Page 4 of 8 · complaints 151–200 of 380

2021 Kia Seltos complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA about this vehicle, newest first and reproduced as filed. They are unverified accounts: one proves nothing, and a pattern across many is the thing worth reading. Back to the full 2021 record →

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 7, 202567,000 milesIA

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 55 MPH, the oil warning light illuminated. The contact pulled into a gas station and inspected the vehicle. The contact stated that during the inspection, the dip stick was dry, and the contact added 1 1/2 quart of oil to the engine. The contact stated that after driving 150 miles, 1 1/12 quart of oil needed to be added to the vehicle each time. The vehicle was taken to a dealer however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired due to parts not being available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 30, 2025CT

Awd coupler which impacting steering and the car shuts off while driving , all the issues accured after recall work was done .Updated the software and the car started to have problems.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 29, 2025CO

Vehicle having issues with A/C. Engine light comes on and gives code P0070 Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Circuit "A". Replaced A/C sensor and issue persists. Took to local mechanic who determined it was a circuit in the control module. Repairs should be covered under manufacture warranty. Car is currently at local Kia dealership for inspection. Dealership stated they might not cover, even though it is under warranty.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 25, 2025FL

See attached document for complaint.

Engine
Filed Jun 25, 2025PA

I have been trying to have my 2021 Kia Seltos serviced to complete the Safety Recall # 25V099. This is for the Piston-ring Noise Sensing System and oil ring check. I have had the vehicle at the dealer twice without it being completed. This is in regards to Jim Shorkey Kia Wexford, 10785 Perry Hwy, Wexford PA 15090. 724-741-1197. Prior to receiving the recall notice I asked the service rep at the local dealer who said that "Consumption of one quart of oil every 1000 miles is normal." The car had probably 20K miles on it, it now has 30K. Shortly after I received the recall notice from Kia (dated April 4, 2025) I called Shorkey Kia to schedule the recall service. It was scheduled for May 7, 2025. I dropped the car off the evening before (5/6/2025). Later in the day of May 7 I realized that I had a voicemail from Shorkey Kia from two days earlier, on May 5, stating that the appointment was cancelled due to the recall process being halted. The process was to take two days, one day for the car to sit and the service the second day. I was told that they needed to figure out a quicker resolution so that the service performed was not as extensive. I picked the car up that evening and was further told by the service rep that too many engines were failing. I called Kia Customer Service who confirmed that the process was on hold. On 5/20/2025 I received a call from Kia Customer Care advising that the recall process has been fixed and that I should call to reschedule the service. They pro

Engine
Filed Jun 22, 2025FL

The car prior to the locked engine it ran well without any problems. While driving the car all of a sudden it began to stall. The car began to make a really loud clanking noise before the engine locked up. Due to the circumstances a mobile mechanic was called out to the location to assess the situation. The mobile mechanic completed the diagnostic with a car reader to which it displayed code P0011 code. To ensure it wasn't the car's battery the battery was replaced with a new one thinking that would remedy the situation of the car not starting. However, once this was completed the car wouldn't start again. Per the mobile mechanic conclusion, he stated that the engine was locked up. The car was towed to KIA Sunrise - Sunrise, FL on February 15, 2025. I inform them of the problem that the engine was locked. They stated that they would perform a diagnostic for an authorization fee of $250.00 to which I agreed for KIA Sunrise to do the diagnostic on the car. Based on their conclusion they attested that the engine was locked up as I had informed them. I mentioned that there was a recall on the engine of KIA Soltos 2021 due to engine failure at that point they stated that KIA Corp office had yet to send them notification of the recall relating to the engine failure. They stated for me to wait till April 2025 when the recall for the engine failure would have been received by them from Corp to which I did however, by then I was informed that they now wanted an additional $500 for a d

Engine
Filed Jun 21, 2025FL

Rick Case Kia Coral Springs, FL refused to do an engine recall since it wasn’t a profit to them and refused to do the service on the recall since they said they are independently owned and don’t have to follow main Kia

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 17, 202554,000 milesFL

The contact owned a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated while driving 20 MPH, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that on another occasion while driving at slow speeds and approaching a stop sign, the engine seized. The contact was unable to coast to the side of the road and the vehicle failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the dealer; however, the dealer refused to diagnose the vehicle. The vehicle was then towed to the residence. A mobile mechanic arrived at the residence and diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was repossessed. After some investigation, the contact related the failed to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised contact that there would be an email from the manufacturer. The contact stated that the manufacturer had reached out via email; however, no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was approximately 54,000.

