2021 Kia Stinger Safety Report
2021 Kia Stinger: Excellent Crash Ratings, But Plagued by Engine, Fuel, and Brake Recalls and Complaints
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Kia Stinger
Reliability Score
The 2021 Kia Stinger receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
Known Issues for the 2021 Kia Stinger
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Kia Stinger:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loss Of Drive Power / Stalling Multiple complaints describe the vehicle losing motive power or stalling unexpectedly, sometimes shortly after purchase. This aligns with recalls for fuel pump issues (NHTSA Campaign 20V518000, 20V517000) and inaccurate fuel gauge readings (NHTSA Campaign 20V517000). |
High | Occasional | 300-1000 miles |
| Brake System Malfunctions Complaints mention brakes 'skipping,' failing to stop the vehicle, or warped rotors at low mileage. This is consistent with a recall for service brakes (NHTSA Campaign 20V518000) that could lead to an engine compartment fire. |
High | Occasional | 0-30000 miles |
| Engine Sputtering / Hesitation Some owners report the engine sputtering or hesitating, particularly when the auto-stop feature is engaged or when accelerating from a stop. This could be related to fuel delivery or engine management issues. |
Medium | Occasional | 0-1000 miles |
| Shattering Sunroof At least two complaints describe the sunroof spontaneously shattering while driving, without external impact, posing a distraction and potential injury risk. |
Medium | Rare | unknown miles |
| Inaccurate Fuel Gauge One complaint details running out of gas due to an inaccurate fuel gauge, leading to a dangerous highway stall. This is directly addressed by NHTSA Campaign 20V517000. |
High | Rare | 800 miles |
| Turbocharger Oil Leak / Fire Risk A recall (NHTSA Campaign 23V652000) identifies a risk of oil leaks from the turbocharger oil feed pipe, which could lead to an engine compartment fire. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Kia Stinger:
Two complaints specifically mention engine issues, including sputtering and loss of power, aligning with recalls for engine-related fire risk and fuel delivery.
Three complaints detail brake malfunctions, such as skipping, failure to stop, and warped rotors, which is a significant concern given the recall for service brakes.
Two complaints relate to fuel system issues, including running out of gas due to an inaccurate gauge and general loss of power, directly correlating with fuel pump and fuel gauge recalls.
One complaint mentions transmission/engine and brake system failure, indicating potential issues beyond just the engine or brakes in isolation.
One complaint describes windshield washer fluid nozzles freezing, impairing visibility in cold weather.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Kia Stinger
Is the 2021 Kia Stinger safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Kia Stinger received excellent crash safety ratings, achieving an overall 5-star rating. However, it has been subject to 5 recalls addressing serious issues like potential engine fires, loss of drive power, and inaccurate fuel gauges. There are also 16 complaints, including 1 crash, highlighting concerns with engine, braking, and fuel systems.
What are common problems for the 2021 Kia Stinger?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Kia Stinger, based on NHTSA complaints, involve the ENGINE (2 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (3 complaints), and FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE (2 complaints). Specific problems include unexpected loss of power, brake malfunctions, and inaccurate fuel gauge readings leading to stalling.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Kia Stinger?
Yes, the 2021 Kia Stinger has 5 recalls. These include issues with the turbocharger oil feed pipe increasing fire risk (NHTSA Campaign 23V652000), fuel pump problems causing loss of drive power (NHTSA Campaign 20V518000), inaccurate fuel gauge readings (NHTSA Campaign 20V517000), and service brake issues (NHTSA Campaign 20V518000).
How does the 2021 Kia Stinger perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Kia Stinger performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an overall 5-star safety rating. It received 4 stars for frontal crash, and 5 stars for both side crash and rollover resistance.
Should I be concerned about the engine in a 2021 Kia Stinger?
Yes, there are concerns regarding the engine. NHTSA complaints list 'ENGINE' as a top component with issues, and there's a significant recall (NHTSA Campaign 23V652000) for a turbocharger oil feed pipe leak that could lead to an engine compartment fire. Other recalls also relate to fuel delivery impacting engine performance.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2021 Kia Stinger offers strong crash protection, potential buyers should be aware of the numerous recalls and complaints concerning critical engine, fuel, and brake components; ensure all recall repairs have been completed before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Kia Stinger
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Kia Stinger. The data includes 16 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 1 reported crashes, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Kia Stinger an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 5 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.