Kia

K4 (1st)

2025 · Compact Sedan
28 NHTSA Complaints
2 Recalls
0 Fire Reports
6 Crash Reports
📋 Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
5/5 (9.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard & Optional LDW: Standard

Recalls (2)

26V046000Jan 26, 2026serious
Electrical System

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 Kia K4, 2025-2026 Sorento, Sorento Hybrid, Sorento Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV), 2026 Sportage, Sportage Hybrid, Sportage PHEV, K5, EV9, Carnival, and Carnival Hybrid vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 101, "Controls and Displays" and 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring System."

25V548000Aug 24, 2025serious
Engine & Cooling

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 K4 and Sorento vehicles. The connecting rod bolts in the engine may have been improperly tightened, which can cause a loss of drive power.

Alternatives in Compact Sedan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2025-2025 Kia K4 problems?

The 2025-2025 Kia K4 has accumulated 28 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Electrical System, Brakes, Engine. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Kia K4 engine is most reliable?

The 2025-2025 Kia K4 was offered with 1 engine option. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2L ?-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2025-2025 Kia K4 a good used car?

The 2025-2025 Kia K4 can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 28 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 2025-2025 Kia K4 have?

The 2025-2025 Kia K4 has 28 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 2025-2025 Kia K4?

There are 2 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2025-2025 Kia K4 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 K4?

Before buying a used Kia K4, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Electrical System, Brakes, Engine, 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 K4?

The 2025 Kia K4 received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 5 stars (9.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard & Optional. 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. 28 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: low. Last updated: 2026-05-18.

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