2022 Kia K5
The 2022 Kia K5 is a mid-size sedan known for its sporty styling, comfortable ride, and feature-rich cabin. Engine options include a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with automatic transmissions. People often praise the K5 for its modern design and value proposition, but some dislike its occasionally firm ride and the lack of a traditional gear shifter in some trims.
Engine
1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
- Engine Hesitation/Stalling
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing hesitation or stalling, particularly during acceleration from a stop or at low speeds. The engine may feel sluggish or unresponsive.
- Solution: The issue is often related to software in the ECU. A software update from the dealership, reprograming of the ECM, or replacement of fuel injectors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ (Software update may be covered under warranty)
- Recalls: None Found
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Reports of higher than expected oil consumption have surfaced, requiring more frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Symptoms may include low oil level warnings or the smell of burning oil.
- Solution: Owners have been advised to monitor oil levels and perform regular oil changes. In severe cases, engine components may need to be inspected and potentially replaced, such as piston rings or valve seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on severity
- Recalls: None Found
2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
- Engine Knocking/Pinging
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hearing engine knocking or pinging noises, particularly under heavy acceleration or when using lower-octane fuel.
- Solution: Using premium fuel (higher octane) may alleviate the issue. If the problem persists, a dealer inspection is recommended to check for potential engine issues or sensor malfunctions.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $100+ if using premium fuel resolves the issue
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic (Paired with 1.6L Turbo Engine)
- Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have described experiencing harsh or jerky shifting between gears, particularly during low-speed acceleration or deceleration.
- Solution: Transmission software updates may improve shift quality. In some cases, a full transmission flush and/or replacement of valve body components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $800+ (Software update may be covered under warranty).
- Recalls: None Found
8-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) (Paired with 2.5L Turbo Engine)
- Hesitation/Jerking at Low Speeds
- Description/Symptoms: DCT transmissions can exhibit some hesitation or jerking at low speeds, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. This is a characteristic of DCTs and not necessarily a malfunction.
- Solution: Adjusting driving habits can help minimize the issue. Some owners have reported improvements after a transmission control unit (TCU) software update.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ (Software update may be covered under warranty).
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Suspension Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Inspecting and tightening suspension components, such as the sway bar links, bushings, and shock absorbers. Replacement of worn parts may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on parts needing replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported occasional glitches with the infotainment system, including freezing, slow response times, and connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Solution: Restarting the system, updating the software, or performing a factory reset. In some cases, a hardware replacement of the infotainment unit is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $100+ (Software update may be covered under warranty). Replacement could be significantly more.
- Recalls: None Found
- Sensor Malfunctions (Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist)
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent malfunctions or false alerts from driver-assistance systems such as blind-spot monitoring or lane keep assist.
- Solution: Check sensor alignment and cleanliness. Software updates or sensor replacement may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the specific sensor and labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Wind Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive wind noise around the doors or windows, especially at higher speeds.
- Solution: Check weather stripping and door/window seals for proper fit and damage. Adjust or replace as needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ depending on the extent of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulation inside the headlight housing.
- Solution: Replace the headlight assembly if condensation is excessive and doesn’t dissipate. Ensure proper sealing of the headlight assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Rattling/Buzzing Noises
- Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck area.
- Solution: Identifying the source of the noise and securing loose panels or components with foam padding or clips.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ (Depends on the complexity and if performed by a shop).
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2022 Kia K5 appears to have some common issues, ranging from minor infotainment glitches to more concerning engine and transmission problems. The frequency and severity of the issues can vary. While some fixes are relatively inexpensive software updates, others can be significantly costly repairs involving engine or transmission components. It’s advised to thoroughly research the specific configuration of any K5 being considered and obtain a pre-purchase inspection.