2023 Kia K5
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 |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 153 |
| 2022 | 120 |
| 2023 | 96 |
| 2024 | 26 |
| 2025 | 45 |
| 2026 | 10 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
34% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 33 distinct reports on file.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
I was driving and it was a loud noise. My son flew up with seat belt on hit his head on roof , gas tank blew up / or swelled up and my back seat is sitting about 10-12 inches above then normal. Very scary and worried
NHTSA ODI report, 20240717
13% of complaints: fuel system, gasoline — 12 distinct reports on file.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact stated that while driving at 65 MPH in hot weather, a loud popping sound came from underneath the vehicle. The vehicle lost motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250221
11% of complaints: power train — 11 distinct reports on file.
11% of complaints: engine — 11 distinct reports on file.
10% of complaints: structure — 10 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
Back number was replaced
NHTSA ODI report, 20240325
SAFETY TIMELINE
Loss of Motive Power
Kia Motors, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento and 2021-2023 K5 vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 9, 2022.
Campaign 22V760000 — check if this car was fixed
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The side curtain air bags may have been installed incorrectly, causing them not to deploy properly in the event of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reinstall the side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC263.
Campaign 23V149000 — check if this car was fixed
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 K5 vehicles. The left and right rear window trim pieces may loosen and detach.
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.
Campaign 25V493000 — check if this car was fixed
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.
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.
Campaign 25V794000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2023 Kia K5 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (33 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel system, gasoline issues (12 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V760000 (power train) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V149000 (air bags) has been completed.
- Verify recall 25V493000 (structure) has been completed.
- Verify recall 25V794000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2023 Kia K5 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 2023 Kia K5?
The most-reported component is fuel/propulsion system, accounting for 34% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2023 Kia K5 have?
4 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.