NHTSA & EPA data · updated November 2, 2026

2025 Kia K5 recalls, problems & safety ratings

Quick answer

NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2025 Kia K5 and 54 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are tires (15), electrical system (12), exterior lighting (6). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 27–29 mpg combined, depending on configuration.

The 2025 ranks #3 of 6 K5 model years for fewest complaints (2021–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (85). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 3.3 per model year.

Free. Shows whether a recall applies, plus specs, problems and ratings for your exact vehicle.

Recalls 2

Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2025 Kia K5. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.

Structure · body · roof and pillarsNHTSA #25V493000 · 07/29/2025

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.

Exterior lighting · lighting control module · softwareNHTSA #25V351000 · 05/28/2025

Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 K5 vehicles. A software error in the Power-net Domain Controller (PDC) may cause the parking lights to flicker. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: Parking lights that fail to illuminate properly can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: The PDC software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 24, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC341.

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

Tires15
Electrical system12
Exterior lighting6
Unknown or other6
Power train6
Structure5
Wheels5
Visibility/wiper4

By the numbers

54owner complaints filed
4involved a crash
0involved a fire
6injuries reported

Recent owner reports

10/23/2026 · Electrical system,exterior lighting

While driving my car down the road my car's exterior headlights as well as all of the interior instrument and infotainment panels will completely black out and then come back on. This issue started approximately 2 months after buying my car. This has happened approximately 10 times total while driving it now. I was told by the dealership that there was nothing they could do sin…

10/15/2026 · Vehicle speed control,service brakes,forward collision avoidance

I have had my vehicle for about 4 and 1/2 months since the first week or so I have an alert pop up say my front camera is obstructed only during the daytime it takes away 4 of my safety features, it has happened a couple dozen times I have been to the dealership they did not know what is wrong they are waiting for Kia to come up with a recall, or some sort of fix. When I look i…

10/02/2026 · Tires

I own a 2025 Kia K5 GT-Line that was purchased new. I have experienced repeated loss of traction and vehicle stability while driving on wet roads. During normal low-speed turns on wet pavement, the rear of the vehicle can suddenly lose traction and slide sideways when I apply light acceleration. This has occurred multiple times. I am not accelerating aggressively or traveling…

Safety ratings

2025 Kia K5 4 DR AWD

Overall★★★★★
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side crash★★★★★
Rollover★★★★★

2025 Kia K5 4 DR FWD

Overall★★★★★
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side crash★★★★★
Rollover★★★★★

Fuel economy

EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2025 Kia K5.

K5

Auto (AM-S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L · Turbo · SIDI & PFI

23city
33hwy
27combined

Regular

K5

Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L · SIDI & PFI

25city
36hwy
29combined

Regular

K5 AWD

Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L

24city
33hwy
27combined

Regular

Other model years

Compare every Kia K5 year

Questions

How many recalls does the 2025 Kia K5 have?

NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2025 Kia K5, most recently for structure · body · roof and pillars (07/29/2025). 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 2025 Kia K5?

Based on 54 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are tires (15), electrical system (12), exterior lighting (6).

Is the 2025 Kia K5 safe?

The 2025 Kia K5 earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.

Is the 2025 a good year for the Kia K5?

The 2025 ranks #3 of 6 K5 model years for fewest complaints (2021–2026), with fewer complaints than the average year (85). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 3.3 per model year.

What gas mileage does the 2025 Kia K5 get?

EPA ratings for the 2025 Kia K5 range from 27 to 29 mpg combined, depending on configuration.

Own a 2025 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.

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