Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
Limited mileage data: 10 of 207 reports include usable mileage. There isn’t enough coverage to show a useful chart.
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
Electrical System. Review the 102 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
Forward Collision Avoidance. Review the 24 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
Suspension. Review the 21 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
1 crash reports2 fire reports1 injury reports
What owners actually said
207 reports
Mileage unknown · Mar 19, 2025
Fuel/propulsion System
Starting on Feb 22, 2025, we observed that our Kia EV9 had dramatically reduced range. Normally, when charging was complete the dashboard would show well over 250 miles of range, even in cold weather. On Feb 22nd we started to see the range had dropped to around 60 miles, even when the dashboard reported the battery at 100% char…
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Starting on Feb 22, 2025, we observed that our Kia EV9 had dramatically reduced range. Normally, when charging was complete the dashboard would show well over 250 miles of range, even in cold weather. On Feb 22nd we started to see the range had dropped to around 60 miles, even when the dashboard reported the battery at 100% charge. The actual range seemed to be even worse, dropping dramatically even after a short drive around our town. By all appearances, the high voltage battery seems to be defective and is causing a safety issue because it could result in a sudden loss of power during driving or an unexpected shutdown of the vehicle. This may also be a symptom of an even more serious battery defect that could result in a battery fire. We brought the vehicle to the dealer, and they were able to reproduce the severe drop in range. No components have been replaced yet, we are still waiting to hear which parts will be replaced under warranty service. During this entire time the vehicle has given zero warnings or alerts, including no warning messages nor the check engine light.
NHTSA ODI #11649362
Mileage unknown · Mar 19, 2025
Electrical SystemPower Train
We heard a grinding sound from rear of vehicle while driving into a park lot. Checked road and vehicle to see if there was any damage or objects hit, there were not. Shortly after driving a few miles a BMS warning was showing and we called Kia roadside assistance. They insisted on towing the car but we waited until next day so …
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We heard a grinding sound from rear of vehicle while driving into a park lot. Checked road and vehicle to see if there was any damage or objects hit, there were not. Shortly after driving a few miles a BMS warning was showing and we called Kia roadside assistance. They insisted on towing the car but we waited until next day so we could secure a rental. The short drive to the rental agency now gave us 4 more errors regarding “check 4WD/AWD” and the code was given as “MCU_R” to check the rear motor control units. All were listed as “P1Axxxx” errors. During this time, electronics in the car did not work well, vehicle did not want to shift into gears and acceleration was noticeably degraded. Car is at dealership being worked on now.
NHTSA ODI #11649234
Mileage unknown · Mar 19, 2025
Fuel/propulsion System
Vehicle range went from 320+ miles on a 100% charge to just 100 miles on 100% charge. Looks to be a bad battery cell or battery itself. No warning lights of any kind. Just super degraded range. Vehicle is new and has around 5800 miles. Dealer doesn't have techs to work on batteries, so they are having to play telephone game wi…
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Vehicle range went from 320+ miles on a 100% charge to just 100 miles on 100% charge. Looks to be a bad battery cell or battery itself. No warning lights of any kind. Just super degraded range. Vehicle is new and has around 5800 miles. Dealer doesn't have techs to work on batteries, so they are having to play telephone game with Kia tech line in Korea.
NHTSA ODI #11649183
Mileage unknown · Mar 18, 2025
Wheels
3 weeks after picking up our Kia EV9, I noticed a thunking sound from the passenger side front tire. When we reached home, we opened the car cover and noticed that the lug nut had come off and was rattling behind the cover. We called the dealership and the asked us to bring the car in. Since we didn't want to drive it, we bough…
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3 weeks after picking up our Kia EV9, I noticed a thunking sound from the passenger side front tire. When we reached home, we opened the car cover and noticed that the lug nut had come off and was rattling behind the cover. We called the dealership and the asked us to bring the car in. Since we didn't want to drive it, we bought a torque wrench and tightened it ourselves, after getting the information from the dealership on how much to tighten it. We also noticed that all the lug nuts were under torqued and the driver side lug nut was very loose. I also read multiple reports on online forums (Reddit) about new Kia EV9 wheels flying off on the highway.
