95 of the
765 complaints filed about the KIA K5
are about the electrical system —
100% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2021.
Beginning only about 6 months after I purchased the vehicle, the audio system intermittently screams at me, blasting at over 800 decibels road, engine noise and audio interference noises so that I cannot hear the radio, the telephone, turn it off or down, even when the audio infotainment system is not running. The only way to keep the vehicle from doing this when it occurs is to turn off the car. The noise is so loud that I cannot hear oncoming vehicles, including emergency vehicles, nor can I use the bluetooth phone system - if necessary I would have to break the state law about holding my phone to scream into it- even if someone could hear me on the other end. If I had the windows open, the audio system would break local noise ordinances. It is almost impossible to drive the vehicle when this occurs even though the dealership has said several times that I must bring it in when it is occuring; on one occasion to fulfill this requirement, I put in my earbuds and played music to drive to them for 1 hr to drown out the sound still surpassing my ability to safely focus on the road. Having documented PTSD, ADHD and anxiety disorder, having to drive the vehicle not knowing when and if this sound issue is going to return, makes it incredibly hard to feel safe when driving my own car, originally purchased new from Carriage Kia of Woodstock in December of 2023 after they diagnosed my last vehicle as needing an engine replacement. Having to drive from [XXX] to [XXX] everyday from work, I need reliable and safe transportation to do so, of which this car has not provided given the many issues we have had, including this ongoing problem which puts me at risk every time it occurs and on edge while driving each time it could. Attached is the list of service issues related to this vehicle including the documented ongoing electrical issue tied to the infotainment system, which Kia now acknowledges but suggests is out of warranty despite its existence for over 2 years. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORM
NHTSA complaint #11764128 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
- The exact component that failed has not yet been determined. The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of acceleration while driving, followed by a popping noise, smoke, and a fire that severely damaged the vehicle. The vehicle is a 2022 Kia K5 GT-Line, VIN [XXX]. The vehicle has an open Safety Recall SC356 / NHTSA Recall 25V794 involving the purge control system check valve and fuel tank, which may result in fuel leakage and an increased risk of fire. The recall repair had not been performed prior to the incident. The vehicle is currently being preserved and is available for inspection upon request. - The vehicle caught fire while driving on XXX, in [XXX]. The vehicle suddenly stopped accelerating, a popping noise, and then smoke began coming from the vehicle shortly afterward. The vehicle subsequently caught fire and was destroyed. The incident created a serious risk of injury to me, other occupants, nearby motorists, and others in the area. Fortunately, there were no injuries. - The cause of the failure and fire has not yet been confirmed. The vehicle was severely damaged by the fire. The vehicle has an open Kia SC356 / NHTSA 25V794 safety recall, which we were unaware of, but it has not yet been determined whether the condition addressed by that recall caused or contributed to this incident. - The Killeen Fire Department responded to the vehicle fire and extinguished the fire. The incident has also been reported to my insurance company, and an insurance claim is currently pending. No inspection has yet been performed to determine the cause of the fire. The vehicle is being preserved so that it remains available for inspection by the manufacturer, insurance representatives, NHTSA, or an independent expert if necessary. -No warning lamps or warning messages prior to the incident. While driving, the vehicle suddenly stopped accelerating, then a popping noise was heard, followed by smoke, and the vehicle subsequently caught fire. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 5
NHTSA complaint #11763269 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
All lights on dash appear. Forward collision warning, blind spot warning, other warnings. Car loses ability to accelerate for a few moments and makes unsafe to drive. RPM needle bounces.
NHTSA complaint #11761727 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The infotainment system in my Kia K5 has failed completely. The screen went black, causing the radio, infotainment features, and backup camera display to stop functioning. At times, the system will attempt to reboot on its own, but it does not return to normal operation and continues to malfunction. I have attempted to reset the system multiple times using the available reset methods, but none have resolved the issue. I took the vehicle to my local Kia dealership, where I was informed that the radio/infotainment unit itself is defective and needs to be replaced. The loss of the backup camera display is particularly concerning because it affects visibility and safety while reversing. I have also found numerous reports of similar infotainment and radio failures involving Kia vehicles, which makes me concerned that this may be a widespread defect rather than an isolated failure. I am requesting that this issue be reviewed and investigated as a potential vehicle defect.
NHTSA complaint #11755373 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The first time the collision warning lights and sounds came on when I was parked but had my engine on in the morning of 7/21/2026. The second time was when I was merging on a busy highway with cars going 65+mph... There were no cars around me, but the collision warning said crash, the sounds came on, and my brakes went into effect. I pulled off the road, and now I am terrified to drive my car. I called KIA and told them this. They sent out a tow. They had my car and told me that the computer on my car did not register any issues for both times this happened. Someone is taking my car home tonight and going on the same highway to see if it happens again.
