Kia Standard Range RWD
Long-range rear-wheel-drive powertrain on the E-GMP platform. High charging power (up to 800V/240kW), smooth driving feel — check battery condition when buying used.
Large SUV, quiet power
218 hp in the EV9 moves the large family SUV with authority. Not a sports model, but quiet, long-legged and impressively spacious.
Engine Weaknesses 4
The integrated charging control unit (ICCU) can fail due to overcurrent or heat damage and no longer charge the 12V network. Kia recalled 48,232 EV6 vehicles (2022–2024) under Kia SC327 / NHTSA 24V-867. Remedy: ICCU replacement + software update.
Symptoms: Audible 'pop' noise followed by warning chimes and dashboard warning lights; vehicle gradually reduces drive (approx. 22–45 minutes until standstill)
The 77.4 kWh RWD EV6 shares the known ICCU weakness. The charging control unit fails due to condensation forming in the aluminium housing. According to goingelectric.de data, up to 300 documented cases in Germany by 2025.
Symptoms: Sudden failure of all 12V systems, gradual power loss, vehicle comes to a standstill, no hazard flashers.
Multiple EV6 owners report a quickly drained 12V battery after a short standstill. Control units and always-on functions draw continuous current; the 12V battery is sized smaller than in combustion vehicles.
Symptoms: EV6 won't start after a short standstill, 12V battery warning displayed, central infotainment unresponsive
The EV6's heat pump generates loud whistling or whirring noises from the expansion valve area at outdoor temperatures below 0°C. Software updates have resolved the issue for many vehicles.
Symptoms: Loud whistling or whirring from the climate area when heating is on in cold weather, disappears when the target temperature is increased.
Vehicle Weaknesses 5
Kia recalled EV9 models worldwide because mounting bolts for the second and third row seats were omitted during production. Approx. 1,100 vehicles affected in Germany (production 07/01/2023–12/11/2024). Seats could come loose in a collision.
Kia recalled approx. 2,554 EV9 vehicles in Germany (production 10/03/2023–15/10/2024). A software fault in the IEB system can cause insufficient brake pressure during repeated stops below 3 km/h when using the Remote Smart Parking Assistant.
One of the most frequent complaints from EV9 owners: the 12V auxiliary battery drains unintentionally. The 'Aux Battery Saver+' system incorrectly stops charging the 12V battery after 10 recharge cycles. UWB digital keys in standby also cause elevated quiescent current draw.
Kia recalled EV9 models from model years 2024–2025 due to a software fault that can cause the instrument display behind the steering wheel to fail. Without a speedometer, the vehicle is difficult to operate safely in traffic.
Numerous EV9 owners report that after DC fast charging the vehicle no longer shifts into Drive or Reverse. The gear selector is locked. Restarting the vehicle usually resolves the issue.
Reports & Tests
196 owner complaints filed with NHTSA (2023–2024). Most reported: Electrical (101), Other (37), Collision Avoidance (24).