73
Complaints Reported

Complaints by Component

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
15 complaints
While driving my car i heard a loud pop come from the rear of the car. Vehicle began driving poorly as if it could not get proper fuel. I took car to dealership on October 3, 2025 where fuel system was tested and failed all 3 stages of recall for fuel system. Fuel tank had expanded straps and clips had broken and was deemed unsafe to drive. Kia placed the vehicle on hold.at the dealership with a do not repair until further notice. As of today October 27, 2025 the car has still not been repaired and is still on hold at the dealership. Kia has not determined if it is safe to repair the vehicle and return to owner (myself). I however do not feel safe to drive this car as I am lucky to be alive and that it didnt explode when the fuel tank expanded. Hopefully my case can help save someone else from being placed in danger with this issue.
Oct 27, 2025
Driving down the highway and heard a pop and my seats were rising slowly and while trying to make it to the nearest exit only two minutes later my rpm’s started jumping and my engine just shut off and multiple dash lights came on. Had it towed to Kia and after they did an inspection they said that my fuel tank had expanded and was pushing on my fuel lines and pushing my back seats up. Screen shot of technician video summary sent to me by dealership down below.
Sep 29, 2025
I am submitting an update regarding my 2023 Kia K5 (VIN: [XXX] ). •On July 25, 2025, I delivered the vehicle to my dealership for recall-related fuel tank issues. •As of today (61 days later), the vehicle remains out of service and undrivable. •The dealership opened a Kia Techline case, confirming they are unable to repair the fuel tank issue and that it is a safety hazard. •Kia North America has not provided any resolution, despite repeated contacts and escalation of my case (Kia Claim #25408405). •I have incurred significant financial hardship, including paying the monthly car loan, maintaining minimum insurance, and paying for out-of-pocket rental expenses while Kia holds my vehicle. •I also contacted Kia Finance, and they confirmed my hardship notes are documented in their system. This situation is ongoing, with no repair performed, no reimbursement, and no safe solution provided. The recall remains unresolved, and the vehicle is unavailable for use. I request that NHTSA take immediate action to ensure Kia complies with its recall obligations and consumer safety requirements. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Sep 26, 2025
I started the purchase process of a Kia in 2022 of July. The car was built with a faulty fuel tank and no recalls were made on the vehicle. June 27,2025 I was driving on the freeway when my car started to not accelerate my fuel tank ejected into my backseat and I was forced to jump out of my car on the freeway.
Sep 05, 2025
The fuel tank in my 2023 Kia K5 LXS expanded and bent the subframe. This is a known problem with K5's with the 1.5L turbo engine. Kia had an emissions campaign for this problem affecting 2021 to 2024 models. My VIN isn't in that campaign, but it had the same problem. Given the fuel tank expansion and bent subframe, my car is no longer safe to drive and has been sitting at the dealership. I was told that with the fuel tank expansion a plate could pop open and create a fire or explosion. This also caused a significant loss of power, making the car untenable to operate. Kia's Techline reviewed the findings from the dealership service department (Campbell Kia Missoula), but closed the case without offering a repair and escalated it to another department (Consumer Affairs?), where it remains unresolved after two weeks. Kia is failing to resolve the issue in the form of either a repair or a buyback and keeps dragging the case out with virtually no contact or updates. Please help. This needs resolved ASAP.
Aug 19, 2025
+ 10 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
7 complaints
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle, the fuel level was lowering, and a fuel odor was entering the cabin of the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. Upon further inspection, the contact became aware that fuel was leaking from the vehicle onto the ground. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V794000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. Two local dealers were contacted: Boniface Hiers Kia (3890 W New Haven Ave, Melbourne, FL 32904). The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
Dec 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 KIA K5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V794000(Fuel System, Gasoline); 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 made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Dec 16, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact had received an unknown Emissions/Fuel Tank recall. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer, where the vehicle was inspected and failed the inspection. The vehicle was deemed unsafe and inoperable due to an expanded fuel tank. The vehicle was not repaired due to the recall not being honored by the dealer and manufacturer because the vehicle failed the inspection. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.
