Kia Cadenza problems

Kia Cadenza years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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Kia Cadenza model years

Common Kia Cadenza problems

Based on complaints from Kia Cadenza owners, common problems with the Kia Cadenza include:

Trouble with the Sunroof: Owners have reported issues with the sunroof in Kia Cadenza models. This problem can lead to difficulties in opening or closing the sunroof, leaks, or even complete malfunction of the sunroof system.
Knocking When the Engine Starts Up: Another common problem reported by Kia Cadenza owners is a knocking sound when the engine starts up. This issue can be indicative of engine problems or issues with the ignition system.
Poor Acceleration: Some owners have experienced poor acceleration in their Kia Cadenza vehicles. This issue can affect the overall performance of the car, leading to sluggish acceleration and reduced driving experience.
No Daytime Running Lights: Owners have also complained about the lack of functioning daytime running lights in their Kia Cadenza. This can pose safety concerns, especially during daytime driving or in low visibility conditions.

These problems can impact the driving experience, safety, and overall satisfaction with the Kia Cadenza. It's essential for owners to address these issues promptly to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of their vehicles.

Is Kia Cadenza a reliable car?

According to repairpal.com, the Cadenza scores ⅘. This score puts it in the top four compared to other full-size cars. The Kia Cadenza is dependable and a more affordable luxury vehicle option. It's worth it if you purchase the best years.

Are Kia Cadenza expensive to maintain?

The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Kia Cadenza is $491, compared to an average of $590 for fullsize cars and $652 for all vehicle models.

What are the best years for a Kia Cadenza?

The Kia Cadenza scores well in reliability and is a quality choice for a full-size sedan. We recommend the 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, or 2021 selections for the best results. These will keep money and time on your side.

Why did Kia discontinue the Cadenza?

But in 2021, the automaker unexpectedly announced the Cadenza would be discontinued, and it would appear that poor sales in the U.S. were to blame. In January 2020, it was reported that Stateside sales for the Cadenza peaked at a meager 1,265 units.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Cadenza years

We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Cadenza cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Cadenza model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Cadenza model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Cadenza years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Kia Cadenza car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Kia Cadenza , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Engine problems
Service brakes problems
Electrical system problems
Unknown or other problems
Hydraulic problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Cadenza vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Cadenza model years

A total of 8 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Cadenza model years

There were a total of 5 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Cadenza model years

There were a total of 11 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 182 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Cadenza . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Cadenza vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Kia Cadenza 2015

Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
VIN: KNALN4D71F5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: Engine seized. 3.3L Lambda II GDI. This is the 2nd Hyundai/KIA product that the engine has seized on me. Both with bearing failure. Neither on the list of recalled engines. You need to do a more thorough investigation into Hyundai/KIAs engines. The brands share the same power trains across the entire line up for a number of years. This class of engines has been produced for YEARS along with the Theta class of engines that you already forced Hyundai/KIA to recall. This seizure has cost me THOUSANDS and additional THOUSANDS that I am unable to pay. I was forced to do a voluntary surrender of the vehicle due to this repairs! BEFORE completing the suggested maintenance totaling over 5 thousand dollars the service tech should have warned me that the engine wasn't going to last much longer instead of telling me that the repairs were necessary and could be dangerous. The dealer and this company took advantage of me and who knows how many others! NHTSA needs to do something about Hyundai/KIA!

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Kia Cadenza 2015

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
Date Complaint: 2024-10-02
VIN: KNALN4D71F5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: There are thousands of vejicles with a variant of the 3.3L V6 Lambda II GDI Hyundai/KIA class of engines on the road. There are hundreds if not thousands of complaints regarding different variants of this engine throught Hyundai/KIAs line up. All of them with seized engines. There are class action lawsuits in other countries regarding this engine. They have known since before 2015 that these engines were defective! Just like with the Theta class of engines these engines also have bad engine components. The metal that is used is subpar. These engines need to be recalled. Every owner needs a replacement engine. The little people need justice. Every day someone is affected by a Hyundai/KIA product in a major way. $11,000 dollar engine. Every service completed every repair completed every recall completed thousands of dollars invested into this vehicle only to have it fail me. Now I am stuck like many others with a car that I am forced to surrender to my lender because of the negligence of a huge corporation.