NHTSA complaint #11752288 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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
NHTSA complaint #11749904 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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,
NHTSA complaint #11738283 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The fuel tank expanded, the car was spitting out gas from where you are supposed to insert gas nozzle. my fuel tank expanded so bad from pressure my vehicle sensors malfunctioned my car did not tell me something was wrong, I heard a pop and my car was telling me I had no gas when I did. the insert area for gas to be pumped was swollen and couldn't shut my gas cap cover. I went to gas station and since my car said it was empty I attempted to add gas and it spit it back out immediately it could not take gas, so I called kia locations since I was in [XXX] with kids in my vehicle for halloween trick or treating. the recall papers I have in order says safety hazard was a FIRE. my car fuel tank could had made my car explode at any moment. my engine light did not come on all my car showed me was mile change and inaccurate amount of gas reading. the dealer has had my car since November 2025. I heard popping sounds when I would return home from work in the driveway but no warning. one Time in July of 2025 my engine light came on I went to autozone they gave me a code for something with fuel issue, light didn't stay on no longer than a few hours. kia has cost me so much mishap and unfair financial responsibility. it has been a nightmare. the person working my case I can only talk to in email, it has taken forever now I have a repurchase offer that I had to fight for. they are trying to make me return my rental before completion of repurchase offer which offer stated could take longer than 30 days. this is so unfair. it seems illegal. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11737995 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
NHTSA complaint #11735605 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am writing to formally report that the manufacturer of my vehicle is refusing to repair a safety issue covered under an active recall. My vehicle is subject to Manufacturer Recall Number SC356. I brought my vehicle to an authorized dealership for inspection and repair as instructed.However, after evaluating the vehicle, the manufacturer/dealer informed me that the issue cannot be repaired. I am concerned because this situation leaves me without a proper remedy for a known safety defect. I understand that under federal law, manufacturers are required to provide an effective repair, replacement, or refund for safety recalls. At this time, I have not received a satisfactory resolution that ensures my safety or complies with recall obligations. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this case and provide guidance or take appropriate action to ensure the manufacturer fulfills its responsibilities. Nov 17,2025 Manufacturer Recall NumberSC356 NHTSA Recall Number25V794 Recall StatusRecall Incomplete Summary KIA AMERICA, INC. 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. Safety Risk 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 ARE MAILED JANUARY 16, 2026. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA CUSTOMER SERVICE AT [XXX] . KIA'S NUMBER FORTHIS RECALL IS SC356. Manufacturer's Notes SC356 INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11735151 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The display is shows a "Check Oil Level" error. It comes on then goes off regularly. I have verified that the oil level is OK. Took it into the dealer and he said that this is a common issue and a software fix is coming. The car only has less than 2K miles. I depend on the engine displaying error messages, but they need to be real ones. Online complaints indicate that this is a common error and there seems to be no fix.
NHTSA complaint #11730905 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving the entire car goes black kind of like you just turned it off. It has only happened at night time. The dash screen completely turns off and the headlights will go off. When it comes back on the dash has several lights on it such as the seatbelt is unbuckled (when I’m buckled), and other warning lights. This has been happening since September 2025. I take it to the dealership and they can’t seem to find anything wrong with it, and told me they “can’t do anything until the part completely fails” it’s creates a severe safety hazard since it only happens at night and the headlights also go off.
NHTSA complaint #11730198 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
My brand new 2024 Kia K5 has been at Kia of temple hills since February 23, 2026. The dealership has stated they do not know how to diagnose or repair the issue and indicated they needed a special diagnostic tool from the manufacturer. The vehicle has now been out of service for an extended period with no repair timeline provided and no communication from them at all. I also have not been provided a loaner or rental vehicle during this timeframe. While driving with my toddler child the steering wheel gets tight the speedometer isn’t reading correctly. Dashboard lights up like a Christmas tree with almost all warning lights on and messages to check every system: from tire pressure to forward collision to RearCross-TrafficSafety and the list goes on
NHTSA complaint #11729327 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Shortly after a routine oil change performed at a Kia dealership, I discovered a significant oil leak underneath the vehicle the following day. Within a short period of time, the vehicle began experiencing engine-related issues including a cylinder misfire, noticeable shaking while driving, and loss of power, particularly when accelerating or driving on inclines. The vehicle also displayed a check engine light and a warning related to 12-volt battery drain. In addition, I noticed a strong burning odor coming from the engine area, which raised concerns about a possible fluid leak or internal engine issue. These conditions created a safety concern because the vehicle would hesitate and lose power during normal driving, which could increase the risk of an accident, especially in traffic or when merging or climbing inclines. The vehicle was returned to a Kia dealership for inspection. I was informed that a cylinder issue was suspected; however, only a temporary repair involving a coil swap was performed. No comprehensive diagnostic testing was completed to confirm the root cause of the problem. After the repair, the vehicle continued to exhibit abnormal behavior, including shaking and lack of power. Due to ongoing safety concerns and lack of confidence in the vehicle’s reliability, I stopped driving the vehicle. This issue occurred at relatively low mileage, raising concerns about a potential engine defect or unresolved mechanical failure.
NHTSA complaint #11725390 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Kia has a known wiring‑harness defect that causes the low engine oil sensor to trigger incorrectly. Despite this, there has been no recall, and new vehicles are still being sold with the issue. The wiring harness is now on back order, leaving me without a car for weeks or longer. The vehicle has plenty of oil, and the dealership confirmed there are no engine problems, yet the warning light keeps coming back because of the faulty harness. This happened 1 day after buying this car new from the dealership lot.
NHTSA complaint #11723226 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving, the entire control panel shuts down including all interior and exterior lights. It completely resets everything including Bluetooth. It has happened 5 or 6 times since I got the car in October 2024. I’ve reported this to Stones Kia in Idaho Falls, and they were unable to duplicate the issue so they couldn’t do anything. It tends to only happen when I’m driving at night.
NHTSA complaint #11722397 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.