2018 Kia Cadenza
Only 7 complaints on file — too few 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.
Only 7 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 7
- Recalls
- 1
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2018
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2018: 7 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 111 |
| 2015 | 48 |
| 2016 | 14 |
| 2017 | 33 |
| 2018 | 7 |
| 2019 | 5 |
| 2020 | 0 |
| 2021 | 0 |
Known problem areas
Only 7 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine
5 of 7 total reports mention: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
No prior issues/light on dashboard as the car was just serviced for coolant hose replacement. On my way home from work, the car stalled and loss power at the light.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-11-16
Vehicle has been properly maintained and at 78k miles, while at a stop sign, the engine seized. No warning signs from vehicle appeared.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-09-09
Failure of Oil Pressure Sensor resulting in oil leaking into wiring harness, this is the same problem with 3.3L engines in other models that KIA has extended coverage.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-02-04
Air bags
1 of 7 total reports mentions: air bags.
Safety timeline
1 recall · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2021-04-30Service brakes, hydraulic21V137000 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.
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I
2023-11-17Audit queryOpen Hyundai and Kia ABS Module Fires
Buy-smart checklist
2018 Kia Cadenza — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Air bags: 1 report on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 21V137000 · Service brakes, hydraulic
FAQ
- Is the 2018 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 2018 Kia Cadenza?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 71% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2018 Kia Cadenza have?
- 1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.