2021–2022 Kia K5 Recall: Rack-Mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS) system lacks the ability…
NHTSA campaign 21V447000 · Lane Departure · filed Jun 14, 2021 · verified Jul 30, 2026
The defect
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2022 K5 vehicles equipped with 2.5L T-GDI engines. The Rack-Mounted Motor Driven Power Steering (R-MDPS) system lacks the ability to diagnose communication faults. If a communication fault occurs while driving around a curve with Lane Following Assist (LFA) engaged, the steering assist level may not adjust properly, causing a sudden increase in the steering effort required.
The risk
A sudden increase in steering effort can increase the risk of a crash.
Check whether your specific vehicle is affected
Recall campaigns often cover only certain VIN ranges. Enter your VIN on the official NHTSA site to confirm whether your vehicle is included and whether the repair is still open.
Check VIN on NHTSA →The fix — what to do
Dealers will update the R-MDPS software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are were mailed June 24, 2021. Owner may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC213.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
Affected vehicles
Related recalls
More Kia K5 recalls
- 2026 Kia Carnival and 10 other models — Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may…
- 2021–2024 Kia K5 — A damaged check valve can allow air to enter the fuel tank…
- 2023–2025 Kia K5 — Left and right rear window trim pieces may loosen and detach
- 2025 Kia K5 — A software error in the Power-net Domain Controller (PDC)…
- 2021–2023 Kia K5 — Side curtain air bags may have been installed incorrectly…
Other campaigns involving Kia vehicles
Source: NHTSA recall database, campaign 21V447000 (manufacturer number SC213). Data last verified Jul 30, 2026.