Kia earned a reputation for affordable, stylish cars. But in recent years, certain models—especially 2011-2021 Kias without push-button start—have been targeted for theft due to a lack of engine immobilizers. If you’re looking at a Kia, you probably already know about the theft risk. But even if your car never gets stolen, you might run into other headaches. Here are 10 reasons besides theft risk you might regret buying a Kia.

1. Poor Resale Value

Kias depreciate faster than many competitors. Some models lose more than half their value in just five years. The Kia Forte and Optima, for example, often see steep drops in resale value compared to Toyota or Honda equivalents.

2. Subpar Transmission Performance

Many Kia models, especially the Forte and Soul, have suffered from transmission issues. Some owners report jerky shifting, delayed acceleration, or even complete transmission failure. The 2017-2020 Kia Sportage and Sorento are notorious for problematic dual-clutch transmissions.

3. Engine Reliability Concerns

Kia has issued multiple recalls for engine failures. The 2011-2019 Kia Optima, Sorento, and Sportage were part of massive recalls due to potential engine fires. Even newer models still experience excessive oil consumption and premature engine wear. Additionally, Kia’s Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engine design has been criticized for carbon buildup on intake valves, leading to performance issues and costly maintenance over time.

4. Cheap Interior Materials

While Kias look good on the outside, many owners complain about low-quality materials inside. Hard plastics, rattling panels, and easily scratched surfaces make the cabin feel cheaper than competitors like Honda and Mazda.

5. Below-Average Fuel Economy

Despite being marketed as fuel-efficient, some Kia models underperform in real-world driving. The Telluride, for example, struggles to match its EPA estimates, and turbocharged models like the K5 GT can be surprisingly thirsty.

6. Uncomfortable Seats

Kia’s seats often lack support, especially on longer drives. The Forte and Sorento, in particular, get frequent complaints about stiff padding and awkward lumbar support. If you take a lot of road trips, you might find yourself sore and frustrated.

7. Clunky Infotainment Updates

While Kia’s infotainment system is generally user-friendly, software updates can be a hassle. Some owners report glitches, lag, and even system freezes after updates. Older models may not get software support as long as competitors like Toyota or Ford.

8. Questionable Long-Term Durability

Kias tend to perform well for the first few years, but long-term reliability is a mixed bag. Many owners report significant problems after 100,000 miles, especially with electrical systems, engines, and transmissions. Toyotas and Hondas often last longer with fewer issues.

9. Weak All-Wheel Drive Performance

Kia offers all-wheel drive on some models, but it’s not the best. The Sportage and Sorento struggle in deep snow and off-road conditions compared to Subaru or Jeep competitors. If you live in a harsh winter climate, Kia’s AWD may not be enough.

10. Dealership Service Problems

Kia dealerships often get low marks for service. Some owners report long wait times, unhelpful staff, and difficulty getting warranty claims approved. This can be frustrating, especially if your car needs frequent repairs.

Kia makes stylish, affordable cars, but they can come with drawbacks beyond theft concerns. From reliability issues to poor resale value, there are several reasons a Kia might not be the best long-term investment. Before buying, do your research and compare with other brands to make sure a Kia is right for you.