After a hard crash from behind and then being pushed into another car, causing severe damage to the front and rear of the car (total loss), the airbags only deployed on the right (passenger) side. In addition, after the crash, the steering wheel was lying at the driver's feet, completely detached from its original position.
2025 Kia Sportage steering problems
severe 3 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $700
What owners are reporting 2 most recent
The steering shaft de-coupled from the steering wheel, leading to a complete loss of steering. After stop, engine was turned off and steering wheel lowered. At that point the steering wheel fell in my lap, completely decoupling from the steering collum.
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2025 Kia Sportage?
It's a meaningful issue. 3 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $700.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.