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Kia America IncThis business is NOT BBB Accredited.
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Complaints
This profile includes complaints for Kia America Inc's headquarters and its corporate-owned locations. To view all corporate locations, see
Customer Complaints Summary
- 2,066 total complaints in the last 3 years.
- 1,259 complaints closed in the last 12 months.
If you've experienced an issue
Submit a ComplaintThe complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.
Initial Complaint
Date:05/25/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
I purchased a 2022 *** ******* from ***************** Via, which has since been bought out and is now Darlings *** of ************. I purchased my vehicle on July 7, 2024, with approximately ****** miles. In late January my check engine light came on. It was serviced on January ******* and within 10 miles of the dealership my check engine light came back on. I contacted the dealer and made arrangements for the vehicle to be looked at that Saturday January *******. I live approximately ******* miles from the dealership. 30 miles from home my vehicle begins to shake and the lights on the dash light up and is barely able to made it to the side of the road. We were able to turn it off and turn it back on and make it home. It was placed on a low bed the next day and brought to the dealer. It spent a week and a half at the dealer and left me with no vehicle because they did not have a loner This instance it spent a week and a half there with no loaner given, and me without my daily driver. March ******* my car stalled in the middle of an intersection. I immediately called *** and made them aware of the issue. Later that same day, my car would barely go 100 feet without continuously stalling. I dropped it off at the dealer on March *******. It spent 2 months at the dealer in which it was fixed 3 times before it left the dealership, which resulted in a new motor placed. I was told a loaner was returning the next day and would be available to me the following day. It was a week before I got a loaner car. My SUV is my daily driver, that I transport my 3 young children in car seats. I was given a small car that barely safely fit my children in. My car returned to me on May ******* and less 500 miles after it was returned, my check engine light turned back on, and my car had no antifreeze in it. I am done with ***'s lack of ability to fix my car and no longer feel that I can safely make it from home to work daily without it leaving me stranded.Business Response
Date: 06/02/2025
Hello,
Thank you for your inquiry. We have located your case, ********, and will have an associate follow up with you regarding your concern. Alternatively, if you would like to contact us at your convenience, you may speak directly to a customer care representative by contacting us directly at **************(4Kia). Our normal hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm Pacific.
Initial Complaint
Date:05/24/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:UnansweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
*** car engine had a 10 year warrenty - *** is not resolving issue that their warrenty obligates them to fixInitial Complaint
Date:05/22/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:UnansweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
We bought a new 2020 *** ****** in November 2019. Last November 2024, the engine started knocking. No warning lights at all. Discovered that there was no oil. Towed to *** dealership in *********, **. We paid for the engine to be replaced due to bad records for maintenance. We were told the replacement engine was new not rebuilt. Got the car back with a new warranty. At 4000 miles it was discovered that there was no oil. *** dealership did one 1000 mile consumption test, then a combustion cleaning and another 1000 mile consumption test. It failed both tests. *** replaced the engine. They took weeks to fix. There was no "courtesy vehicle" or rental provided except for the last few days. Once they removed the engine, we were told that the turbo fan was bad and needed replaced, and that it would cost us over $3000 since *** would not cover that. We decided not to fix at that time as we didn't have the funds. They went ahead and replaced the engine. I was told when I picked it up that if there were further consumption issues *** would not replace the engine because we didn't fix the turbo. I was told later that I could expect consumption issues until that turbo was fixed. My car is still smoking (which started with the second engine consumption issues). Reading the paperwork from the second engine replacement, the mechanic stated, "due to the previous engine replacement consuming so much oil, due to how low the oil level got, the turbo bearings have failed and caused the turbo to start consuming oil and having excessive play, turbo will need to be replaced." This clearly means that the first replacement caused turbo problems and therefore *** should replace the turbo. I was told that *** will not do that.Initial Complaint
Date:05/22/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:UnansweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
The engine issues with my *** ********* The issue started in December 2021. The issue is still ongoing until May 2025. My engine oil has a consumption issue. The service at Hello *** was very unprofessional and disturbing. I was told that the technician who did not realize the vehicle issue in January and again in March was no longer working at the company. Now my vehicle has other engine issues which *** refuses to cover the cost for. The reason was due to the lack of maintenance records. I have had my current vehicle since 2017 and this is the second *** that I have had. My first vehicle was replaced with my current vehicle due to engine issues. I did always take my vehicle to the *** dealership for service. I have located all of the records that I find. *** knows that their engine has a consumption issue but refuses to cover the cost with the EXCUSE of lack of maintenance records. Hello *** kept my vehicle for over three weeks without a loaner vehicle regarding the engine consumption issues. I even opened a case with *************** regarding the issue and received the same answer. When I finally picked up my vehicle the issue besides the engine consumption problem is now a engine harness issue. The goodwill request was denied. Not only is my vehicle not being taken care of as it should be, but the lack of professionalism from the dealer is not acceptable.Initial Complaint
Date:05/22/2025
Type:Billing IssuesStatus:UnansweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
