2023 Kia K5 Complaints

SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 07/20/2026

7/20/26 My 17 year old daughter was on the way to work and heard a loud noise like an explosion in her car. She, new to driving, scared and in a panic just assumed this was a blowout on a tire and pulled over to check the tires. All tires were clear so she proceeded to work cautiously, on her way home she noticed her check engine light had come on and noticed there was some road noise coming from the back. She then called me, note this is the first I heard of the situation. While on the phone with her I pulled up the CarFax to check when it had last been maintenanced, while doing that I saw for the first time TWO RECALLS on this car we had just purchased 3 months ago! By this time she was home and I instructed her to get out of the car while I Immediately called our local Kia dealership to schedule an appt to have the two recalls fixed (7/20/26 at 4:38pm). I gave the make and model to the service department and they informed me they couldn’t see me till Wed July 29th,at 8:00 am. When my husband and I further assessed the car after we got home we found that an explosion had occurred around her fuel tank, which was full at the time of the incident! The fuel tank expanded enough to completely rupture and detach her entire backseat! This incident was due to a recall replacing a valve on the fuel tank that was not conducted on the car from prior owners nor communication to the new owners (ME) upon my purchase of the vehicle. This could have been catastrophic to my daughter and anyone else in the vehicle had she kept driving the car and could have very easily been engulfed with flames and loss of life especially with a full tank of gas. The car has been towed to the local Kia dealership and leaked gas all in our driveway as it sat there. We are still awaiting response from Kia on our case it has been over 48 hours now and we have received no communication from them. KIA NEEDS TO DEEM THIS RECALL AS POSSIBLY FATAL AND ACT IMMEDIATELY TO SAVE LIVES!

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE — Filed 07/09/2026

I am filing this complaint regarding Kia America’s handling of a safety recall and repurchase of my 2023 Kia K5 GT-Line (VIN: [XXX]. I purchased this vehicle used on XXX, and financed it through Capital One. After taking my vehicle to an authorized Kia dealership for the fuel tank valve safety recall, I was informed that my vehicle was unsafe to drive and could not be repaired. The dealership advised me that Kia would be repurchasing the vehicle. Kia has offered to buy back the vehicle, but the settlement being offered does not appear fair under the circumstances. Although Kia has determined that my vehicle is unsafe and unrepairable due to a manufacturer safety defect, I have only been provided with 15 days of rental vehicle coverage while Kia’s own repurchase letter states that the process may take 60 to 90 days to complete. This could leave me without transportation through no fault of my own. Additionally, Kia has refused to reimburse my $4,000 down payment or provide any additional compensation related to the loss of use of my vehicle. Their offer also includes a substantial mileage deduction under certain options, despite the fact that this repurchase is the result of a manufacturer safety defect rather than a voluntary sale or trade-in. I requested written clarification regarding my settlement options, rental coverage, loan payoff, and reimbursement of my expenses. Rather than answering my questions, Kia responded only that the offer was “firm” and compliant with Florida law, without addressing the specific concerns I raised. I am requesting that this matter be reviewed to determine whether Kia is handling this safety recall and repurchase fairly and whether consumers whose vehicles are deemed unsafe and unrepairable should receive adequate transportation assistance and fair compensation while waiting for the manufacturer to complete the repurchase process. I respectfully request assistance in reviewing Kia America’s handling this case. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 06/24/2026

I am writing to formally file a complaint regarding my 2023 Kia K5 and the unacceptable experience I have had following a dangerous brake system failure. On Wednesday June 24th, while driving on Route 22 in New Jersey, my vehicle's brakes suddenly became extremely hard, making it incredibly difficult to stop. There were no lights on indicating an issue, neither any concerning sounds prior to this incident. I came dangerously close to being involved in an accident and was left extremely shaken. The situation was serious enough that my father had to come retrieve both me and my vehicle because I no longer felt safe driving it. I brought my vehicle to the Kia dealership on Friday, where I was informed that the repair would cost over $1,000. I find this extremely concerning given that Kia has previously recalled brake system components on other models for similar issues. While I understand my vehicle may not currently be included in that recall, a brake system failure on a 2023 vehicle is unacceptable and raises serious concerns about safety and product reliability. To make matters worse, I never even received a phone call from the service department to explain what was wrong with my vehicle or discuss the recommended repairs. Instead, I received nothing more than a text message with a link to a video. The first words I heard were, "Your brakes are really bad." For a customer who had just experienced a frightening brake failure that nearly resulted in an accident, I expected the courtesy of a direct phone call to explain the diagnosis, answer my questions, and discuss my options. Receiving only a video link felt impersonal and dismissive given the seriousness of the situation. After repeated back and forth with Kia corporate over the span of two weeks they determined that the repairs are on me, and I was offered nothing, even though this issue was of no fault of my own.

