2025 Kia Sportage recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2025 Kia Sportage and 54 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are unknown or other (21), electrical system (15), forward collision avoidance (10). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 25–28 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2025 ranks #3 of 14 Sportage model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (171). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.8 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2025 Kia Sportage. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Trailer hitches
Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) and 2024-2025 Sportage vehicles equipped with a 4.2" screen and a Genuine Kia tow hitch harness accessory. Due to a software error, the instrument panel screen may fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Risk: An instrument panel screen that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the tow hitch harness control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 13, 2026. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC359. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 31, 2025.
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
"2025 Kia Sportage unexpectedly applies braking when vehicles are traveling in adjacent lanes and are not in my path of travel. The event is intermittent and creates a safety concern because the vehicle decelerates when no collision risk exists. Vehicle was inspected by a Kia dealer, but the condition could not be duplicated during a road test." My safety and those around me is…
"2025 Kia Sportage unexpectedly applies braking when vehicles are traveling in adjacent lanes and are not in my path of travel. The event is intermittent and creates a safety concern because the vehicle decelerates when no collision risk exists. Vehicle was inspected by a Kia dealer, but the condition could not be duplicated during a road test." My safety and those around me is…
I was involved in a rollover accident and the driver's side door opened during the accident. Had I not been wearing my seatbelt, I would have been ejected from the vehicle.
Safety ratings
2025 Kia Sportage SUV AWD
2025 Kia Sportage SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2025 Kia Sportage.
Sportage AWD
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Sportage FWD
Auto (S8) · 4 cyl · 2.5 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2025 Kia Sportage have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2025 Kia Sportage, most recently for trailer hitches (12/17/2025). 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 Sportage?
Based on 54 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are unknown or other (21), electrical system (15), forward collision avoidance (10).
Is the 2025 Kia Sportage safe?
The 2025 Kia Sportage earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2025 a good year for the Kia Sportage?
The 2025 ranks #3 of 14 Sportage model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (171). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.8 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2025 Kia Sportage get?
EPA ratings for the 2025 Kia Sportage range from 25 to 28 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2025 Kia Sportage 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 October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: SPORTAGE, Sportage.