2023 Kia K5 fuel/propulsion system problems

“Fuel Tank has expanded and is in danger of exploding due to heat from exhaust system. My vehicle has been returned to a local dealer and Kia Corporate is willing to pay off my loan , but not compensate me for my down payment of $3500 that I put down 6 mths ago.”

“I am filing this complaint regarding the handling of a fuel tank recall involving my 2023 Kia K5 GT-Line. On XXX, I brought my vehicle to Kia Rockwall in [XXX], after being informed of an issue related to a fuel tank recall. I was told that my vehicle could not be returned to me and that Kia would pursue a buyback instead. Before this incident, I had spent approximately $1,200 on repairs related to the issue, including replacing the charcoal canister. These repairs occurred the previous month. I am concerned about the circumstances surrounding the defect, the expenses I incurred attempting to address the problem, and the handling of the vehicle once it was brought in for the recall. I was initially told that a case manager would assist with arrangements. On XXX, a case manager contacted me, and I explained I could not afford to pay for a rental vehicle out of pocket. I was subsequently informed that I would need to pay for a rental through Enterprise and seek reimbursement from Kia. I explained again that this was not financially possible. On XXX, I received a further response, and Kia America ultimately stated that if I could not rent a vehicle under its…”

“What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Fuel pump, fuel tank and valve check. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? SEE PHOTO. on turnpike 95. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Confirmed by the dealer yes. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Bev smith KIA sent my info to KIA America when they saw it. SEE PHOTO. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? It blew up on me.”

“The vehicle is grounded at the dealership due to NHTSA Campaign 25V794 (Kia Recall SC356). The vehicle's fuel tank has critically expanded and swollen, causing permanent structural and chassis deformation inside the vehicle. The dealership service department has documented this structural damage, confirmed the vehicle is entirely unsafe to operate due to an immediate fuel system fire hazard, and stated the vehicle is likely unrepairable. The manufacturer is currently holding the hazardous vehicle but is failing to provide immediate alternative transportation, leaving the consumer stranded and creating severe financial hardship. I do not have the financial means to pay rental car fees up front for an extended and undetermined amount of time while waiting for Kia to decide the next step. All of the issues with the vehicle are directly related to the manufacturer defect. My safety was at risk while operating the vehicle due to a severe fire risk.”

“car taken to Hutchenson Kia of Macon for Kia recall Campaign SC356. I heard loud pop a few days before appointment. The dealership stated the gas tank failed structural inspection and has already expanded. This put me and my children in danger. The dealership kept my vehicle and will not give me me a loaner. They left me stranded without a way to get home or pick up my kids from daycare. the 1800 # said my car isnt under warranty so they arent obligated. If they keep my car an say its a safety hazard they should be obligated. im told i have to wait 3-5 business day to get a case manager to see how they can assist me,”

“I brought my 2023 Kia K5 to Citrus Kia in Ontario, California on 2/20/2026 for two safety recalls, including Recall SC356 involving a defective fuel check valve that can cause the fuel tank to expand, melt, and potentially catch fire. When I picked up my vehicle on XXX, I was given a repair invoice stating that both recalls had been completed. Four months later, I received another recall notice by mail for SC356. After contacting Kia corporate, they confirmed that Citrus Kia had never completed the recall, despite providing me with paperwork stating that it had been done. I made multiple attempts to contact the dealership for an explanation but my calls were never returned. Kia corporate also had difficulty reaching the dealership. They ultimately confirmed with Citrus Kia that the recall had NOT been performed and instructed me to have it completed at another dealership. This was not a minor paperwork error. Citrus Kia falsely represented that a serious safety recall involving a potential fire hazard had been completed when it had not. I have the dealership's own repair invoice documenting that they claimed the work was finished. I also have a voicemail…”