[BuckeyeQuickey]

Hello -- on our 2016 Sorrento SX, I recently had the CEL (check engine light) come on, so I got out my ODB2 reader and scanned the codes.

I replaced the O2 sensor which was indicated as bad, cleared the codes, but it threw the same code immediately.

About the same time, the hatch actuator failed, so I took it to my local KIA dealer service department.

They, too replaced the sensor with the same results. Upon further inspection, they discovered rodent damage to the wiring harness, and they sent me a photo of literally 2 damaged and one interrupted wire.

Of course, it's damage, not a MFG defect, so not covered under warranty, which I understand. I haven't gotten the quote for repair yet, but expect it to be $$$$$ as he suggested we try to get our auto insurance to pay for it.

I mentioned that I could easily repair that damage, and the service tech claimed that a DIY repair on the wiring harness would void the vehicle warranty as being "modified."

Is this true?

Like a couple others have stated, Check with your Auto or even Home Owners insurance, I had both my wife's Honda Accord and my GMC Pickup trucks wiring completely destroyed by rodents in a matter of days, The Bill I got from the GM Dealer was well over $7000 to replace my trucks wiring harness and all the wiring leading to both sides of my front lights, I called State Farm and the repairs for both vehicles was covered under our Auto Insurance.
Just so you know, I was told by the mechanic at the Honda Dealer that they have been swamped with work replacing and repairing chewed wires, he then told me one of the main reasons Rodents and Squirrels love the wiring on newer vehicles, is because some wire manufactures are now using a wire whose coating (Insulation) is made from the By Product of "Soybeans", apparently the Rodents and Squirrels find the outer Wiring insulation irresistible, and will destroy any wire that is made using it.