale ring.

  52. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Vickers Fence LLC says:

    I have a 2014 kia sorento when I put it in reverse it makes a raddleing sound and in drive the car shifts fine going down the road runs good just that noise when you put in r and d starting off any suggestions I checked the fluid it's fine

  53. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Tim says:

    Nice work Mr O!

  54. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars tpformybunghole1974 says:

    I had a 1988 oldsmobile it used to stall when a suddenly heavy electrical load would occur (like turning heat on full blast or heavy bass during music with sound system). I added an extra ground it didn't help. My mechanic tested everything everything was good, couldn't find the problem. Just as I was about to leave he banged hard a bunch of times under the dash apparently where the computer was. He said see if this helps. Low and behold I didn't have a stall for 6 months so something was loose or bad solder joint. When the stalling would return I'd kick the he'll out the dash good for another 6 months😆

  55. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Rob Peabo says:

    Your diagnostic ethos and methodology was in my opinion the correct one. Plus you were able with certainty prove which part was faulty. It would have been good if you could have seen the pins move and verify that reflowing the solder was going to fix the issue permanently, however for $78.00 plus labour, it is a no brainer to replace it in this instance. As I have said in the past on posts on your channel and others, as a business you have to warranty your work. You also have to maintain your reputation. Even a "no parts repair" can leave a sour taste in a customer if the problem still exists and they are without a vehicle again, or they break down requiring a tow plus be without a vehicle. Good work as always Eric!

    BTW did you go for the chocolate muffin, berry muffin or did you have both – MRS O is clearly a maker of culinary delights. You aren't too shabby with your smokers and other outdoor cookers👍.

  56. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Vince says:

    You and Wes are two of my favourite YouTube auto repair channels. Both of you show your experience and knowledge when troubleshooting issues. It's amazing to watch, thanks for sharing!

  57. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars LMacNeill says:

    To be fair, the dealers don't pay their techs to diagnose problems. At best, they fire a parts-cannon at nearly every problem — and 80% of the time, it works. Particularly if you fire it enough times. And the customer doesn't care, since the car's probably under warranty anyway.

    But when it takes more than 30 minutes to diagnose the problem, the tech isn't interested in actually solving the problem because the dealer pays him/her a flat number of hours no matter how long it takes them to actually fix the problem. Thus, the tech would rather dump this car and go do 8 brake jobs in 8 hours that will pay them 12 or even 16 hours of labor. The flat-rate system that all dealers use sucks.

  58. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars UNEEK LOGIK says:

    What’s up with women & fisting these days??!…

  59. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars LS1LE says:

    I heard about your channel from Rays channel. I’ve seen a few of your videos and you are definitely a awesome technician. Your videos educate and enlighten. Thank you!!

  60. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mike R says:

    COME ON, MAN… you screwed up the segue at the end horribly! It should have been… "Anyways… why don't you guys put your fist into that comment section?!" Just like that woman put her first through that fuse box cover! SO disappointed! Actually I'm not… you went Pine Hollow on that KIA. AWESOME stuff, Mr. O! Thanks so much for the awesome content. ALSO please consider Warsteiner Oktoberfest if you can find it at your local beer store. If you enjoy the Sam OctoberFest you will LOVE the Warsteiner!

  61. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Daddyoh says:

    When you call the customer see if she has the other part of the fuse box so you can glue it back together or Duck tape it. Great Job.

  62. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Kevin Byrne says:

    The most sincere compliment to your knowledge and skill is your competitors' sending to you the cars that they can't repair.

  63. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars wazza33racer says:

    I think the other shops just werent trying to hard. The fault codes give a direct clue………fault with PCM relay and they cant do a simple check to check the circuit for the relay? wtf? Intergrated circuit relay……for real? why is that even needed? Retards. The mode of repair, with the solder joints can probably explained by what is called "a cold joint"…….which is a solder joint to a surface mount component that is not correct, it can look ok, but it doesnt work correctly. Did Eric also order a new fuse box lid? The lady can take the old one with her, to the anger management class.

  64. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bind the Devil Loose The Angels says:

    since when does youtube not give a upload date? I love your videos keep up the good work. I'm a fleet mechanic on diesels and I really enjoy watching the diag videos.

  65. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars khrwjt says:

    When you drive it off the trailer you're supposed to yell in panic.

  66. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars marscruz says:

    My guess is that there was a cold solder joint on the control side of that relay. I can understand why you wouldn't want to trust your "repair"… at least as long as the replacement part is only $78. However if the part was $400 I would give the lady the option of taking a chance on the solder reflow. If she has kids that $400 may be a big deal and worth the risk… or if it was a young guy going to college then he might have a dozen friends that he could call if he got stranded again. You have to look at the unique circumstances and let the customer decide.

