2017 Kia Cadenza Problems: 3 Known Issues
2017 model year · 240+ owner reports · Updated September 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 240+ owner reports, the 2017 Kia Cadenza has 3 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Failure ($0-$6,000 repair) and Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneous Shattering ($800-$1,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Hesitation and Hard Downshift with 110 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $800 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls5 recalls
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020 Cadenza vehicles. The rear power windows can be operated by the driver's power window main switch after the ignition has been turned off and a front door is opened. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
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.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
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.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
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.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017 Cadenza vehicles. The brake vacuum hose on the affected vehicles may kink, reducing braking performance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Kia Cadenza problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 240+ owner reports, the 2017 Kia Cadenza has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Failure, Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneous Shattering, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Hesitation and Hard Downshift. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Kia Cadenza reliable?
The 2017 Kia Cadenza has 3 known issues documented across 240+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Failure and Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneous Shattering. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Kia Cadenza problems?
Repair costs for known Kia Cadenza issues range from $0 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Failure, typically costs $0-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Failure?
The Cadenza's 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 is covered under the Hyundai/Kia engine settlement for connecting rod bearing failure. Manufacturing debris in the crankshaft oil passages can restrict oil flow to the connecting rod bearings, causing premature wear and eventual engine seizure. Repairs typically run $0-$6,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneous Shattering?
The Cadenza equipped with the panoramic sunroof has experienced instances of the tempered glass panel spontaneously shattering without external impact. The glass explodes with a loud pop, showering the interior with small tempered glass fragments. This appears to be caused by str… Repairs typically run $800-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Hesitation and Hard Downshift?
The Cadenza's 6-speed automatic transmission (A6LF2) exhibits a hesitation or delayed response when accelerating from low speeds, particularly after coasting to a stop. The transmission seems to "hunt" for the right gear, causing a 1-2 second delay before power delivery. Hard dow… Repairs typically run $0-$2,000. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.