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Kia Cadenza 2015

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
VIN: KNALN4D71F5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: PLEASE OPEN AN INVESTIGATION INTO HYUNDAI/KIA LAMBDA II CLASS OF ENGINES! THEY ARE LEAVING HUNDREDS OF FAMILIES STRANDED! NHTSA NEEDS TO DO BETTER! STAND UP TO KIA MAKE THEM FIX THESE ENGINES! ITS UNFAIR TO THE LITTLE PEOPLE AKA THE CONSUMER! STOP PROTECTING THE GIANT COMPANIES!

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Kia Cadenza 2015

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-27
Date Complaint: 2024-09-24
VIN: KNALN4D71F5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: At startup I experienced a knock in the engine which seemed to have gone away. I notified the KIA dealership of the issue. The service advisor told me to drive the vehicle in for service. While attempting to drive the vehicle in for service the vehicle TURNED OFF while going 55MPH without any warning at all. KIA diagnosed the vehicle with a failed crank bearing and that it can happen to high mileage vehicles despite imbecile maintenance records. I have read hundreds of complaints regarding the HYUNDAI/KIA 3.3L Lambda II class engines and faliures at various mileage. Prior to this vehicle i owned a 2012 Buick Regal CXL Turbo. When I decided I no longer wanted to invest any money into it it had over 280,000 miles on it. The engine and transmission were still running strong. I believe that the quality of the materials used and the workmanship is below what the standard should be. Also considering all of the problems that this corporation has had with other engines who is to say that these engines are not also defective?

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Kia Cadenza 2015

Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
VIN: KNALN4D71F5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: Engine seized without warning while driving at approx 50mph. This occurred within 6,000 miles of a KIA dealership performing a 6,000 dollar maintenance to the vehicle.

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Kia Cadenza 2017

Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
Date Complaint: 2024-07-28
VIN: KNALC4J10H5
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: While driving 80 mph on Interstate 25 in Wyoming, my wife, great granddaughter (in a car seat), and I (driver) suddenly heard a LOUD bang, followed by wind noise coming from the top of the car. I opened the moonroof and found that the sunroof had exploded and shattered. We were on the northbound lanes with no traffic, other than 1 pickup truck in front of us by approximately 200 yards.There was no evidence of debris hitting it. Temperature was in the low 80’s at approximately 5:30 pm. I have no explanation for the sunroof exploding. Being that the incident happened on Friday evening, I have yet to take the vehicle into a dealer or glass shop

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Kia Cadenza 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-06-26
Date Complaint: 2024-06-26
VIN: KNALN4D77E5
Components: STEERING
Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Cadenza. The contact stated that while reversing, he became aware that the electronic power steering briefly seized in position while turning, requiring an increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence while reversing. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

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Kia Cadenza 2017

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-31
Date Complaint: 2024-06-02
VIN: KNALB4J1XH5
Components: ENGINE
Summary: A little history, my Cadenza was placed at KIA of Bradley [XXX] 2024, I complained of oil burning, the oil sending unit light staying on and the engine dying. The Kia rep found “THE OIL PRESSURE SENDER INTERNALLY FAULTED, LEAKING OIL INTERNALLY – OIL LEAKING DOWN TO PIGTAIL HARNESS”. The Oil pressure switch and wiring harness lead were replaced. Here lies the problem. During my visit in Feb, I told Kia about the burning oil smell, I provided a video of the smoke coming from the engine and the oil light staying on. I was relying on Kia’s expertise because it’s their product. The complaints I had were about the same issues the KIA Sorento 3.3 L had, considering my Cadenaza has a 3.3 GDI engine also. The Sorento’s engine was recalled. Move forward to [XXX], 2024, I brought my Cadenaza to Kia of Bradley to have my windshield fluid motor checked because only the passenger’s side was spraying fluid, after Kia telling me the car would probably be held for a couple of days I decided to come back later. Here lies the problem, during the visit a Vehicle inspection was supposedly done on my car. Mind you, I have always had oil checks done and regular maintenance done (I have receipts to prove it). [XXX], stated the things that need to be done I had done by another dealer and there was no mention of oil being low for the car nor problem with the Oil sensor unit that was replaced in Feb 2024. Mind you, I never had any low oil engine light come oil or any OIL LEAKS OR COOLANT LEAKS ON THE FLOOR OF MY GARAGE. I figured my OIL AND COOLENT LEVEL WERE FINE, I never gotten any warning lights from the newly replaced Oil sender unit. I took my KIA Cadenza to Firestone in Mokena, IL to service my windshield motor on [XXX]. Firestone performed a basic check of my car that Kia of Bradley performed [XXX], 2024. Firestone found there was no oil in the engine because the engine burned it all and my coolant was burned inside of my engine also. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

