2018 Kia Cadenza: common problems and reliability
One of the better Cadenza years.
7 owner complaints, most about engine. 1 recall.
Should I buy a 2018 Cadenza?The 2018 Kia Cadenza has 7 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 1 recall on record. The most-reported areas are engine and air bags.
Safety record for the 2018 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2018 Kia Cadenza vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Cadenza years only. How we score it
Is 2018 a good year for the Cadenza?
Across the 6 Cadenza model years we track, complaint volume runs from 5 (2019) to 110 (2014). With 7 complaints, the 2018 Cadenza sits below the model's median of 32.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2018 Cadenza
service brakes, hydraulic:antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip:control unit/module
Campaign 21V137000Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2021 Sportage and Cadenza vehicles. The electrical circuit in the Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may short-circuit, which can cause a fire in the engine compartment.
What owners say across generations
Sentiment is sharply divided, creating a high-risk, high-reward ownership profile.
Owner insights cover all generations of the Cadenza. See the full Cadenza owner picture and every model year.
Typical used price
Used Cadenza listings typically run $9,950–$15,295 across 2014 to 2020 model years.
Other Cadenza model years
Compare every Cadenza year side by side to see how 2018 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Cadenza against its rivals
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