Last updated: 2026-08-23
2025 KIA EV9 Reliability Report
The 2025 KIA EV9 scores 62/100 ("Good"). With 3 recalls and 19 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
3
Complaints
19
Complaint Rate
0.2per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
N/A
EV Range
230–304 mi
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- STEERING (3)
- POWER TRAIN (3)
- SEATS (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2025 is year 2 of the First generation (MV1).
- Redesigned for the 2024 model year.
- 1st generation EV9 (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2024 (redesign year) vs 2025+ pricing and recalls.
2024: First generation (MV1) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2025: This Model Year
2025 is year 2 of the First generation (MV1).
Should You Buy the 2025 KIA EV9?
At 62/100, the 2025 KIA EV9 lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2025 is year 2 of the First generation (MV1).
Owners log 19 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (2). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
See also the 2024 KIA EV9 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- +5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- −Moderate recall count
- −STEERING: Owners of the 2025 Kia EV9 report issues primarily related to power steering... (3 complaints)
- −POWER TRAIN: Several powertrain-related issues with the 2025 Kia EV9 (3 complaints)
Compare 2025 KIA EV9 With
2025 Chevrolet Suburban
Reliability: 78/100
2025 Ford Expedition
Reliability: 71/100
2025 GMC Yukon
Reliability: 76/100
2025 Lincoln Navigator
Reliability: 64/100
2025 Cadillac Escalade
Reliability: 72/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 3 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- STEERING (3)
- POWER TRAIN (3)
Recall Overview
3
recalls on record
A moderate 3 recalls are on file for the 2025 KIA EV9. Each one points to a specific safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA — check the list below before buying.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
0.2
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 3.5
Safety Incidents
0
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2025 KIA EV9 Recall Details
3 recalls have been issued for the 2025 KIA EV9. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
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, POWER TRAIN
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 EV9 vehicles. The rear gear drive unit (GDU) motor shaft may have been improperly welded and become damaged, causing a loss of drive power.
Consequence
A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the rear GDU, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 7, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC337.
SEATS
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024-2025 EV9 vehicles. The second- and third-row seat mounting bolts may be missing.
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.
Buying a used 2025 KIA EV9? Check its history first
Every 2025 KIA EV9 has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2025 KIA EV9 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 10.9%
Safety Technologies
KIA EV9Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
1Maintenance rating: 1 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Electric
230–304 mi range
Fuel cost: $850–$950/yr
Fuel only
38–42 kWh/100mi · 11.4–15.2 hrs @ 240V
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2025 EPA label cycle.
Electric trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | Range | kWh/100mi | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EV9 Long Range RWD | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 304 mi | 38.0 | $850 |
| EV9 Standard Range RWD | Rear-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 230 mi | 38.0 | $850 |
| EV9 Long Range AWD | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 280 mi | 41.0 | $900 |
| EV9 Long Range AWD GT-Line | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 270 mi | 42.0 | $950 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2025 KIA EV9.
Inspect wheel studs and lug nuts for damage or looseness
Test infotainment screen for glitches or going dark
Check instrument cluster for 'No Signal' message
Verify power steering functionality and check for vibrations at highway speeds
Ensure windshield wipers operate correctly, especially in snowy conditions
Confirm seat memory function does not trap driver against steering wheel
Check for any active recalls, especially related to seats and electrical system
2025 KIA EV9 Common Problems by Component
19 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
STEERING
3 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Kia EV9 report issues primarily related to power steering failure and vibrations at highway speeds. One owner describes a sudden loss of steering control due to power steering failure within six months of purchase, with the issue persisting even after dealership service. Additionally, multiple owners report vibrations at speeds above 65 mph, which they liken to a driveline, wheel, tire, or suspension problem, and note that this vibration feels like a wobbling tire. These symptoms raise safety implications, particularly the power steering failure, which could lead to a loss of vehicle control. Buyers should be aware of these reported issues, especially when considering vehicles with less than a year of use.
