How Long Do Kia Cadenzas Last? (Miles & Years)

The Kia Cadenza is an executive sedan manufactured and launched in 2010 by Kia as a replacement for the Kia Opirus. It arrived on U.S. soil in 2013, and Cadenza models were sold every year till 2020. 

The last rollout of the Cadenza in the United States was the 2020 model. Kia announced the discontinuation because of disappointing sales and a shift in the interest of American buyers to SUVs and crossovers.

Before we dive in, check our article about common problems with the Kia Cadenza.

The Kia Cadenza is an excellent sedan; expert and consumer reviews point to that. But how long can it last on the road? Well, let’s get some answers.

Here is the short answer to how long the Kia Cadenza lasts:

A well-maintained Kia Cadenza can last 200,000 miles or more before facing any serious issues. If you drive 15,000 miles per year, the car will likely serve you diligently for about 13 years. However, you have to be maintain it regularly and avoid abusing it to get such high mileage. 

How Many Miles Can You Expect From a Kia Cadenza?

Most owners have reported reaching or almost reaching 100,000 miles with their Cadenza. They have also expressed confidence in the sedan’s ability to reach 200,00 and maybe even surpass it.

According to these owners, however, the catch is proper maintenance at frequent intervals. It is very much advisable to schedule major maintenance for every time the car hits 50,000 miles.

How Soon Should You Expect Rust on a Kia Cadenza?

Some Kia Cadenza models have reportedly gotten rusts on them as early as 14,650 miles, according to our findings on CarComplaints. Other owners didn’t get any rusts on their Cadenzas in three years.

Basically, you can get rust on your Cadenza as early as one to two years. Check for rust frequently if you live in a coastal area or your area gets heavy road salt. It would help if you also got your car waxed at least twice a year to prevent rust.

Also, the data we sifted through showed that older models are more likely to get rust on them.

How Long Do Kia Cadenzas Last Compared to Similar Vehicles?

The Kia Cadenza has several competitors in the auto market. We have handpicked some of the best ones to see how long they can go compared to the Cadenza.

Kia Cadenza Vs. Toyota Avalon

The Toyota Avalon has been around long before the Kia Cadenza. However, the Kia Cadenza has caught up pretty well, and they are almost equally matched.

The Toyota Avalon can last more than 200,000 miles if maintained properly. A particular owner even reported up to 225,000 miles on his Avalon.

The Kia Cadenza could also go above 200,000 miles with adequate care and maintenance.

Please also read our article about how long the Toyota Avalon lasts.

Kia Cadenza Vs. Chevrolet Impala

The Chevrolet Impala is one of the most impressive large sedans on the market. It is one of Cadenza’s top competitors and is positively rated by experts and consumers alike.

On average, the Chevrolet Impala typically lasts about 200,000 miles before developing major faults. A particular user, however, reported hitting 232,000 miles with proper maintenance.

From our observations, the Cadenza and Impala will probably last around the same time.

Make sure to also read our article about how long the Chevrolet Impala lasts.

Kia Cadenza Vs. Nissan Maxima

The Nissan Maxima is a top-tier sedan with stellar ratings across different rating platforms. It is named #1 on J.D. Power’s 2020 Initial Quality Study and gets top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA as a top safety pick.

Our praise for the Nissan Maxima doesn’t end there; it can also go longer than 200,000 miles when cared for. An owner on cars.com recently reported passing 300,000 miles with minor issues.

The Nissan Maxima would probably last a little longer than the Kia Cadenza in the long run, based on available information.

How Reliable Is a Kia Cadenza?

The Kia Cadenza is a very reliable vehicle by all standards. Auto experts and buyers alike have lauded its efficiency and constant improvements.

RepairPal gives it a 4 out of 5 ratings and ranks it fourth on its list of the top 12 full-size cars.

Some new models of the Cadenza are yet to be rated on J.D. Power, but its most recent rating was 82%. It also featured in its list of top three full-size cars.

The Cadenza also gets an 8.7 out of 10 overall rating on U.S. News & World Report.