Power Train
Filed Jun 15, 2025CA

Issue started to occur around 40,000 miles, when excellerating from a stop to about 30mph and when turning vehicle will feel as if it’s grinding or clunking in the front power train area. As miles increase on vehicle issue seems to happen more frequent.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 12, 2025IL

Complaint about KIA Safety Recall 25V099 I'm writing to let you know my concern about the safety recall I got for my Kia Seltos 2021. I received this letter on April 14th• and I took it to the dealership as soon as I could, to Federico KIA, at 1911 East Edwardsville Rd, Wood River, IL, 62095. I dropped off my car on April 17th and I was given a rental car the next April 18th and told that my car needed a new engine. Federico Kia kept the car for almost a month with no ETA for a new engine, according to what I was told by the Dealership by call. Then all the sudden on May 12th I get a call saying that my car was ready, I go to pick it up the next day, and no information was given to me about what was done to the car, after I signed the paperwork. Then I found that no change of engine was done and that only they did a "RETEST" and passed. I took the car and felt different vibrations and sounds coming from the car. I call them after it, and they said that all it was done according to Kia instructions. On May 14th I called Kia's Customer Care Center phone number and told them about it. They instruct that the situation was strange, and they agreed with my concern of "Why would they keep a car for a month saying that a new engine was required, and now all of the sudden the car was good, and that I had the right to go to a new dealership and ask for a new test" On May 19th I went to Lou Fusz Kia, at1025 N Lindbergh Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63132. I was about to drop off my car, they agre

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 11, 2025117,000 milesLA

The contact owned a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while his son was having the vehicle service, he was informed that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of oil. The contact was unaware of any warning lights being illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact traded the vehicle. The contact then received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised contact that he would be getting an email from the manufacturer’ however, the contact was still awaiting the email notification. The approximate failure mileage was 117,000.

Power Train
Filed Jun 9, 2025WA

Kia issued a recall for defective piston oil rings. The recall was performed on my 2021 Kia Seltos and showed that I needed an engine replacement. The day that the dealership tested my car Kia suspended the recall stating the test was inaccurate. When the recall test was reissued my car passed and was denied for a new engine. An oil consumption test was performed on my car and the results were that my Seltos goes through 2 quarts of oil every 1,000 miles. Kia will not do anything because I do not have records of 1 oil change that was done at my home. The recall stated the car is at risk for a fire hazard because oil could be seeping places it is not supposed to be. The car will also shut off while being driven if the oil gets below 2 quarts low.

Engine
Filed Jun 8, 2025MI

My vehicle is currently in the shop at the local Kia dealership. Over the past week my vehicle has randomly stalled several times. The engine sounded like it was sputtering, and just not accelerating properly. The car would stall at low speeds while turning corners or pulling into a parking spot. I do not have the diagnosis as of yet but believe my vehicle should be considered one of the recalled engines due to its date manufactured and the current issues that are occurring. Noticed stalling at speeds 45mph or less. It's very frustrating with a vehicle having 82,000 miles on it. All mandatory maintenance has been done at correct intervals and now this. It needs to be reported.

Engine
Filed Jun 7, 2025TX

Got to engine light error codes: P030100 and P030000. Happened 3 times: 1st time had loss of power and engine light flashed, could not accelerate, and vehicle shuttered. Took to world kia north San Antonio. They cleared the code. It ran fine for a while and same problem occurred. Took back to world Kia north. They had it quiet few weeks, finally got it back, they said they took it on a 60 mile road test no problems so gave it back. I drove it maybe less 2 hours after getting it back and the same problem happened loss power would not accelerate and engine light flashed but did not come on. Called Kia right when happened and brought it right back world Kia North and the service manager said to keep it running so they can see what going on, and they finally noticed the same thing. So it been at dealership since then.about month has past and it not been repaired yet. It been serviced every 5000 miles and been taken care of since I owned it! I have looked up how lot people with the S/X models have had same problems and many recalls on seltos and souls due to same problems. I’m a 100 disabled vet and having a vehicle get me to the hospital reg important. I was given a loaner car which was great so wanted to share this.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 5, 202598,000 milesNH

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the piston oil rings, resulting in damage to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); and the VIN was included; however, parts were not yet available for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 98,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 22, 2025NY