I believe *********** is failing to correctly apply payments, in excess of the monthly minimum due, against the auto loan principal. Every month I send them extra money, make the required calls asking for reallocation of the excess, however my monthly statements rarely reflect the correct minimum monthly amount due of $481.50. For example my last three statements ask for $126 instead. I called 05/08/25, spent 57 minutes with them asking for the update to the 5/1/25 payment, but discovered that several of my prior requests were not updated by the finance department. I called again today because my statement for **** showed excess payments were pushed out against the future minimum months amount due. **************** says the errors are the ************* or the prior **************** reps ****** and the finance payment processing department does not communicate with paying customers. I want recourse, I want accountability, I want fair and accurate financial management of the payments I make. Social media strongly reflects I am not alone in my complaint that they appear to be set up to over charge Americans.Initial Complaint
Date:05/22/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:UnansweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
My car, under warranty, has been towed 9 times for the same problem. *** says becuase it's more than 12 months old, I am not entitled to Lemon Law even though there is a Federal Law thay supersedes Illinois state ****** Nov 2024 when theybreimbursed me for my outnof pocket expenses, the tricked me in tonsigninf a release for future claims on the car. They told me the form I was signing was to validate my expenses. Had I known I would never be able to seek a claim, I never would have asked for my OOP expenses be returned. My car has been towed 9 times and has been put of service for over a total of 50 days in the past 4 months I have spoken to *** corporate who told me they will not replace the car.I am requesting a replacement car or full refund.Initial Complaint
Date:05/21/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:UnansweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
To Whom It May Concern,I am the legal owner of a 2018 ***************** (VIN: *****************), which has an active safety recall SC218 involving a known engine defect (DTC P1326). I attempted to have this recall addressed by ****** *** in ******, ********, but they refused to perform the recall, stating that I am a dealer and not the final customer which violates federal ***** recall laws.I reported this to *** Consumer Affairs, who opened Case #******** and promised a callback. However, the case was closed without resolution, no repair was performed, and I received no explanation.Adding further confusion, a *** ************** told me the recall had been completed in 2022 without any proof, confirmation, or documentation. To this day, the recall still appears as active and unresolved.This conduct is deceptive and unlawful. The recall is still open in the system, yet *** refuses to honor it.I have already filed a complaint with ***** and will pursue further legal action if needed. I request that *** be held accountable and forced to comply with federal safety recall obligations.Sincerely,***** **** Nexus Motors LLC ******************** **************Initial Complaint
Date:05/20/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
There is a recall #**V652000 that the engine causes fires. My son was driving on the highway in ************ in April ****************************** the middle of the highway. He lifted the hood and the engine was on fire. He is lucky to be alive. My car needs a new engine as stated in this recall. *** refuses to honor the recall. They wanted proof of maintenance. I faxed them 25 pages of Maintenace checks and oil changes. They still refuse to repair my car. I loved my *** and was planning on getting a new one. But that certainly will not be done. My car is a 2013 and I have only ****** miles on it. They are taking advantage of people especially me at 81. I can't afford to get a new car. Shame on *** of H3**53135363434303**4H!!!!Business Response
Date: 05/22/2025
Hello,
Thank you for your inquiry. We have located your case, ********, and will have an associate follow up with you regarding your concern. Alternatively, if you would like to contact us at your convenience, you may speak directly to a customer care representative by contacting us directly at **************(4Kia). Our normal hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm Pacific.
Initial Complaint
Date:05/20/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
I overpaid on my lease. I was assured the balance would be credited to the outstanding amount. At the end of the lease, it was not credited, and after hours on the phone, I was assured within two weeks of paying my balance; however, I did not. My account shows my OVERPAYMENT history, I attempted by phone and letter to remedy the situation, and the CARE Department representative, ******* *. did not provide an explanation of the overpayment, the basic response was "We don't owe you money." I can show proof of how much I overpaid, and despite providing documentation, I have gotten no where. During the life of my loan, *********** was purchased by another lending agency, and I am curious if this is where the error occurred, but I have been more than understanding and have had no resolution to my issues.Business Response
Date: 05/27/2025
Hello,
Thank you for your inquiry. We have located your case, ********, and will have an associate follow up with you regarding your concern. Alternatively, if you would like to contact us at your convenience, you may speak directly to a customer care representative by contacting us directly at **************(4Kia). Our normal hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm Pacific.
Initial Complaint
Date:05/19/2025
Type:Service or Repair IssuesStatus:AnsweredMore info
Complaint statuses
- Resolved:
- The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.
- Unresolved:
- The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.
- Answered:
- The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.
- Unanswered:
- The business failed to respond to the dispute.
- Unpursuable:
- BBB is unable to locate the business.
I bought a 2025 *** , The car is no unsafe to drive due a engine problems. I have a case started with KIA *********************** They will not give me a rental car because they can not figure out what is wrong with the car. I have been told I will have to wait 5 to 7 days before they will even look at the case. in the mean time I am with out a car. They told me I could rent one at my cost. I have put in countless calls and ask to speak to a survivors but No one has called me at this time. It seem that they want me to drive the car until the problem happens again. The issue is that doing that my cause me or my ill wife to get into a accident or even worse be killed. The car will loose power at any given time. you may be going 60 miles an hour and it will drop to 10miles an hour in a split second. I have been told that they do not know the causeBusiness Response
Date: 06/02/2025
Hello,
Thank you for your inquiry. We have located your case, ********, and will have an associate follow up with you regarding your concern. Alternatively, if you would like to contact us at your convenience, you may speak directly to a customer care representative by contacting us directly at **************(4Kia). Our normal hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 5:00 am to 6:00 pm Pacific.
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