Kia K5 fuel tank can melt and leak
critical How serious is it? About this label
This is the most serious kind of defect because it can lead to a fuel leak and a fire, so get the free repair as soon as your dealer can take the car.
What's wrong, in plain English
A damaged valve in the fuel system on these Kia K5 cars can let air into the gas tank. The extra air makes the tank swell until it touches hot exhaust parts underneath, and that heat can melt the tank. A melted tank can leak gasoline, and leaking gas near hot exhaust parts can start a fire. The dealer will replace the valve, inspect the fuel tank, and replace the tank if it is damaged — all free. Owner letters were mailed January 16, 2026.
What you should do
Affected vehicles (4)
Who to contact
Kia — official Kia recall lookup
Customer service: 1-800-333-4542
The bigger picture
- Which Kia models have fuel leak and fuel pump recalls? · all 7 Kia recalls in this area
Official notice
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2024 K5 vehicles. A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank, causing it to expand and contact hot exhaust components, melting the tank.
- Safety risk
- A melted fuel tank can leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the check valve. The fuel tank will be inspected for damage and replaced as necessary. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 16, 2026. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC356. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 1, 2025.
Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov. Recall repairs are free of charge by law.