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the repair was not yet available. No further information was available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed May 20, 202571,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (ENGINE). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle vibrated, and failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and failed an inspection. The contact was informed that a new engine would be ordered. The contact picked up the vehicle and was informed that the manufacturer had placed a hold on the recall repair. However, an update to the piston ring noise sensing system (PNSS) was performed. The contact was informed that the vehicle then passed the inspection. The dealer refused to replace the engine and the vehicle was removed from the recall list. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle then failed the inspection. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 19, 202552,000 milesOH

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer but was informed by the dealer that the manufacturer had placed a hold on the recall repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the vehicle had been consuming engine oil and required monthly oil top offs. The contact also stated that the engine was making an abnormal ticking sound. The failure mileage was approximately 52,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Power Train
Filed May 16, 2025OH

Related to the SC336 recall. My 2021 Kia seltos. I brought it in to the dealership before the recall. After the vehicle stalled on me. They did an oil consumption test on it and burns .5 quarts every 1000 miles still covered under warranty. Failed the piston ring noise test and now it’s passed the 2nd time they tried it. Still don’t have a rental car or my car. No leaks and burns oil I believe even more. Oil changes done on it routinely. Now they say it’s good to drive after they installed software. How does software prevent oil consumption?

Engine
Filed May 13, 2025ME

My 2021 Kia Seltos has an active safety recall related to the engine (Recall #SC336). The dealership (Darling's Kia, Formerly Van Syckle Kia in Bangor, ME) scheduled a repair but canceled it due to needing a "software update." I was told there is no timeline for completion and that no loaner or alternative vehicle would be provided. I am concerned for my safety and transportation, as the recall affects piston oil rings that can cause engine damage, stalling, or fire. Kia consumer affairs acknowledged the delay but provided no resolution or support. This recall has been open for months and is still unresolved.

Engine
Filed May 12, 2025IL

My car originally qualified for an engine replacement through the recall because it failed the test they performed. The engine is on recall and I have had a rental for close to 3 weeks. Today Kia called me and said due to changes in the inspection process and criteria for the recall my car no longer qualifies for the engine replacement and I need to return my rental and pick up my car. I refuse to put my family in an unsafe car because Kia figured out a way to get out of replacing the engine.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 12, 2025IL

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the piston oil rings had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact that the recall had been placed on hold by the manufacturer. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Unknown or OtherCrash1 injured
Filed May 12, 2025NY

I was going to park my car the second I went to change gears my car accelerated forward through a bakery I stepped on the brakes as fast as I could but it was too late

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 9, 202540,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact attempted to start the vehicle, and the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the recall was currently on hold. The approximate failure mileage was 40,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed May 9, 2025TX

I took my car in April 16 for the piston oil engine recall. The Kia dealership said it need to sit for 24 hrs before test. The next day they said it failed. Then, the dealership said I need to replace all the hoses because it won’t adhere properly to the new engine . I receive a notification that my case was open for a new engine. May 9th, the dealership reached out saying they were still waiting for parts. Two hours later they said it needed to retest. Four hours later it passed and it’s ready for pick up. I never got the new engine even though it failed prior to Kia halting the recall. I am concerned for my safety.

EngineCrash
Filed May 8, 2025PA

Purchased kia in 2021- Car was taken in on April 24 for a recall. I was originally told the recall would take 2 weeks if it failed now South Hills Kia along with Kia can tell me anything. We are 2 weeks in the car I need to drive my elderly mother to her dr appointments with and not one person can tell me when I can get my car back or even a loner. My car has less then 33,000 miles -this is just wrong on Kia’s part and South Hills Kia for not supplying a car as they keep my with ZERO end in sight. Thank you

Engine
Filed May 7, 2025RI

While driving the car stalls, lags and makes rumble sounds. It will stall and go down in revolutions from 3/4 down to 2 or even 1. It does this whether I am actively driving in the highway going 60 miles an hour or pulling of from a red light / stop sign. Is anyone else having this problem? Is very scary and nerve racking when in the highway going at 60 miles an hr and it just stalls and lags and takes a minutes to pick up speed

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 6, 2025NJ

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. Two local dealers were made aware of the issue, and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and notified the contact that there was hold on the recall repair, and that dealers were instructed to stop all recall repairs. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 6, 2025ME

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the manufacturer had put a hold on the recall repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed May 6, 2025TX

Kia North Austin service representative by the name of Christina informed me that the recall on this vehicle was postponed until further notice by mail. Word for word what she said. When I asked about more information the human representative repeated exactly the same thing back to me and said she couldn't schedule anything further.

