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VIN REPORT

5XXG14J25MG0411792021 KIA K5LXS

Risk Score
35
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
6 Found
6 campaigns
146
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
5 yrs
Made in UNITED STATES (USA)
F
Score: 33/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2021 KIA K5 was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 6 open recalls on record — these are safety-critical and should be addressed immediately. Owner complaints include 1 reported death and 7 injuries — an extremely serious pattern that warrants further investigation.

  • 6 open recalls including safety-critical systems (Airbag system recall; Steering system recall)
  • 1 death reported in owner complaints — a serious red flag
  • 7 complaints involved a crash — unusually high incident rate
  • Complaint rate is accelerating — issues appear to be getting worse, not better
  • Engine/Powertrain is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
  • High lemon law risk indicators — multiple safety-critical recall and complaint patterns present
35/100
Moderate Risk
4 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 4 detected
6 model-wide recalls on record
+12
Vehicle may qualify as a lemon — repeat repair failures
+10
Elevated fire risk signals detected
+7
Accelerating complaint trend — problems increasing over time
+6
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
KIA
Model
K5
Year
2021
Trim / Series
LXS
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
1.6L
Transmission
Automatic
Doors
4
Manufacturer
KIA GEORGIA, INC
Assembly
GEORGIA, UNITED STATES (USA)
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Safety
F
Score: 33/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety7/30
Complaint History6/30
75/100Critical
  • Airbag system recall
  • Steering system recall
  • Fuel system recall
46/100
Advanced
8 of 20 safety features detected
Missing: Automatic Emergency Braking
Elevated
  • 2 complaint(s) involved a fire
High
  • 2 recalls on same component: Safety Systems
  • 2 recalls on same component: Fuel System
  • 1 death(s) reported in complaints
  • 7 injuries reported in complaints
  • Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints

Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Engine/Powertrain
1 recall27 complaints
Safety Systems
2 recalls8 complaints
Fuel System
2 recalls8 complaints
Steering
1 recall3 complaints
Forward Collision WarningStandard
Automatic Emergency Braking?Unknown
Pedestrian AEBStandard
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure WarningStandard
Lane Keep AssistStandard
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot Monitoring?Unknown
Rear Cross Traffic Alert?Unknown
Adaptive Cruise Control?Unknown
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High BeamStandard
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup CameraStandard
Electronic Stability ControlStandard
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data Recorder?Unknown
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake Support?Unknown
Keyless Ignition?Unknown
Recalls
33/100
Monitor Deferred Risk
4 component(s) approaching service intervals within the next 20,000 miles. Factor routine maintenance costs into your ownership budget.
No odometer data on record. Mileage is estimated at ~60,000 mi based on average annual driving. Items marked EST. OVERDUE may already be due — verify service history with the seller. Items marked OVERDUE are confirmed past-due based on vehicle age alone.
MONITORCriticalWater Pump
Service interval: 100,000 mi · Est. ~60,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Water Pump service before 100,000 mi
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
EST. OVERDUEHighTransmission Fluid / Service
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 5 yr · Past due by age
Service Transmission Fluid / Service immediately — already past the 60,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
EST. OVERDUEHighCoolant Flush
Service interval: 5 yr · Vehicle age: 5 yr · Past due by age
Service Coolant Flush immediately — already past the 100,000 mi / 5 yr interval
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
MONITORModerateSpark Plugs (iridium/platinum)
Service interval: 100,000 mi · Est. ~60,000 mi (no odometer on record)
Schedule Spark Plugs (iridium/platinum) service before 100,000 mi
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
66 RECALLS

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 6 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

1 of 6 recalls has a low industry completion rate — statistically likely unrepaired.

70%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

KIA Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
86%Fair

KIA completes recalls at a fair rate (86%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~20 months.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~20 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
20mo
#21V164000
Nov 2021

AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE

SummaryKia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte vehicles. The Occupant Classification and Detection System (OCS/ODS) unit may not detect the presence of a child restraint system in the front passenger seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Read full details...
ConsequenceIn the event of a crash, deployment of the front passenger air bag, with a child in that seat, can increase the risk of injury to the child.
Est. Repair Completion~75%

~25% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#21V519000
Aug 2021

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

SummaryKia Motor America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Sorento and 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engines. Fuel may leak at the pipe connection between the high-pressure fuel pump and fuel rail.
Read full details...
ConsequenceA fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.
Est. Repair Completion~77%

~23% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#21V447000
Invalid Date

LANE DEPARTURE: LANE KEEP: STEERING ASSIST

SummaryKia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L T-GDI engines. The Rack-Mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS) system lacks the ability to diagnose communication faults. If a communication fault occurs while driving around a curve with Lane Following Assist (LFA) engaged, the steering assist level may not adjust properly, causing a sudden increase in the steering effort required.
Read full details...
ConsequenceA sudden increase in steering effort can increase the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~76%

~24% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#22V760000
Nov 2022

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

SummaryKia Motors, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento and 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
Read full details...
ConsequenceLoss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~72%

~28% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#23V149000
Jul 2023

AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN

SummaryKia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The side curtain air bags may have been installed incorrectly, causing them not to deploy properly in the event of a crash.
Read full details...
ConsequenceAir bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~78%

~22% chance this recall was never fixed

Moderate Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#25V794000
Invalid Date

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

SummaryKia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2024 K5 vehicles. A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank.
Read full details...
ConsequenceA melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Est. Repair Completion~40%

~60% of these vehicles are statistically unrepaired

High Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
4.8yr open
AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
4.6yr open
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
3.5yr open
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
2.9yr open
07/03/2023
6 total campaigns
Safety SystemsFuel SystemSteeringEngine/Powertrain
3
Part Replacements
2
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
4 recalls are over 2 years old — statistically less likely to have been completed. Verify repair status with any dealer using your VIN.
RECALL DIDN'T FIX IT

96% of complaints about "FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS" were filed AFTER recall campaign 21V519000 (2021-08-07) — the recall remedy may not have fully resolved the issue.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
96% post-recall
Recall: 2021-08-073 before · 78 after#21V519000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
73% post-recall
Recall: 2022-11-104 before · 11 after#22V760000
AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE
100% post-recall
Recall: 2021-11-030 before · 2 after#21V164000

Continuing complaints after a recall may indicate an inadequate fix, a new failure mode, or that many vehicles never had the recall performed. Verify recall completion status directly with NHTSA.

9mo
Lag from first complaint to recall
First complaint: 2020-11-11 · Recall issued: 2021-08-07

Recall was issued within 9 months of first complaints — relatively prompt response.

1 in 20

1 death reported across 146 complaints — a rate of 1 in 146 complaints involving a fatality.

May Qualify

This vehicle shows 4 lemon law indicators. Eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service — consult a lemon law attorney.

Strong protection states: California, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts
Complaints
Electrical
42
Other
2 crash1 inj38
Engine/Powertrain
27
Body/Structure
9
Fuel System
1 inj8
Safety Systems
5 crash5 inj8
Brakes
5
Visibility
4
2020
3
2021
13
2022
19
2023
15
2024
32
2025
45
2026
19
156% trend in recent years (increasing complaints)
Accelerating +190%
90
Last 24 months
31
Prior 24 months

⚠ Complaint rate is accelerating — issue may be getting worse

Fire/smoke20
Electrical failure11
Engine stalling8
Transmission slip1
Conditions Reported
Highway/high-speed (26)Rain/wet (5)Startup (5)Parking/low-speed (4)Cold weather (2)
146HIGH VOLUME
2
Fires
7
Crashes
1
Death
7
Injuries
ODI #11738283ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I am writing to formally complain about the ongoing issues with my vehicle, specifically the repeated failure of the air conditioning system and the excessive number of recalls that have caused major inconvenience and lost work time. The air conditioning unit in my vehicle has failed three separate times. Each time, I was told the fan motor needed to be replaced, and the motor has now been replaced three times. After each repair, the system works temporarily before failing again. I have now been informed that the issue may actually be electrical in nature, which raises concerns that the original problem was never properly diagnosed or repaired. In addition to the air conditioning problems, my vehicle has been subject to multiple recalls requiring repeated trips for repairs. These ongoing issues have forced me to miss work several times, causing financial hardship, stress, and a loss of confidence in the reliability and safety of my vehicle. At this point, I am requesting the following: A full inspection and proper diagnosis of the electrical system related to the air conditioning failure. A permanent repair solution rather than temporary fixes. Reimbursement or compensation for repeated repair visits, missed work time, and inconvenience caused by these recurring issues. A review of my vehicle’s repair history to determine whether additional corrective action is appropriate. I have made every effort to address these issues through the proper service channels, but the recurring failures continue. I expect this matter to be taken seriously and resolved promptly. Please contact me as soon as possible regarding the next steps to resolve this issue. Sincerely,

ODI #11737762FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that there was an abnormal odor of fuel. The check engine light was illuminated. The contact received the recall notice for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V794000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). An unknown local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.

ODI #11737928UNKNOWN OR OTHER

My sunroof glass spontaneously shattered causing glass to be everywhere inside my car while I was driving. It scared me and now my car is undrivable until the glass is repaired. I see many thread online of other Kia K5 owners have experienced the same issue. My initial thought was that my tire popped so I tried to pull off to the side of the road but cars were just trying to get around me. I opened up my sunroof because it did sound like something popped and there was a big hole in my sunroof. I immediately closed it and drove home.

ODI #11736397POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shuddered. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The failure occurred on several different occasions. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to get a diagnosis however, the failure cause was unidentifiable. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.

ODI #11735605ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS

I have experienced consistent electrical issues with my drivers side door panel on my 2021 Kia K5. The lights on the panel will flash off and on intermittently, the windows will not roll down, and doors will not lock/unlock, posing an entrapment risk. Additionally, when this panel malfunctions, my power seat will move and adjust (sometimes while I am driving and the vehicle is in motion) back to original settings instead of remaining in the settings I've saved for my vehicle; fully unintended motion of course. Additionally, my media screen/multimedia face also experiences issues where it will black out, cutting my navigation mid-drive, as well as any other sound including music and/or navigation guidance. I initially raised these issues early in the ownership process of my vehicle with a door panel replacement being offered as a fix. This did not fix the issue. I was told i needed to try to get video of the incident when it occurred which seemed impossible.to me because under GA law, how am I supposed to obtain video while operating a motor vehicle. However, I eventually obtained footage. I expressed concern about the issue persusting past my warranty date and was told my issue would will be able to be fixed if it persisted because I initially raised it during the warranty period. However, I have now proceeded to be dismissed and blown off by both of thr Kia dealerships in my area regarding this issue. Even being told by one that they no longer had previous service records of my vehicle because they've changed ownership. As an authorized Kia service center, my understanding is that the dealership is an agents of the manufacturer. If they failed to transfer records, they are essentially admitting to a lapse in their duty to maintain my vehicle's history—a history that involves a life-threatening safety defect. There were no warning lamps for this issue, I've not had this issue inspected by my insurance or other agents.

