2025 model year · 0+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2025 Kia K5 has 5 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2021-2025 Kia K5, the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems on the K5 — including Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, and Blind Spot Monitoring — intermittently throw calibration faults and disable themselves. The forward-facing camera behind the windshield and radar sensor in the front bumper are sensitive to windshield contamination, extreme temperatures, and minor front-end impacts. After a windshield replacement, the ADAS sensors require recalibration that many glass shops skip or perform incorrectly.
For intermittent faults in normal conditions: clean the windshield interior and exterior thoroughly around the camera area. Ensure the camera lens cover behind the rearview mirror is clean and unobstructed. A dealer scan and ADAS recalibration costs $200-$500. After windshield replacement, ALWAYS have the ADAS camera recalibrated at a Kia dealer — this requires specialized targets and equipment. If faults persist, the camera module or radar sensor may need replacement ($500-$1,500).
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2021-2025 Kia K5, the K5 infotainment system — both the 8-inch and 10.25-inch displays — experiences random screen blackouts, freezes, and spontaneous reboots. The screen may go completely black while driving, losing access to navigation, backup camera, and climate controls. Some owners report the system rebooting in a loop. The issue is typically software-related but can also be caused by a failing display head unit. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connections can trigger or worsen the problem.
First try a system reset by holding the power/volume knob for 10+ seconds. Visit a Kia dealer for the latest infotainment software update — Kia has released multiple updates addressing stability issues (check for updates via the Kia Connect app or USB update). If the software update does not resolve the issue, the head unit may need replacement under warranty ($800-$2,000 if out of warranty). Disconnect the phone and disable wireless CarPlay/Android Auto to test if the issue is phone-related. A factory reset of the infotainment (Settings > General > Reset) can also help.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2021-2025 Kia K5, k5 models equipped with the panoramic sunroof experience rattling noises from the sunroof area at highway speeds and over rough roads. The sunroof glass and frame develop play over time, creating an annoying rattling or buzzing sound. Some owners also report water leaks at the front corners of the sunroof, with water dripping onto the headliner or A-pillar trim. Clogged sunroof drain tubes exacerbate the leak issue.
For rattling: the dealer can apply felt tape or foam padding to the sunroof frame contact points under warranty (TSB available). Adjusting the sunroof glass alignment can also eliminate rattles. For water leaks: clean the sunroof drain tubes by carefully feeding a flexible wire or compressed air through each corner drain. The tubes run down the A-pillars and C-pillars to exit near the wheel wells. If the headliner is water-stained, it may need replacement ($500-$1,000). Apply sunroof sealant to the front weatherstrip if dealer adjustment does not stop the leak.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2021-2025 Kia K5, the electric trunk latch mechanism on the K5 is prone to sticking or failing to release, leaving the trunk locked. The issue is more common in cold weather when moisture gets into the latch mechanism and freezes. The trunk release button on the key fob, interior button, and exterior trunk handle may all fail to open the trunk when the latch is stuck. Some owners report the latch actuator motor failing entirely, requiring manual release from inside the trunk via the emergency release handle.
Lubricate the trunk latch mechanism with white lithium grease or silicone spray every 6 months to prevent sticking ($5-$10). If the latch actuator motor has failed, replace the entire trunk latch assembly ($100-$200 for parts, $100-$200 labor). In an emergency, access the trunk from the rear seat pass-through or use the emergency release handle inside the trunk. The dealer can reprogram the trunk open/close module if the issue is software-related. Apply dielectric grease to the latch electrical connector to prevent corrosion.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2021-2025 Kia K5 2.5L Theta II, the 2.5L Theta II engine in certain K5 models has experienced knock sensor faults and engine knock concerns. The knock sensor may trigger false positives or fail to detect actual detonation, causing the ECU to either retard timing unnecessarily (reducing power) or fail to protect against harmful knock. Kia issued a software update to improve knock detection logic, but some owners report persistent issues after the update.
Visit a Kia dealer for the latest ECU software update (TSB SA508) that improves knock detection calibration — this is typically performed at no cost. If the knock sensor itself has failed, replacement costs $200-$400 including labor. Use only 87+ octane fuel as specified. If actual engine knock is present (metallic pinging under load), have the engine inspected immediately as the Theta II engine family has a known history of connecting rod bearing issues in earlier applications. Kia has extended warranty coverage on some Theta II engines.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 K5 vehicles. A software error in the Power-net Domain Controller (PDC) may cause the parking lights to flicker. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 K5 vehicles. The left and right rear window trim pieces may loosen and detach.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2024 K5 vehicles. A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank.
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The side curtain air bags may have been installed incorrectly, causing them not to deploy properly in the event of a crash.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Kia Motors, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Sorento and 2021-2023 K5 vehicles. The vehicle's "fail-safe" limited-mobility drive mode may be impaired, when prompted by a transmission oil pump malfunction, which can result in a complete loss of drive power.
+ 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
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According to Au7o's analysis of 0+ owner reports, the 2025-2025 Kia K5 has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Theta II Engine Knock Sensor Issues and Knock-Related Concerns, ADAS Sensor Calibration Faults (Lane Keep, Forward Collision), Infotainment Screen Blackout and Random Reboots. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
The 2025-2025 Kia K5 has 5 known issues documented across 0+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Kia K5 issues range from $0 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The 2.5L Theta II engine in certain K5 models has experienced knock sensor faults and engine knock concerns. The knock sensor may trigger false positives or fail to detect actual detonation, causing the ECU to either retard timing unnecessarily (reducing power) or fail to protect… Repairs typically run $0-$400. Severity: medium.
The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems on the K5 — including Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, and Blind Spot Monitoring — intermittently throw calibration faults and disable themselves. The forward-facing camera behind the windshield and radar sensor in the front bu… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: medium.
The K5 infotainment system — both the 8-inch and 10.25-inch displays — experiences random screen blackouts, freezes, and spontaneous reboots. The screen may go completely black while driving, losing access to navigation, backup camera, and climate controls. Some owners report the… Repairs typically run $0-$2,000. Severity: medium.
K5 models equipped with the panoramic sunroof experience rattling noises from the sunroof area at highway speeds and over rough roads. The sunroof glass and frame develop play over time, creating an annoying rattling or buzzing sound. Some owners also report water leaks at the fr… Repairs typically run $0-$1,000. Severity: low.
The electric trunk latch mechanism on the K5 is prone to sticking or failing to release, leaving the trunk locked. The issue is more common in cold weather when moisture gets into the latch mechanism and freezes. The trunk release button on the key fob, interior button, and exter… Repairs typically run $10-$400. Severity: low.
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.
