2021 KIA SELTOS

2 recalls, 477 complaints - 168 TSBs - 4/5 safety rating

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL

Defect Description

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.

Consequence

Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for th... Read more

137,256 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.

ENGINE

Defect Description

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.

Consequence

A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall began June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this ... Read more

147,249 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: Kia Motors America

Complaint Statistics

477 total complaints 22 crashes 9 fires 12 injuries

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
ENGINE	91
POWER TRAIN	60
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	60
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	55
SERVICE BRAKES	22
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	17
STEERING	14
STRUCTURE:BODY	14
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	14
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	11

Incident date: Nov 13, 2025

My Kia has been stalling, shaking, and just driving extremely badly for the past year. This day, I was driving on 55, and the car just stopped and stalled in the middle of highway near Berwyn, IL. This was extremely dangerous and could have honestly been life threatening. I pulled over, turned the c... Read more

Incident date: Nov 13, 2025

Incident date: Oct 5, 2024

The oil pan is consistently out of oil. It burns up. Causing the engine to stall, shake or grind at times. We have been having this problem for 2 years now. Taken it to 2 different dealerships. They confirmed it needs a new engine however Kia will not replace it for us. It is a known problem w... Read more

Incident date: Mar 31, 2026

I am unsure what part of my car malfunctioned. I had my foot on the brake when my car began to surge forward and accelerate itself, crashing me into a tree because the steering completely stopped working as well. It is available for inspection upon request. My safety and the safety of others was put... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Jun 24, 2026

I was driving on the highway at 63 mph. I went to change lanes and pass the vehicle next to me so I gradually went up to 75 mph. Then there was an explosive metal sound and white smoke filled my cabin and under my hood. I could smell oil from inside the vehicle. I pulled over, opened the hood and le... Read more

Incident date: Mar 31, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at a complete stop with the brake pedal depressed, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated and crashed into a tree, where the vehicle came to a stop. The contact stated that the brake pedal remained depressed during the f... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Jun 4, 2026

Multiple times the car has shut off while driving. It did receive the PNSS sensor thing from the dealership 2 years ago. It has done this while my wife and kids were in the car in a busy roundabout. There are known engine issues with this model. Kia dealership is dragging their feet and “can’t r... Read more

Incident date: Jun 4, 2026

Incident date: May 29, 2026

The vehicle started loosing engine power. The vehicle stalled while driving 5-6 times, this posed a danger to driver, passengers, and others. A car accident can easily happen when the engines dies. Power to all systems was lost, including steering and brakes. No warning lights or check engine lights... Read more

Incident date: May 11, 2026

Driving my car on Interstate highway going approximately 65 miles an hour, and the engine just stopped. It started chugging.. I then check the engine oil stick, there was very little Oil, and it was very dark and thick. Got the car home and it’s been sitting ever since. I’m going to have to ta... Read more

Incident date: Jun 11, 2026

Engine problems. Car stop running and I had it towed to a local KIA dealer in Medford, Oregon. They said the engine didn't have any oil even though it wasn't time for my next oil change per the mileage sticker. They said the engine has to be replaced. I'm waiting on KIA's approval since it is sti... Read more

Incident date: Jun 25, 2025

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that the vehicle was intermittently overheating and losing motive power while driving. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to accelerate properly. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the spark plugs and ignition coil p... Read more

Incident date: Jun 17, 2026

To Whom It May Concern, I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding my 2021 Kia Seltos (VIN: [XXX]). My vehicle was previously serviced by Kia in connection with a recall in 2021. Despite the recall-related repair being completed, the issue has not been resolved. My check engine light continue... Read more

Incident date: Jun 7, 2026

N/a

Incident date: Jul 25, 2025

Power steering harness has leak. Wiring is faulty

Incident date: Jul 25, 2025

The ABS and Traction control dashboard warning lights are flashing on and off. There is a 2 year old recall and the dealer told they have no idea of when it will get fixed. The recall says an accident could occur.