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Kia Cadenza 2014

Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
Date Complaint: 2024-05-27
VIN: KNALN4D79E5
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: 8 MONTHS AND NO FIX FOR THE RECALL. HOW IS THAT A TIMELY RESPONSE. WHAT CAN I DO ?

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Kia Cadenza 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-22
Date Complaint: 2024-05-22
VIN: KNALN4D71E5
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Cadenza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Kia Cadenza 2014

Date Of Incident: 2023-11-14
Date Complaint: 2024-05-21
VIN: KNALN4D79E5
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Cadenza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Kia Cadenza 2015

Date Of Incident: 2023-11-23
Date Complaint: 2024-05-17
VIN: KNALN4D71F5
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: I received a letter dated November 14, 2023 from KIA America identifying a defect in my vehicle which relates to motor vehicle safety. The defect in the hydrolic electronic control unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short in the engine compartment which can result in an engine fire while driving or parked. It is recommended to park outdoors and away from other vehicles. Status checks on the recall were done on 3/10/2024, 4/24/2024 and 5/17/2024 with KIA Customer Care Center at 800-333-4542 which as ot today the recorded message indicates no solution is available yet. I am preparing to take my family on a road trip in July and I am not happy about the suggestion of parking my car outdoors during Nebraska storm season.

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Kia Cadenza 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-10
Date Complaint: 2024-05-10
VIN: KNALN4D75E5
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Kia Cadenza. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

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Kia Cadenza 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-03-04
Date Complaint: 2024-05-02
VIN: KNALN4D76E5
Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Summary: UNKNOWN

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Kia Cadenza 2016

Date Of Incident: 2023-06-27
Date Complaint: 2024-05-02
VIN: KNALN4D76G5
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Kia Cadenza. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the front windshield, after which she observed that the windshield had begun to crack and was leaking. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the windshield bonding. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V158000 (Visibility) the VIN was included, and the vehicle had been repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

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Latest 5 recalls Kia Cadenza

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 11 recalls for different components of the Kia Cadenza.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Kia Cadenza 2014
Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.

Model: Kia Cadenza 2015
Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.

Model: Kia Cadenza 2016
Report Received Date: 2023-09-25
Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
Park Out Side: 1
Park Out Side: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.

Model: Kia Cadenza 2014
Report Received Date: 2022-03-15
Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling all 2014-2016 Cadenza vehicles. During manufacturing, the front windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach.
Consequence: A front windshield that detaches from a vehicle can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the front windshield glass. If necessary, the windshield will be removed and reinstalled. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC232.

Model: Kia Cadenza 2015
Report Received Date: 2022-03-15
Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling all 2014-2016 Cadenza vehicles. During manufacturing, the front windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach.
Consequence: A front windshield that detaches from a vehicle can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the front windshield glass. If necessary, the windshield will be removed and reinstalled. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 13, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC232.

Latest negative Kia Cadenza car reviews

Omer Schmidt 2025-04-25

Vehicle year: 2014

I have had to lower my rating due to persistent fuel injector problems that have required multiple visits to the dealership for service. Despite having one of the injectors replaced and spending $300 on a fuel system cleaning, the problem has persisted. While I take care to use high-quality gas and additives, I still lack confidence that the issue will not recur. Additionally, I have had to spend nearly $200 on repairs to the front bumper undercarriage, which is too low and prone to damage from parking lot barriers and steep driveway gutter interfaces. Despite these issues, I still enjoy using the car's USB port to play my extensive music collection. However, I would appreciate more driver headroom and a less tight suspension. I have also noticed a creaking noise in the front quarter-panel on rough roads and rainwater leaking into the trunk from the trunk lip.My previous car, the 2001 Acura TL, had a feature where the wipers would automatically wipe once when I removed my foot from the brake pedal after a stop. I believe this feature could be useful in the current car as well.
Lowell Armstrong 2025-04-21

