2023 Kia K5 recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2023 Kia K5 and 111 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are fuel/propulsion system (41), unknown or other (23), fuel system (15). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 27–31 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
The 2023 ranks #4 of 6 K5 model years for fewest complaints (2021–2026), with more complaints than the average year (85). It has 4 recalls vs. an average of 3.3 per model year.
Recalls 4
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2023 Kia K5. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Fuel system, gasoline
Problem: 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.
Risk: A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: 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.
Structure · body · roof and pillars
Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 K5 vehicles. The left and right rear window trim pieces may loosen and detach.
Risk: Detached trim pieces can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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.
Air bags · side/window · curtain
Problem: 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.
Risk: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix: 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.
Power train · automatic transmission
Problem: Kia Motors, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento and 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
Risk: Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Fix: 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. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC250.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
The contact owns a 2023 Kia K5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V794000 (Fuel System, Gasoline). While driving approximately 45 - 50 MPH, the vehicle shook violently, went into LIMP Mode, and failed to accelerate above 10 MPH. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the fuel rail sensor was replaced. Ho…
I bought a 2023 Kia K5 GT vehicle as a CERTIFIED PREOWNED from Rick Case KIA Sunrise, FL. I paid $30,000.00 + an extended warranty for about $4,000.00, traded in my vehicle (for $9,000.00) and put a down payment of $5,000.00. Within two days of buying the vehicle in April of 2025 my car was back at the dealership in the service department for transmission issues. My vehicle ha…
Fuel Tank has expanded and is in danger of exploding due to heat from exhaust system. My vehicle has been returned to a local dealer and Kia Corporate is willing to pay off my loan , but not compensate me for my down payment of $3500 that I put down 6 mths ago.
Safety ratings
2023 Kia K5 4 DR AWD
2023 Kia K5 4 DR FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2023 Kia K5.
K5
Auto (AM-S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L · Turbo
Regular
K5
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo
Regular
K5 AWD
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2023 Kia K5 have?
NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2023 Kia K5, most recently for fuel system, gasoline (11/18/2025). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Kia K5?
Based on 111 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are fuel/propulsion system (41), unknown or other (23), fuel system (15).
Is the 2023 Kia K5 safe?
The 2023 Kia K5 earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2023 a good year for the Kia K5?
The 2023 ranks #4 of 6 K5 model years for fewest complaints (2021–2026), with more complaints than the average year (85). It has 4 recalls vs. an average of 3.3 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2023 Kia K5 get?
EPA ratings for the 2023 Kia K5 range from 27 to 31 mpg combined, depending on configuration.
Own a 2023 Kia K5 in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: K5.