2021 model year · 298+ owner reports · Updated April 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 298+ owner reports, the 2021 Kia Sportage has 5 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is Rear Differential Mount Bushing Wear (AWD Models) with 298 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $2,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2017-2023 Kia Sportage, aWD-equipped Sportages develop a humming, growling, or grinding noise from the rear differential coupling unit. The electronically-controlled clutch pack coupling wears internally, and the coupling fluid degrades from heat. The noise increases during turns and low-speed maneuvering. If ignored, the coupling can fail completely, leaving the vehicle in front-wheel-drive only mode.
Drain and refill the rear differential coupling fluid with Kia-specified coupling fluid (not standard gear oil). If noise persists after fluid change, the coupling unit requires replacement. The coupling unit is separate from the rear differential and can be replaced independently. Perform a coupling relearn procedure with the Kia Diagnostic System after replacement. Change coupling fluid every 30,000 miles as preventive maintenance.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2017-2022 Kia Sportage, aWD Sportage models (4th generation 2017-2022) develop worn rear differential mount bushings that cause a clunking noise from the rear when accelerating from a stop or transitioning between acceleration and deceleration. The rubber bushings deteriorate and allow excessive differential movement. This is particularly noticeable in cold weather and with higher mileage (60,000+ miles).
Replace rear differential mount bushings (Kia part #55277-D9000). Some owners upgrade to polyurethane bushings for longer life. Labor involves lowering the rear subframe and is approximately 2-3 hours at a shop. DIY-friendly with a lift and basic tools.
Parts and tips from 298+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2017-2025 Kia Sportage, the panoramic sunroof glass on 2017+ Sportages can crack or shatter spontaneously without any impact. The tempered glass panel develops stress fractures from thermal expansion/contraction, especially during rapid temperature changes (hot sun then cold rain, or cold night then morning defrost). When the glass fails, it shatters into small pieces that fall into the cabin. Multiple NHTSA complaints have been filed for this issue.
Replace the panoramic sunroof glass panel. This must be done at a dealer or specialty glass shop due to the large panel size and sealing requirements. After replacement, ensure all four drain tubes are clear and properly connected. Some owners choose to apply a clear security film to the interior surface of the replacement glass to contain fragments if it shatters again. Check if Kia has a warranty extension or goodwill program for this issue.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2017-2025 Kia Sportage 1.6T, the 1.6L turbocharged engine in the Sportage develops oil leaks from the turbocharger oil feed line and its banjo bolt connection. The high heat environment around the turbo causes the oil line seals and crush washers to harden and leak. Oil drips onto the hot exhaust manifold and turbo housing, creating smoke and a burning oil smell. If the oil feed line is significantly restricted by carbon buildup, the turbo bearings can be starved of oil and fail.
Replace the turbo oil feed line, banjo bolts, and copper crush washers. Clean any carbon buildup from the banjo bolt oil passages. Inspect the turbo for bearing play — if there is any shaft play or the compressor wheel contacts the housing, the turbo must be replaced. Use OEM Kia crush washers (they are copper and must be new each time). Check oil drain line for restrictions as well.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
On the 2020-2025 Kia Sportage, the infotainment head unit in 2020+ Sportages enters a continuous reboot loop or freezes on the splash screen, leaving the driver without navigation, backup camera, and climate controls (on models with touchscreen-only HVAC). The issue is caused by software bugs and insufficient system memory for the connected services. Firmware updates from Kia have improved but not fully resolved the issue. The problem often occurs after USB device connection or Bluetooth pairing.
Perform a hard reset by pressing and holding the power/volume knob for 10 seconds. If the reboot loop persists, disconnect the vehicle battery for 30 minutes to fully reset the head unit. Visit a Kia dealer for the latest infotainment software update (free under warranty). If the issue continues after the latest firmware, the head unit may need hardware replacement. Avoid connecting USB drives with large music libraries (1000+ songs) which overwhelm the system.
Parts and tips from 0+ owners who fixed this issue
TRAILER HITCHES
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Sportage Plug-In Hybrid Electric (PHEV) and 2024-2025 Sportage vehicles equipped with a 4.2" screen and a Genuine Kia tow hitch harness accessory. Due to a software error, the instrument panel screen may fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Sportage and 2022-2024 Carnival vehicles. The roof molding may loosen and detach.
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024 Kia Sportage vehicles. The circuit board in the motor-driven power steering assembly may short circuit, resulting in a loss of power steering assist.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage vehicles. The alternator battery positive terminal nut may loosen, which can result in an engine stall or an electrical surge.
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage vehicles. The side curtain air bags may have been twisted during installation.
+ 5 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov
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According to Au7o's analysis of 298+ owner reports, the 2021-2021 Kia Sportage has 5 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneous Cracking, Rear Differential Coupling Noise and Vibration (AWD), Turbo Oil Feed Line Leak (1.6T). None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
The 2021-2021 Kia Sportage has 5 known issues documented across 298+ 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 Sportage issues range from $0 to $2,500, 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 panoramic sunroof glass on 2017+ Sportages can crack or shatter spontaneously without any impact. The tempered glass panel develops stress fractures from thermal expansion/contraction, especially during rapid temperature changes (hot sun then cold rain, or cold night then mor… Repairs typically run $800-$1,800. Severity: medium.
AWD-equipped Sportages develop a humming, growling, or grinding noise from the rear differential coupling unit. The electronically-controlled clutch pack coupling wears internally, and the coupling fluid degrades from heat. The noise increases during turns and low-speed maneuveri… Repairs typically run $150-$2,000. Severity: medium.
The 1.6L turbocharged engine in the Sportage develops oil leaks from the turbocharger oil feed line and its banjo bolt connection. The high heat environment around the turbo causes the oil line seals and crush washers to harden and leak. Oil drips onto the hot exhaust manifold an… Repairs typically run $200-$2,500. Severity: medium.
AWD Sportage models (4th generation 2017-2022) develop worn rear differential mount bushings that cause a clunking noise from the rear when accelerating from a stop or transitioning between acceleration and deceleration. The rubber bushings deteriorate and allow excessive differe… Repairs typically run $200-$600. Severity: low.
The infotainment head unit in 2020+ Sportages enters a continuous reboot loop or freezes on the splash screen, leaving the driver without navigation, backup camera, and climate controls (on models with touchscreen-only HVAC). The issue is caused by software bugs and insufficient… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. 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.