Vehicle year: 2014

I returned the car a few months ago. If you have a preferred brand, it's best to stick with it. While the car was cool, it didn't provide a luxury experience. During the lease, there were several issues with rattles and replacements, such as the driver's seat belt, steering wheel electronics, and back-up camera, which resulted in weeks of downtime. Additionally, the 'I Agree' prompt on the nav screen appeared over 5,000 times during the lease. Although the car was almost perfect at lease turn-in, it took two weeks to inspect and there were several charges that required significant effort to waive with the selling dealer and factory. The factory was unable to budge on these charges, which led me to believe they may have had many deadbeat customers or damaged leased cars. Despite these issues, I enjoyed the car and inquired about leasing another for two years. However, due to its significant depreciation, the selling dealer had no worthwhile incentives to offer for a new one. As a result, they had no choice but to send it to auction since there was no equity in keeping or buying out the lease. In conclusion, they had the opportunity to maintain a customer relationship but lost it after just one lease experience.
Morton Schiller 2025-03-27

Vehicle year: 2016

I recently purchased a car that has 125k miles on it. While it was a great value, I have had some issues with it. Despite this, I still find the sight lines of the car to be attractive, and the engine and transmission perform very well (I have zero complaints on either). Additionally, it has all the bells and whistles you could ask for at a value price. However, I have experienced some problems with the suspension, which was never satisfactory and caused the sunroof to rattle. The ambient noise while driving in the cabin is also excessive. At 83k miles, a front suspension spring snapped while parked and took out a tire and strut (thankfully not while driving). Unfortunately, KIA said it was out of warranty, so the fix was on my dime. I was disappointed because I thought it may have had something to do with the poor suspension performance all along, but I lived with it. Fast forward to 95k miles, and I was driving on the Garden State Parkway at speed when I hit a dip in the road, and the roof
Isidro Turcotte 2025-03-24

Vehicle year: 2016

I have had to lower my rating due to persistent fuel injector problems that have required multiple visits to the dealership for service. Despite having one of the injectors replaced and spending $300 on a fuel system cleaning, the problem has persisted. While I take care to use high-quality gas and additives, I still lack confidence that the issue will not recur. Additionally, I have had to spend nearly $200 on repairs to the front bumper undercarriage, which is too low and prone to damage from parking lot barriers and steep driveway gutter interfaces. Despite these issues, I still enjoy using the car's USB port to play my extensive music collection. However, I would appreciate more driver headroom and a less tight suspension. I have also noticed a creaking noise in the front quarter-panel on rough roads and rainwater leaking into the trunk from the trunk lip.My previous car, the 2001 Acura TL, had a feature where the wipers would automatically wipe once when I removed my foot from the brake pedal after a stop. I believe this feature could be useful in the current car as well.
Adonis Rippin 2025-02-20

Vehicle year: 2014

I really appreciate the HD radio, the heated steering wheel, and the ride & handling of my car. However, I have experienced some issues with the backup camera, panoramic sunroof, volume control on the steering wheel, sun visor, seat belt, and bluetooth. Fortunately, I leased the car, so I can switch to a different brand without incurring significant costs. If you are satisfied with your current vehicle, I recommend sticking with it. Currently, I am waiting for parts and driving a Dodge loaner, which is not my preferred choice. Despite this, the dealer is doing their best to help me out.

