RoadVitals

2024 Kia K5

Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
28
+1 complaint in 30 days
Safety recallsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
2
Latest Nov 17, 2025
InvestigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
0
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
1
1 injuries, 0 deaths reported

Overview

Our database contains 28 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2024 Kia K5, most frequently naming the engine, body & structure and electrical categories. 2 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 44 manufacturer communications are on file.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

What owners report

Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded

  • Engine823.5%
  • Body & structure720.6%
  • Electrical514.7%
  • Driver assistance411.8%
  • Fuel system411.8%
  • Powertrain (other)38.8%
  • Brakes25.9%
  • Interior & seats12.9%

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Safety recalls

2 campaigns cover this model year

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Nov 17, 2025
250,547 units potentially affected
The defect: 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.
The risk: A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
The 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.
Kia America, Inc.Manufacturer number SC356View on NHTSA.gov

STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS; STRUCTURE:EXTERIOR TRIM

Jul 28, 2025
100,063 units potentially affected
The defect: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 K5 vehicles. The left and right rear window trim pieces may loosen and detach.
The risk: Detached trim pieces can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the C-pillar trim assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC346.
Kia America, Inc.Manufacturer number SC346View on NHTSA.gov

Recent owner complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words

Filed Aug 6, 2026

Vin number or license plate is not showing vehicle in open recall to NHSTA OR KIA AMERICA. Kia has not followed up on their follow up dates regarding resolution(s) for unrepairable recall malfunction.

NHTSA ID
11755374
Incident
Oct 31, 2025
Electrical
Filed Jul 13, 2026

My 2024 Kia K5's infotainment screen went completely pitch black, disabling the backup camera now creating an active safety hazard.

NHTSA ID
11750099
Incident
Jun 25, 2026
Filed Jul 8, 2026

I am contacting Kia America Consumer Affairs to formally request a Goodwill Warranty Exception for the total failure of the factory infotainment and radio system in my 2024 Kia K5 LXS. The unit has completely lost Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay functionality. A certified technician has diagnosed the issue as an internal radio hardware failure requiring a complete replacement, quoted at an exorbitant out-of-pocket cost. While my vehicle has surpassed the standard 3-year/36,000-mile radio warranty threshold, this premature electronic failure is a documented, systemic manufacturing defect rather than normal wear and tear. I have fully exhausted all personal troubleshooting measures—including performing hard pinhole resets, deep system restarts via battery disconnection, clear-pairing device profiles, and verifying device firmware. The underlying hardware remains completely non-responsive. Furthermore, Kia America is explicitly aware of this systemic defect in this generation of head units, as evidenced by the publication of Technical Service Bulletin SA582 ("AVN 5.0 Wide Non-Responsive Radio Icon"), which explicitly acknowledges software and hardware stability failures in 2023–2024 infotainment units. Because the failure of this head unit completely eliminates hands-free voice operations, emergency communications, and navigation systems, it introduces an immediate driver distraction and safety hazard on public roads. As a loyal Kia owner who purchased this vehicle expecting modern reliability, I am asking Kia Corporate to review this case, acknowledge the documented history of this defect, and issue a Goodwill Exception to cover the replacement cost of this unit at a certified local dealership. I look forward to your prompt response and the assignment of a regional case manager to resolve this matter.

NHTSA ID
11749173
Incident
Jun 6, 2026
Filed Jun 18, 2026

Vehicle was shaking really bad. Inner tie rod was completely worn out and rusted around 32,000-37,000 miles. 04/23/2026 Ricart Automotive Group, Car purchased [XXX]. Issues since purchasing vehicle 1. AWD Electronic Motor Failed 02/28/2024 2,715 miles. 2. Chrome Side and Rear Pieces coming off 05/12/2026 22,019 miles. 3. Fuel Tank ECM Recall 08/05/2025 24,474 miles. 4. Passenger side mirror replaced 09/19/2025 26,180 miles 5. Fuel Tank Band Inspection 02/09/2026 34,167 miles 6. Passenger Side inner tie rod 04/23/2026 37,860 miles I have spoken with Theresa D. from Kia Customer Care (520)274-1627 requesting the vehicle be replaced or bought back, but due to Ohio's Law covering only the 1st year or 18,000 miles and Kia not issuing the recall until after these deadlines they were unwilling to work with me to replace or buy back, but instead offered me a 1,600.00 settlement. This seems unfair knowing that the issues above 3 and 6 had a recall for Kia K5 Models 2021–2024. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11745022
Incident
Apr 23, 2026
Body & structure
Filed May 15, 2026

chrome pillars came off on highway. the recall was sent in mail but upon visitation to kia for a different recall, I mentioned pillars and they did not have part to repair and there was a wait for part on their end is what they said. car was literally built with many defects I don't know how it passed inspection.