ODI #11734630UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Manufacturer has failed to remedy the safety recall for my vehicle in a timely manner. Vehicle is a fire risk and I am unable to drive it. My vehicle has been sitting at the dealership service center for over a month. I have not been contacted by Kia as of yet even after repeated phone calls and emails for updates.

ODI #11729577UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I am reporting a failure in the integrity of Federal Safety Recall completion and documentation at Kia of Daphne. On 2/6/26, I was issued official paperwork stating a recall part was 'Special Ordered.' On 4/3, I attempted to call for FU in part progress. Informed “recall was done and replaced 2/6, and no part was ordered.” Advisor requested I speak to manager, I declined, request they speak to advisor. No call back until my VM left 4/6 afternoon requesting FU call. On 4/6/26 late afternoon, unprofessional call from another advisor who stated “we don’t see part ordered,” Advisor manager intercepted call, extremely unprofessional, stated he reviewed 4/4 and found nothing to support my statement, yet no FU call was placed to I, nor was any contact ever attempted by Kia. The dealership management proceeded to claim the recall was 'Complete' despite no record of the part arriving or being installed, and other advise “misspoke”. When I presented in person and requested clarification on this discrepancy in documentation/information/last signed document by I based on statement of part is order and will call when arrived to schedule; a male staff member became physically aggressive and volatile. I am concerned that the dealership is inaccurately reporting recall completions to NHTSA/Kia America without actually performing the required repairs or using the specified parts.I am also concerned for the integrity and safe environment of this dealership for customers and staff. I cannot attach the 11 minute video of the encounter, but am happy to provide via email to those who inquire given discretion for other parties.

ODI #11727249FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My vehicle is currently under a recall (recall SC356), but I'm currently very far from a Kia dealership. The nearest one is about 175 miles away. I contacted Kia and they informed me that they can't reimburse me for having my car towed to the dealership. So now I am stuck with a car that could possibly catch fire at anytime, according to the recall notice. And they refuse to help me.

ODI #11721805ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that while driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle jolted forward three times and then lost power. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 60 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact steered the vehicle into an independent mechanic and the vehicle was inspected, and there was oil all over the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that an unknown sensor was inoperable and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred the same day the vehicle was retrieved. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer where it was diagnosed, and determined that the valve cover needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred nine times, and the valve cover was replaced each time. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.

ODI #11720940FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that while driving 65-70 MPH, the fuel gauge displayed zero miles to empty. The contact pulled into the nearest gas station, and while attempting to add fuel to the vehicle, the contact became aware that there was fuel leaking out of the fuel tank outlet, and the gas pump nozzle was stopped. The contact was unable to refuel the vehicle. The contact stated that after returning to drive, the fuel gauge indicated 100 miles to empty. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V794000 (Fuel System, Gasoline), and the dealer advised the contact that the manufacturer had instructed the contact not release the vehicle to the owner due to the recall. While diagnosing the vehicle, a technician at the dealer sent a photo displaying that the rear driver's side seat had melted internally due to the fuel tank overheating. Additionally, the dealer informed the contact that the SC288 Alpha Campaign had failed. The vehicle remained at the dealer for four months; however, the manufacturer later sent a letter advising the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired, and a buyback was suggested. The manufacturer offered to reimburse the down payment for the vehicle. The contact stated that the buy-back offer was unsatisfactory. The contact declined the offer, and the manufacturer then threatened to tow the unrepaired vehicle back to the residence. The contact stated that the manufacturer had failed to honor the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 145,000.

ODI #11720975FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The fuel tank malfunctioned while driving. It appeared on my odometer that I had zero gas, once I pulled into a gas station to fill up, I could see the gas pouring out of the tank while the pump was unable to pump any gas due to the pressure coming out of the tank. Bev Smith Kia of Fort Pierce has the vehicle if you would like to inspect it. I also have photos of the melted tank from the dealership. NHTSA Recall Number: 25V-794 The fuel tank expansion/melting risk, fuel leak, or fire risk, put the driver, passenger, and nearby citizens at risk if the car caught fire. Also, the seats have been known to eject with this particular recall. Yes the vehicle was inspected by Bev Smith Kia per my insistence, and instead of fixing it and returning the vehicle, Kia Corporate forced the hand of Bev Smith Kia to confiscate the vehicle due to it being a deadly recall. SC288 Alpha Campaign Failed is what the dealership told me to tell corporate. There were no warning lights when the odometer appeared to have zero miles, it simply went to zero and the backseat became very hot to the passenger. There was no ability to fill the gas tank as the pressure of gas was pouring gas out from the fuel tank and the pump would not add additional gas. This appeared in May of 2025. We took it to the dealership and they said there was nothing wrong with the car. The next time is happened was Sunday [XXX]. The car was taken to Bev Smith Kia dealership that Monday November 24th where it was confiscated by the dealership for the deadly recall that they claimed could never be fixed and Kia would do a buy back. There were no other issues with the vehicle prior to the incident in May of 2025. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ODI #11720629ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that the check engine warning light remained illuminated with DTC: P0471 displayed. The vehicle was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V794000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and was taken to the dealer for the recall repair where the dealer replaced the check valve. After receiving the recall repair, the check engine warning light remained illuminated with DTC: P0471 displayed. The vehicle was returned to the dealer, who diagnosed that the Exhaust Pressure Sensor was causing the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Sensor to fail and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000.

ODI #11720667ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I purchased a 2021 car in April 2024, which was originally side-swiped in November 2024. I filed an insurance claim and had to wait for the other insurer’s statement. In January 2025, the insurance company sent the car to one of their approved shops for electrical repairs, but the shop refused to work on it after noticing a missing airbag and flagged the car as a liability. They also mentioned the car had multiple past accidents and should have been listed as salvage, not clean title. I informed the dealership, but they refused to service the car, claiming the 30-day window had passed, even though their website states a 6-month warranty. Over the past year, I’ve been repairing the car myself and taking it to Kia and Midas, where I was told the car is in terrible condition. The dealership found water damage from a slow leak and wiring issues that were present when I bought the car. Now I’ve been quoted over $5,000 for repairs including a new computer and electrical work. I’ve tried reaching out to the dealership with no success. This car is essential for commuting to work and for my kids. I’ve had to rent a car for the past month, costing me over $1,000. I’m seeking assistance with this situation as I believe I was sold a defective vehicle without proper disclosure. I put down $4,000 when I purchased the car and have continued making small payments because I need it to commute and can’t afford another vehicle right now. I have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) with Progressive and comprehensive and collision coverage through the dealership’s partnered company, Brio Management, as they operate from the same office. Given these circumstances, I’m asking for help with this situation because I was sold a car with undisclosed damage and defects, and I’ve been left with costly repairs and rental expenses while the dealership won’t assist me.

ODI #11719743ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Unknown

ODI #11718393ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I originally got my car 2023 from Carmax I took it in to Kia dealership to get my recalls done they kept my car for over 6 days without fixing it when I arrived I was showed a photo saying it’s after market parts on this vehicle and we can’t touch it also they stated my vehicle was dangerous to drive so I asked for documentation that my vehicle was denied and they refused also I called Kia cooperate to file a complaint to get proper documentation that my vehicle was denied they told me it was denied as well and said they can’t give me paperwork to state anything

ODI #11717979STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE

The steering wheel became stiff all the sudden and became hard to turn. As well as all the warning lights came on when that happened such as Adaptive Cruise Control Automatic Emergency Braking Blind Spot Warning Forward Collision Warning Lane Departure Warning Lane Keeping Assistance Parking Collision Warning Rear Cross Traffic Warning. I was driving in the middle of the road when this happened and this could’ve caused a huge accident due to the fact that I couldn’t steer my car properly. No, the problem has not been resolved yet. It is in the dealership at the moment to be inspected. There was no problem prior to the other signs coming on besides low tire pressure. The appeared as I was driving on the road.

ODI #11713571FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I brought my car in for the recall regarding the faulty check valve in the fuel tank. My check engine light had also just come on. I have a 2021 Kia K5 with 60,000 miles and the dealership tells me I have to replace all 4 fuel injectors since it's causing a "system too lean" message.

ODI #11712308ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Blower motor stops working for a bit with no ac or heat

ODI #11711403FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard a loud explosion coming from the rear of the vehicle, and there was a dragging sound coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear seat raised up into the air with children seated in the seat. The contact became aware of fuel leaking and that the fuel tank was hanging down. The vehicle was towed to the residence and was later driven to a KIA dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 116,000.

ODI #11705470ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Ever since I bought my car in July of 2025 cash I’ve been having issues. Shortly after purchasing my car began to stall , lose power repeatedly. I then took to southwest kia in Dallas they told me I had contaminated gas. They charged me $2,000 to clean my fuel lines , replace spark plugs & replace a fuel pressure sensor. Shortly after i got my car I had the same issues. I explained my concerns and they replaced my fuel tank free of charge. A week later same issue so I went to a local mechanic and he replaced another fuel pressure sensor a month passed same issues occurred at least 3 more times on 3 different occasions. I’ve had to get my car towed off the middle of the free way or road numerous of times. This has been a financial nightmare

ODI #11705473ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The vehicle experiences severe stalling and loss of power while driving. When attempting to accelerate, the vehicle hesitates, shakes violently, and will not accelerate beyond approximately 10–20 mph. The vehicle then stalls completely and shuts off. These failures occur both after the vehicle has been parked and while actively driving. When placed in drive, the vehicle shakes aggressively and stalls. The check engine light is illuminated. The stalling has occurred multiple times in the middle of freeway traffic, creating an extreme safety hazard. My child has been in the vehicle during every occurrence. On one occasion, the vehicle shut off completely while on the freeway, placing our lives at risk and nearly resulting in a serious collision. This issue is unpredictable, persistent, and prevents safe operation of the vehicle. The vehicle has been inspected and worked on by Southwest Kia and A-Z Auto, but the defect continues to occur. I believe this is a manufacturing or design defect related to the engine or powertrain that poses a serious safety risk and should be investigated to determine whether other vehicles are affected.