Engine
Filed May 5, 2025OH

I have had this car for about two years. A year ago I was having issues with the car stalling, and the check engine light. I took the car in and it was "fixed". I have to get oil changes very frequently, and still have to top up my oil in between changes. I made my appointment for this current recall. While waiting for the recall, my check engine light came on. My car displays all of the symptoms of the issues in the recall. I took my car in for the appointment on April 28th. They told me they would update me the following day after the testing. Kia called to inform me that the next day that the recall is on "halt" and they have no further information. My car has been sitting at the dealership since 4/28 with no further information. They have not called to update again, I've had to call them. They also have not checked into the check engine light. My car is under warranty so I don't understand how they haven't checked into that regardless of the recall. When asked about a loaner car they state they don't have any, and provide no assistance with getting one.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 5, 2025NY

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the manufacturer had put a hold on the recall repair. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed May 5, 2025MO

After receiving the recall letter I immediately scheduled the inspection. After waiting for 2 weeks I arrived for my appointment and was sent home. The service manager seemed to have little information for me other than to say that KIA was reevaluating their inspection procedure. A couple days later I called the KIA support line and was told that the new inspection procedure had been established and that I should call my dealer to reschedule the inspection. I called the next day and the dealer told me again that all inspections are still on hold and seemed surprised that someone from corporate would have told me otherwise. I called KIA customer support back again that same day but got no answers. Others are reporting this same issue on various online forums. The feedback they are getting from their dealerships is that a large number of inspections have been failing and that KIA has decided to revise their inspection procedure so that more of them pass without requiring engine replacement. I'm not understanding why KIA has made a bad situation worse by leaving their customers in limbo concerning this major engine malfunction. It should have been a simple matter of scheduling the inspection, making any necessary repairs and sending their customers on their way. KIA has handled this matter very poorly.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 5, 2025KY

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the dealer advised the contact that the recall was on hold from instructions from the manufacturer. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Unknown or Other
Filed May 5, 2025VA

Kia released safety recall letters on 4/4/25 (SC336). I requested the recall service from my local dealership immediately and was scheduled for 5/19/25, then called back to inform me that Kia has paused the recall without any estimate of when it can be remedied. I called Kia customer care and was told not to drive the vehicle if I was concerned, with no guarantee to cover a rental car if I needed it, and that my solution was to either be without a vehicle or continue to drive it with the risk of "loss of drive power and/or fire, increasing the risk of crash and injury." This is completely unacceptable.

Engine
Filed May 2, 202588,000 milesKS

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while attempting to accelerate, the vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH. The contact stated that the check engine and battery warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road and turned off, and failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechani,c where it was diagnosed that there was a hole in the engine and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact believed that the failure was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,000.

Engine
Filed May 2, 2025MA

I received recall notice on April 4 or 5 and called my dealer and first appointment was April 28. I was told would be there for 2 days but system down so called me back on 30 telling failed the test and would need new engine which would be covered under warranty but could not tell when would get the engine and had no loaner cars available.My only had 19,000 + miles and had all maintenance done and had no problem whatsoever with it or any indication of any problem

Engine
Filed May 1, 2025NJ

Regarding: Manufacturer Recall NumberSC336 NHTSA Recall Number25V099 Car: 2021 Kia Seltos EX - I had an appointment to repair this recall with Kia for 5/6 which they cancelled on 4/30. The Service Dept told me they weren't moving forward with correcting this recall, even though it is still listed as active. - I called Kia Customer Service on 4/30 and they confirmed 1)this is still an active recall and 2)there was new communication being sent to service centers on either 4/30 or 5/1 and to reschedule on 5/1. - On 5/1 I called to make an appointment and was told I could not. I called Kia Customer Service and was told that the information from the prior day was wrong. Kia confirms this is an active recall but they are not currently correcting it. They cannot tell me when they may be able to, but more importantly they did not have a way for the customer to find out if they are correcting except to call everyday and ask. They don't know if they will call, email, send a letter to advise about the delay and next steps. - The safety risk increases the chance of fire or accident. I understand there may be issues on how to fix, but all I was asking is either a timeframe or for Kia to advise when I can get this fixed and they would not provide either. I just want to know when the car that I paid for will be safe to drive again. - I did leave a message with a supervisor at Kia Customer Service as that was my only option and was told I could get an answer in 48 hours. I have not received