Oct 21, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH in hot weather, a loud popping sound came from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact coasted into a ditch and inspected the vehicle, but no exterior damage was found. The vehicle was restarted and driven to a gas station. The check engine warning light was no longer illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the cause of the failure could not be determined. The failure persisted and the fuel gauge level dropped while driving. The contact pulled over and placed a bag under the vehicle to check for fuel leaks, but found none. The contact stated that the vehicle failed state vehicle inspection due to an unknown emission code. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who performed an oil change and updated the computer system. The failure recurred while driving with three minor children in the rear seats. The fuel tank made a loud explosion, and the rear seats propped up, pushing the children forward while the seat belts restrained them in their seats. The child seated in the rear passenger seat received medical attention for injuries to the back of his legs caused by hot fuel fumes from underneath the seat, as well as black specks stuck on his legs. The contact's husband opened the fuel tank, and loud air pressure was released. The fuel tank was bubbling. The vehicle was towed to Classic Kia of Carrollton (2920 N Interstate 35E, Carrollton, TX 75007), who determined that the fuel tank needed to be replaced and requested that the manufacturer send an engineer to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the third dealer, Huffines Kia Corinth (6940 S Interstate 35, Corinth, TX 76210), where an engineer determined the vehicle was non-repairable due to the fuel tank expanding in multiple locations and bending the sub-frame. The contact was informed that the fuel tank was manufactured without a pressure release valve. The vehicle was not repaired. Upon investigation, the contact stated that the 2021-2023 Kia K5s were not manufactured with a pressure release valve. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and three cases were opened. The manufacturer offered to buy back the vehicle and reimburse for medical and vehicle rental expenses; however, the contact declined the buyback because the offer was less than the original agreement. The failure mileage was 17,857.
Feb 21, 2025
Injuries: 1
The contact owned a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated that while her son and daughter-in-law were driving, three loud bangs were heard coming from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and inspected; however, no cause for the banging sounds were found. The vehicle was then taken to a gas station to be inspected, but no cause for the sounds were found. The contact’s son then added fuel to the vehicle, but the fuel spilled from the filler neck. The vehicle was taken to the residence. The vehicle was then taken to a dealer where it was determined that the gas tank had expanded and damaged a part underneath of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to be inspected after being deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Dec 04, 2024
+ 2 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
6 complaints
I’m loosing power when i drive
Oct 22, 2025
While driving at about 70 MPH the right rear tire locked up temporarily causing loss of control of the vehicle. Luckily there were not other cars around as the car was in 3 lanes prior to coming to a complete stop. If this happened in traffic it could have caused a significant accident. There were no warning lamps on dash before or after the incident. After inspecting vehicle on side of road I could not see any issues. Drove about 15 yards and heard a grinding noise. Vehicle was towed to dealership. Dealership has inspected vehicle and advised it was caused by a failed awd coupler. The repair will be covered by warranty.
Sep 26, 2025
Transmission is itself in neutral while driving. Resulting in irratic RPMs, hesitating acceleration and rough transition to gears. Took care into dealership service department. They seemed that I would need a transmission replacement. Kia approved the request. Still waiting on transmission to be put in.
Aug 21, 2024
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions at various speeds, while the transmission was changing gear, the vehicle hesitated and jerked abnormally. The vehicle was taken to a dealer however, the failure could not be replicated. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,000.