Latest positive Kia Cadenza car reviews

Paxton Wilkinson 2025-05-01

Vehicle year: 2017

I have owned various luxury and high-end cars in the past, including BMW Convertible, 5 Series M Sport, Acura TSX, and several Toyota's and Honda's. However, the 2017 Cadenza has surpassed them all in terms of comfort and high-tech features. With its smooth ride and excellent seats, it outperforms even the Volvo. In the first year and 21,000 miles of ownership, I have not had to make any repairs or adjustments, which is a testament to its quality and reliability. The tread life on the tires is good, although they can be a bit noisy once broken in. I have been averaging 27 MPG with a 50/50 split on highway vs city driving. Despite its list price of just under $40000, I was able to get it out the door for under $33000, making it an excellent value for such a great car. With only a handful of them on the road in the last year, it truly feels like a unique and special find. Even after 4 years and 75,000 miles of ownership, I have not had to make any repairs or adjustments, and the original brakes and rotors are still going strong. This car is truly the best one I have ever owned, and I am confident in its quality and reliability.The Cadenza is undoubtedly the best car I have ever owned. Despite an occasional glitch with the backup camera, it has been a safe, reliable, and comfortable ride for me. With 86,000 miles and no repairs, it is a testament to the car's durability and quality. It is unfortunate that Kia no longer produces this great car. Even after five years, the car only depreciated 40%, which is a testament to its value. I recently sold it for $19,500, which is a great price considering its original list price of $40,000. I never had to make any repairs, and it still has its original brakes, pads, and rotors. Overall, the Cadenza is a fantastic car that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a reliable and long-lasting vehicle.
Ignatius Grady 2025-04-28

Vehicle year: 2014

I just purchased my new 2014 Cadenza and I absolutely love it! The car has plenty of room, great features, and the pricing is unbeatable compared to its German competitors. I even get two thumbs up from strangers when driving! Kia has really stepped up their game in the large car segment, and with the hiring of the ex-Audi designer, the car looks stunning. If you're not too concerned about the prestige brand and want to save on service costs, Kia (and brother company Hyundai) is definitely the way to go. I'm really impressed with their work and I'm looking forward to many years of use. I'll be sure to update in 6 months time.
Elmo Willms 2025-04-27

Vehicle year: 2015

I test drove the Cadillac CTS, the Lexus ES 350 and the Cadenza. I absolutely love my Cadenza! I've owned many new higher end GM and Toyota cars, but I have never enjoyed driving one as much as my Cadenza. Apparently, I'm not alone with my feelings as I am seeing more and more KIAs on the road. It has been 9 months since I bought my Cadenza, and I still love it. My only additional comment about my Cadenza is that with the 19 wheels and a somewhat taut suspension, I feel that 18 inch wheels or higher profile tires would have been a better choice for more comfortable driving over some of the New England roads that are in disrepair.
Merlin Stanton 2025-04-25

Vehicle year: 2016

I leased a fully loaded Smokey Blue Cadenza with the Premium, Technology, and white Napa leather packages, and I have to say, I've received a lot of compliments on it! The car is absolutely stunning, and after driving it for 2 months and 2,300 miles, I'm thoroughly impressed. The fit and finish are top-notch, and the engine runs so quietly and smoothly that it rivals luxury nameplates that cost thousands more. The technology features are fantastic, and for a sticker price of $42K, it has every bell and whistle you could want. If you're tired of paying a premium for a prestigious hood ornament and want understated elegance and value, I highly recommend giving this car a look! Sadly, I had to turn in the Cadenza to the dealership after my 3-year lease was up. Overall, it was a fantastic car, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a large, comfortable sedan. I miss all of the technology features and the quiet and comfort it provided. The fuel economy was quite impressive for a car of its size with the 3.3 L V6 engine. If you're in the market for a car, I suggest buying a used one now. For a price point in the low $20K range, you can drive in style and have all of the latest tech gadgets. I really wish Kia would add an AWD option to the sedans in their line up, especially for those living in the northeast in hilly areas where AWD is a must-have.
Toby Feeney 2025-04-20

Vehicle year: 2019

As my lease on my 2015 Chevy Malibu was almost up, I started car shopping. I have to admit, I'm not a fan of car salesmen. After looking at several cars, including the Malibu, Sonata, Cadillac, and more, a salesman suggested I drive a new 2017 Cadenza. I'm so glad I listened to him! I loved the ride, but the top of the line model was too expensive at $46K. However, I found a 2017 used (8200 miles) that was exactly what I wanted, and I saved almost $17k from what it would have cost new. I absolutely love this car! The ride is great, the looks are great, and the gas mileage is impressive. Even though it's rated for only 20-28 mpg, I'm getting about 26 mpg around town and 37 mpg on the highway! I highly recommend the Cadenza if you're looking for a nice upscale luxury sedan. If you can find a used one like I did, you'll save yourself a lot of money.