Is the Kia Cadenza Reliable?
2014–2020 defect & recall-risk analysis from citable NHTSA data.
The score ranks this model's recall intensity against other sedans — plus systemic-defect concentration and any open federal investigations. It measures defect and recall risk, not long-term mechanical durability, and is deliberately not skewed by how many were sold.
Reliability Score
Own a Kia Cadenza? Check your specific VIN for a full history report.
Open NHTSA Investigation
hyundai and kia abs module fires
Component: service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/module
⚠ Historically, 3% of AQ investigations became recalls.
An open investigation is NHTSA reviewing a potential defect — the earliest warning a recall may be coming. It is not a defect finding. See all vehicles under investigation →
Kia Cadenza Reliability by Year
| Model Year | Recalls | Complaints | Injuries | Deaths | Reliability Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 1 | 0 | — | — | 99 | Excellent |
| 2019 | 1 | 5 | — | — | 94 | Excellent |
| 2018 | 1 | 5 | — | — | 94 | Excellent |
| 2017 | 1 | 25 | — | — | 74 | Good |
| 2016 | 1 | 7 | — | — | 91 | Excellent |
| 2015 | 1 | 34 | 3 | — | 74 | Good |
| 2014 | 1 | 76 | 7 | — | 74 | Good |
Reliability scores are proprietary to VinCheckEngine and incorporate multiple weighted safety signals.
How the Cadenza Compares to Similar Vehicles
The Cadenza scores 17 points above the average sedan — a strong result.
Known Kia Cadenza Reliability Issues
The following components appear most frequently in owner complaints filed with NHTSA:
Based on 152 owner complaints across recent model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kia Cadenza reliable?+
The Kia Cadenza scores 89/100 on our reliability index — rated "Excellent." Across 7 recently analyzed model years, it accumulated 7 recall campaigns and 152 owner complaints in the NHTSA database.
What year Cadenza is most reliable?+
Among the years analyzed, the 2020 Cadenza achieved the highest reliability score of 99/100 with 1 recall and 0 complaints.
How many miles does a Cadenza last?+
With consistent maintenance, most Kia Cadenza owners report 150,000 to 200,000+ miles of service life. Checking the VIN of any specific used Cadenza will reveal its actual mileage history and any title events.
More Kia Cadenza Research
Check a Specific Kia Cadenza VIN
Model-level reliability scores show general trends. A VIN-specific report reveals the exact history of any individual vehicle — accidents, odometer records, auction events, and open recalls.
Run a Free VIN Report →