The Best and Worst Years of Kia Cadenza

The 2014 model is the worst year for the Cadenza, according to Car Complaints. The most serious problems included excessive play with the steering wheel and a lack of daytime running lights.

There’s a lot more to know about the best and worst Kia Cadenza years, however, we’d stick to the highlights for now.

Owners also complained about the absence of a cooled driver’s seat even though it was advertised to have one.

On cars.com, none of the Kia Cadenza models are rated below four out of a possible five. That speaks to the Cadenza’s excellent consistency. However, some models have been particularly outstanding, as we are about to see.

The Cadenza got off to an impressive start, with the debut 2014 model scoring a 4.6 rating based on 76 reviews. The 2015 Cadenza declined a bit with a 4.3 rating from 27 reviews.

The 2016 Cadenza reached a new high with a 4.8 rating based on 17 reviews. The 2017 model got an incredible 4.9 rating based on 105 reviews.

It advanced further with a perfect 5.0 rating for its 2018 model based on just 7 reviews. The 2019 Cadenza also got a 4.3 from 6 reviews, and the 2020 variant has only been reviewed once with a perfect 5 so far.

It is clear that the 2017 model is the most popular model, with a massive 105 reviews and that isn’t even the most impressive part. It also got a 4.9 rating from that many reviews.

That’s exactly why we consider the 2017 model as the best Cadenza ever put out. Outstanding features include a splendid redesign and improved interior technology.

Also read our article about how long Ford vehicles last.

What About Recalls for These Models?

The Kia Cadenza models have only been recalled a total of five times.

The first recall was announced for the 2014 Kia Cadenza in May 2014, and the recall began in June that year. Issues with the vehicle’s wheels were cited as reasons.

The second recall was announced in 2017 for the 2017 Cadenza. Items affected include service brakes and the brake vacuum hose.

In March 2021, another recall was announced for the 2017, 2018, and 2019 models.

Kia Cadenza Model Year List

Below is a list of all Kia Cadenza model years in order:

• 2014

• 2015

• 2016

• 2017

• 2018

• 2019

• 2020

Are Kia Cadenzas Expensive to Maintain?

RepairPal estimates that the average maintenance cost for a Kia Cadenza is $491. WithClutch.com also agrees with that figure.

For the Chevrolet Impala, RepairPal estimates an average maintenance cost of $568. The Nissan Maxima will also cost an average of $540 for maintenance and repair, according to RepairPal.

Maintenance of the Kia Cadenza clearly doesn’t cost as much as any of the other two competitors. So, we would say it is relatively inexpensive.

How Long Do the Brakes Last?

The Kia Cadenza’s brakes can last well over 50,000 miles with no issues. However, we strongly advise performing a routine check on the pads and rotors every 10,000 miles.

How Long Do the Batteries Last?

There is no specific mileage as to the lifespan of most auto batteries. However, the best batteries only last between three to five years. Some could go less than that.

The best way to avoid random battery issues is to run proactive checks.

Below are a couple of signs that tell you need to recharge or replace your batteries:

• Dim lights

• Engine failing to start quickly

If you notice any of those signs, you need to have your battery checked ASAP.

How Long Do the Tires Last?

Kia Cadenza tires can last up to 50,000 miles without any defects. However, we advise carrying out frequent inspections and rotating the tires to preserve their quality.

How Long Do the Transmissions Last?

Kia Cadenza transmissions can go as long as 150,000 to 200,000 miles if maintained properly.

How Long Do the Spark Plugs Last?

The Kia Cadenza spark plugs can last for over 100,000 miles. Wilson Kia advises a spark plug replacement once the Cadenza reached 105,000 miles.

What About Insurance Costs?

WithClutch estimates an average insurance rate of $1,548 per year. QuoteInspector, on the other hand, estimates $1,450 yearly for full coverage insurance.

It all depends on the insurance firm you choose to get in business with. However, most insurance firms won’t go above $2,000.

Tips to Prolong the Life of Your Kia Cadenza

Asides regular maintenance, there are other simple steps you can take to extend the life service of your Kia Cadenza. Below are some tips:

• Drive your car calmly

• Vet auto mechanics before allowing them to work on your car

• Clean the car regularly

• Warm the engine every day

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