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

To Whom It May Concern: I am submitting this complaint to report ongoing safety concerns involving my 2013 Hyundai Sonata. I purchased this vehicle in 2022 through financing and paid it off in 2025. Since acquiring the vehicle, I have experienced persistent mechanical issues that I believe may pos... Read more

Incident date: Jun 3, 2026

The contact owns a 2025 Toyota GR Corolla. The contact stated that while driving at night with the low-beam headlights activated, there was a large dark shadow at certain angles, obstructing visibility while driving at various speeds. The shadow disappeared once the high-beam headlights were activat... Read more

Incident date: May 28, 2026

The Daytime Running Lights are integrated into the headlight assembly so when the ights fail they cannot be replaced by the car owner by replacing a bulb. They also fail at very low mileage. Mine have failed before 70k miles. To replace the DRL the entire housing must be replaced and this costs u... Read more

Incident date: Mar 22, 2026

There has been a recall issued since last year with no remedy

Incident date: May 8, 2026

My car dies while im driving down the street, making it difficult to steer and qhen you try to restart it, sometimes it starts and some times it don't. But this is not the first time its happened it was just the latest

Incident date: May 8, 2026

While in the middle of driving on the highway, the vehicle has powered off then back on. The vehicle “slips” when revving up.

Incident date: May 8, 2026

While in the middle of driving on the highway, the vehicle has powered off then back on. The vehicle “slips” when revving up.

Incident date: May 13, 2026

Screen does not work, diagnosed as an internal failure of infotainment system radio unit. Rear camera does not work posing a safety issue

Incident date: May 11, 2026

On the day of the incident, I was driving my vehicle at a very low speed while approaching a red traffic light. I applied the brakes normally behind another vehicle that was already stopped. It should be noted that it had rained earlier and the road surface was wet. After stopping, the vehicle’s ... Read more

Crash

Incident date: May 11, 2026

Unintended acceleration incident. I entered the parking lot of a business where the Salvation Army is located to drop off a donation. The parking spaces were on the left side. As I pulled into a parking space and was in the process of parking, the vehicle suddenly lurched/accelerated forward unexpec... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Apr 28, 2026

While in motion at about 25-30 miles per hours, slightly stepping on the brake to slow down, the car just… wouldn’t, I was forced to swerve, preventing damage to cars ahead, I went over a curb

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Apr 18, 2026

All lights on head dash are on , all components are not working properly or effected because of this. (Engine light brake light abs light tire light traction control light , sensors out all) while driving vechile reduces power does not operate randomly , have to pull over shut the car off and turn i... Read more

Incident date: Jan 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2024 Hyundai Palisade. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V607000 (Seat Belts) and NHTSA Campaign: 26V034000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufa... Read more

Incident date: Apr 14, 2026

The contact owns a 2021 Ford EcoSport. The contact stated that while driving 60-65 MPH, the low oil pressure warning light was illuminated. The contact exited the highway and pulled into a truck stop service station, where the contact was informed that the oil level was normal. The contact resumed d... Read more

Incident date: Apr 22, 2026

I was driving using turn by turn directions and it told me to turn and I turned too soon and hit a telephone pole, front center. The airbags did not deploy and onstar did not recognize crash. I heard nothing from anyone. I called 911 to get the police to come and a wrecker driver. Even though I was... Read more

Crash 1 injured

Incident date: Dec 12, 2025

car inverter failure, 2013 civic hybrid inverter recall for said year but refuse to include in recall lemon

Incident date: Apr 2, 2026

Transmission- lost reverse and some forward gears too. Without any warning signs and no check engine light until hours after. It is going into the dealership on Monday (4/20) and this all happened on (4/17/2024)

Incident date: Apr 14, 2026

Many modern trucks, SUVs, and cars use LED headlights that are excessively bright and create dangerous glare. When approaching these vehicles from the opposite direction, the headlights can be blinding — similar to having a flashlight shined directly into your eyes — causing temporary loss of vi... Read more