NHTSA ODI #11649077
Mileage unknown · Mar 17, 2025
Forward Collision Avoidance
Certain ADAS features have disengaged at least six times in the last year. While traveling at greater than 55 mph vehicle disengages cruise control and reports numerous warning indicators on dashboard including ADAS forward features such as collision warning and automatic braking indicators. I also noted lane management/steering…
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Certain ADAS features have disengaged at least six times in the last year. While traveling at greater than 55 mph vehicle disengages cruise control and reports numerous warning indicators on dashboard including ADAS forward features such as collision warning and automatic braking indicators. I also noted lane management/steering also seemed to disengage when this has occurred during highway curve management. It is difficult to evaluate the full range of loss as the dashboard warnings are numerous and change over the next few minutes. It is also unsafe to secure good photographic evidence when traveling alone, though with assistance some imagery was recently captured. The sudden loss of speed and directional control assistance in multi-lane urban traffic was alarming but managed OK by alert driving. The manufacturer's dealer reported they could do nothing after one of the first occurrences. They said there were not 'codes' registered and not reports on file. The loss of systems usually cleared up within a few miles for the first instances. The most recent case persisted for several hours and several vehicle off/restart cycles. During this time the dashboard indicators suggested some failures resolved but some remained. This last case cleared over-night upon morning restart. A failure/warning was noted in the Kia Connect online app while the car still reported a problem. There were no prior indications before the sudden systems failure. All of these cases initially occurred on a section of road within about 1/2 mile of the same place. It involves a significant curve on an urban interstate interchanged. Sometimes the failures occur just before, or during, and at the end of the curve.
NHTSA ODI #11648895
Mileage unknown · Mar 16, 2025
Electrical SystemUnknown Or Other
All of a sudden the EV battery management system warning light is on and it suggest I do not drive it until fixed. This was after my entire screen went out, where I could not see the speed I was going or use turn signals. Very unsafe
NHTSA ODI #11648576
Mileage unknown · Mar 16, 2025
Suspension
The back end of the car will move back and forth laterally when driving over uneven road. In particular it appears to happen when driving over a bump while also driving at a slight left or right angle. After the bump the back end will oscillate laterally. This is extremely concerning to the driver and passengers, it can feel …
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The back end of the car will move back and forth laterally when driving over uneven road. In particular it appears to happen when driving over a bump while also driving at a slight left or right angle. After the bump the back end will oscillate laterally. This is extremely concerning to the driver and passengers, it can feel like the car is going to bounce out of its lane.
NHTSA ODI #11648535
Mileage unknown · Mar 16, 2025
Seats
During left turns the driver's seat will shift right abruptly causing the driver to feel unsafe. This happens repeatedly and consistently while driving, but only while turning left. I've taken this issue to the dealer who replicated it, but did nothing.
NHTSA ODI #11648534
Mileage unknown · Mar 15, 2025
Electrical System
Battery cell in electric vehicle failed after 6 months of ownership.
NHTSA ODI #11648445
Mileage unknown · Mar 14, 2025
SuspensionUnknown Or OtherWheels
I am experiencing significant and persistent vibrations at highway speeds (60–75 mph) in my 2024 Kia EV9. Despite multiple dealership visits and repair attempts, the issue remains unresolved. The vibrations cause noticeable discomfort and potential safety risks, especially on long drives. Timeline of Events & Repairs: 1.First Vi…
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I am experiencing significant and persistent vibrations at highway speeds (60–75 mph) in my 2024 Kia EV9. Despite multiple dealership visits and repair attempts, the issue remains unresolved. The vibrations cause noticeable discomfort and potential safety risks, especially on long drives. Timeline of Events & Repairs: 1.First Visit to Kia dealer (Dec 24): The dealership performed a tire balance and determined one tire was defective, replacing it. Vibrations persisted. 2.Second Visit (Jan 25) The dealership replaced the remaining 3 tires 3. ThirdVisit (Feb 25): The dealership identified three wheels with lateral runout and replaced them. They also performed road force balancing, reportedly bringing all values below 16. 4.Test Drive (Feb 25): After picking up my vehicle, I drove on the interstate and found the vibrations had worsened, now starting at 60 mph instead of 70 mph. •A third-party wheel shop inspected the wheels and found the fourth wheel (not replaced by Kia) was defective and out of round. 5.Dealership’s Response: Despite these findings, Kia dealer dismissed my concerns and referred me to another dealership for a second opinion. They also stated that third-party evaluations are not accepted, creating an endless loop where I cannot get the issue properly addressed. Safety Concerns: •Vibrations impact vehicle stability and driver comfort, especially on long trips. •Extended driving with excessive vibrations may lead to fatigue, reduced control, and premature mechanical wear. •The fact that multiple components (wheels, tires) have required replacement raises concerns about a potential manufacturing defect affecting Kia EV9 models. Request for Investigation: The dealership has failed to resolve this issue despite multiple repair attempts, and their refusal to acknowledge third-party findings leaves me with no clear resolution path. I request that NHTSA investigate potential defects in the wheels, tires, or drivetrain system of the Kia EV9.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2022-2024 EV6 and 2024 EV9 vehicles. The high voltage battery cells may contain misaligned electrodes, which can lead to a fire while parked or driving.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures and limit their charge to a maximum of 80% until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the high voltage battery system assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 7, 2026. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC375. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning July 17, 2026.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024-2025 EV9 vehicles. The second- and third-row seat mounting bolts may be missing.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Seats without mounting bolts may not properly restrain an occupant, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and install mounting bolts as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 24, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC329.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024-2025 EV9 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel screen may fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: An instrument panel screen that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The instrument cluster software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2024. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC326.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System:software
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024-2025 EV9 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel screen may fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Consequence: An instrument panel screen that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The instrument cluster software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2024. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC326.
Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024-2025 EV9 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel screen may fail. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 101, "Controls and Displays."
Consequence: An instrument panel screen that fails to display critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The instrument cluster software will be updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2024. Owners may contact Kia Customer Service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC326.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024 EV9 vehicles. A software error may cause the remote smart parking assist feature, which allows the operator to remotely move the vehicle, to miscalculate stopping distances.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A remote smart parking assist feature that miscalculates stopping distances may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the integrated electronic brake software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 4, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC324.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024 EV9 vehicles. The headliner may not adequately protect passengers from impact in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 201, "Occupant Protection In Interior Impact."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A headliner with inadequate impact protection increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the impact absorbing plates mounted on the headliner, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 30, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC317.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024 EV9 vehicles. The front passenger seat belt retractor cover may not be secured properly, which can cause the front passenger seat belt automatic locking retractor (ALR) and emergency locking retractor (ELR) to not operate as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection" and 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A seat belt retractor that does not operate as intended increases the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front passenger seat belt assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 5, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC312.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Niro EV and 2024 EV9 vehicles. The differential gear bolts in the gear drive unit may not be tightened properly, which can result in a loss of drive power or cause the differential to lock up.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A loss of drive power or differential lock up can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the gear drive unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC308.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
1
PE25004 · Windshield Wiper Failure
Opened Apr 29, 2025 · Closed Mar 11, 2026
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer
On April 29, 2025, NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this Preliminary Evaluation (PE25004) to investigate inoperative windshield wipers in model year (MY) 2024-2025 Kia EV9 vehicles. The complaints report windshield wipers that malfunction while driving, when snow and/or ice accumulates on or at the bottom of the windshield or in the cowl. ODI further received videos and photographs that depict relatively small amounts of snow and/or ice accumulation that leads to the wipers’ malfunction. Inoperative windshield wipers could reduce driver visibility during inclement weather and increase the risk of a crash. ODI identified 7 Vehicle Owners Questionnaires (VOQs) related to this investigation. Five VOQs describe inoperative windshield wipers due to snow and/or ice accumulation. Two other VOQs describe other malfunctioning windshield wipers including snow build-up on the blades and an odor of overheating. The wipers are equipped with thermal overload protection designed to limit overheating of the wiper motor. Further, consumers describe windshield wipers that temporarily stop working when they are not able to clear the windshield. This may happen when the wipers stop before the parked position in the cowl at the bottom of the windshield. In January 2026, Kia informed ODI that it will conduct a Product Improvement Campaign with owner notification for approximately 47,000 MY 2024-2026EV9 vehicles.The campaign includes a hardware change to the passenger-side wiper arm and an Owner’s Manual revision. The replacement wiper arm will be a different shape and angle that increase the space/clearance between the cowl and the wiper. The Owner’s Manual revision will emphasize the importance of snow removal prior to driving, and it will recommend that drivers place the wipers in service mode when the vehicle is parked outdoors, and snow is forecasted. In addition, Kia is planning to develop pop-up cluster warnings that will be temperature-dependent, and they will remind owners to clear snow/ice pre-drive and to place the wipers in service mode post-drive. In view of Kia’s field action, ODI is closing this Preliminary Evaluation. ODI will take additional action if warranted by future circumstances.To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.
2024 Kia EV9 Problems, Complaints & Recalls | Skip That Year