ODI #11705201FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Took car to Kia for an oil change and car started driving weird . Rpm hand running high. Check engine light came on , took car to Kia and fuel tank was expanded . Car is still not fixed , and Kia won’t continue to pay for rental.

ODI #11704826AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Recall SC263) AIR BAGS THAT DO NOT DEPLOY (SC356)x2 A MELTED FUEL TANK CAN LEAK, INCREASING THE RISK OF A FIRE

ODI #11704502ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Within three days of purchase, the vehicle experienced a fuel system failure requiring the gas tank to be replaced. Shortly afterward, the check-engine light illuminated, indicating additional engine or emissions problems. The failures occurred without warning and made the vehicle unsafe to drive. The engine warning has continued to appear, suggesting a recurring or unresolved malfunction. The defects create risks including fuel leakage, stalling, engine shutdown, and potential fire hazard. The safety of the driver and others on the road is put at risk because the vehicle may fail while in motion. The problem appeared immediately after purchase and continues to recur. The dealer was notified but refused to diagnose or repair the vehicle further. No manufacturer inspection has occurred because the dealership declined to provide service. The warning light first appeared within the first week of ownership and has remained intermittent. The vehicle shows signs of unstable engine operation and ongoing system malfunction. The issue has been observed by the dealer, but they declined to perform proper diagnostics or repair. The defects are persistent and pose ongoing safety concerns.

ODI #11703986FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2015 Kia K5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V794000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). The contact stated that days before the vehicle was scheduled for an unknown recall repair, while refueling, the contact observed gasoline pouring out of the tank. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the fuel tank had expanded due to fumes being trapped inside. The vehicle was not repaired due to parts not being available for the repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer has exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

ODI #11702431STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE

My 2021 Kia K5 EX has a severe and unsafe steering problem. The vehicle consistently pulls hard to the right on its own, even on straight roads. If I loosen my grip even slightly, the car immediately veers to the right. The steering wheel does not stay centered, and I have to constantly fight the steering just to keep the car in the lane. This issue has continued despite multiple alignments, tire replacements, and inspections. Nothing has fixed the problem, and the steering behavior feels mechanical or electronic in nature. I no longer feel safe driving the vehicle because it feels like I could lose control at any time. Additionally, my vehicle is affected by the open recall (SC356 / NHTSA 25V794) involving fuel tank expansion and fire risk. The status says ‘Incompleted – remedy not available,’ meaning there is currently no repair solution. The combination of a steering defect and a fire-risk recall makes this vehicle unsafe to operate. I am reporting this because the steering issue appears to be a serious safety defect that needs investigation.

ODI #11700934FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

For the past 16 months I have been experiencing a fuel odor in my vehicle cabin while idling or when in slow moving traffic. Knowing this likely is due to a fuel leak, I have taken it to the dealership 6 times to find the leak and remedy it. The dealership always finds something to repair/replace under warranty, however, the fuel smell persists. Over the past 16 months, this has increased in how strong the smell is and how often I am smelling it. It started out as only smelling fuel once a week or so. Now the smell is there during ever drive. It seems as though if my tank of 7/8 or above full, it does not smell for some reason. Upon searching online, many other K5 owners are experiencing the same exact issue and the dealership has been unable to resolve this. The vehicle has had 3 seperate recalls for fuel issues and I believe another is necessary regarding this because the recalls has not fixed the fuel leak I and many others are experiencing. Kia is doing the bare minimum to resolve this and my children are breathing fuel fumes consequently. Please note, not all my repair invoices are attached. I do not have access to all of them at this time

ODI #11697698FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that fuel odor was entering the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated that the rear passenger’s seat seemed to be inflated. While driving approximately 70 MPH, the contact became aware of fuel squirting out of the fuel filler neck. The fuel gauge fluctuated from full tank to half tank or empty. There was no warning light illuminated. The fuel odor became stronger, and the contact pulled over to the side of the road at a rest stop. A mobile service tech arrived to inspect the vehicle but found no failures. The contact continued driving to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who found that the fuel tank and fuel line had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer sent a photo to the manufacturer to confirm the necessary repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and determined that the fuel tank and PCV valve were swollen and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer offered a buy-back for the vehicle and opened a case. The failure mileage was unknown.

ODI #11696699ENGINE

no power at all all most in a accident with it when it lost power they said it’s the turbo l paid 33,000 for this car it had 35000 miles on it has 103000 on it when it lost power

ODI #11693378POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that while his daughter was driving approximately 15-20 MPH, the engine revved and the gears in the transmission unexpectedly failed. In addition, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. Due to the safety concerns, the vehicle was no longer driven and remained parked at the residence. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

ODI #11692467STRUCTURE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

While driving, the check engine light came on. Soon after, the rear floor of my 2021 Kia K5 lifted upward, and I noticed the fuel tank underneath had swollen. When I opened the gas cap, it blew off with force and gasoline sprayed on me, soaking my clothes. This could have caused a fire or explosion. The car is now unsafe to drive, and the rear seat cannot be used because the floor is deformed. I discovered that Kia has a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign SC288 addressing this exact issue (fuel tank swelling and excessive pressure due to a faulty PCSV valve and EVAP system), but this is clearly a safety hazard, not just an emissions problem. Many other owners have reported the same issue online. I believe this defect should be escalated to a safety recall before someone gets seriously injured or worse.

ODI #11691125AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I have a Kia K5 and was not informed of the SC288 Service campaign Fuel tank Inspection & EMC update (VESC) expansion of fuel tank and explosions' of fuel tanks. My vehicle was not apart of the recall for the fuel tank expanding program. I took my vesical in for service for over heating and it failed the SC288 Service Campaign. my gas tank expanded and caused structural damage to my car. it has been 8 weeks and I have not have had any contact from Kia consumer affairs. I am now with out resolve and I now have to get a lawyer.

ODI #11691075ELECTRICAL SYSTEMFIRE

Kia has a known issue with the HVAC blower motor circuit on this vehicle model. They have issued a warranty extension related to relocating the blower motor fuse to another circuit in the fuse box, due to potential burning of fuse(s). After executing this extended warranty fuse-relocation-procedure, our blower motor relay burned and was replaced twice by separate Kia dealers. Kia is now claiming that our entire wire harness needs to be replaced at our own cost. It is quite obvious that any wire harness issue is now very dangerous (electrical arcing and melting) and was caused by the original motor circuit issue. (The two Kia dealers agree with our assessment but are saying that Kia will not repair because original warranty extension was limited to rewiring.) Safety issues: Electrical fire hazard (already demonstrated with burning/melting fuse-box before and after extended warranty procedure was executed). No A/C in 95 degree F conditions.

ODI #11689273ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,ENGINE

The car has a sudden loss of power but doesn't shut off. The drivers eat doesn't move towards or back and the back seat popped up for no reason whatsoever. We have taken it to the dealership and they say its not a recall but its doing the same things that others in the same year and model are doing. Why isn't this one on the list . Its paid off and haven't been able to drive it for a year now . Wasted money getting it towed to dealership and back . Ridiculous!!!!

ODI #11685517SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was driving down the highway and my car made a loud bang noise. It would not accelerate over 50 mph no matter how hard I pressed the accelerator. Took to dealership and they told me I needed a new battery and charged me $365. Drove it and still won’t go over 50 mph. They kept it for a week and said it had a faulty valve that caused pressure to make the gas tank expand, pushing up back seat. Said it wasn’t a recall and would cost me $3600 to fix. Told me it was too dangerous to drive. Did research and saw that this was discovered over 2 years ago but I was never told. Now they say I have too many miles on my car to fix it. The gas fumes inside the car are intolerable and it still won’t go over 50.

ODI #11682404ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

At the beginning at the year I had to change my starter because my car would leave me stranded on the street, at a stop light or any time my car would stop. I was once in the car with my little brother and in the middle of the street it would not start again and left us stranded. Others around me had to help me push the car to the side of the road that way I wouldn't be rear ended. Now, I'm having other issues such as HVAC were my cars AC does not turn on. It doesn't even blow hot air. Some mechanics have told me it's probably my blower and resistor and other that it's a wiring issue. My car is only 4 years old and should not be having so many issues. I have tried reaching out to Kia but always get sent to voicemail or have told I would be charged for it to just be seen. If anyone could help me with my car that would be greatly appreciated.

ODI #11682417UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

HVAC is not working at all, not even blowing hot air. I've been told it could be a wiring issue or have to change my blower and resistor. KIA has told me they could not help because my car is over the 60,000 mile warranty. However, my car is 70,000 miles and about 4 years old. It has had other recall issues and just trying to be helped.