Aug 14, 2024
WHEN DRIVING MY CAR WILL SEND OFF ALL DASHBOARD LIGHTS, SOUNDS. LOSE ACCELERATION. PULL OVER, RMPS FLY UP AND WON. TURN CAR OFF AND TURN BACK ON TO REGAIN ACCELERATION. ENGINE LIGHT REMAINS ON. I KNOW THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS FOR MY EXACT CAR TYPE, BUT THE RECALL DOES NOT SHOW UP UNDER MY VIN. AFTER A PHONE CALL WITH NHTSA, I WAS TOLD TO REPORT MY VEHICLE TO THE WEBSITE. MY SAFETY AND OTHERS IS AT RISK FOR OBVIOUS REASONS. THIS CAN EASILY CAUSE A CRASH. THIS HAPPENED ONCE AT 5K MILES, DEALERSHIP SUPPOSEDLY FIXED IT. BUT IT HAPPENED AGAIN THE OTHER DAY AT 19K MILES. THERE ARE NO WARNINGS PRIOR TO MY VEHICLE GOING INTO SAFE MODE.
Jan 05, 2024
+ 1 more complaint for this component
STRUCTURE
6 complaints
Left rear car door C-Pillar trim ripped off while driving.
Aug 06, 2025
Component or System: Front sunroof glass – panoramic sunroof system The sunroof has been removed but I could provide pictures What happened: While my vehicle was parked, the front sunroof glass panel spontaneously exploded outward, sending shattered glass fragments upward and outward. There was no external impact, object, or weather condition that could have caused this. The sunshade was closed, which fortunately prevented the glass from falling into the cabin. Had the shade been open, I or any occupant would have been at serious risk of injury. How safety was compromised: This is a serious vehicle safety defect. Spontaneous sunroof explosion could have caused glass-related injury to occupants, or road hazards to nearby vehicles or pedestrians if this had occurred while driving. The vehicle is currently unsafe to drive, especially in bad weather, due to a gaping opening in the roof. Inspection/confirmation by service center: Yes – the vehicle was inspected by two authorized Kia service centers. Both confirmed the glass was blown outward, not due to any external force. The second service center provided a quote to replace only the glass, not the entire sunroof system, indicating it was a glass failure. Inspection by manufacturer/insurance/police: Kia America has not physically inspected the vehicle and refused to request a statement from the service center, even after I submitted photographic evidence and a recording where the service manager agreed with my explanation. The vehicle was not inspected by police. My insurance was notified, but I am attempting to resolve this under warranty due to the nature of the defect. Warning messages or symptoms before failure: There were no warning lights, sounds, messages, or cracks leading up to the incident. The glass exploded without warning, which is why this poses a critical safety concern. Best assessment of cause: I believe this was a structural defect in the sunroof glass or a manufacturing/design flaw. I’v
Jul 15, 2025
at 2:30 PM i had noticed that my passenger rear trim, right above my trunk was loose. I made note of it. about three hours later, i was driving down the interstate and i noticed it came off and was flying through the air. Thankfully it didn’t hit another vehicle but this isn’t the first time I have had issues with the trim and a lot of other k5 owners have had issues as well.
Jun 15, 2025
The back chrome cover around the rear windshield all 3 pieces are coming loose and I had the one on my passenger side fly off while I was going down the highway and the piece almost hit the truck behind me thankfully traffic wasn’t to bad on the highway so he was able to hit his breaks and maneuver out of the way before. I currently have 2 more pieces trying to come off. After doing further research I have seen hundreds of other post from k5 owners years 23&24 all having the exact same issue of the chrome pieces coming off and or flying off while driving. In the pictures you can see the one missing piece and the other 2 you can see where the other 2 pieces are starting to loosen up. If you physically touch it they both will move and feel loose. I believe this should be a recall before one of the pieces fly off and cause a accident by hitting another car like what almost happened in my case or just flying off and hitting a person. I bought my car used but it was a single owner my car was a little over a year old I’ve personally had it for I believe 10-11 months and I keep it in the carport daily so I shouldn’t be having these issues already.
Mar 27, 2025
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated that the rear passenger's side chrome trim extending to the trunk had separated from the vehicle. The contact related the failure to TSB Number: SA552. The contact was concerned that the failure could cause a road safety hazard. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 13,500.
