2021 Kia Sportage recalls and problems
The 2021 Kia Sportage has 2 safety recalls and 54 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2021 Kia Sportage vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2021 Kia Sportage recalls
Recall 22V-703: Trailer Hitches
Problem: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2016-2022 Sorento, 2021-2022 Sorento Hybrid (HEV), 2022-2023 Sorento Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV), and 2017-2022 Sportage vehicles equipped with a tow hitch harness installed as original equipment, or purchased as an accessory through a Kia dealership. Debris and moisture accumulation on the tow hitch harness module printed circuit board (PCB) may cause an electrical short, which can result in a fire.
Risk: A fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect the vehicle, and, as necessary, replace the fuse and/or tow hitch harness module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 11, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC249.
Recall 21V-137: Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Problem: 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.
Risk: An engine compartment fire can increase the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
2021 Kia Sportage problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 23 | |
| Unknown or Other | 14 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 7 | |
| Electrical System | 6 | |
| Power Train | 4 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 2 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 2 | |
| Trailer Hitches | 2 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Lane Departure | 1 | |
| Equipment | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Lane Departure › Assist — 1
- Exterior Lighting › Tail Lights — 1
- Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 1
- Structure › Body — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 53,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2021 Kia Sportage complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kia Sportage years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2021 Kia Sportage have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Kia Sportage: 22V-703 (trailer hitches), 21V-137 (service brakes, hydraulic). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Kia Sportage?
Owners report engine problems most often (23 reports), followed by unknown or other (14). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 53,000 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.