South Korea
Kia has undergone one of the most dramatic brand transformations in automotive history. Once a budget brand, Kia now produces genuinely desirable vehicles like the Telluride, EV6, and Stinger. They share many components with Hyundai, including the problematic Theta II engines, but also benefit from the same 10-year/100,000-mile warranty.
3/5
Reliability Rating
$474/year
Avg. Annual Repair Cost
4
Models Covered
Kia vehicles have average reliability. Some models are excellent while others have known issues — model selection is important.
Same engine recall as Hyundai — the 2.0L and 2.4L Theta II engines can seize catastrophically. Kia issued matching recalls.
Years affected: 2011-2019
Kias (and Hyundais) without push-button start can be stolen in under 60 seconds by removing the steering column cover. This went viral on TikTok. Kia released a software update and steering wheel lock.
Years affected: 2011-2021
Premature paint peeling and clear coat failure, especially on white and silver vehicles.
Years affected: 2010-2017
2009-present
The Kia Forte is a compact sedan that offers more features per dollar than almost any competitor.
1993-present
The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that's evolved from a rugged small 4x4 into a stylish, feature-rich crossover.
2001-present
The Kia K5 (formerly Optima) is a midsize sedan that competes with the Camry and Accord.
2003-present
The Kia Sorento is a midsize three-row SUV that offers more seating than the Sportage at a competitive price.
Most Japanese and Korean cars have easily accessible air filter boxes that take 2 minutes to swap. Always decline the $40 'premium' air filter at the dealer — a $10 Wix filter is identical quality.
Hyundai/Kia catalytic converters are increasingly targeted by thieves. Genuine OEM converters are expensive ($1,500-$2,500), but aftermarket options are available in most states.
Many Japanese and Korean cars use affordable direct TPMS sensors ($30-$50 each). Replace all 4 when getting new tires.
Kia offers the best warranty in the business on new vehicles. The Telluride is one of the best three-row SUVs at any price. The K5 GT is a sleeper performance sedan. For used buyers, the same Theta II concerns apply as Hyundai — verify recall status. Insurance rates on Kias have increased significantly due to the theft vulnerability, so get an insurance quote before buying. The 2022+ models with the updated engines and anti-theft immobilizers are much safer bets.