Feb 27, 2025
+ 1 more complaint for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaints
I am submitting this complaint regarding unresolved safety recalls affecting my Kia K5: Recall SC356 and Recall SC346. I have contacted my authorized Kia dealer multiple times over the past several months, yet no remedy has been provided. Most alarmingly, I was informed today that my recall “ticket” was closed without any repairs being completed, which is unacceptable. Recall SC356 involves a damaged fuel tank check valve that can allow air to enter the tank, causing it to expand and potentially contact hot exhaust components. This defect creates a serious fire hazard and poses a risk of injury, death, or property damage. Recall SC346 involves a supplier defect where the C-pillar garnish face plate may delaminate and detach from the vehicle. According to NHTSA (25V493), a detached face plate may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash. Warning signs include looseness, rattling, or wind noise. Both recalls represent clear safety risks, yet Kia and its dealer network have failed to provide a timely remedy or interim solution. Closing a recall case without performing mandated safety repairs is deeply concerning and exposes me and other road users to unnecessary danger. Due to the prolonged delay, repeated dealer contact, and continued exposure to known safety hazards, I am requesting: 1.Immediate reopening and escalation of my recall case 2.Prompt completion of all recall repairs or a clear timeline 3.Consideration of compensation or goodwill due to extended delay and safety risk
Dec 15, 2025
Glacier white pearl paint is faulty. Chips and peals. Simply driving the car and getting rained on caused the paint to chip and peal.
Jun 07, 2024
Was driving on the highway at roughly about 70 MPH and all of a sudden heard a big explosion and found out my sunroof blew open with glass all over the back seat and inside of my car. Luckily no one was in the back seat, if there was, they would have been injured very badly.
Jul 03, 2023
Unknown
Apr 18, 2023
My sunroof exploded while driving on Lakeshore drive. I hear a loud boom and I almost crashed. I thought it was my tire or something else look up its my sunroof, I could have hit some one or hit something. It hasn't been inspected or anything as of yet it just happened at 6:30am. This is crazy because there was no warnings no cracks no anything. I ride with my sunroof cracked open every morning. so I don't understand.
Apr 11, 2023
ENGINE
3 complaints
Loss of power even hitting the gas. Sputters and does not accelerate. Had spark plugs changed thinking it will resolve the problem and it didn't. Severe safety hazard even needed to get up speed
Oct 02, 2023
The car was 4 months old when I was trying to get home when all of a sudden I noticed all the engine lights started to go out. With a few minutes on the road, the car automatically shut down in the middle of the road. My head almost hit the steering wheel and I was so close to hitting another car. I tried to start the car but it wouldn't start, the engine was making a strange noise and it smelled like burning. I waited 45 minutes on the side of the road and started the car. I drove the car to Kia and the fastest the car will go was 25 miles. When I got to Kia I explained everything that had happened to the car. They did not assure me that the Kia warranty was going to pay for everything and that they were going to investigate what was wrong with the car. It was a wiring issue and was covered under warranty. I brought the car home around 6:300 p.m. m. From the Kia body shop and before I pulled out of the parking lot, I had the same problem again! The check engine light came on and the car came to a screeching halt again. I drove the car back to the body shop. I didn't tell him anything about what was wrong with the car. The car was serviced, however you should have no problem with a new 2023 car.
Jun 16, 2023
MPG is lower then number provided by both dealer and manufactorer (my average 24 city 27 highway ) factoring that i rarely even use climate controls and other fuel consuming things and often turn off engine in mcdonald's drive thru lane
Oct 21, 2022
AIR BAGS
2 complaints
I was involved in a head on collision, all of my safety warning notified me but my airbags NEVER deployed. This is a serious safety hazard especially with many problems being reported with airbag deployment. The adjuster and collision center both stated at the rate of speed from the accident, the airbags should have definitely deployed. My car was deemed a total loss from the damage even without the deployment.
Mar 24, 2025
Crash: 1
Injuries: 1
I was in a car accident on 6/30/23. I was side swiped and the front airbag deployed and exploded in my face, knocking me unconscious and leaving me with chemical burns. I had a grade 2 concussion so it's hard to remember a lot. I was taken to the hospital. And drivers and passengers from 3 other vehicles were also taken to area hospitals.