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 30, 202553,745 milesHI

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with an engine misfire and low oil. The contact stated that the vehicle was scheduled for a service appointment for the following week, however the contact experienced the failure prior to the scheduled appointment date. The dealer was made aware of the failure, and the contact was informed that the recall repair was not available at the scheduled location any longer. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 53,745. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Apr 29, 2025MA

Dealership called me to inform me they could not complete my recall due to a memo sent by the manufacturer today. I was told to pick up my vehicle despite the incomplete recall with its safety risks. I called the manufacturer to get further information as I was not comfortable picking up my vehicle and driving it if according to the recall campaign “ ENGINE DAMAGE CAN CAUSE A VEHICLE STALL OR FIRE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH OR INJURY.” Manufacturer and dealership spoke on the phone; manufacturer told me to just pick up my vehicle until the dealerships can resume completing the recall in the future. I inquired about safety risks and the manufacturer told me “it’s most likely okay”. Safety concerns I brought up were dismissed.

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 27, 2025TX

I received a recall letter for my Kia 2021 Seltos EX 2.0 dated 4-4-25 for piston oil ring and engine inspection. I checked my car in with a local Kia dealership on Thursday the 24th. Approximately, thirty hours later I received a call it passed inspection. On Friday I picked my car up and did my normal Friday laundry and went home. I’m talking about for the laundromat and my home maybe a total of three miles, if that, within the dealership. The car ran perfect as usual. On [XXX] I drove 15 miles to shop and dine out. On the way back my check engine light came on (solid) and the power was extremely poor and reduced. Didn’t think I was going to make it. I had planned on doing another stop before getting home, but had to pass and try to make it. My car ran perfect before this inspection and I did not want this inspection for fear something would go wrong, but felt I had no choice. So, I’m waiting to hear Kia say the inspection had nothing to do with your check engine issues. I understand Kia started its investigation in February 2025. I’m wondering if some of these investigations were done remotely by Kia? Strange during February I experienced a couple of glitches going on with my car while I was driving. First, the car did not recognize my seat belt was fastened in the driver seat. The fastened your seat belt icon flashed and that annoying ding noise went on for the duration of my drive, approximately thirty minutes or so until I got home. After it sat overnight it seemed to re

Engine
Filed Apr 24, 2025NY

Would drive my car and the check engine light would come on and the car would basically lose power and could barely move it to safety!!! Called and wouldn’t be able to get in for a couple months. Happened again, got to the side of a road. Meantime, get the recall on the piston oil rings; determined the engine lights are related to this recall. Car into the Dealership and it failed inspections. Determined damage and new engine is ordered. NO ETA on new engine; just drive my car as is! What assurance is there my car won’t stall, crash or have a fire all while waiting for a new engine. Lost all faith in Kia with parts incorrectly manufactured. I feel this is jeopardizing the safety of myself and other KIA Seltos drivers and basically anyone around me if there is an issue/crash.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 22, 2025IL

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving, the contact noticed an abnormal burning odor coming from the engine. The contact checked the oil and found that the engine was low on oil. In addition, the contact stated there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, no cause for the failure was found. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact stated that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil and the piston rings had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the last time the vehicle was at the dealer, a document was signed stating that the vehicle had passed the oil consumption test. The contact stated that the document was signed under duress because the dealer would not return the vehicle unless the document was signed. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 16, 2025PA

The vehicle in question has been experiencing multiple ongoing mechanical issues, including engine stalling, frequent brake replacements, frequent oil changes, a camshaft issue, and intermittent horn functionality. These issues have raised serious safety concerns. Despite multiple repairs and maintenance attempts at the dealership, the problems persist, affecting both my safety and confidence in the vehicle. I have incurred substantial costs for repairs and rental cars while trying to address the issues. However, the problems remain unresolved, and I am not receiving adequate support. I contacted the corporate office for assistance, but the representative dismissed my concerns and stated I would need to provide maintenance receipts, even though the dealership had already confirmed they were unnecessary. This response was unhelpful and failed to address my safety concerns. Additionally, the service manager at the dealership has not offered satisfactory solutions or alternatives to resolve the ongoing issues. As a result, I am no longer comfortable continuing with the vehicle. Due to my financial situation and outstanding loan balance, I am requesting a goodwill replacement vehicle or a reasonable alternative that will allow me to maintain my current car payment without a substantial down payment or negatively impacting my credit. A replacement vehicle, ideally of the same make and model or comparable, would help me meet my financial obligations while addressing the unresolved

Unknown or Other
Filed Apr 15, 2025MD

Received a letter from KIA Headquarters stating a recall for piston oil rings and possibly engine failure. Inspection and software updates would take 1-2 hours, if replacing engine 8 or more hours. I made my appointment for today, arrived at Jone KIA in Bel Air, MD and am told that the letter is incorrect and I need to either leave my vehicle with them or reschedule. How many of the letters went out to owners and then we are told differently!

