NHTSA Complaint #11528358 — 2015 KIA CADENZA

On 5/2023, my ‘15 Kia Cadenza broke down due to the front right coil spring breaking. I was driving 25mph on a flat surface. After it broke, there was continual clicking to the right side of the vehicle, a loud airplane-like noise, and the sound of metal grinding. Nobody was hurt, more scared. No messages appeared on the dashboard. The coil spring breaking caused a domino effect of other damages to the vehicle’s right side: strut, insulator, speed sensor, and tire. It made steering difficult and the vehicle undrivable. The vehicle had to be towed to the nearest mechanic. The mechanic explained what was replaced to the right should be performed to the left at the same time (excluding left tire). The total amount to complete the work was $1,681.98. I received the KIA Recall Service Campaign to the front coil springs on 10/23, (5 months after). On 11/8, the KIA replaced a hood switch (unrelated to this claim for reimbursement) and to look over the coil spring work not performed by them. (See the dealer invoice). A reimbursement request was sent 11/12. On 12/8/22, KIA expressed that my claim “has been reviewed and we are happy to inform you that we are working on processing your total reimbursement” (see email attachment). On 2/1/23, a check arrived in the mail for $746.75 - not the “total” amount I submitted for. Their communication is misleading! Kia states, “this does not include other parts of the front suspension that might require replacement due to normal usage or wear and tear.” I beg to differ because the breakage of other parts of the front suspension was not due to "normal usage or wear and tear," it was caused by the domino effect which originated from the coil spring breaking. The mechanic had to get the parts directly from KIA. The mechanic tried to get the parts from third party companies, but no one was selling them anymore. To me this means there is a known issue. I am still seeking reimbursement for the remaining money: $935.23.