Jul 13, 2023
Crash: 1
Injuries: 6
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
I submitted a previous report NHTSA ID: 11488746 and have not heard anything. I continue to have this problem and am afraid it could cause a severe accident. When I come to a stop with the "Auto Hold" engaged the acceleration increases to 4 rpms or a little higher so I hold the brake down hard with my foot in fear that the Auto Hold will not work. I proceed to shift it in Park then as i take my foot off the brake the acceleration returns to normal. This is very alarming and has occurred to me at least 20 times since I've had the car. I have had the car in the dealership but they do not see anything wrong with it and does not register any Error codes. The car has less than 10k miles on it.
Oct 26, 2024
Purchased a 2023 Kia K5 in August 2022 and as of Oct 2022 it has 800 miles. Four times within that period when I was either stopped or coming to a stop the acceleration excessively increased to 4 or more RPMs. I held my brake hard and put it in Neutral in which the RPMs got higher so I proceeded to Park. The first 3 times (while in traffic) it lowered the RPMs back down to normal. The 4th time (today) when stopped and shifting to Park the RPMs did not lower so while in Park, i slowly took my foot off the brake and it slowly lowered the RPMs. In all 4 instances I had the Auto Hold on. The 4th occurrence I noticed that the Auto Hold on the dash was blinking green then white so I turned it off. If this were to occur while I am driving at a high speed, I am afraid it will cause me to have a severe accident. Please investigate if this has been reported in the past and act fast before there is a fatal result.
Oct 11, 2022
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
2 complaints
One day I was driving and my car began to shake really bad. It doesn’t transition smoothly when switching gears in transmission. Sometimes it doesn’t accelerate and I’d have to floor the gas to get it going. Rough acceleration. Car would even shake in idle sometimes. It has been doing this ever since. One day it’ll shake, the next day it might not. It doesn’t matter if I drive slower or faster, the car still shakes, has rough to no acceleration, and shifts gears roughly. Engine light is on and is reading misfire of cylinder 3.
Sep 11, 2024
Received an oil change as part of normal service schedule on a 2023 Kia K5 vehicle purchased August of 2022 (from different dealership). 4 days after this service was conducted, the drain plug in the oil system of the vehicle fell out of my car, therefore draining my vehicle of the oil it needs to operate normally, causing the car to completely stall near my home. I had to pay out of pocket at a nearby Express Oil Change facility to have a new drain plug and oil put into car, after which I immediately brought my vehicle back to this dealership to ascertain what happened. This is the SECOND time this same exact issue has occurred with my vehicle (the first time occurring after an oil change at a different Kia dealership in Charlotte, NC), which I brought to my service advisor's attention prior to them beginning the oil change service. I expressed to this service department that I am extremely concerned there is something malfunctioning or defective within the vehicle that has caused this issue TWICE in an almost-new vehicle, and that I was now concerned there could be possible damage to my engine from this reoccurring issue. The service department at Kia Wesley Chapel did absolutely nothing to address my concerns or the issue other than replacing the drain plug (yet again). This Kia service department, and KIA overall, refuses to recognize or admit to any issue within the vehicle, and I was told to "wait and see if it happens again".
Aug 07, 2023
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
2023 Kia K5 GT, 8300 miles. Took car for 1st oil change and dealer said front brake pads and rotors need replaced. $800. The car is driven to school and home. How is this possible? Brakes should not be worn out this fast! Does this mean every oil change appointment will be $800 to replace brakes again. Reading forums this is a common issue for this vehicle.
