Cadenza (1st)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
V6 GDI LAMBDA II
3.3L 6-cyl / 290 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Kia Cadenza regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (5)
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling all 2014-2016 Cadenza vehicles. During manufacturing, the front windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles. The electrical circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may short-circuit, which can cause a fire in the engine compartment.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017 Cadenza vehicles. The brake vacuum hose on the affected vehicles may kink, reducing braking performance.
Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014 Cadenza vehicles manufactured February 1, 2013, through August 27, 2013, and equipped with 19" non-chrome aluminum wheels. The wheels on the affected vehicles may fracture from impacts such as large, deep potholes.
Alternatives in Midsize Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza problems?
The 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza has accumulated 209 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Brakes, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Kia Cadenza engine is most reliable?
The 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza was offered with 1 engine option. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 3.3L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza a good used car?
The 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 209 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza have?
The 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza has 209 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza?
There are 5 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Kia Cadenza?
Before buying a used Kia Cadenza, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Brakes, Electrical System, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Cadenza?
The 2020 Kia Cadenza received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: N/A stars. Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 209 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.