2021 Kia Stinger

The 2021 Kia Stinger is a popular sport sedan known for its stylish design, powerful engine options, and comfortable ride. It was available with two engine choices: a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 255 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.3L twin-turbocharged V6 delivering 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. All models came standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission. People generally like the Stinger for its performance, value, and distinctive looks, but some dislike its fuel economy and the fact that the interior quality isn’t quite up to par with some luxury competitors.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• No Known Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: None reported.
  • Solution: N/A
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

3.3L Twin-Turbocharged V6

• No Known Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: None reported.
  • Solution: N/A
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic (Both Engine Options)

• Hesitation/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing hesitation or rough shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can manifest as a noticeable jerk or delay during acceleration.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. In more severe cases, replacement of the valve body may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ for software update, $800 - $1500+ for valve body replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the infotainment system freezing, crashing, or becoming unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and climate controls.
  • Solution: Often, a software update can resolve these issues. In some cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update under warranty) - $1000+ for infotainment unit replacement
  • Recalls: None Found
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The BSM system may intermittently fail, providing false alerts or failing to detect vehicles in the blind spot.
  • Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the BSM sensors may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found
  • Description/Symptoms:
  • Solution:
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls:

Interior

• Rattling/Squeaking Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the noise, which may involve tightening loose fasteners, adding padding, or replacing worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the source and complexity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Kia Stinger appears to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the most common issues being minor electrical glitches and some potential transmission hesitation. Engine issues appear to be minimal. The infotainment issues and BSM malfunction, while inconvenient, are generally not major safety concerns. The transmission hesitation can be more concerning but is often resolved with a software update or valve body replacement. The cost of repairs varies depending on the specific issue and the need for replacement parts, but overall, the Stinger doesn’t appear to be a particularly problematic vehicle compared to others in its class.