Feb 28, 2024
This is the letter I sent to Kia: Dear Sirs, I own a 2023 Kia K5 EX that I bought new and currently has about 8500 miles on it. Today, while driving on I95 in Florida, I had my right rear tire blow out. I could tell by the feel of the car that I had a flat before the systems warned me, but that is not why I’m writing you today. While I was working my way over to the right shoulder to stop, all of the waring lights came on and the brakes stopped working. Now I want to be clear. It wasn’t a failure of the brakes themselves. It was not the anti-lock brake system. The brake pedal itself locked and would not let me apply the brakes. Again, I want to be perfectly clear here. I am now driving on a 6 lane highway at about 50 miles and hour on three tires with no working safety systems and I cannot slow down the car. Eventually, the brakes came bake on line and I was able to stop the car. However, If the traffic suddenly slowed down, as is common on South Florida, I would have had no way to avoid a collision. I do not know if this is a programmed response to a tire blow out or a major flaw in your safety systems. If it was designed that way, fire the moron who designed it and have it fixed. If it’s a flaw in the design, have it fixed. I cannot believe how dangerous a car you let me drive. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Mar 20, 2023
TIRES
2 complaints
Tire: Pirelli P Zero All Season M+S (235/45/18) Tire experienced a catastrophic failure while driving entire tire came a loose from rim leaving the car incapacitated and unable to maintain control. Luckily it was a rear tire which allowed partial control until able to safely stop the car.
Aug 06, 2023
Factory-installed tire on brand new KIA K-5 suffered catastrophic sidewall failure without contact with any foreign object after tire and vehicle was driven 151 total miles since new. Tire is Pirelli UPR18-235 PZERO All Season. ( R57-119, 029974 S2 WRZ (E4), (E3) 022958)
Mar 29, 2023
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 25V794000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) and 25V493000 (Structure); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and the dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available and were on back order. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The contact had not experienced a failure.
Dec 09, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
10/25 I was traveling, and my car sudden loss of power, while in traffic.. almost causing accident. 10/28 I was traveling on interstate, and my car sudden loss of power, while in traffic.. almost causing accident. This is ridiculous.. When I hit the gas sometimes, feels like it fluttering and jerking. I’ve reported multiple times over the years and this one having hesitation when driving this car. Manager drove it was concern, mechanic talking about it’s the way the car supposed to be.
Oct 28, 2025
AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
the vehicle failed the fuel tank Inspection recall.I have a tech line case open :Case number 25408405 . It has been 46 days since the vehicle has been at the dealership waiting for information from Kia USA . I have been still told to pay for car note that I am financing through Kia itself as well as rental because the dealership doesn’t have any loaners .
Sep 07, 2025
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
1 complaint
My engine line keeps returning regardless of the multiple visits to the service department in attempt to fix recall complications at BONIFACE-HIERS KIA. Today will be the fourth visit for fuel tank and ECM recall related malfunctions.
Aug 21, 2025
LANE DEPARTURE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
After getting my rearview mirror, repaired by the Kia dealership when I break when I came to a stop, my car started flashing forward, collision warnings, and Blindspot assist warnings and activated the emergency parking break ticket to the Kia dealership they saw the safety issues in in diagnostics and a history of it They said they won't replace anything unless it happens in the dealership's care gave the car back to me and less than five minutes after leaving the same issue occurred. They've currently had my car two weeks and have no update on what's going on was almost in an accident because of this issue after getting it back from the dealership. I also have a recording of the dealership stash. They won't do anything about it unless it happens in their care. With them, knowing it's a safety issue.
Aug 13, 2025
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
The fuel tank expanded causing the vehicle to become immobile. The car is sitting at a dealership after I declined to sign Kia's buyback so yes it available for inspection. As for my safety and other the fact a fuel tank is swelling under where people would sit and it is highly flammable/ combustible is kind of alarming to me. Yes, there are plenty of people having the same problems. The dealership has sent pictures and videos into Kia for their engineers to look over. The day before the car became immobile it was getting horrible gas mileage. There was no other things that happened no lights on the dash.
Aug 05, 2025
ENGINE,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated that upon purchasing the vehicle new and driving off the dealer lot, the message "Radar Sensor Blocked" was displayed. The dealer was informed but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was driven to the residence. The contact stated that another message indicating that a sensor was blocked was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine had imploded. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The manufacturer offered buyback assistance; however, the dealer had not returned the owner’s or the manufacturer’s calls. The failure mileage was approximately 74.
