Kia and Hyundai Motor Company Transmission Defects: What You Need to Know

Owners of specific Kia and Hyundai models have reported transmission malfunctions affecting the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) version of the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) system. The alleged defect reportedly causes the vehicle to feel as though it is “changing gears.” Reported signs of a transmission defect include:

  • Vehicle Shaking
  • Loss of Power
  • Failure to Accelerate

The following models may be impacted:

  • 2019-present Kia Forte
  • 2016-present Kia Rio
  • 2020-present Kia Soul
  • 2021-present Kia Seltos
  • 2019-present Hyundai Venue
  • 2020-present Hyundai i20
  • 2020-present Hyundai Elantra
  • 2018-present Hyundai Kona
  • 2018-present Hyundai Accent

Transmission Malfunctions can Pose a Serious Threat

The transmission of a vehicle is the vehicle’s gearbox. It allows the vehicle to switch into higher gears as the vehicle speeds up and into lower gears as the vehicle slows down. A typical car transmission is comprised of between five and six gear sets and a series of gear trains that allow the driver to control how much power is delivered to the car without changing how fast the engine runs. Since the transmission involves many moving parts that are essential to the vehicle’s function, some parts will inevitably break or become defective either over time or improper installation from the factory. If any part of the transmission becomes defective, it can pose a serious threat to not only the vehicle itself but to you as the driver. Defective transmissions can cause stuttering, loss of power, fluid leaks, shaking, and other negative effects.

CVT Transmissions Are Not Without Issues

A Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) is a lighter version of the traditional automatic transmission. Combined with a smoother operation, this transmission helps the fuel efficiency of vehicles that come equipped with a CVT. However, even though the CVT is an alternative to the traditional transmission, it does not come without any flaws. A CVT transmission can be expensive to repair or replace when compared to a conventional automatic transmission. Some other common problems that owners run into include:

  • Overheating
  • Slipping
  • Sudden loss of acceleration
  • Shuddering
  • Harder to work on
  • CVTs depend solely on belts to operate. If the belts become stretched or damaged, the transmission can completely fail.

How Often Should Transmission Fluids Be Flushed and Changed?

Your vehicle manufacturer will set specific guidelines for your car as to when your transmission fluids should be flushed and changed. Most vehicle manufacturers suggested service intervals are based on mild driving habits. However, most people’s driving habits involved a lot of starts and stops, in turn making the vehicle shift up and down more frequently. This can result in the fluid deteriorating rapidly. It is best to follow the manufacture’s suggestions no matter the driving conditions.

There is no definitive answer to this question as CVT transmissions come with their own set of unique issues. They are expensive to purchase and repair. Since they rely purely on belts to operate, if the belt become damaged or stretched the transmission can completely fail. They also have different servicing requirements. However, CVT transmissions have been used in various vehicles for many years and are generally regarded as reliable transmissions.

You know your vehicle. When it starts to act differently, you take notice. Here are some top signs your transmission may be failing:

  1. Transmission will not stay in gear
  2. Shifts are delayed or missing gears
  3. Transmission fluid is leaking
  4. Transmission is slipping or engine is revving high
  5. A buzzing, clunking, or humming noise is present
  6. Car has no power
  7. Check engine light is on

These are only a few signs that may be telling you that your vehicle’s transmission could be defective or failing. If you have any doubts or believe you have a defective transmission, do not hesitate to contact our team today.

Although McCune Law Group is not accepting new cases, you still have options. If you’ve experienced a transmissions defect in your Hyundai, Kia, or other vehicle, you can:

  1. Check if Your Vehicle is Included in the Recall: Visit the NHTSA recall database to see if your vehicle qualifies for a manufacturer repair.
  2. Contact Kia and/or Hyundai Customer Support: If your vehicle has been damaged or made dangerous by a transmissions defect, report it to Kia and/or Hyundai as soon as possible to request assistance.
  3. Explore other Legal Options: If you’ve experienced financial hardship or injury due to an ABS defect, you may still qualify for legal action. Explore our auto defect class action page for more details.

Related Cases And Legal Areas

If you’ve experienced automotive defects of any kind, we recommend exploring these practice areas for further assistance:

  • Product Liability: Matters involving malfunctioning vehicle components often fall under the auspices of product liability.
  • Consumer Fraud Class Action: When large numbers of consumers are misled about vehicle safety, they may have grounds to file suit as a class.
  • Auto Defect Class Action: If numerous consumers are affected by the same vehicle safety issue, they may form a class action to bring a joint suit against a negligent company.

To contact an auto defect lawyer today, contact us by filling out the contact form or by calling 855-640-0526.

Still Need Legal Assistance?

Roadways are dangerous enough without a defective vehicle. That’s why drivers experiencing severe auto defects should immediately seek out attorney assistance to right this wrong. The auto defect lawyers of McCune Law Group have spent the past 30 years fighting for the rights of consumers in the face of unscrupulous business practices. We’re proud to have successfully represented clients against Toyota, Wells Fargo, Hyundai, and other Fortune 500 companies.

If you have been affected by transmission defects or other vehicle product liability concerns, contact us by completing our online form or by calling 855-640-0526.

Final Note

This page is no longer accepting new Kia & Hyundai transmission defects cases. It remains live as an informational resource only.

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