NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2023 Kia K5 Safety Ratings
The 2023 Kia K5 scores 76 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Average), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 4 recalls, and 96 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2023 Kia K5 AWD sedan presents a complex safety profile, marked by competitive crash-test results but a concerning recall record. Its overall NHTSA Safety Index stands at 76/100, placing it in the Average band. This represents a four-point decline from the 2022 model's 80/100 Strong rating, primarily attributed to a weaker defect record score. While NHTSA crash-test results are robust, the increased frequency of recalls warrants attention for prospective buyers.
The 2023 Kia K5 AWD sedan received a 5-out-of-5-star overall crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 76/100, both figures sourced from NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 92 Sedans from 2023 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2023 Kia K5 ranks 82 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 76 / 100 (Average) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 10.7% |
| Recalls on file | 4 |
| Owner complaints | 96 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 82 of 92 Sedans tested for 2023 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2023 Kia K5?
The 2023 Kia K5 AWD falls to an Average 76/100 in MotorCaliber's safety assessment, a notable regression from the 2022 model's Strong 80/100 rating. This decline is largely attributable to the defect record sub-score, which dropped to 10 out of 20 possible points. This specific model year is marked by four active recall campaigns. One recall addresses improperly installed side curtain airbags, a defect directly impacting occupant protection in a collision. Additional recalls concern the fuel-system check valve and the structural roof trim. Despite these defect concerns, the K5 demonstrates strong crash protection, earning a sub-score of 61 out of 70. This is anchored by a 5-star overall NHTSA rating and a 5-star side-impact rating. Its avoidance technology sub-score of 5 out of 10 reflects a mixed standard equipment offering: forward collision warning is listed as both standard and optional depending on trim, while lane departure warning and electronic stability control are fully standard. For a three-year-old vehicle now entering the used market, the 2023 K5's safety profile is defined by robust crash-test results coupled with an elevated recall count.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2023 Kia K5 perform in crash tests?
The 2023 Kia K5 earned a top 5 out of 5 stars in NHTSA's overall safety evaluation. This strong performance was consistent across several key areas, particularly in side-impact protection, which also received a 5-star rating. Frontal crash protection was assessed at 4 out of 5 stars. The K5's rollover resistance was rated 4 out of 5 stars, with an 11 percent risk of rollover and a "No Tip" result in the dynamic tip test.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 19651
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2023 Kia K5 have any recalls?
Four recall campaigns cover this model year. One addresses a damaged fuel-system check valve that can allow air into the fuel tank across 2021-2024 K5 vehicles. A second covers rear window trim pieces on 2023-2025 K5s that may loosen and detach from the roof structure. A third involves side curtain air bags potentially installed incorrectly on 2021-2023 K5s. A fourth targets a powertrain fail-safe mode fault shared with 2021-2022 Sorento models. No park-outside or do-not-drive advisory is listed in the provided data.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE25V794000
Risk: A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the check valve. The fuel tank will be inspected for damage and replaced as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 16, 2026. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC356. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov
Reported 2025-11-17
STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS25V493000
Risk: Detached trim pieces can create a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the C-pillar trim assemblies, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC346.
Reported 2025-07-28
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN23V149000
Risk: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reinstall the side curtain air bags, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 7, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC263.
Reported 2023-03-07
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION22V760000
Risk: Loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the transmission, as necessary. Dealers will also update the transmission control unit software. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 9, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC250.
Reported 2022-10-11
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2023 Kia K5?
NHTSA has received 96 unverified owner complaints for the 2023 K5. Alleged problem areas include the Fuel and Propulsion System (33 reports), Unknown or Other issues (19), Structure (14), and Engine (11). Reporters allege 6 crashes and 17 injuries; these are unverified consumer allegations, not established facts.
96 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2023 Kia K5?
The 2023 Kia K5 enters the used market with four open recall campaigns. It is imperative that buyers verify the VIN of any specific vehicle to ensure all necessary repairs have been completed by an authorized Kia dealer. Of particular concern are the recalls addressing air bag installation and the fuel system; written confirmation of these remedies' completion is advised.
- The 2023 K5's Safety Index of 76/100 Average marks a four-point decline from the 2022 model's 80/100 Strong rating, with the defect record sub-score of 10/20 being the primary driver of that drop.
- A 2023-specific recall covers the left and right rear window trim pieces on 2023-2025 K5 vehicles, which may detach from the roof structure while driving.
- The side curtain air bag recall, issued in March 2023, applies specifically to 2021-2023 K5 vehicles and alleges incorrect installation, making it a direct crash-protection concern for this model year.
- Owner complaints logged with NHTSA total 96, with the Fuel and Propulsion System alone accounting for 33 of those unverified allegations, a concentration that aligns with the active fuel-system check valve recall campaign.
RANKINGSWhere the 2023 Kia K5 places
The 2023 Kia K5 qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2023 Kia K5 safety questions
Was the 2023 Kia K5 crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2023 Kia K5, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 76 out of 100, placing it in the Average band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2023 Kia K5 crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2023 Kia K5 earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 10.7%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2023 Kia K5 have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 4 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2023 Kia K5. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2023 Kia K5?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 96 owner complaints are on file for the 2023 Kia K5. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other K5 years
Rivals in Sedan (2023)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Audi RS 5 Sportback | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2023 Audi S4 | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Nissan Maxima | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Polestar 2 | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Tesla Model S Later Release | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 19651), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Kia K5 2023.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 82 of 92 in the Sedan class for 2023.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.