ODI #11681944ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Just minutes before entering the highway, my son and I heard a very loud popping sound that startled us, like something large hit the car or a tire exploded. I immediately pulled into a gas station checked the exterior & all 4 tires, but everything appeared intact. Shortly after, while driving on hwy during morning rush hour at 65–70 mph in the far-left lane, the check engine light illuminated & almost immediately the car lost all engine power. My speed dropped quickly with cars behind me traveling at high speeds. I had to activate hazard lights & cut across 4 lanes of traffic to the shoulder, putting myself, my child passenger, & others at serious risk of a multi-car collision. While waiting for help, I plugged in my FIXD OBD-II reader later looking over diagnostics read code P0451 – EVAP System Pressure Sensor. 8 hours after car was towed & had been parked at my home & still not starting I researched the code to learn what that means & the possible cause for & found it is all emission related issues varying in reasons as simple as a gas cap replacement. Nothing of any engine failure while driving risking the lives of drivers & others so before sending my car to a mechanic, I went and checked the gas cap in case just a simple emissions type fix that is where I observed fuel still bubbling out of the tank have photos, my daughter, & sister, as witnesses. The next day car was towed to Kia Mall of Georgia on June 26, 2025. As of August 20, 2025, the dealership has confirmed the fuel tank expanded as of now there is no resolution from Kia for fixing once this happens can likely shift car frame & could be declared totaled. Component/system failed: Fuel tank/EVAP system (pressure failure). Vehicle is available for inspection at Kia Mall of Georgia. Safety risk:Complete engine shutdown at highway speeds with child passenger on board; risk of multi-car, high-speed crash. Fuel bubbling/spitting increased fire hazard. not a recall only emissions campaign needs to change

ODI #11680278BACK OVER PREVENTION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

The reverse braking feature registers cross traffic or movement that is not near the back of the vehicle. This cause the braking system to engage. I was doing a U turn on 4 lane main street with a center divider. I didnt fully clear the turn leaving me to reverse to complete to turn. When i put the car in reverse, the sensors picked up movement across the street, engaging the brakes and leaving me stuck in the middle of the road with oncoming traffic coming straight at me. It would not disengage when I tried accelerating and I had to quickly throw my car into drive and pull into a driveway, that was luckily there, just to avoid being T-boned by oncoming traffic. This is not the first occurance as it happens often in parking lots locking my brakes due to any movement from behind. There is a manual feature in the dashboard to turn it off but it automatically resets every time the car is turned off, requiring you to have to manually disengage the feature everytime and you cannot disengage while the brakes are locked.i took it to the dealers but they said since it is a "feature" it is not considered a safety issue since there is an option to disengage even though it has to be reset during every use. They could not help or remedy the issue and instructed me to file a complaint with Kia manufactures since they are only the Kia dealer.

ODI #11677876FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

The contact's daughter owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that while the contact’s son-in-law was driving, the fuel level indicator failed to function as intended. The contact’s son-in-law noticed that the miles available indicator stated that there were 430 miles until empty. The contact’s son-in-law stated that after driving for approximately 20 minutes, the miles available indicator indicated that the miles had decreased by 50 miles. The contact’s son-in-law drove the vehicle to a nearby gas station, and inspected the fuel tank cap, and confirmed that that fuel cap was sufficiently tightened. The contact's son-in-law proceeded to drive for another hour and the miles available indicator decreased by 200 miles. The contact stated that there were three occupants, including an infant, seated in the rear seat of the vehicle. The contact’s daughter, who was seated in the rear seat, noticed heat on the back of her legs. In addition, the contact’s daughter noticed an abnormal ticking sound and the rear seat independently raised up. The contact’s daughter stated that the failure was persistent. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact’s son-in-law inspected the vehicle. The contact’s son-in-law and daughter switched seats. The contact stated that the daughter had driven a short distance, and the miles available dropped from 200 to 50 miles. The contact instructed the daughter to stop and exit the vehicle. The contact stated that the fuel tank level indicated the fuel was empty and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact’s son-in-law was instructed to turn the vehicle off and how to inspect the vehicle. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact’s son-in-law was instructed to remove the rear seat. The contact’s son-in-law noticed that the fuel tank was swollen. The contact’s son-in-law was instructed to remove the fuel cap to release the pressure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not inspected. The contact was informed of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not under recall. The failure had occurred while the family members were traveling and immediately after the fuel tank had been refilled. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 93,000.

ODI #11677076FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,BACK OVER PREVENTION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Check engine light came on and when filling up my gas tank, gas spit back out at me which has happened with the fuel tank i had in it last year and has since been replaced. Forward collision, EBS, traction control and forward safety sensor lights came on the next day and the car is running extremely rough. It was towed to a shop to see if it has to do with the fuel tank recall. Multiple people in Roanoke, Virginia are having the exact same problem as is a large portion of people online complaining about the exact same thing. Some going back 30 weeks ago.

ODI #11676487UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I am submitting this complaint regarding ongoing and unresolved safety issues with my Kia K5, which I believe are directly related to a known recall involving the ECM (engine control module) and/or fuel system. My vehicle continues to jerk and misfire during acceleration, and it has even stalled at idle on multiple occasions — creating a serious safety concern for myself and others on the road. I have already completed the recommended repairs, including new ignition coils and spark plugs, yet the problem persists. Despite these symptoms aligning with known recall-related issues, Kia of Orange Park (Florida) has refused to fully diagnose or investigate the matter, citing that the recall does not apply in my case. However, the symptoms match those outlined in other ECM/fuel system-related recalls, and this is not the first time this dealership has failed to properly address mechanical concerns. Previously, I had to escalate an A/C issue to Kia Corporate, which only resulted in a resolution after a recall was issued right before my vehicle was set to be returned with the same issue. That situation makes me extremely concerned that my current safety concerns are again being ignored and will only be addressed after a broader recall is issued. I am requesting that the NHTSA investigate this matter, as I am worried this defect may affect other vehicles and poses a safety risk that Kia and its dealerships are not taking seriously. Thank you for your attention and action.

ODI #11675567ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

AC blower stoped working

ODI #11675207FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My fuel tank expanded while I was driving on the highway, causing my car to stall and would not respond to me pushing on the gas. I pulled over on the side of the highway and looked back and saw my rear seats were pushed up. Got it towed to the Kia dealership and they informed me that my car was totaled because the gas tank expanded so much it bent my frame. This has been an ongoing issue with Kia/Hyundai vehicles but they have still not issued a formal recall, only a voluntary callback even though this is a very dangerous defect.

ODI #11674722FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Expansion of air tank, causing to pop up frame in backseat and total car deemed unsafe to drive. No warnings car had never been in the shop prayer happened while driving over rule Mountain area with two children in the backseat. Kia inspected diagnostic ran stated it was air in gas tank under a recall claim to fix it for free and then two weeks later stated it was going to Kia America for a case number. Kia America called and stated that it was not safe to drive and the car is totaled.

ODI #11674755ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Air/hearing works intermittently. I’ve had fuses replaced and this seems to be a known and ongoing issue that Kia refuses to acknowledge. Many have reported that the wires are melting inside of the fuse box and I fear that this may result in a fire.

ODI #11674500STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I was driving down the highway when I heard a loud explosion like a gunshot that caused me to slow down and almost getting into an accident. It was scary; I came to a stop and realized that my sunroof had exploded. There is a large hole in my sunroof bigger than a watermelon with glass particles everywhere.

ODI #11671235FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Driving down highway, gas hand was on half a tank then all of a sudden gas hand drops to empty and light comes on, engine started sputtering. Heard a loud pop in the back seat looked back and back seat has popped up from base. Strong odor of gasoline poured into the car. Went to closest gas station to get off highway. Unable to put fuel into tank. Called Quality KIA of Greenwood they said get out of the car and do not drive it. Called for a tow, vehicle has been towed to Quality KIA of Greenwood.

ODI #11671124UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Hit pot holes lower control arm was replaced

ODI #11667899UNKNOWN OR OTHER

AC system is interminably stops working for hours or days then starts working again. Have taken to dealer but every time I get it there unit starts working and they say they can’t check it if it’s working. This has been going on for over a month.

ODI #11666943FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Back seat popped up due to fuel tank rising from under seat while driving

ODI #11663031POWER TRAIN

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated while driving approximately 30-40 MPH, while the transmission was shifting gear, the vehicle started sputtering and jerking. The contact stated that the failure occurred while shifting from 1st gear to 2nd gear, and from 2nd gear to 3rd gear. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed the vehicle with an erratic gear shift with a grinding sound coming from the transmission. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

ODI #11662629ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Having issues with the blower motor and harness which is a known issue with this car. I can’t keep my AC working plus my defroster doesn’t work either with the issue I am having with the blower motor. The issue is ongoing

ODI #11661765ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

Main wiring harness melted in my fuse box, had to pay $5000 to replace, turbo leaked into my engine and cause for the engine to blow! Hadn’t even had the car a year !! This is getting ridiculous.

ODI #11661615POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I recently purchased a Kia k5 2021 gt line awd one month later I noticed there was recall I take to the dealership they let me know it will only take a few hours (3) and I can pick up later the same they call me 3h later and let me know sorry this case is going to take a few weeks and I should pick up rental car and they will pay for my rental so I did I come back one month later nothing as been done they just tell me to wait and they can’t release due to the safety recall the tank has swelled up it has been 3mont now and they still haven’t done anything to the car and I can’t sell the vehicle cause they won’t release it

ODI #11661465UNKNOWN OR OTHER

My a/c has been giving me issues for about a year and a half to two years now. I have a 2021 Kia k5. When I first told Kia about it they told me it’s from the rain, if that’s the case then every car on the road would have this issue. Then they later told me it was my motor blower when I went back. There was a thousand dollar difference between two quotes they gave me for the same issue also. The air used to come on for a few hours or a day then go completely off. Now it’s sometimes will give off cold air if I put my hand to the vent but it’s nothing powerful to make a difference in the summer. I have read up on many other people having this issue. Kia also sent a recall to me last summer for a/c issues but the dealership told me that doesn’t apply to me because they are saying it’s my blower motor. I should not be held responsible for this malfunction at all. I want to request Kia give me an extended hvac warranty up to 180,000 miles at least!

ODI #11660607STEERING,LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

The vehicle consistently pulls sharply to the right while driving, creating a serious safety hazard. As soon as I release the steering wheel, the car veers aggressively to the right, making it difficult to stay in the lane. The steering wheel does not center and requires constant correction. The issue feels mechanical and significantly impacts my ability to drive safely.

ODI #11657502FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEATS1 INJURY

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated while her daughter was driving 60 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine, when the gas tank expanded, and the back seat popped up. The contact stated that two teenagers were in the back seat, and one was injured. The contact's daughter pulled over and waited for a short while. The vehicle was restarted; however, the vehicle drove slowly. The vehicle was taken to a dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle was taken to another dealer; however, no cause for the failure was found. The contact was informed that the seat had moved two inches. The contact stated that the vehicle was not repaired because the frame of the seats could be damaged. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle remained at the dealer and had not been driven since. The failure mileage was approximately 86,000.