Incident date: Apr 14, 2026

Subject: Safety Concern: Electronic System/BCM Failure – 2022 Honda CR-V Hybrid Vehicle Information: Year/Make/Model: 2022 Honda CR-V Hybrid VIN: [XXX] ] Approximate Mileage: [45,200] Component: Electrical System / Body Control Module (BCM) Description of Incident: On [04/13/2026], my vehicle exp... Read more

Incident date: Apr 14, 2026

I am reporting a premature transmission failure on a 2022 Toyota Highlander LE at approximately 85,000 miles. The vehicle began exhibiting a whining noise. When brought into the Toyota Dealership, I was notified that it needs a full transmission replacement. The vehicle was inspected by an authoriz... Read more

Incident date: Apr 2, 2026

Under moderate ambient air temperatures of 75-80F the gas tank gets pressurized and if opened when more than a gallon remains this pressure causes fuel to spray out of the gas tank.

Incident date: Apr 7, 2026

While driving at highway speeds, my vehicle suddenly enters low power/limp mode, severely reducing acceleration and creating a dangerous situation in traffic. This occurred multiple times. The dealership diagnosed the issue as a faulty gas pedal (accelerator) sensor and stated the vehicle is unsafe ... Read more

Incident date: Apr 7, 2026

During a cross country trip we exited the highway and noticed a grinding sound from our new 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee. We then limped to a near-by Jeep dealer who diagnosed a bad transmission. We feel very lucky this did not occur on the highway as a crash may have occurred due to the manufacturer de... Read more

Incident date: Apr 2, 2026

Interior panoramic roof shade roller broke and is not retracting the liner anymore

Incident date: Mar 17, 2025

On April 2, 2026, the engine in my 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe failed catastrophically while my wife was driving. The vehicle lost power suddenly and completely. There was no warning and no prior symptoms. She was able to pull over safely in a residential area. The vehicle was towed to an authorized Hyun... Read more

Incident date: Apr 3, 2026

My oil pan cracked. I’ve never had any issues with oil pans until this one. Hyundai will not replace this under warranty.

Incident date: Mar 27, 2026

The contact owns a 2004 Jaguar XJ. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal felt spongy and an excessive amount of force was needed to depress the brake pedal. The brake pedal almost went to the floorboard before the vehicle came to a stop, causing the braking distan... Read more

Incident date: Mar 29, 2026

Hyundai/Genesis 2026 GV70 2.5T Advanced. Drivers side instrument cluster goes blank/black, dangerous. Contacted Genesis Customer Care, doesn't know how to fix my model/trim. Representative, hung up on me. Dealer: Homestead Hyundai/Genesis doesn't have tools to fix the problem..

Incident date: Mar 21, 2026

Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) failure leading to a loud popping sound from the rear, total loss of drive power.

Incident date: Mar 14, 2026

On December 9, 2023, while driving my brand new 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring HPD package on the highway during snowy conditions at less than 50 mph less than 8000 miles on the odometer after my first oil change the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system suddenly and unexpectedly engaged with n... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Mar 14, 2026

Crash

Incident date: Mar 3, 2026

1. The issue involved the engine and emissions system, specifically a cylinder 3 misfire, accompanied by illumination of the check engine light and white smoke emitted from the exhaust. The vehicle was evaluated by an authorized Jeep dealership, which confirmed the cylinder misfire through diagnosti... Read more

Incident date: Mar 3, 2026

Description of Defect: I am reporting a chronic and dangerous structural failure of the factory-equipped alloy wheels on my 2023 Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 4MATIC. Since purchase, this vehicle has suffered 8 documented incidents of wheel failure, consisting of 5 rim cracks and 3 complete wheel replacemen... Read more

Showing 50 of 477 complaints.

