Kia Cadenza problems

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

Social links

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!

Add Complaint

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.

Add Complaint

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!

Add Complaint

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?

Add Complaint

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.

Add Complaint

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

Add Complaint

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.

Add Complaint

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)

Add Complaint

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 ?

Add Complaint

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.

Add Complaint

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.

Add Complaint

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.

Add Complaint

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.

Add Complaint

Kia Cadenza 2014

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

Add Complaint

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.

Add Complaint

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

Bryon Balistreri 2024-10-07

Vehicle year: 2015

The car itself is really good mechanically. However, I have to agree with a previous reviewer who noted that the navigation system is horrible. The acceleration is consistent with other cars in the category, and the handling is just okay, certainly not up to Audi A4 standards. On the other hand, the interior is great, and the roof is great too. I've had some problems with Kia Finance as well and would recommend avoiding them if possible.
Brendon Klocko 2024-09-20

Vehicle year: 2019

I have experienced some issues with my car radio, which tends to go out when I hit a bump and then turns back on when I hit another bump. Unfortunately, the radio has been in service over 16 times and the manufacturer warranty does not cover this issue. Additionally, the brake calipers rusted out at 30k miles, which was also not covered by the warranty. I have spoken with other Kia owners who have experienced similar problems. While the Kia service center charges for repairs, the problems still persist. When I leased the vehicle, I had some concerns about the pricing, but my salesman was able to work with me to find a monthly payment that I was comfortable with. Overall, the car looks good, but I have had some issues with it.
Marques Kautzer 2024-08-29

Vehicle year: 2019

Despite the initial quality award for the segment, my car has been experiencing several issues since I first got it. The door rattles, the dashboard makes noises in the heat, and occasionally the temperature gauge shows an exterior temperature of 32 degrees even when it's well over 70. Additionally, the rear camera stays on ten seconds past pushing the car out of reverse into drive. While the car handles okay, the acceleration is poor. On the positive side, the car makes excellent use of space and has a nice panoramic roof. However, I am disappointed that there are no SMS notifications in the infotainment system, which my last two cars had. This being my first Kia, I had high expectations, but unfortunately, it did not meet them. I have decided that this will be my last Kia. Despite my initial debate between a 2 and 3 year lease, I am glad I went with the two-year option.
Scotty Pacocha 2024-08-20

Vehicle year: 2014

This car is one of the nicest cars I have ever owned. It's spacious and hugs the road. Unfortunately, I experienced a loud clicking noise while driving down the street. I had the car towed to the dealer and was informed that the car needed a new engine. Despite having only 60k miles and having been very careful with it, the Kia warranty was not honored. While I was disappointed with the outcome, I appreciate the opportunity to share my experience. Thank you for taking the time to read my feedback.
Kevin Murazik 2024-08-18

Vehicle year: 2015

The voice recognition system is limited in its current state. However, with further development, it has the potential to become more accurate and efficient. Additionally, there is room for improvement in the voice commands for music, particularly in the area of playing specific artists or songs.

Latest positive Kia Cadenza car reviews

Kyleigh Hackett 2024-11-27

Vehicle year: 2015

Hands down the BEST car you have ever owned! You never had any major problems and it has been good to you. You put many many miles on it and still have only had to do regular maintenance.
Raleigh Purdy 2024-11-27

Vehicle year: 2016

I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share that I recently purchased a Limited SXL Cadenza and I'm absolutely loving it. It's definitely a step up from my previous Hyundai Azera. The car is loaded with features and drives incredibly comfortably. I appreciate how unique it is on the road, as you don't see too many Cadenzas out there. Thanks for letting me share!
Omari Collins 2024-11-12

Vehicle year: 2018

It looks like you could benefit from a bit more power!
Laron Terry 2024-11-12

Vehicle year: 2015

You can't beat the price and warranty for what you get!
Erick Veum 2024-11-10

Vehicle year: 2019

My opinion on the 2019 Kia Cadenza remains unchanged. I absolutely love this car - it's comfortable, loaded with safety features, and drives like a dream. I've owned it for over a year now and have had no issues other than regular maintenance. As I mentioned in my previous review, I wouldn't hesitate to buy another Cadenza.