2023 Kia K5

The 2023 Kia K5 is a mid-size sedan known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and value. It offers two engine options: a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder generating 290 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, but the 2.5L is the only configuration with the 8-speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). Owners generally praise the K5’s modern aesthetics, user-friendly technology, and spacious cabin. Some common dislikes include the sometimes-firm ride (especially on models with larger wheels), and the occasional lag in the 1.6L engine’s power delivery.

Engine

1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Hesitation/Lag During Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report a noticeable delay or hesitation when accelerating from a stop or at low speeds. This can be especially pronounced when the engine is cold.
  • Solution: Software update to the ECU, or throttle body cleaning. In rare cases, throttle body replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ (software update may be covered under warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Engine Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported excessive oil consumption requiring more frequent oil changes than expected.
  • Solution: Perform an oil consumption test and inspection of the oil feed line. If engine oil consumption is above the threshold, engine replacement may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $8,000+ (Engine Replacement may be covered under warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between lower gears. This can be more noticeable at lower speeds or during cold weather.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and fill, software update for the transmission control module (TCM). In severe cases, valve body replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission)

• Hesitation/Jerking at Low Speeds
  • Description/Symptoms: The DCT transmission can exhibit hesitation or jerking during slow-speed maneuvers, such as parking or navigating stop-and-go traffic. This is a common characteristic of DCTs due to their design.
  • Solution: Software update for the transmission control module (TCM). Follow proper DCT driving techniques (avoid creeping in traffic).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+ (Software update may be covered under warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system occasionally freezes, lags, or crashes, requiring a restart. This can affect navigation, audio, and other system functions.
  • Solution: Software update for the infotainment system. If the issue persists, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,000+ (software update may be covered under warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Adaptive Cruise Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive cruise control system may intermittently disengage or fail to maintain the set speed and distance.
  • Solution: Check radar sensor alignment. Software update to the cruise control module. Radar sensor replacement if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,200+ (software update may be covered under warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) False Activation
  • Description/Symptoms: The Automatic Emergency Braking system engages unnecessarily, even when there is no obstacle.
  • Solution: Check camera alignment and sensor alignment. Software update to the AEB. Camera or Sensor replacement if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $1,500+ (software update may be covered under warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported rattling noises emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or rear deck area.
  • Solution: Identify the source of the rattle and secure the loose components. Apply felt tape or foam padding to dampen the vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+

Summary

The 2023 Kia K5 generally has a good reliability record, but some owners have reported issues with engine hesitation (1.6T), oil consumption (2.5T), DCT hesitation/jerking, rough shifting, infotainment glitches, and rattles. The severity and cost of these issues vary. Some issues can be resolved with software updates or minor repairs, while others, such as engine or transmission problems, may require more extensive and costly repairs. Checking for recalls is always advisable.