Kia · Known Issues

2018 Kia Cadenza Problems: 3 Known Issues

2018 model year · 240+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 240+ owner reports, the 2018 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Kia Cadenza problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 240+ owner reports, the 2018 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 2018 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.

2018 Kia Cadenza Problems: 3 Known Issues

All 3 Known Issues

2014-2020 Kia Cadenza: 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Owner tips & cautions

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2014-2020 Kia Cadenza: Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneous Shattering#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2014-2020 Kia Cadenza: 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Hesitation and Hard Downshift#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Owner tips & cautions

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Other Kia Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Kia Cadenza problems?

Is the Kia Cadenza reliable?

How much does it cost to fix common Kia Cadenza problems?

What is the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza 3.3L Lambda II GDI V6 Connecting Rod Bearing Failure?

What is the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneous Shattering?

What is the 2014-2020 Kia Cadenza 6-Speed Automatic Transmission Hesitation and Hard Downshift?