2018 Kia Stinger

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2018 Kia Stinger, organized by category and engine/transmission configuration. The 2018 Kia Stinger is a sporty and stylish sedan that quickly gained popularity for its performance and value. It was offered with two engine choices: a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 and a 3.3L twin-turbocharged V6. The 2.0L produced around 255 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.3L cranked out an impressive 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Stinger for its engaging driving dynamics, comfortable interior, and aggressive styling. Common complaints include some reliability concerns, particularly with early model years, and higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Ticking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a knocking or ticking noise coming from the engine, especially at idle or during acceleration. This can be caused by various factors, including issues with the connecting rod bearings.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is crucial. It could involve checking oil pressure, listening with a stethoscope, and possibly an engine teardown to inspect the bearings. Replacement of the connecting rod bearings or even a complete engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L Twin-Turbocharged V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a fairly common complaint. These leaks can originate from various places including the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, or turbocharger oil lines. Signs include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the leak and replace the affected gasket or seal. Turbocharger oil line leaks might require replacing the lines themselves.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+, depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced premature turbocharger failure. Symptoms may include reduced power, whistling or whining noises from the engine, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Diagnose the turbocharger for signs of damage or failure. Replacement of the turbocharger is usually the only solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per turbocharger, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report harsh or jerky shifts, especially when cold. Others experience hesitation when accelerating, or delayed engagement when shifting between gears.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. If the problem persists, valve body issues or clutch wear within the transmission may be the cause.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for software reflash) - $3,000+ (for valve body replacement or transmission rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature failure of the rear shock absorbers, resulting in fluid leaks and a bouncy or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 for parts and labor, depending on the shop and brand of replacement shocks.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can occasionally freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This may require restarting the system or the entire car.
  • Solution: Try a software update for the infotainment system. If the problem continues, the infotainment unit itself may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) - $1,000+ for replacement of the head unit.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the battery draining quickly, even when the car is not in use. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from an electrical component.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve testing various circuits to identify the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Trunk Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that the automatic trunk will stop functioning, or it will open randomly.
  • Solution: Check the struts to ensure the trunk opens and closes smoothly and is able to stay open. Check the wiring and connections to ensure they are not loose or damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported that their sunroof will not open or close. Some have also reported that the sunroof motor has stopped working.
  • Solution: Inspect the sunroof to ensure the tracks are not obstructed and are free of debris. Inspect the sunroof motor to ensure it is properly functioning.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Kia Stinger offers a compelling blend of performance and value, but it’s not without its potential issues. The most common complaints revolve around engine oil leaks (particularly in the V6), transmission harshness, and electrical gremlins. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs. While some problems can be addressed with relatively inexpensive fixes, others, such as turbocharger failure or transmission rebuilds, can be quite costly. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.