2015-2020 Kia K900 Problems: 7 Known Issues
2015-2020 model years · 155+ owner reports · Updated September 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 155+ owner reports, the 2015-2020 Kia K900 has 7 documented known issues, with 3 rated critical. The most serious are Rear Electronic Air Suspension Leak and Compressor Failure ($1,000-$3,500 repair), HECU Module Electrical Short Can Cause Engine Compartment Fire (Recall 22V051000) and K900 Included in Kia's HECU Fire Recall (NHTSA 23V652000). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $3,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 7 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls4 recalls
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2018 K900 and 2014-2016 Sportage vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) module could malfunction and cause an electrical short, which could result in an engine compartment fire.
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.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:TURBO/SUPERCHARGER:HOSES/PLUMBING
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2019-2020 K900, and 2018-2023 Stinger vehicles equipped with a 3.3-liter turbo gasoline direct injection engine. The left turbocharger oil feed pipe and hose assembly may deteriorate and leak oil.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 K900 vehicles manufactured December 18, 2013 to January 11, 2016 and equipped with LED headlights. In the affected vehicles, when using the multi-function light switch in "AUTO" mode, electrical resistance may build in the switch and result in the headlights flickering or turning off when driving.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Kia K900 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 155+ owner reports, the 2015-2020 Kia K900 has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Rear Electronic Air Suspension Leak and Compressor Failure, HECU Module Electrical Short Can Cause Engine Compartment Fire (Recall 22V051000), K900 Included in Kia's HECU Fire Recall (NHTSA 23V652000). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Kia K900 reliable?
The 2015-2020 Kia K900 has 7 known issues documented across 155+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: Rear Electronic Air Suspension Leak and Compressor Failure and HECU Module Electrical Short Can Cause Engine Compartment Fire (Recall 22V051000) and K900 Included in Kia's HECU Fire Recall (NHTSA 23V652000). 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 K900 problems?
Repair costs for known Kia K900 issues range from $0 to $3,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Rear Electronic Air Suspension Leak and Compressor Failure, typically costs $1,000-$3,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Kia K900 is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Kia K900. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2015-2020 Kia K900 with 7 documented issues documented across 155+ owner reports.
What is the 2015-2020 Kia K900 Rear Electronic Air Suspension Leak and Compressor Failure?
The K900 flagship sedan uses rear electronic air suspension for its luxury ride. The air springs develop leaks at the rubber bladder and crimped fitting areas after 4-6 years. The compressor overworks to compensate for leaks and eventually burns out. The K900's limited production… Repairs typically run $1,000-$3,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2016-2018 Kia K900 HECU Module Electrical Short Can Cause Engine Compartment Fire (Recall 22V051000)?
Kia recalled 2016-2018 K900 sedans because the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) — the control module for the antilock braking and traction control system — can malfunction and create an electrical short. NHTSA's record states that short can lead to a fire in the engine co… Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2018 Kia K900 K900 Included in Kia's HECU Fire Recall (NHTSA 23V652000)?
The 2015-2018 Kia K900 flagship sedan is covered by NHTSA recall 23V652000. The defect is in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit — the antilock brake and traction control module — which may develop an electrical short capable of igniting a fire in the engine compartment. NHTSA… Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2017 Kia K900 Infotainment System Freezing and Rebooting?
The first-generation K900 (2015-2017) infotainment system suffers from frequent freezing, slow response, and random reboots. The head unit's processing power is inadequate for the system's demands, and the software develops memory leaks over time. The screen may freeze on a parti… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2017 Kia K900 5.0L Tau V8 Timing Chain and GDI Injector Issues?
The 5.0L Tau GDI V8 in the first-generation K900 can develop timing chain tensioner rattle on cold start and GDI fuel injector failures. The hydraulic tensioners bleed down overnight, causing chain slack and rattle for 1-5 seconds at startup. The GDI piezoelectric fuel injectors… Repairs typically run $100-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2020 Kia K900 Harsh 2-3 Upshift Under Light Throttle?
The 8-speed automatic transmission produces a noticeably harsh 2-3 upshift during gentle acceleration. The torque converter lockup strategy and shift calibration contribute to the harsh engagement. TSB available for transmission software reflash. Repairs typically run $100-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2015-2020 Kia K900 LED Daytime Running Light Module Burnout?
Individual LED elements in the DRL strip fail, creating a partially lit or flickering appearance. The LED modules are integrated into the headlight assembly, making individual LED repair impractical. Repairs typically run $200-$800. 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.