Jul 24, 2025
SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
In June 2025, while driving my 2023 Kia K5 (VIN: [XXX] ) at highway speeds on [XXX], the fuel tank suddenly imploded. A loud bang caused the rear seats to lift, startling me and my passengers. The car lost power, and braking too hard risked leaving us stranded in fast-moving traffic. I narrowly avoided a crash while trying to maneuver us to safety. This vehicle was previously recalled by Kia in April 2024 for a fuel tank defect affecting ~236,000 vehicles. I took it to Gunther Kia in Davie, FL for inspection, and they claimed it was fixed. In March 2025, I returned to Hollywood Kia because of popping sounds and a check engine light. They diagnosed and “repaired” a purge control valve but failed to address the underlying defect. Despite these repairs, the catastrophic failure still occurred. The vehicle is now completely inoperable and irreparable. Kia later offered to buy back the vehicle but failed to respond to over 200 calls and dozens of emails from me, allowing their offer to expire without explanation. This left me paying for a vehicle I can no longer use. This defect poses a serious danger not only to me and my passengers but also to thousands of other K5 owners nationwide. I urge NHTSA to investigate Kia’s recall handling and ensure affected vehicles are properly repaired to prevent injury or death. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jul 19, 2025
Injuries: 3
POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
My 2023 Kia K5 GT (VIN: [XXX]) is experiencing a dangerous complete power loss at highway speeds. I was driving at the speed limit on [XXX] when the vehicle lost propulsion, entered limp-home mode, and illuminated every warning lamp. This has happened six times since purchase. The car is currently parked, and I am not confident enough to drive the car; I nearly missed a crash pulling into the emergency lane from the leftmost lane to the rightmost lane. After losing power in the engine, that was a traumatizing experience. I tried to explain this to people multiple times at different service centers, but they care less: "We can't fix it unless we can reproduce it," but this happens randomly; I cannot make it happen at the service center. This matches the recall SC250 symptoms exactly, though my VIN is excluded. I have tried with Multiple dealers before, but they cannot fix it. They say, "We cannot fix it unless we can reproduce it." INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Jun 03, 2025
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
All of my check lights are on. All of my sensors are popping up. It says no power steering. No cruise control. No lane departure and a few other lights are popping on every time I turn my car on and they all stay on. So far it isn’t preventing me from driving it but none of my safety features work
May 16, 2025
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I was driving with no other cars around, and i heard what sounded to be an explosion, come to find out my sunroof had exploded. I had glass fly all over the back windshield, and onto the road behind me. This could have caused an accident or damage to other vehicles if someone was around me.
Apr 21, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
2023 Kia K5 GT1, once at 16k miles and now again at 26k miles, while driving, the dashboard console flickered on me and the car lost complete acceleration and power, fortunately on urban roads or else would have been extremely unsafe and dangerous if high speed, especially since I have a child. Pulled over and turned off vehicle, and turned back on acceleration regained but check engine light remains solid. Took it to dealer at 16k miles and they checked it out and just reset the codes, advised if it happened again to bring it back right away. I am aware of the open recall on this Kia model, but my specific vehicle VIN is not impacted. However, I suspect the sudden power loss issue is the exact same issue. This is an extremely dangerous and unsafe issue with this vehicle, particularly if you have kids or are driving high-speeds on the highway!!!!
Mar 29, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated while driving at approximately 70 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, shuddered, and there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The Electronic Stability Control Warning Light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 18,000.