ODI #11650792UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My current 2021 Kia K5 FUEL TANK EXPLODED while driving. I’ve had this car for about 5 years and since driving it off the lot have experience issues with the vehicle and just a few hours ago, the fuel gas tank explode raising the back seat with passengers in the vehicle. It was extremely scary and something out of the blew. My friends and I were driving and I noticed the car engine light turn on (which was so odd to me as I keep a close eye to the car maintenance) and within 20 minutes we heard two EXTREMELY loud explosions sounds come from the car with the feeling of the car shake and rise a bit and felt as a tire exploded. I did not find this usual and we pulled over and the the seat my friend was sitting on was rose and unlatched. We then did some google searches and when looking into it, it appears there have been previous issues with this situation for other K5 Kia owners but KIA has done nothing regarding the matter. A few months ago I also went due to an internal thermostat exploding and causing the engine to overheat and smoke on the freeway and because they deemed it was not under the warranty, I left car-less for a week and a high bill. I don’t understand why I have to pay and endure these service costs when this is BASIC CAR FUNCTIONS. I do not appreciate the lack of empathy from dealer and service staff and feel unsafe and concerned for my safety for driving this vehicle. And now II have to endure the costs of being car less for 14 days per the dealer. Absurd.

ODI #11649917POWER TRAIN

very bad antifreeze smell under hood dealer said normal not healthy to smell that its in all of this model car in multiple years needs a recall to force kia to fix this unhealthy problem. 3/1/25 is when i bought this car. thankyou

ODI #11646897STRUCTURE

The steel trim running underneath the rear window is beginning to lift up There is a recall for this for vehicles produced sometime in 2023 but it doesn’t include my vehicle

ODI #11643987SERVICE BRAKES

Please review Kia Costumer Care case number [XXX] date 2/20/2025 @ 4pm New York time. Brake pads worn out ,easily broken and rusty. ??? Kia Company material defect or car dealership scam. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ODI #11642040ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

On [XXX] I took my automobile, a 2021 Kia K5 to Planet KIA of Charlotte NC located at 4700 E independence Blvd. I took it there to check what caused my engine light to activate. The initial diagnosis was a bad Sensor-Differential Pressure. Planet KIA repaired the Sensor-Differential Pressure at the cost of $501.17. My extended warranty company Route 66 covered $350.28 while I covered the remaining balance of $150.89. The engine light came on again the next day and while driving back to the dealership, I experienced the car slowing down and difficult to gain speed in highway traffic. I returned the automobile to Planet Kia of Charlotte and on [XXX}, I was informed that I had a valve failure which in turn caused my gas tank to swell. On [XXX] the warranty company denied request to pay for repairs due to their policy of not covering emissions which pertained to the valve. Kia refused to fix this problem due to a service campaign recall had been performed on the vehicle before I bought it. They found no issues with the vehicle pertaining to the valve or gas tank swelling. This is clearly a manufacturer’s defect, and it should have been repaired by the manufacturer. If you can, please help. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

ODI #11638110SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER

The Electric seats do not adjust due to failed motors. Electric mirrors do not adjust due to failed motors. Gas refuel door does not open due to faulty actuator. All things that make the care dangerous to drive. Online search reveals that all three issues are very common in the 2021-2023 KIA K5 cars. We believe they pose a danger. Also, they seem to break at about 40-60K miles. Often out of warranty and dealer will not fix even though they acknowledge that the items in question are an issue.

ODI #11633097FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I've took my lease vehicle too dealer for the same problem 3 time car shake no matte what speed check engine light flashes code P0302 cylinder 2 misfire

ODI #11631865ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Blower motor stops working, have to take fuse box cover off and move fuse assembly to regain function of blower motor. Replacing fuse only helped for a couple of months.

ODI #11630045UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Hi I brought my 2021 kia k5 got line last February 2023 around 44k miles I have had coolant leak where nobody can tell me where is the leak coming from I look online and other Kia owner have had the same issues

ODI #11629536ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES

For breaks: at 20k miles the steering wheel shakes like crazy when braking, and also the pedals: the rotors are very cheap for being a 0-mile purchase vehicle and Kia does not replace this under warranty. I saw a forum that this is an issue for all owners of this Kia K5 and Kia doesn't care and does not replace them. For Electrical issue: the fuse box melted a couple fuse because I used my rear defrost system. Kia extended the warranty for the HVAC motor fan only because was burning the fuses, but they did not wanted to replace my issue with the rear defrost because I was above 60k for only 1000 miles. This is a poor-quality system, Kia does not recognize it. This is a safety issue because 1. There is an electrical issue with a melted fuse box. Im driving around a car like this with 2 kids. 2. I don't have rear defrost working and I live in Chicago (wild winter). They want to charge +$6000 to repair the fuse box.

ODI #11629110ENGINE

On Mon, Nov 18, 2025, I was driving at 60 mph with cruise on. Suddenly cruise was cancelled and check engine and low oil pressure lights came on. I pulled off road at earliest point possible. Seemed to be running ok. Drove slowly to a convenience store and turned off engine. I checked oil and it was low. When I was walking out to car after buying some oil, I saw oil under car. I called tow service and had it delivered to dealership. Upon inspection, the dealership determined the oil drain plug had fallen out and the engine needs to be replaced. The oil had been changed by an independent shop at 75085 miles. This incident happened at 78,887 miles. I feel the drain plug would have fallen out before 3002 miles if it was put in loose. This issue needs to be made into a recall with reimbursements for engine replacements and towing. If this had happened on a busy road and engine seized, there could have been a wreck trying to get off road.

ODI #11621485ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

AC System faulty . Cannot defog windows. Fusebox connection is malfunctioning Changed blower motor, resistor, fuse, relay. Many vehicles are having the same issue. It needs to be recalled.

ODI #11619983ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Issue with electrical wiring for HVAC. Air conditioner and heater goes out with no power. You have to pop the hood and press on the fuse box to get it to come back on.

ODI #11617124POWER TRAIN,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE

While driving on my way home from work my , brakes became extremely hard to press down on and then my service engine light came on this all occurred on 7/31/2024. So the very next day I took my vehicle to a Kia dealership which was 8/1/ 2024 to find out what was causing this to happen. The technician stated that they would have to put it on a machine and run a diagnostic on it. I asked the technician while they were doing that to change the oil. I also realized that the oil light for my vehicle has NEVER came on since I purchased the car. So the technician did the diagnostic and stated that my vacuum pump had went out but he couldn’t tell me why or how this had happened. I then took the vehicle to my parents house and left it there in the garage for a few weeks to have second opinion done. I then took it to another Kia dealership and they stated there was no vacuum to the brake booster and said there was a broken camshaft and metal pieces were in the engine and the engine needed to be replaced. Again I asked what caused all of this and no one could give me an answer. I had only had the car a 1 1/2 years and don’t understand what caused all of this and I now have a car that I can no longer drive.

ODI #11615871UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Have had issues with a/c since I bought the car. Has been inspected 3 times, apparently it was just the actuator doors not working. But not I have no a/c, and my dealer refused to fix it. On reddit there's a thread going around saying fuses are melting and that it's causing everyone's a/c to not work. My fuses for this particular spot are burnt looking. This is a safety issue in regards to living in Arizona, the heat is deadly. I will be trading my car in if this isn't recalled.

ODI #11612123ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Air conditioning was fine then would suddenly cycle levels by itself. One day the air stopped blower. Tested the resister, it was bad. Replaced it and less than one week later the air stopped again. Resister and blower motor test fine. Fuses and relay are fine. No ac/hest causing driving concerns with window fog.

ODI #11607441STRUCTURE

While driving home from work, traveling on a state route at 55 mph, the cover under the engine just snapped off on the passenger side of the vehicle. It just started making a loud noise like I had blown a tire! I pulled over and noticed it was hanging down on the road. I had not hit anything, the bracket had it fully broken, it could have caused me to wreck or put any other drivers at risk for an accident. This isn’t the only Kia K5 I’ve seen with the engine dust cover hanging beneath the vehicle.

ODI #11605758ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I have 2021 Kia k5 gt line I am having similar problem as other who own a Kia k5 get line 2020,2021, 2022 and 2023. Ac works one time next I turn the car off and the next time I start it up it doesn’t work anymore and now my ac does not work now and it is off completely

ODI #11604396FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Purge control valve but pressure in my gas tank and it has expanded. Kia will not replace my tank. Heard 2 loud bangs going down the road I started smelling gas. Check engine light came on. Pulled over and gas is pushing up and out behind my tank flowing down my wheel well. Opened the gas cap and it sprayed gas all over me. I have 2 small children and this could have been a extremely worse situation than it was. On another note I took my car to the dealership they did the update and confirmed my gas tank had expanded. They are not replacing my tank they said bc kia has "no remedy". And tried to sell me a bunch of other services on my vehicle instead. I've contacted kia and they basically told me the same thing they at this time will not be replacing my tank. I've picked the car up they cleared the codes and the car is still running rough.

ODI #11603609ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

AC stopped blowing, vehicle had 62k miles. Took to an autoshop and they indicated that the AC blower and resistor needed to be replaced. I have both of these replaced, the AC work for a few minutes and then stopped again. I took it back to the same shop and the mechanic indicated that the fuse box was melted/burned (I have a picture as evidence). This is a tremendous fire hazard and we have been leaving our car parked outside of our home out of fear that it will catch fire. Their were no warning lamps whatsoever that indicated that there was a problem. Upon further online research, it appears that numerous people are having the same issue and Kia Motors has not done anythins about it, and we are having to pay thousands of dollars for repair when it is a manufacturer defect.

ODI #11603398ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The blower motor goes out intermittently. I replaced the blower motor but found the problem to be much greater. Upon further inspection the fuse for the blower and wiring harness are melting into eachother at the fuse box. This issue is becoming more and more prevalent in model from the year 2021-2024 the remedy is a complete wiring harness and fuse box replacement.

ODI #11603219ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,ENGINE

Engine code came on, one interior headlamp works when it wants to, climate control module is bad it has cause the relay to blow and the resistor to go out. The air turns up on the control module by itself and then your ac just stops working and then starts again as it chooses. All of these are electrical issue as stated in MANY OTHER reports. And electrical issue is unsafe it can cause fire at anytime, my car is new 2021 Kia k5 Lxs, 60k miles and now who knows when the car is going to catch fire while my baby is strapped in a car seat and no AC . RECALL before lives are took from heat stroke or possible fire. To be “luxury” it’s sad I just paid my 3rd car payment and now I can’t even drive my car. Over 100 reports on this same problem and y’all do nothing. Kia is maybe at 70k sells a year now meanwhile Toyota and other are at 300k. When my baby is insured do to this crack head wiring system I will sue someone this is ridiculous.