Engine
Filed Apr 11, 2025CO

I bought my ‘21 Kia Seltos in 2021. Within the first months it would stall when going uphill and in parking lots. I had a few mechanics look and they could not find any issues. So, I kept driving it. I drive 12 miles one way for work my wife drives it 1 mile both ways for work. Now [XXX] 47k miles it stalled out 2x the 2nd time it stalled it started to fill with fumes and smoke with my [XXX] - and [XXX] in the car. My kids and I have had a cough ever since. I called roadside; they first thought was the battery. So, the first guy tried to jump the battery, and nothing happened then he said he smelled something electrical burning. But could not locate. Then he said they will send a tow. Roadside then sent another guy to jump the battery. he smelled the same thing, but he found the source and said that the airbag sensors were burning. So, he disconnected the battery and called the tow. The car was towed at midnight to Grand Kia in Northglenn where the service rep was working on my car called me that day to tell me that the engine had seized, and he would submit a warranty claim to have it covered. I provided all service records to him including oil purchase receipts. A week later he calls and tells me they denied the warranty due to “lack of maintenance”. So, I call Kia customer care and speak with A lady who tells me it was denied due to “aftermarket parts” which there were none. She said once that flag was removed, she can escalate this case to a case Manager. Then I call Gran

Engine
Filed Apr 10, 2025NJ

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine system appears to be malfunctioning. Specifically, there are signs of a potential head gasket failure, valve cover gasket leak, or internal engine damage due to oil leakage and excessive white smoke from the exhaust. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The white smoke obstructs rear visibility, which poses a danger to other drivers. The unpredictable engine revving in idle or park also raises concern for unintended acceleration or engine failure, which could cause a crash, especially in congested or residential areas. In addition, the oil leak poses a fire risk and environmental hazard. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the symptoms have been observed and documented consistently. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle has not been formally inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives at this time, but I am open to having it evaluated by any relevant party as needed. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? There were no warning lights initially. The symptoms began with mild engine revving at idle and a burning oil smell. The white smoke and oil leak

Engine
Filed Apr 8, 2025NH

Driving my car which has been fine no lights on dash, oil changes done regularly, and no odd sounds or leaks. I got onto the highway and lost all power so I immediately pulled off and turned off my engine. I got out and looked under my car to see all my oil pouring out of my car, had to get my car towed back to my place and had my mechanic come and just take a peek at it. He said it seems as if a piston broke and shot a rod through my engine. So I looked up my car to see the recall. I called the dealership and two different mechanics at the same dealership told me that they wouldn’t even look at my car unless I could show them proof of oil changes. I explained to them that I’ve done my regular oil changes and I’m not calling about a warranty. I’m calling about the recall and I was yet again informed that they wouldn’t even look at my car without those. I explained to both of them that I called corporate and corporate told me I did not need oil change receipts because this is a manufacturer issue not a consumer issue so I then called the dealership back and the mechanic told me that I was lying I did not talk to corporate and that he still won’t be looking at my car And pretty much told me and nicer words looks like you’re out of a car. This was about a month almost maybe a month and a half ago of going without my car.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Apr 7, 2025MI

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that the engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at various speeds and while turning, the vehicle made an abnormally loud whining sound and experienced reduced motive power. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle accelerated as needed while continuing to drive. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing an excessive oil consumption. The contact later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. Parts distribution disconnect.

Engine
Filed Apr 7, 2025NH

I saw the recall on my car for the engine on this website. I brought it to McFarland Kia, where they told me this recall does not exist for my vehicle. I asked more than once and they told me there is nothing they can do, but I feel at danger if the engine in my car were to potentially catch fire.

Reading these

NHTSA publishes every complaint as the owner wrote it and investigates only a fraction. Spelling, capitalisation and judgement are the filer’s own. What carries weight is repetition: the same component failing the same way across many filings, and whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Full record for the 2021 Kia Seltos → · Every Seltos year → · How the figures are calculated →