At the shop, Kia steering issues have a recognizable signature. 2,208 documented complaints across 107 year-model entries from 2005 to 2025 is consistent with what we see come in. Complaint volume is spread across the lineup rather than parked on one bad year. That's the signature of a platform or supplier issue, not a single-year flub. 6 fatality reports on file with NHTSA tied to this category on Kia vehicles. That elevates this from nuisance to safety-critical. Across the 1,017 complaints reporting odometer mileage, the median failure lands at about 62,105 miles. Average shop fix runs about $700 — not catastrophic, but it adds up over time. Steering does not have a graceful failure mode. Take any "unintended movement" complaints seriously and check for open recalls on the EPS module.
Kia steering problems
2,208 owner complaints filed with NHTSA against Kia vehicles for steering issues. 5 active recall campaigns. See steering across all makes →
Worst-affected Kia model-years for steering Top 25 by complaint volume
Active recalls — Kia steering 7 on file
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Soul and Soul EV vehicles
If the pinion gear separates, steering will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.
On certain passenger vehicles, the steering tie rods may have a manufacturing flaw that affects the metallurgy
If the rod cracks or fails, loss of vehicle steering control may occur which could result in a crash.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020 Stinger vehicles equipped with a 2
A loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2018 Kia Sorento vehicles
If the steering column separates, it can cause a loss of steering ability, increasing the risk of a crash.
Kia America, Inc
A loss of steering control increases the risk of a crash.
Kia America, Inc
A loss of power steering assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Rio and Forte vehicles
Loss of steering control can increase the risk of a crash.
Common questions
How many Kia steering complaints are on file with NHTSA?
2,208 complaints across 107 model-year entries from 2005 to 2025. 5 active recall campaigns cover steering issues across the Kia lineup.
Which Kia model has the most steering complaints?
The 2013 Kia Optima leads with 210 complaints in this category. Next: 2012 Optima (185) and 2012 Soul (165).
What does it cost to fix Kia steering problems?
Independent shops average $700 for steering repairs across the Kia lineup. Dealer pricing tends to run twenty to forty percent higher. Specific cost depends on the failure mode and parts availability.
Are there Kia steering recalls?
Yes — 7 active recall campaigns cover steering on Kia vehicles. Recall fixes are free regardless of mileage or warranty status. The list below shows current campaigns with their NHTSA numbers.