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KiaReliability & Safety Statistics

NHTSA complaint data, recall history, and AI-powered analysis for all Kia models. Data sourced directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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78
Reliability Score /100
Good Reliability
11,884
Complaints
160
Recall Campaigns
11,884
Total Complaints
2015–2026
160
Total Recalls
campaigns
546
Crash-Related
4.6% of complaints
502
Injuries Reported
across all models
9
Models Analyzed
of 26 total
38
Safety Score
Below Average
⚠️ Highest Complaint Years
2016(3,233)2015(2,354)2017(2,147)

These model years had the most NHTSA complaints across all Kia models.

βœ… Most Reliable Years
2026(12)2025(107)2024(137)

Fewest recorded complaints β€” generally the safest years to buy used.

Complaint Trend (2015–2026)

01.6k3.2k2015: 2,354 complaints2016: 3,233 complaints2017: 2,147 complaints2018: 1,031 complaints2019: 980 complaints2020: 854 complaints2021: 330 complaints2022: 325 complaints2023: 374 complaints2024: 137 complaints2025: 107 complaints2026: 12 complaints2015201720192021202320252026
ComplaintsRecalls

Top Complaint Components

Engine Problems6,443 (39%)
Uncategorized Issues1,895 (11%)
Electrical Faults1,472 (9%)
Transmission / Drivetrain1,053 (6%)
Headlight/Taillight Failures706 (4%)
Brake System667 (4%)
Structural Problems645 (4%)
Fuel/Propulsion System635 (4%)
πŸ€–

AI Reliability Analysis

AI Analysis

KIA's complaint data is heavily concentrated on engine problems, which account for over half of all complaints, and the brand has a high number of recalls across multiple models. The worst years (2015-2017) show significantly higher complaint volumes, while recent years (2024-2026) have much lower counts, suggesting possible improvements. However, the presence of crash-related complaints and reported injuries/deaths indicates ongoing safety concerns.

πŸ’‘ Buyer Advice

Used-car buyers should prioritize inspecting the engine and transmission, especially for 2015-2017 models. Check for open recalls on the specific vehicle and verify that any engine-related repairs have been completed. Consider models from 2024 or later, which show lower complaint volumes.

⚠️ Top Reported Issues

1
Engine problems: 6,443 complaints suggest widespread engine reliability or failure issues.
2
Electrical faults: 1,472 complaints indicate potential electrical system vulnerabilities.
3
Transmission/drivetrain: 1,053 complaints point to possible transmission performance or durability concerns.
Based on 11,884 NHTSA complaints collected 2015–2026. Source: nhtsa.gov.

Explore KiaModels & Years

Select a model below, then pick a year to see full NHTSA complaint data, recalls, and component breakdown.

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2πŸ“… Choose a year
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3πŸ“Š View NHTSA complaints, recalls & component breakdown
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Buying a Used Kia?

The data above shows fleet-wide patterns. Enter a VIN to check the exact accident history, odometer records, open recalls, and title status for a specific Kia you're considering.

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