STRUCTURE — Filed 06/21/2026

The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated that the front splash guard had detached from the vehicle following a night of driving in the rain. The contact stated that the failure had occurred without impact. Upon inspection, the dealer informed the contact that the repair would not be covered under warranty and provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was provided with a case number. The failure mileage was 54,269.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 05/29/2026

I DROPPED OFF MY CAR AT THE COVINA KIA DEALERSHIP EXPLAINING THE RECALL AND THE ISSUES I NOTICE SUCH AS A BULGE IN THE VERTICAL PORTION OF THE SEAT NEAR WHERE THE CALVES TOUCH. THE SEAT ALSO FEELS DIFFERENT FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE CAR. THEY SAID THERE IS A 3 BUSINESS DAY WAIT TO EVEN BE DIAGNOSED AND DID NOT ALLOW A RENTAL CAR. I HAD TO FIGURE OUT TRANSPORTATION. I HAVE NOT RECEIVED AN UPDATE ON THE STATUS VIA THE LINK OR FROM THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND IT IS THE END OF DAY 2. I TRIED CALLING BUT THERE IS AN AI MENU THAT I CANNOT GET PAST. I GOT NOTIFICATIONS TODAY FROM THE KIA APP THAT MY DOORS WERE UNLOCKED MULTIPLE TIMES OVER THE SPAN OF 30 MINUTES AND LEFT UNLOCKED AFTER THAT. I DONT SEE AN UPDATE ON THE SERVICE REPORT LINK AND I RECEIVED NO CALL. THE RECALL HAS ALSO BEEN WIPED FROM MY VIN WITH NO UPDATE.

SEATS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 03/30/2026

Shortly after refueling, I experienced a serious and sudden vehicle safety-related malfunction involving suspected fuel tank expansion. The event coincided with abnormal fuel behavior and an unexpected structural issue in the rear cabin area, where the rear seat assembly displaced upward without any passenger interaction or impact. The vehicle was inspected at Kia Archer, where I was informed it was unsafe to operate and required escalation to Kia corporate for review. I was advised the issue may involve a fuel system defect consistent with tank expansion potentially affecting surrounding structural or mounting components. Since that inspection, I have made repeated attempts to obtain clarification, safety guidance, and a technical explanation of the failure. These requests have not been meaningfully addressed. Communication from Kia corporate has been limited, delayed, or non-responsive. Instead of receiving a clear diagnostic explanation, repair plan, or safety directive, I was provided a buyback offer without supporting technical documentation, including no defect analysis, no engineering explanation, and no clear justification of valuation. I have also been presented with time-sensitive pressure to sign the buyback agreement despite the absence of disclosed safety findings or complete information regarding the defect. At this time: * The vehicle has been deemed unsafe by a dealership technician * A suspected fuel system defect involving tank expansion has been identified but not explained or resolved * There is concern of associated structural or mounting stress affecting interior components * Manufacturer communication has been insufficient and non-responsive following escalation * A buyback has been offered without transparent technical findings or defect disclosure * There is perceived pressure to accept terms without adequate time or information This was a huge safety risk to myself and any passengers I’ve had in my vehicle.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 04/16/2026

A recall from Kia a damage check valve and a fuel tank issue. I have called the manufacture Kia company and they have no result, I have called for over a month now and haven’t had my car for a month and an half now, still waiting for a results or a solution for the Kia K5 GT Line. I have called my case manager as well, every time I call it goes straight to voicemail. I am looking to contact anyone from higher up to help me find a solution for my car.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 03/10/2026

I am submitting this complaint regarding a serious safety defect involving my Kia K5 and the subsequent handling of this matter by Kia America. My vehicle was subject to a voluntary recall and was inspected by an authorized Kia dealership. During inspection, I was informed the vehicle has a defective fuel tank system that allowed air intrusion, resulting in abnormal pressure and structural impact to the vehicle. I was further advised by dealership personnel this condition created a risk the vehicle could catch fire or explode while being operated. As a result, the dealership retained possession of my vehicle and deemed it unsafe to drive. I have been without use of my vehicle and Kia has provided a rental car. For approximately eighteen (18) months prior to this discovery, I unknowingly operated this vehicle under these conditions. During that time, my minor child was a regular passenger in the rear seating area of the vehicle. My child has experienced ongoing neurological symptoms, including persistent headaches over a period of several months, which have required medical evaluation. While no definitive cause has yet been determined, the possibility of prolonged exposure to fuel vapors within the vehicle is a serious concern. In addition to the safety risk, I have incurred substantial financial losses, including: Monthly payments totaling approximately $10,170 Down payment $1,000 Maintenence $1,800 Insurance costs totaling approximately $7,500 Despite the severity of the defect and the fact the vehicle cannot be repaired or returned to me, Kia America has only offered resolution options that: Do not fully reimburse my financial losses In some cases require me to pay out-of-pocket to resolve the issue Do not account for the significant safety risks involved Furthermore, Kia America has imposed a deadline for acceptance of these inadequate offers and has stated that if I do not accept, they will: Discontinue providing a rental vehicle Return the unsafe vehicle to me

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 04/07/2026

On April 8th my car was taken to the dealership for repair on a hose. When the dealership did a diagnostic on the vehicle it had 4 safety recalls. And my car had a major recall the fuel pump on my car expanded and it was very dangerous for me and my kids to drive the vehicle per Kia they say it could have blown up. My car can not be released to me and I’m without a vehicle. On the night of April 7th my Kia k5 ran hot without any warning lamps and the thermostat radar in the car did not indicate hot at all!

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 04/01/2026

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)