  67. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Enrique says:

    Genius!!! I dont be tired to see you fixing cars again and again. An excelent mechanic!!! a professor !!! Learn a lot , THank you!!!

  68. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars dafirnz says:

    For $80 there's no good reason to not suggest the customer get the new part. Especially after what has probably been weeks of aggravation and hundreds, or thousands of dollars in nonsense.

  69. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Reven Niaga says:

    Ok $78 for that part, but the broken plastic cover is $400

  70. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars marcus motors says:

    Reflowed the solder on a tcm circuit board on rav4 after another shop quoted her a transmission and its been working for great for several years since

  71. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mark McKelvy says:

    So are we supposed to fist the comment section? 🤔

  72. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chris Ball says:

    Good job Eric. By the way, what were the muffins like? They looked tasty! Cheers from OZ. Chris.

  73. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Doug Mottert says:

    What happen to Mrs. O's thumb?

  74. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Greg Blau says:

    That confidence in knowing why something is the solution is worth the time. I guessed what it needed pretty early, but wouldn't have been able to justify it if for some reason it didn't fix the problem and I'd bet at least one of the people that looked at it before didn't want to pull the trigger for that reason

  75. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Perry Reasch says:

    ANOTHER GREAT VIDEO ERIC

  76. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Pat Jago says:

    By creating a plan you zeroed in on the problem before you even touched it. Starting with the big old computer you plugged in and moving on from there. Outstanding

  77. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mice InOz says:

    Beating the box is what the stealership did. That is why it is with you to get fixed. Good troubleshooting processes exhibited yet again! BTW, does the 78 bucks include a new fuse box cover too? Not the sort of area I would leave open in your climte!

  78. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars neilbradley says:

    HIPSTER MUFFINS!

  79. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars NOpainNOgainJUSTdoIT says:

    so, berries or chocolate? inquiring minds needs to know?

  80. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars tv says:

    I like it great work did order a new fuse box cover?

  81. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars marcus motors says:

    I get so tired of people bringing their stuff to the dealership first, thinking they have some magical powers or something. When in reality it almost always come down to whatever tech is working on it.

  82. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars matty b says:

    This man knows his first rule of diagnosis " Thou shall check power supplies and grounds first " I've lost count of the number of times a relay not pulling in to supply power to something is a cause of a no start.

    Good find and good process to find the cause.

  83. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Gordon says:

    I agree. the method of changing a module or a box does not help you, or others actually find the problem. Your approach is great.

  84. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars dskebo says:

    When you seen that ring around the pin you found a cold solder joint and your fix was proper.

  85. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Al Eastwood says:

    Nice Diagnosis Eric Eric-O fixed it again. I love the process you take to repair things. It's what I would do because like your self I've got to know what cause is as well fixing it don't work for me unless I know what went wrong.

  86. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars SJ FK says:

    You diag the way you do is because it’s the correct way AND you don’t want a comeback for no reason.

  87. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Don Gamble says:

    Wow. Very good, Eric. Let's put our fist through the fusebox.

  88. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Carl Bergstrom says:

    I wish you had spent some time checking out the third connector on that relay/fuse block you removed. The main power connector with the little yellow telltale.

  89. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars mspine says:

    Thanks for letting us into your mind. I wish there were more of you.

  90. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Comfort Zone says:

    1994 Honda Accord has a similar problem with fuel pump relay board. I had two of those cars and both have the same problem, replaced two boards, finally learned to reflow the relay solder joints for a no part repair.

  91. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars KEN MCCORMICK says:

    you can not fix a problem, if you do not locate the cause of the problem.

  92. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Denny J says:

    Wish whatever was wrong with my relative's 06 Kia Sorrento, was fixed – before the engine caught fire just after the person exited! Total loss, 14 yr old car isn't that old, many vehicles twice that age are happily cruising down the road!

  93. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Frank Sylvester says:

    Logic works everytime.

  94. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars KEN MCCORMICK says:

    good job!

  95. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars MrJeffcoley1 says:

    A computer diagnostic tool is required to work on any modern automobile. Gone are the days when there were just a few wires, they were now, hundreds. Without the ECM, telling you what’s wrong, you wouldn’t even know where to start.

  96. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Raptor50aus says:

    Piss poor design should have epoxy around those relays to present broken solder joints

  97. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Roberr Phillips says:

    how much for a new cover? lol

  98. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars adkyn duran says:

    ok alright

  99. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars xris David says:

    Ain't that just ridiculous !! Something as simple as a cold solder joint takin' a car down

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