POWER TRAIN
3 complaintsOwners report several powertrain-related issues with the 2025 Kia EV9. A recurring problem involves sudden ICCU failures leading to unexpected limp mode activation and significant power reduction, posing a risk during highway driving. Another issue involves grinding noises and potential gear stripping accompanied by unintended emergency brake activation, with one owner experiencing a strong burning smell from the rear wheel well. Additionally, the "i-pedal" feature reportedly deactivates without driver input when shifting to reverse, altering vehicle behavior unexpectedly. These issues typically occur shortly after purchase or servicing, with one owner noting problems within days of acquisition. Safety implications include potential loss of control and collision risk due to sudden power loss or braking issues.
SEATS
3 complaintsOwners of the 2025 KIA EV9 report issues related to seat functionality and safety. A recurring problem involves the driver's seat memory function, which automatically moves to a saved position when the vehicle is started, potentially trapping drivers against the steering wheel if they do not quickly adjust the controls. Another issue involves missing mounting bolts in the second and third-row seats, which is linked to an active safety recall. Additionally, some drivers experience a rocking or wobbling driver's seat while driving, indicating a potential need for frame replacement. These problems are noted at the time of vehicle delivery or during initial usage, and may present safety concerns, particularly with the automatic seat adjustment feature.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (3 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2025 KIA EV9 frequently report issues with the windshield wipers, particularly in snowy conditions. Common symptoms include wipers failing to move in sync, with some owners describing incidents where the driver's side wiper does not move fully while the passenger side functions, or vice versa. In one case, a new vehicle with only 14 miles experienced the passenger wiper making a loud noise and eventually stopping altogether. Complaints also mention wipers malfunctioning when snow or debris falls from the roof onto the windshield, leading to visibility problems. While no crashes or injuries are reported, the described wiper failures present potential safety concerns due to impaired visibility.
WHEELS (3 complaints)
WHEELS
3 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Kia EV9 report issues with wheel studs and lug nuts, often at low mileages. Complaints frequently mention stripped or snapped wheel studs, with some owners noting that the lug nuts either pop out or become extremely loose. These problems are observed as early as 400 miles, with one owner experiencing a severe loss of vehicle control on the freeway due to loose or broken lug nuts. The safety implications are significant, as multiple reports describe scenarios where wheels could potentially detach while driving. Used car buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly the potential for improper installation or torque settings during initial vehicle preparation.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (2 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2025 KIA EV9 report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, specifically the infotainment and instrument cluster displays. Complaints frequently mention the infotainment screen glitching and going dark, even after attempts to reset or replace it. Additionally, multiple owners describe an intermittent total loss of instrument cluster functionality, which results in a "No Signal" message and the loss of critical safety information such as speed and battery range. These issues have been present since at least June 2026, and one complaint references unresolved safety campaigns related to these failures. The loss of instrument cluster functionality presents a significant safety concern due to the absence of vital driving information.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintThese Hankook iON Evo tires started vibrating wildly at the first service that I took the car to for a rotation. We took it back to the dealership (Ourisman Kia in Fairfax VA) three times where they kept the car for several days to diagnose. After opening the tires up, they state that the inner sound insulating foam on all four tires has separated. The tires were at 7/32 and now 5/32 and the car only has 18,200 miles on it. The tires have a 50k treadwear warranty, but this isn't covered as part of the warranty. The inner foam separation on a Kia EV9 is a known issue and widely discussed on the internet. For an $80k vehicle with OEM tires that cost over $1500 to replace, it's ridiculous that they aren't covered by the dealership or by Hankook.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (1 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
1 complaintMy display with my backup camera started flickering. It then turned black and I couldn't see anything anymore and it was very dangerous to back up.
When Do 2025 KIA EV9 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst KIA EV9 Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best KIA EV9 Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best KIA EV9 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 62/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (60/100).
2025
(Current Model)
2024
KIA EV9 Years to Avoid
No KIA EV9 years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The KIA EV9 maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
KIA EV9 Reliability Score Trend
KIA EV9 reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 61/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 62/100 | Good |
KIA EV9 Reliability Compared to Other Years
| Year | Score | vs Prior Year | Rating | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025(selected) | 62/100 | +2 | Good | 3 | 19 |
| 2024 | 60/100 | — | Good | 7 | 205 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 KIA EV9 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2025 KIA EV9?
How many recalls does the 2025 KIA EV9 have?
Is the 2025 KIA EV9 expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2025 KIA EV9 without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases via vehicles.dev. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the KIA EV9.
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