ODI #11602951STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES

Rotors warp after only a few months. I’ve replaced them multiple times since I got my vehicle 2 1/2yrs ago. Steering wheel will shake really bad while braking and that’s how I know I need new rotors again. Many people with this year/make/model have had the same issue. It’s definitely a safety issue that needs to be addressed.

ODI #11601796ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The fuse pin melted into the wire harness. Kia is not recognizing this as a safety issue although they acknowledge that the melting pin could cause a fire.

ODI #11598807ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

I bought my Kia k5, my blower motor went out upon inspection the problem was a multilink fuse for the blower motor. The fuse is burning the wiring harness, I believe this to be a fire hazard. After some research I believe this to be a common issue with this particular car.

ODI #11597863ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

main body wiring harness grounding problem ... hvac blower motor works only some times at dealeship they found fuse melted at fuse block they want customers to pay for a new wire harness when is obvious a factory defect this can cause a fire or an accident if anything else fails while driving

ODI #11597194ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

nspected blower fuse 40A at E/R Junction block and found multi fuse & E/R Junction block melting Need replacement multi fuse and wiring repair at E/R Junction block Service adviser recommends performing repair which is a known issue for Kia, because the electrical short could create a fire The AC stopped working, got it repaired and within a month it failed again, took it to dealership and they said it was a known issue, but not a safety recall.

ODI #11594283UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Underbody dust panels have torn off of mounting bolts without any clear cause of damage, main front panel and right passenger side panel. Loose panels could have fallen off on highway. Only indication they came loose was when they began flapping in air flow from driving.

ODI #11594072SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

When I was driving I heard big boom sounds in my backseat which ended up being my fuel tank which expanded and raised the back seat. It slowly got worse impacting my car’s fuel sensor and the tank expanded more and more I drove.

ODI #11593258FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My Gas tank has Expanded in Size and has made my back seat Pop up and gas leaking when it does because the ring around the Gas pump would Loosen Up. I noticed this issue first around April of Last year when it got Warmer. I would have horrible fuel efficiency, and my gas hand acted very Crazy. A few times it felt like I had been hit by a car from the Back a large Boom! When I am have a problem m car would slow down on highway and wouldn’t Accelerate at all. For past few months it started again. But what made me take it in was a louder bang followed by seat not only popping up but not being able to close. Service center kept my car said it was not safe to drive , I have been without transportation going on 3 weeks.

ODI #11592111POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

Car will lose power when accelerating and slow down to an almost complete stop in traffic with no pick up it will jerk as it is trying to accelerate it has happen two times in six months

ODI #11591680ENGINE

When you get in the vehicle to turn it on the lights are on an everything else accept for the engine. The dashboard says the the vehicle is on, however it is not. Diagnostics shows no problems. This is on going in the New K5 community.

ODI #11588565FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

I was driving when I heard a loud bang and my 11month old son who was in the back seat woke up then started smelling gas and I looked out my mirror and gas was spewing out of my closed gas cap when I pulled over and looked my back seat was off its mounts and what I assume is the fuel pump was popped out of place as well I have taken it to my Kia dealer and they said it has been escalated to corporate I am still waiting for an update

ODI #11586624ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Air conditioner blower goes on and off intermittently without any pattern. Sometimes it will work for days and then will not turn on again. There is no rhyme or reason to it. Without the blower working I cannot defog / defrost my windshield and gives me poor visibility. Brought it to the Kia dealership they said the fuse wire harness has melted and fused into the engine block. They went on say that it will cost around $5000.00 to fix. Because I drive frequently I am out of warranty. The service desk office manager said she has been seeing more of these come in. Sounds like a manufacturer defect and should be under recall.

ODI #11586351STRUCTURE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

My car just stopped working, it was towed to a local Lokey Nissan in Clearwater FL where it was purchased. Since it was a defect Lokey Nissan sent it to Lokey KIA in Clearwater FL. Lokey KIA stated the gas can had expanded and also caused damage to the frame and the cost to repair was more than the value of the car so they sent it up to Corporate for further instruction. This was 6 weeks ago. Nobody will return my calls, KIA still has the vehicle and I am getting nowhere here and am without a car. Please help I don't know what else to do!!!!!!!!!!

ODI #11580784UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Fails to upload contacts. Voice recognition does not work. Does not identify caller. Only way to use their system to answer a call while driving is to physically pick up the phone from the charger, look at the phone and press the bluetooth function twice to answer the call.. I was at two dealers and talked to their corporate customer service reps and an escalation rep who told me they do not support Android any longer and to hard wire Android play for use. I tried that and Android play does not work very well. To answer a phone is basically the same process. The mechanic at one of the dealers has a Kia and told me he has the same issue. How many other folks are driving Kias and have to take their eyes off the road to answer a call? This is Extremely dangerous. Kia will do nothing to fix the problem. The car is my office. I need to have these functions working just like when i purchased the car. This is my business. This is going to cause a crash

ODI #11569669ENGINE

Bought the car used and had it in within first two weeks with 6k miles on it for warped brakes. They repaired. Now it has 68k miles on it and had all maintenance. 2nd owner and now we are told the antifreeze is going thru the turbo and into head gasket and Kia will not do anything. We were not aware the 10 yr 100,000 miles was not transferable. 6k miles out of warranty and they want us to buy a motor. This car has always been maintained and should not need a motor with only 68k miles. The optima’s had the same issue as we also have an optima which was covered due to recall. This should be looked at. The dealership charged us 200 for diagnostics and said too bad you pay for it.

ODI #11566486SERVICE BRAKES

I purchased the vehicle on 01/08/2024, less than 14 days later, the brake booster needs repair; it’s currently making a hissing now as the air is leaking out and as a result, my brakes are not working properly.

ODI #11560382FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

The fuel lid does not function properly. I owned the vehicle for almost 3 years and the fuel lid did not want to open. It was completely stuck after making sure that the vehicle was unlocked, as I always do, when going to put gas. I stood in the gas line for 30 minutes pushing the fuel lid trying to open it and it never budged

ODI #11557424UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The horn for this vehicle simply stopped working. The horn was used earlier in the day to prevent a different vehicle from changing lanes to avoid an accident. My wife has the same vehicle (year make and model) and her horn stopped working 2 weeks ago. The fuse is not the issue on either vehicle. My wife was informed by local Kia that this issue has been common. I researched this issue online and several Kia customers have experienced the same issue. This does not seem coincidental, and poses a great safety concern! Customers should not have to front the cost for this as it seems to be a defect in the manufactured line.

ODI #11557151AIR BAGSCRASH1 DEATH1 INJURY

While on her way from work, my mother was involved in an accident in her 2021 Kia K5 LXS where she was rear ended at a high speed by a driver not paying attention to the road and she ended up hitting the car in front of her. During the accident NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEVELOPED. My mother was hospitalized for a month and do to the SEVERITY OF HER MAJOR INJURIES (rib fractures, a closed fracture of her T7-T8 with loss of sensation and mobility of lower half of body) she passed away from “Effects Of Blunt Spinal And Rib Cage Trauma.” No recalls were noted for this particular model and year until March of 2023 which was way too late.

ODI #11552873ENGINE

Car thermostat failure, car overheats and only 89000 miles

ODI #11550888SERVICE BRAKES

My vehicle is a 2021 Kia K5 GT (2.5L-T), mechanically identical to Hyundai Sonata N-Line (2.5L-T). My car has 24000 miles on it and I have replaced the rotors on my car five times now due to premature warping. KIA OEM rotors, R1 Concepts, Brakenetic Rotors, all have warped. This issue is discussed amongst GT and N-Line owners heavily in the forums stating how the OEM Brake system has some sort of issue that causes premature rotor warp. Some have even resorted to changing their brake system to a old model Cadillac CTS-V system because of how crap these brakes are. Again after less than 2 months with new rotors, they have warped yet again.

ODI #11542529POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Loss of power. Check engine light came on

ODI #11539634POWER TRAIN

Very bad transmission slip during acceleration from stop and at highway speed

ODI #11521419AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V149000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

ODI #11519979ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Vehicle will occasionally fail to properly initialize its safety systems, causing ABS, Traction Control, FCW, warning, auto stop, auto hold lights to come on and the aforementioned systems to fail. This disables driver assist features and important safety systems. Kia Dealer does not attempt to resolve. Claims that “we parked too close to a tree and the vehicle thinks it was in an accident” would like further investigation from Kia to be performed regarding this issue.

ODI #11519981ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Vehicle radio fails to initialize wireless Apple Carplay. The process to get it to work varies. This has been an ongoing issue with the car. Dealer will not update vehicle software.

ODI #11518050ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the Lane Assist feature would illuminate without other vehicles nearby. The contact also stated that the vehicle would independently switch lanes independently; causing the contact to forcefully adjust the steering wheel into the desired lane to prevent a potential crash. The contact manually disabled the features; however, the features independently reactivated. In addition, the defroster failed to operate as needed which obstructed her vision due to fog on the windshield. The vehicle was initially taken to a dealer, but the contact was offered no assistance. The contact then took the vehicle to Kia of Irvine (45 Oldfield Building B, Irvine, CA 92618) where two mechanics acknowledged the failure while test driving the vehicle. The contact was assured by the dealer that both safety features where disabled; however, within minutes of leaving the dealer; the features independently reactivated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was given a case number. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was 17,951. The consumer called to make an appt due to the check engine light illuminating and informed vehicle will not be repaired for a few weeks. In the meantime the gas smell is pouring through the vents.

ODI #11515090POWER TRAIN

My vehicle has been experiencing shifting delays when accelerating. Often times when I stop accelerating my vehicle has a delay and remains revved up for a few seconds before the RPM's go back down. The sluggish/delayed acceleration presents a safety issue when the vehicle is not operating as it should. This issue has been occurring for about 6 months. I informed the dealership where I purchased the vehicle and have the routine maintenance done and they say there are no issues reported about the issues I have been having. I addressed the issue again over the weekend when I had my oil change and tire rotation on April 1, 2023 and I have been told the same thing that there are no issues reported. But the dealership fails to report the issue I had addressed the first time.

