2019 Kia Cadenza

The R-MDPS (Rack-Mounted Motor Driven Power Steering) system in the 2017 Cadenza can provide inconsistent steering assist, with the steering feel varying unpredictably between light and heavy during normal driving. Some owners report a dead spot in the center of the steering where the car wanders at highway speeds, and a clunking noise when turning from a stop.

Have the dealer perform an MDPS software calibration update to improve steering feel consistency. If the clunking persists, inspect the intermediate shaft coupling and rack mounting bushings. In severe cases where the MDPS motor exhibits internal faults, the entire rack assembly may need replacement.

The 8-speed automatic transmission in the 2017 Cadenza can hesitate significantly when accelerating from a stop, producing a lag of 1-2 seconds before the vehicle moves. Some owners also report a surge or lurch when the transmission finally engages, which can be alarming in stop-and-go traffic. The issue worsens in cold weather.

Kia released TCU software updates to improve torque converter lockup behavior and reduce the engagement delay. Have the dealer apply the latest transmission calibration. If the hesitation persists after the software update, the torque converter may need replacement under the powertrain warranty.

The digital instrument cluster in the 2017 Cadenza can display erratic behavior including flickering, showing incorrect readouts (speed, fuel level, temperature), randomly illuminating warning lights, and intermittently going completely blank. The issue is often caused by loose or corroded connections at the cluster harness or a software defect in the cluster controller.

Have the dealer check the instrument cluster harness connections and reseat them. If the issue persists, a cluster software update may be available. In severe cases, the instrument cluster assembly needs replacement. The repair is covered under the basic warranty or the electrical system warranty.

The front brake rotors on the 2017 Cadenza warp prematurely, causing pulsation and vibration through the steering wheel during braking. The issue can appear within the first 20,000-30,000 miles. The combination of the Cadenza's heavier curb weight and the OEM rotor metallurgy contributes to the premature warping.

Replace the front brake rotors with quality aftermarket rotors that use a harder metallurgy than the OEM parts. Replace the brake pads at the same time. Consider upgrading to drilled and slotted rotors for better heat dissipation. Properly torque the wheel lug nuts to prevent uneven clamping force on the rotors.

The panoramic sunroof on the 2017 Cadenza develops significant wind noise and rattling at highway speeds. The weatherstripping seals around the glass panel compress over time, allowing air to whistle through gaps. The sunroof shade can also rattle in its tracks, adding to the cabin noise.

Have the dealer inspect and replace the sunroof weatherstripping seals. Apply felt tape or foam to the sunroof shade rails to eliminate rattle. Lubricate the sunroof tracks with silicone spray. If the glass panel alignment has shifted, the dealer can adjust the panel position to restore a proper seal.

Kia 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.

An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury.

Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures as a precaution until the recall repair is complete. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will replace certain fuses in the electrical junction box. Vehicles equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) will also receive a HECU software update. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on April 30, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC206.