NHTSA ID
11737996
Incident
Aug 12, 2024
ElectricalEngineFuel system
Filed May 15, 2026

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 ID
11737995
Incident
Nov 1, 2025
Brakes
Filed Apr 21, 2026

I am reporting a documented and unresolved brake system safety issue on my 2024 Kia K5 involving repeated premature brake pad wear and rotor damage. The vehicle has required three full brake pad and rotor replacements by approximately 40,000 miles, with each set lasting less than 15,000 miles. Service records consistently document uneven wear on the front brakes, particularly the outer pads, with up to a 4 mm difference between sides. This has resulted in one side reaching metal-to-metal contact while the opposing side retained usable material. This pattern has repeated across multiple brake replacements. This condition creates a braking imbalance that affects vehicle control. The vehicle exhibits pulling under braking and changes in steering alignment, indicating uneven braking force across the front axle. Braking performance can degrade rapidly, transitioning from normal operation to reduced stopping effectiveness without sufficient warning. Despite these documented conditions, the dealership and manufacturer, including escalation through Kia customer care and technical support, have been unable to identify a root cause. The condition has been classified as “within normal range,” and warranty coverage has been denied. The vehicle has been returned to service multiple times without corrective action. It has been acknowledged that the wear pattern is not typical, yet no defect has been identified. This creates a contradiction and uncertainty regarding the vehicle’s ability to safely perform under normal operating conditions. Due to rapid wear progression and lack of warning before significant degradation, there is limited opportunity to service the vehicle before braking performance is affected. This results in continued operation with a recurring braking imbalance. I request this be reviewed as a safety defect due to repeated loss of braking consistency, impact on vehicle control, and increased risk of reduced stopping performance or crash.

NHTSA ID
11732881
Incident
Apr 1, 2026
ElectricalEngine
Filed Apr 6, 2026

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 ID
11729327
Incident
Feb 20, 2026

Manufacturer communications

A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.

TSB_ELE422

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM SOFTWARE UPDATE USING UPDATE.KIA.COM - This bulletin provides information and service procedures for updating the infotainment systems on applicable Kia vehicles using the Kia Navigation Updater available at update.kia.com. The software update may improve system performance, enhance existing features, and apply the latest operating software for supported vehicles (2021-2026MY All Models).

TSB_ELE417

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFOTAINMENT SOFTWARE UPDATE PROCEDURE - This bulletin provides information on the process for downloading infotainment software updates and preparing USB for installation on applicable Kia vehicles. The software downloads and USB preparation process is similar across all supported platforms; however, in‑vehicle installation procedures vary by head unit type.

TSB_BOD350

STRUCTURE:BODY

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER ACTION: CHROME TRUNK LID MOLDING REPLACEMENT (CA2514) - This bulletin provides information regarding replacement of the chrome trunk lid molding on certain 2023-2024MY K5 (DL3a) vehicles produced from October 3, 2022 through January 23, 2024. The chrome faceplate may be partly loose while remaining secured to the molding and vehicle.

SC288_TSB_R6_CLSD

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: FUEL TANK AND/OR PCSV CHECK VALVE INSPECTION/REPLACEMENT + ECU SW UPGRADE (SC288/SC288A) CLOSED & SUPERSEDED - This bulletin is now closed and superseded by SC356. This bulletin provided information to inspect the fuel evaporative system and, if necessary, replace the fuel tank and/or the Purge Control Solenoid Valve (PCSV) check valve on certain 2021-2024MY K5 (DL3a) vehicles equipped with a Gamma II 1.6L T-GDI engine, produced from March 27, 2020 through January 23, 2024. This bulletin also provides information to upgrade the ECU software logic. The subject vehicles may experience fuel tank swelling due to an issue with the PCSV check valve, which results in pressurized air to flow into the fuel tank. This may cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate, and in some cases, the engine to run rough, and/or an inability to refuel. These conditions may cause the vehicle to release air pollutant which exceed Federal and California standards.

PS797

BACK OVER PREVENTION: WARNINGS

PITSTOP: TECHNICAL OPERATIONS: EXTERNAL DAMAGE TO ULTRASONIC SENSOR: This Pitstop provides information related to Parking Distance Warning (PDW) alerts and repairs involving ultrasonic sensors. The PDW system alerts the driver while parking, by calculating distance based on the difference in signal transmission and reception times between the vehicle (ultrasonic sensor) and an object. The membrane film of the ultrasonic sensor is used for object detention and can be damaged by stone chips or foreign substances while driving. Damage to the cover of the ultrasonic sensor can also lead to damage to the internal circuit. As a result of this external damage, the PDW system may not receive the proper signal from the ultrasonic sensor. In some cases, the system may cause a false alarm, no alert, or phantom warnings by a “Warning Lamp’ to be displayed on the cluster. The ultrasonic sensor membrane film should be always inspected for external damage and if any part replacement should be treated as a general repair, not as a warranty claim repair for this concern. (Please note that this Pitstop only applies to models/trims that are equipped with the ultrasonic sensors.)

TSB_BOD322_R2_SUPERSEDED

STRUCTURE:BODY

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: TRUNK LID AND C-PILLAR GARNISH INSPECTION & REPLACEMENT (SA552) - CLOSED AND SUPERSEDED BY SC346 - This bulletin is now closed and superseded. This bulletin provides information to inspect the rear trunk lid chrome garnish trim and the C-Pillar(s) chrome garnish trim on certain 2023-2024MY K5 (DL3a) vehicles produced from May 1, 2023 through September 29, 2023, which may be loose due to an insufficient lamination layer. Follow the procedure outlined in this publication to inspect the rear trunk lid chrome trim, and both left and right-side C-pillar chrome trims and replace the affected rear trunk lid chrome trim and/or the (left and/or right side) C-Pillar(s) chrome trim on the applicable vehicle.

Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Compare model years

Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model

Kia K5 by model year
YearComplaintsRecallsInvestigationsIssue Index
2026111051.4
2025492058.8
2024Viewing282051.0
20231044167.1
20221235064.3
20211606059.9

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.