ODI #11510534STEERING,POWER TRAIN

BRAND NEW VEHICLE PURCHUSED OFF SHOW ROOM FLOOR WITH 4 MILES ON IT. 3 MONTHS AFTER OWNERSHIP, WHEN PUSH TO START THE CAR. THE STEERING WHEEL WILL LOCK UP, UNABLE TO DRIVE AND A SYSTEMS CHECK WILL DISPLAY ON THE DASH. IT DOES NOT STOP, UNTIL YOU TURN THE CAR OFF AND ON SEVERAL TIMES, WITH NO SET AMOUNT OF TIMES UNTIL THE CAR IS DRIVABLE AGAIN. THE CAR HAS BEEN BROUGHT TO KIA SEVERAL TIMES FOR SERVICE, BUT THEY HAVE NEVER BEEN ABLE TO DETERMINE A REASON. A LEMON LAW WAS FILED AND COMPLETED IN 2022. THE CAR SINCE THEN HAS CONTINUED TO HAVE THE STEERING WHEEL LOCK UP RANDOMLY WHEN STARTING IT AND HAS EVEN PROGRESSED TO DOING IT WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY!!! NO RECALL FROM KIA HAS BEEN ISSUED. THEY ARE JUST WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO DIE!

ODI #11508811UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

One day I was driving my car when suddenly I heard a loud explosion sound from the back. I continued to drive the car until I could pull over to inspect the car. In the midst of pulling the car over I began smelling a strong odor of gas in the cabin of the car. Prior to stopping the car started skipping and missing badly. I pulled over checked the car and discovered something malfunctioned and caused the rear seat to pop up and be bent from the frame. I proceeded to look under the seat and saw where what appeared to be the fuel pump almost popped out, the bracket above the fuel pump was broken and popped up from the explosion, the seat would not go back in place. I looked at the gas hand I went from 3/4 tank of gas to E in less than a few miles. The exhaust also sounds like something blew or came apart the car runs very loud and you can hear the car sounding like the exhaust have a hole. After the sequence of events the engine light never came on. This is huge life safety problem that should have never happened.

ODI #11504460AIR BAGSCRASH2 INJURIES

I was rearended into another vehicle at a speed of about 50mph, then rearended again by and SUV, not one of my 9 airbags deployed.

ODI #11497432ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that the driver assist feature would activate independently. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to park on the side of the road and shifted from park to drive to deactivate the driver assist feature and continued driving to his destination. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 32,077.

ODI #11490627STEERING

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the power steering malfunctioned, and the steering wheel failed to turn in either direction. Additionally, during the failure several unknown warning lights were displayed. After turning off and restarting the vehicle, the failure self-corrected on several occasions. Recently, the failure failed to self-correct and the vehicle was towed to the local dealer. While the vehicle was at the dealer, the mechanic experienced the failure but was unable to determine the cause of the failure. No repair was performed. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 16,000.

ODI #11488885POWER TRAIN

1. Car has completely lost power during normal driving. Transmission failure. Loss of Motive power. It is available for inspection upon request 2. Car lost all motive power while on the highway, car had to coast to a stop. This was very dangerous. 3. Car was taken to the Kia dealership, diagnosed by their techs, and transmission replaced. This has occurred two times since the car was purchased new. First at 4,600 miles (6/13/2021) , second at 16,600 miles (9/7/2022). Both times dealership replaced the transmission 4. Both times this occurred the check engine light illuminated and a warning to pull over immediately. There were no prior symptoms when this occurred. The failures happen suddenly. There is apparently already a recall for this issue for the Hyundai vehicles that have this very same engine/DCT combination. Recall #236. This same issue is also occurring on the 2021+ Kia Sorento and 2021+ K5 GT 2.5L

ODI #11488886POWER TRAIN

This report is being filed as a duplicate to 11488885, as this issue occurred twice. Please see 11488885 for details, as issue was exactly the same. I have attached the dealership repair invoices for both incidents as I forgot to do so in 11488885.

ODI #11478849STRUCTURE

The Wheels Guards fell off mid drive, another part that fell off was the underbody cover that is made out of cardboard. I know many Kia K5 owners who have had this problem. It fell off due to rain. Since it is made out of a cardboard like material, the rain makes it fall off while driving.

ODI #11478851STRUCTURE

The bumper is way to low so if you try going up a hill or if you park and there are stoppers, the bottom of the bumper scratches and rubs on the bottom causing it to pop off. You may not realize this until you are driving and it falls off

ODI #11478852SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE

In this car, when braking or using the adaptive cruise control, the car shakes a lot, making yo lose control of the vehicle.

ODI #11478854ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The front seats electrical adjustments do not work properly, I have had ir switch mid drive and stying to adjust them is a hassle. They do not work properly.

ODI #11475762AIR BAGSCRASH

The contact's son owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that while her son was driving in the rain at 50 MPH, another vehicle hit her son's vehicle from behind which sent the vehicle into a concrete barrier. The vehicle was sent spinning after it hit the barrier; the vehicle was facing oncoming traffic once it came to a stop. The air bags did not deploy upon impact. The contact's son was not injured and did not seek any medical attention. The other driver fled the scene of the accident. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed independent collision center where it had yet to be inspected or repaired. The dealer nor the manufacturer had yet to be notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.

ODI #11472594VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

While driving on 7/6/2022, upon acceleration, the vehicle began jerking and applying the brakes as if it was trying to attempt to avoid a rear end collision. Moments after that incident, the instrument cluster displayed warning lights of the following: check forward safety system, traction control, front end collision avoidance, electronic parking brake, and auto hold all in an orange color followed by a check engine light shortly after. Safety was put at risk due to the vehicle suddenly and uncontrollably braking without any warning on prior indication. The vehicle has not been inspected by anyone yet, but is schedule for a dealer diagnostic on August 9th, 2022. Currently, this vehicle has 10,900 miles on the odometer.

ODI #11465859POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

Does not always shift like it is supposed to

ODI #11462727UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The undercarriage of the vehicle fell as I was driving down the highway. Yes it is available upon request. My safety was put at risk because part of the undercarriage piece started to rip and go underneath my tire. The problem was inspected by a dealer. The component has not been inspected by anyone else. There were no warnings prior to this occurring.

ODI #11462680UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Can is going 4000rpm at 70 mph. Feels like no power, won't go over 80 mpg. To it the dealer but didn't do anything unless the check engine light is on. Can is 10 months old.

ODI #11462269VISIBILITY/WIPER

had the windshield replaced on March 14, 2022. i drove the car for approximatly for two weeks with no issues. i left my car parked while on vacation and took a cab to the airport. after i returned home from vacation and drove my car for the first time in almost two weeks i noticed the cracks on the windshield. one on the lower area of the passenger side and another that is on the driver side about mid ways. both have spread and since then there are two smaller ones starting. i have been constantly contacting the dealership who is giving me the run around. but on may 3 they are wanting to see the car windshield. the glass company the dealer uses has no warranty for their work. The cracks are inside the glass you cant feel them at all. i know the service guy wanted to know if i had a telluride i told him no i have the K5.

ODI #11462020UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Horn went out? No explanation

ODI #11461900VISIBILITY/WIPER

The windshield cracked and spread very quickly without any known reason. I made an appointment with the dealership and was told that they do not handle that situation and was dismissed without a proper check. Will be checked by an auto glass company soon. There was no indication of any failure/warning lamps. There were no prior chips in the windshield that were prone to further damage, no loud sounds and the crack appeared while the car was parked on my carport.

ODI #11452892ENGINE

Vehicle engine shut off while driving down the highway. Traveling on 74 and while still in drive the engine abruptly shut off. Vehicle was started again and then it again shut off a couple miles down the road. When the vehicle was started a 3rd time it immediately went into limp mode. I was stuck on the side of the highway with vehicles going 70MPH around me. On my way to the dealership the car shut off multiple times potentially killing me multiple times. After 60 days at the dealership they said they fixed the problem. I drove the car 4 miles and it shut off on me on the highway again. I had a car almost crash into me along with trying to start the car and get off to a safe location. I still do not know what is going wrong with the vehicle but this could of killed me and others..... this needs to be addressed along with the fact they gave me the vehicle back just for it to do it again.

ODI #11449631STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Took my car to the dealership on 12/20/21 because all of my sensors were going off so they installed a new harness and cleared all the sensors, I got my car back on 1/3/22. On 1/16/22 all my sensors came back on so I brought it back to the dealership on 1/19/22 and I got it back the next day and was told it was safe for me to commute to work (I got it back with the front panel off with exposed wires and no working airbags) and a few days later all the sensors were back on and as I’m driving home in the middle of the night from work my tire pressure sensor came on even tho I had air in my tires, my headlights turned off for seconds at a time, my speedometer kept dropping to 0 as I’m going 60 and my cruise control stopped working. Have pictures and videos of every issue every time

ODI #11449212LANE DEPARTURE,BACK OVER PREVENTION,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

Since October these features have been on and off working when they want to. I don't know what is happening with the safety features but it needs to be fixed or a update is needed for all the safety features.

ODI #11440906LANE DEPARTURECRASH

The contact owns a 2021 Kia K5. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at 5-10 MPH and making a turn on a road with no lanes, the steering wheel inadvertently started shuddering and became rigid, causing the contact's daughter to lose control of the vehicle. The vehicle crashed into a construction dumpster. An unknown warning message illuminated. The air bags did not deploy. The contact's daughter did not sustain any injuries. A police report was not filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact's residence. Then, the vehicle was towed to the dealer who towed the vehicle to a collision center. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V447000 (LANE DEPARTURE, STEERING) as the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was opened. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 11,700.

ODI #11432865FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

I was driving 35 mph with nobody in front of or behind me and the car slammed on automatic braking for no reason, stopping me in the middle of the road.

ODI #11430639FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

When filling up the gas tank on 3 separate occasions the station pump failed to cut off causing fuel to leak unto the surrounding surface. The Kia K 5 is leased vehicle that I entered into contract in July 2021. The car was used as a demo and I find it suspicious that the dealership wasn’t aware of the issue. The dealership is replacing the gas tank at no cost to me.

ODI #11424226VISIBILITY/WIPER

My 2021 KIA K5 developed a chip after a small pebble hit the windshield. By the time I got home(an hour and a half later) the chip caused a crack across three quarters of the windshield. The dealer and KIA Corporate will not admit the problem even though there have been numerous complaints on the Telluride model and now several complaints documented on the new K5.

