2017 Kia Cadenza
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 110 |
| 2015 | 48 |
| 2016 | 14 |
| 2017 | 32 |
| 2018 | 7 |
| 2019 | 5 |
| 2020 | 0 |
| 2021 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
34% of complaints: engine — 11 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2017 Kia Cadenza. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle suddenly lost motive power. The contact waited before restarting the vehicle and continued driving.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260806
Also filed under SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC and STEERING
19% of complaints: electrical system — 6 distinct reports on file.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Problem unknown, i was driving to my friends house with 2 kids, about 2 mins from the house the steering wheel light started flashing on my dashboard, nothing major happening, so slowed down got to the house.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240217
Also filed under UNKNOWN OR OTHER
16% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 5 distinct reports on file.
13% of complaints: service brakes — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
BRAKE ISSUE: I HAD AN ACCIDENT DUE TO A BRAKE FAILURE ON THIS CAR. I WAS DRIVING VERY SLOWLY GOING DOWNHILL (SPEEDS 0 TO 10 MPH) IN A LINE OF CARS STOPPING AND GOING, STOPPING AND GOING MANY TIMES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180703
9% of complaints: wheels — 3 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017 Cadenza vehicles. The brake vacuum hose on the affected vehicles may kink, reducing braking performance.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the brake vacuum hose, replacing it as necessary, free charge. The recall began on April 17, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC146.
Campaign 17V190000 — check if this car was fixed
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles. The electrical circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may short-circuit, which can cause a fire in the engine compartment.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box.
Campaign 21V137000 — check if this car was fixed
Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2017 Kia Cadenza — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 17V190000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
- Verify recall 21V137000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2017 Kia Cadenza reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2017 Kia Cadenza?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 34% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2017 Kia Cadenza have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.