Kia K5

2025: Detection of faulty software that leaks gasoline

At the end of November 2025, Kia announced the recall of approximately 250,000 medium-sized K5 sedans. The identified problem can lead to damage to the fuel tank, leakage of fuel and ignition.

According to a notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration USA (NHTSA), the defect is related to a check valve in the fuel vapor capture system. Its task is to direct gasoline vapors into the intake manifold for subsequent combustion. This reduces fuel consumption and prevents pollution. If the valve is faulty, erratic engine operation, increased fuel consumption, floating RPM, and the smell of gasoline can be observed.

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Фото: Kia

A defective valve in Kia K5 cars provokes an increase in pressure in the system: because of this, the fuel tank can swell, contact the exhaust system and start melting. This creates a risk of ignition of the vehicle.

Kia said it first learned of the problem after receiving several complaints from car owners about a fuel leak or its smell. It has been established that the problem affects Kia K5 modifications equipped with a 1.6-liter turbocharged direct injection gasoline engine (T-GDI). In total, 250,547 cars produced in 2021-2024 fall under the recall. As of November 2025, there is no information on any incidents related to the defect. As part of the recall program, dealership specialists will check the fuel tank and replace it if there are signs of damage. In addition, a new valve will be installed to avoid this problem in the future. Specialists will also update the onboard software.^[1]

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