ODI #11423530UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Sunroof exploded while driving. Only had the car 2 months.

ODI #11417817UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Purchased new Kia K5 LXS few months ago. Originally warning lights appeared on dashboard. At first windows would come down intermittently. Now my windows won't come down at all. My headlights flicker and turn off at night. Car sounds like it's powering down at times. Contacted dealership a number of times. Alerted dealership of problems and concerns via phone and during service. Met with indifference and treated like they hadn't talked to me regarding latest concerns. This shouldn't happen to any vehicle especially when purchased brand new.

ODI #11416535ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINEFIRE

VEHICLE WAS STOPPED A RED LIGHT ON A CITY STREET WHEN SUDDENLY CUT OFF. SMOKE BEGAN TO POUR OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. LESS THAN 1 MINUTE LATER THE VEHICLE WAS FULLY INVOLVED UNDER THE HOOD OF CAR. CAR WAS A TOTAL LOSS. VEHICLE HAD JUST BEEN DRIVEN APPROXIMATELY 25 MILES (ALL HIGHWAY) FROM HOME TOWARDS WORK WHEN INCIDENT OCCURRED.

ODI #11405416STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE

WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE, I HEARD AND ABNORMAL ABOUT OF NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE BAY AS WELL AS A SCRATCH WHILE I WAS DRIVING. THIS HAPPENED ON MARCH 26, 2021 AT 10PM. ON MARCH 29, 2022 I TOOK IT TO THE DEALER SHIP AND I WAS NOTIFIED THAT MY ENGINE COVER CAME OFF AND WAS THE CAUSE OF THE NOISE. THERE'S DAMAGE TO MY DRIVER SIDE FENDER, RUBBING TO THE WHEEL/TIRE AND MY FOG LIGHT HOUSING IS HANGING.

ODI #11404009ENGINE

WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND AFTER IT IS PARKED AND ENGINE IS TURNED OFF THE COOLING SYSTEM ( COOLANT RESERVOIR ON UPPER RIGHT SIDE OF ENGINE ARE) ALLOWS ANTIFREEZE VAPORS AND HIGH PRESSURE TO ESCAPE INTO ENGINE AREA. WHEN PARKING IN A GARAGE THERE IS A VERY STRONG SMELL OF COOLANT. DEALER HAS VERIFIED THAT THE RADIATOR CAP APPEARS TO ACT AS A VENT ALLOWING VAPORS TO ESCAPE THE SYSTEM.

ODI #11399278AIR BAGS,SEATSCRASH1 INJURY

I WAS TRAVELING 45 MPH IN MY 2021 K5 GT LINE WHEN AN OLDER TOYOTA CAMRY CROSSED MY PATH. I APPLIED BRAKES BUT THERE WAS NO AVOIDING THE COLLISION. I BROADSIDED THE CAMRY AT SOMEWHERE BETWEEN 30 AND 35 MPH. I SUSTAINED INJURIES TO BOTH KNEES, NECK AND BACK. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. POLICE, WRECKER DRIVER AND BODY SHOP (IN THIER PREVIOUS EXPERIENCES) ALL SAY THEY ARE SURPRISED THE AIR BAGS WERE NOT TRIGGERED BEING THE FACT IT WAS A FRONTAL COLLISION. ANOTHER CONCERN IS THE FOLDING SEAT BEHIND THE DRIVER'S SIDE BROKE FREE OF THE LATCH AND FOLDED ITSELF DOWN. THAT SEAT HAS NEVER BEEN FOLDED DOWN OR EVEN SAT IN FOR THAT MATTER, SO I KNOW FOR A FACT IT WAS LATCHED. SAD TO SAY MY BEAUTIFUL BRAND NEW K5 THAT I HAVE HAD FOR 2 MONTHS NOW HAS CLOSE TO $13,000 DAMAGE. MOST IMPORTANTLY, I AM NOW SCARED TO DRIVE THIS THING. WHAT IF THIS HAPPENS AGAIN?

ODI #11394262UNKNOWN OR OTHERCRASH1 INJURY

I WAS TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 40-45 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE CROSSED IN MY PATH, AND I BROADSIDED HIS VEHICLE. I AM NOT SURE OF MY SPEED AT IMPACT. I WOULD GUESS 30 MPH. AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE REAR DRIVERS SIDE SEAT ALSO CAME UNLATCHED, FOLDING ITSELF DOWN. THERE WERE NO OTHER PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE.

ODI #11389777ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2021 KIA K5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, AN UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER KIA FORT WALTON BEACH (343 MIRACLE STRIP PKWY, FORT WALTON BEACH, FL 32548) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THERE WERE ISSUES WITH TWO OF THE COMPUTER CHIPS IN THE VEHICLE THAT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 600.

ODI #11389188STRUCTURE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2021 KIA K5. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT 65-75 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL WIND NOISE DETECTED FROM THE REAR DOORS. THERE WERE NO WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO HENDRICK KIA OF CONCORD (7550 HENDRICK AUTO PLAZA NW, CONCORD, NC 28027; (704) 467-8591) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS WORKING AS DESIGNED AND THE NOISE WAS NORMAL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED WHO REFERRED THE CONTACT TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 344.

ODI #11385251POWER TRAIN

TRANSMISSION REQUIRES TOTAL REPLACEMENT WITHIN 5 DAYS OF PURCHASE OF NEW CAR. VEHICLE WAS PARKED WHEN TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAK WAS DISCOVERED. IT WAS DRIVEN BACK TO THE DEALER, WHICH IS NEARBY, BUT THIS EXPERIENCE HAS SHAKEN OUR FAITH IN THE SAFETY AND BUILD QUALITY OF THIS 2021 KIA K5 GT-LINE.

ODI #11374783ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

KEEP LOST WIRELESS CARPLAY SCINAL.

ODI #11374198AIR BAGSCRASH1 INJURY

WAS DRIVING TO WORK ON FREEWAY AND A DEER JUMPED OUT IN FRONT OF CAR, I HIT IT BETWEEN 65-70 MPH AND NOT ONE OF THE MANY AIRBAGS INSTALLED ON THIS BRAND NEW CAR DEPLOYED . THE POLICE OFFICER AT THE SCENE SAID I'M LUCKY TO BE ALIVE.

HighFUEL PUMP issue detected

Engine stalling at speed — fuel delivery failure can cause sudden loss of power in traffic or on highways

HighPOWER STEERING issue detected

Loss of power steering assist — vehicle becomes difficult to control especially at low speeds and during parking

HighTRANSMISSION issue detected

Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable

HighDEF issue detected

Engine derate or no-start condition — DEF system failure puts vehicle into limp mode limiting speed to 5mph

Annual complaints and reliability score for KIA K5 — recall years marked in red
023450501002021202220232020202120222023202420252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Recall issued
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 146 total NHTSA complaints filed over 7 years, with the worst year being 2025 (45 complaints).

The amber reliability line is declining — recent years score around 10/100, lower than earlier in the vehicle's life. This pattern indicates issues are accumulating over time rather than being resolved, which is a concern for used buyers.

The recalls (red dashed lines) followed the first complaints by 1 year — a typical response window; neither unusually fast nor a pattern of denial.

Red dots on the amber line flag 4 years (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$44,659
~$744/mo over 5 yrs
$0.7/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$13,575
Maintenance
$8,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$6,000
Depreciation
$7,084

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $44,659 (~$744/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

6 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$3,000
4 recalls over 2 years old — likely uncompleted−$1,600
Total recommended deduction−$4,600
HIGH
Inspect for fuel pump issue detected — ask for repair records
Engine stalling at speed — fuel delivery failure can cause sudden loss of power in traffic or on highways
HIGH
Inspect for power steering issue detected — ask for repair records
Loss of power steering assist — vehicle becomes difficult to control especially at low speeds and during parking
HIGH
Inspect for transmission issue detected — ask for repair records
Complete transmission failure — repair costs $3,000–$8,000+; vehicle may become undriveable
HIGH
Verify recall AIR BAGS: AIR BAG/RESTRAINT CONTROL MODULE has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Telluride, K5, and Forte vehicles. The Occupant Classification and De
HIGH
Verify recall FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia Motor America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021 Sorento and 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L turbocharged engi
HIGH
Verify recall LANE DEPARTURE: LANE KEEP: STEERING ASSIST has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L T-GDI engines. The Rack-Mounted
HIGH
Verify recall POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia Motors, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento and 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limi
HIGH
Verify recall AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN has been repaired
Recall on record for: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The side curtain air bags may have been installed i
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ENGINE
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
30%
18-month
51%
2-year
Moderate Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 51%

30% estimated recall probability — some indicators present but not alarming.

  • Accelerating complaint rate — increasing pressure on NHTSA to act
  • Multiple prior recalls — pattern of safety issues on this model

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$2,140–$2,720/yr
~$178–$227/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard VehicleModerate surcharge risk
Very High theft risk model: +30% to comprehensive premium 5-year-old vehicle: −7% (moderate depreciation)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

Very High
6.4× national average · 68/1,000 vehicles
Recovery rate:63%of stolen KIA K5s are recovered

KIA K5 has a Very High theft risk — 6.4× the national average. Insurance premiums are likely significantly above class average.

KIA has been fined $27M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2020: Failure to promptly conduct recalls for Theta II engine defect.

2020$27MFailure to promptly conduct recalls for Theta II engine defect

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VIN5XXG14J25MG041179
Model Year2021
MakeKIA
ModelK5
TrimLXS
Vehicle TypePASSENGER CAR

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSedan/Saloon
Doors4
Seat Rows5
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionAutomatic

Engine

Displacement (L)1.6

Manufacturer

ManufacturerKIA GEORGIA, INC
Assembly CountryUNITED STATES (USA)

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)5XX
Check Digit (Char 9)5
Model Year Code (Char 10)M
Plant Code (Char 11)G
Sequence (Chars 12–17)041179

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count6
NHTSA Complaint Count146
5
1
X
2
X
3
G
4
1
5
4
6
J
7
2
8
5
9
M
10
G
11
0
12
4
13
1
14
1
15
7
16
9
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
5
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
X
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
X
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
G14J2
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
5
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
M
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
G
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
041179
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
United States
From VIN position 1 (5)
Model Year Character
"M" → 2021
Could also be 1991
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 5/25/2026, 11:39:02 AM.