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2021 Kia K5

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

More warning signs than most K5 years

Owner complaints for the 2021 Kia K5 are substantially higher than the model-year median of 78.5.

About this comparison →

How this year compares

Owner complaints by model year

Other model years Selected year
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Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.

What owners reported most

All reported categories

Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.

When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

Limited mileage data: 31 of 165 reports include usable mileage. There isn’t enough coverage to show a useful chart.

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Electrical System. Review the 45 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Fuel/propulsion System. Review the 42 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Engine. Review the 29 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

8 crash reports2 fire reports6 injury reports

Unknown Or Other complaints

32 reports
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Mileage unknown · Aug 27, 2026
Unknown Or OtherCrash

The panoramic glass of the sunroof exploded out while driving on the freeway. A large piece of the glass exploded outwards and could not be retrieved. It was not damaged by external impact as other cars were not close enough to kick back rocks, debris, etc. The sunroof glass had no damage prior to shattering. Hazard lights were …

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The panoramic glass of the sunroof exploded out while driving on the freeway. A large piece of the glass exploded outwards and could not be retrieved. It was not damaged by external impact as other cars were not close enough to kick back rocks, debris, etc. The sunroof glass had no damage prior to shattering. Hazard lights were turned on to drive to the nearest exit, and subsequent accident happened when a speeding vehicle crashed into my vehicle. This happened on the freeway driving 75 mph causing a road hazard, the glass that shattered out could have hit vehicles behind my vehicle, causing damage or a crash. The vehicle has not been inspected by the dealership or insurance company as of yet. There were no warning signs or symptoms of failure.

NHTSA ODI #11760175

Mileage unknown · Jun 6, 2026
Unknown Or Other

Premature Leaking Evaporator Core – 2021 Kia K5 I am submitting this complaint regarding a leaking evaporator core in my 2021 Kia K5. The evaporator core failed at approximately 59,600 miles, causing the air conditioning system to stop cooling properly. The vehicle was diagnosed by a repair facility, which determined that the …

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Premature Leaking Evaporator Core – 2021 Kia K5 I am submitting this complaint regarding a leaking evaporator core in my 2021 Kia K5. The evaporator core failed at approximately 59,600 miles, causing the air conditioning system to stop cooling properly. The vehicle was diagnosed by a repair facility, which determined that the evaporator core was leaking refrigerant and required replacement. An evaporator core is a major HVAC component that should not fail at such low mileage under normal operating conditions. This failure affects the vehicle’s ability to properly dehumidify and defrost the windshield, which can reduce visibility and create a potential safety hazard during rain, high humidity, or cold weather conditions. I have maintained the vehicle as recommended and believe this component failed prematurely. Due to the extensive labor required to replace the evaporator core, the repair cost is significant. I am requesting that NHTSA review this issue to determine whether there is a pattern of premature evaporator core failures in 2021 Kia K5 vehicles and whether an investigation is warranted. Vehicle Information: * Year: 2021 * Make: Kia * Model: K5 * Mileage at Failure: 59,600 miles * Failure: Leaking evaporator core causing refrigerant loss and loss of air conditioning performance Thank you for your consideration.

NHTSA ODI #11742478

Mileage unknown · May 23, 2026
Electrical SystemUnknown Or Other

Unknown

NHTSA ODI #11739702

Mileage unknown · May 14, 2026
Unknown 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 th…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11737928

Mileage unknown · Apr 29, 2026
Fuel/propulsion SystemUnknown Or Other

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.

NHTSA ODI #11734630

Mileage unknown · Apr 7, 2026
Unknown 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.” Advi…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11729577

Mileage unknown · Feb 26, 2026
Air BagsElectrical SystemUnknown 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 miss…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11720667

Mileage unknown · Aug 22, 2025
Fuel/propulsion SystemUnknown Or Other

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…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11682417

Mileage unknown · Aug 22, 2025
Electrical SystemUnknown 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 t…

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11682404

Mileage unknown · Jul 27, 2025
Unknown 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 — …

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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.

NHTSA ODI #11676487

Official recalls

6

25V794000 · Fuel System, Gasoline

Nov 17, 2025

Kia 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the check valve. The fuel tank will be inspected for damage and replaced as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 16, 2026. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC356. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 1, 2025.

23V149000 · Air Bags:side/window:curtain

Mar 7, 2023

Kia 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reinstall the side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC263.

22V760000 · Power Train:automatic Transmission

Oct 11, 2022

Kia 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 9, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC250.

21V519000 · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings

Jul 8, 2021

Kia 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A fuel leak increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten, or replace the fuel pipe as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 21, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC214.

21V447000 · Lane Departure: Lane Keep: Steering Assist; Steering

Jun 14, 2021

Kia 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.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: A sudden increase in steering effort can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the R-MDPS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are were mailed June 24, 2021. Owner may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC213.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Lane Departure: Lane Keep: Steering Assist

Kia 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.

Consequence: A sudden increase in steering effort can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the R-MDPS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are were mailed June 24, 2021. Owner may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC213.

Steering

Kia 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.

Consequence: A sudden increase in steering effort can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the R-MDPS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are were mailed June 24, 2021. Owner may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC213.

21V164000 · Air Bags: Air Bag/restraint Control Module; Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger

Mar 11, 2021

Kia 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."

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: In 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.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCS/ODS unit, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC207.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Air Bags:sensor:occupant Classification:front Passenger

Kia 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."

Consequence: In 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.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCS/ODS unit, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC207.

Air Bags: Air Bag/restraint Control Module

Kia 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."

Consequence: In 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.

Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace the OCS/ODS unit, free of charge. The recall began March 18, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC207.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

0

No exact-year investigations in this snapshot.