Mar 05, 2025
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Component or System Failed: The fuel tank exploded, causing the vehicle to become undrivable. The explosion was so severe that the back seat was completely blown off. The vehicle is currently not in my possession, as it has been with the dealership for over three months. I have photos and proof of the damage, and I am willing to provide them for inspection. How Safety Was Put at Risk: I have a [XXX] son who sits directly above the fuel tank in the back seat. When the explosion occurred, the back of his seat was completely blown off, and had he been in the car at the time, he could have been seriously injured or killed. This was an extremely dangerous defect, and I am deeply concerned that this could happen to other Kia vehicles, putting more lives at risk. Beyond the immediate danger of the explosion, I have been left without a working vehicle for over three months, and Kia has provided no resolution. Despite confirming that the vehicle is not repairable, they have stalled the process, forcing me to continue making payments on a car I do not even have. Problem Reproduced or Confirmed by a Dealer or Independent Service Center? Yes, the Kia dealership confirmed that the vehicle is not repairable and that the fuel tank failure was severe. However, they have not provided any solution or compensation. Has the Vehicle Been Inspected? Yes, the vehicle was inspected by the Kia dealership, which determined that it was not repairable. I do not know if it has been inspected by any third-party mechanics, insurance representatives, or other authorities. Warning Lamps, Messages, or Symptoms Prior to the Failure? There were no warning lights, messages, or other symptoms prior to the explosion. The vehicle was operating normally before this occurred. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Feb 21, 2025
VISIBILITY
1 complaint
I was driving down the road and I heard a loud boom noise and it was my sunroof burst it pieces. It was raining and it was not hot. Nothing fell on it.
Nov 10, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
Why is Kia Dealership are allowed to sale cars that have recalls. Knowing that they have recalls and are allowed to sale. why not fix the issues and then sale. Safety Concerns driving and have to kids in the back car 65mph and car shut down breaks don't work or accelerator used the emergency breaks had shut down the car. Took it to the dealership I been calling them status on my car with no information provided. Imaging being behind 18 wheeler my accelerator don't work. Parts for recalls are out stock so why keep cars in the dealership knowing they don't have parts to fix the issues.
Sep 03, 2024
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated while making a turn from a complete stop, the check engine warning light and several other unknown warning lights illuminated. The message "A possible condition with your engine control system has been detected" was displayed on the infotainment screen display. The accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact was able to drive back to her nearby residence at a significantly slow speed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the failure could not be replicated. The contact stated that the vehicle operated as needed; however, the failure recurred while making a left turn in a parking lot. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the throttle body had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated while driving at highway speeds, the failure recurred, and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the road. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was test-driven. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle could not be diagnosed because the warning lights were not illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was recurring intermittently and was causing the infotainment system to reset. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 13,000.
Aug 06, 2024
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY
1 complaint
I noticed several internal markings like streaks on the left windshield. I presented this issue to KIA ASAP. KIA service managers examined the windshield and refused to acknowledge that it was internal, possibly due to a manufacturing defect from a containment during the manufacturing process from the windshield company. They do claim that they feel pits on the windshield, which was due to another dealership scraping the object to see if it was external or internal. KIA told me to file a claim with my auto insurance company and that it is not covered under warranty. I am concerned that the windshield integrity is compromised and a possible danger to someone hitting the windshield which could cause additional injuries from the safety glass deficiency.
Aug 30, 2023
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I was involved in a traffic accident on May 29 2023. I was hit on the passenger side sustaining $18,000 in damages. My side air bag never went off.
Jun 09, 2023
Crash: 1
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaint
Went through automatic car wash, in neutral. The gear shifted and the car sped up, bumping the back of another car in front. No warning sound, and no auto break.
Apr 10, 2023
Crash: 1
WHEELS
1 complaint
Wheel resonance ducting separated from wheel inside of the tire. Broken pieces, threw off the balance of the wheel/tire resulting in very excessive vehicle vibration.
Nov 06, 2022
4.5/5.0
72 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How many problems does the 2023 KIA K5 have?

The 2023 KIA K5 currently has 73 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.

What are the most common problems with 2023 KIA K5?

The most common problems reported for the 2023 KIA K5 are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.

Where does this 2023 KIA K5 problem data come from?

All problem and complaint data for the 2023 KIA K5 comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.

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