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2021 KIA SELTOS

2021 Kia SELTOS SUV FWD

Category	Rating
Overall Rating	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Frontal Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Frontal Crash, Passenger	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Side Crash	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Driver	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Side Crash, Passenger	5 / 5 ★★★★★
Rollover	4 / 5 ★★★★☆
Rollover Risk	16.9%

Safety Technology

Feature	Status
Electronic Stability Control	Standard
Forward Collision Warning	Optional
Lane Departure Warning	Optional

Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings Program. Ratings are based on crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2021 KIA SELTOS

168 manufacturer communications from 100 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	58
100000 POWER TRAIN	31
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	14
350000 EQUIPMENT	13
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	5
010000 STEERING	3
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.	3
220000 SEATS	3

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: 4WD ECU INSPECTION/REPLACEMENT (SC297) - This bulletin provides information to inspect and, if necessary, replace/repair the 4WD Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and wire harness and also

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION (SC297) - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to inspect and, if necessary, replace the AWD Control Unit in certain 2021-2023 MY

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO (SC297) - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to inspect and, if necessary, replace the AWD Control Unit in certain

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PARTS & SERVICE MANAGER MEMO (SC297) - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to inspect and, if necessary, replace t

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER (SC297) - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Service Campaign SC297.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER (SC297) - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Service Campaign SC297.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: AVN 5.0 WIDE NON-RESPONSIVE RADIO ICON (AM, FM, SXM) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. Th

020000 SUSPENSION

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FRONT STRUT BEARING & SPRING PAD REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides information to replace the front strut bearing and upper spring pad on both front (LH and RH) strut assemblies on certain 2019-2024MY Forte (B

160000 STRUCTURE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CLUSTER UPGRADE FOR INTERMITTENT DISPLAY RESTARTING - This bulletin provides information to upgrade the Cluster (CLU) software logic on certain 2021-2023MY Seltos (SP2) vehicles equipped with a 7 in. TFT display

117000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: AVN 5.0 WIDE SCREEN FREEZING OR MAP DELAY WITH WIRED APPLE CARPLAY - This bulletin provides information to update the software on 5th Generation AVN wide on certain 2020-2023MY Kia vehicles to remedy an inaccurat

353600 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT

353610 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:SOFTWARE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: UNEVEN/SLIPPERY ROAD WARNING DISPLAYED ON INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - This bulletin provides information to update the software on 5th Generation AVN wide on certain 2020-2023MY Kia vehicles (refer to model list on page

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides information to update the software on 5th Generation AVN wide on certain 2020-2024MY Kia vehicles (refer to model list on page 3) to remedy a 'non-responsive' or 'inoperative' radio (FM, AM, SXM, etc. ) concern. The a

350000 EQUIPMENT

353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.

010000 STEERING

PITSTOP: AWD SYSTEM CONCERN DUE TO TIRE CIRCUMFERENCE - This Pitstop provides information regarding potential concerns with the All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system due to tire sizes of differing circumference. Some customers may complain of a chat

020000 SUSPENSION

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: AVN 5.0 WIDE NON-RESPONSIVE RADIO ICON (AM, FM, SXM) - This bulletin provides information to update the software on 5th Generation AVN wide on certain 2020-2023MY Kia vehicles to remedy a 'non-responsive'

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition s

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this

116300 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2309) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: KIA GENUINE REMOTE START CONTROL MODULE UPGRADE FOR ANTI-THEFT LOGIC COMPATIBILITY (CS2310) - This bulletin provides information to update the software logic in the Kia Genuine Remote Start

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY EMISSIONS SERVICE CAMPAIGN: IVT SOFTWARE LOGIC IMPROVEMENT AND/OR IVT REPLACEMENT (SC199) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in th

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: IVT SOFTWARE LOGIC IMPROVEMENT AND/OR IVT REPLACEMENT - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the Transmission Control Module (TCM) software logic and, if necessary, replace the Intelligent Variable Tran

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia has developed a software upgrade that can be installed on the vehicle to restrict the operation of the vehicle's ignition system

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PIT STOP: LOG FILE COLLECTION FOR AVN 5.0/W AND DISPLAY AUDIO 2.0 - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This Pitstop contai

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: ANTI-THEFT S/W LOGIC UPGRADE & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2309) - This bulletin provides the procedure to upgrade the software logic of the Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) or Body Control Mod

251000 ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL:AUTOMATIC (ASC)

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: ABS/ESC LOGIC IMPROVEMENT FOR DTC C1626 - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the software logic of the Anti-Lock Brakes/Electronic Stability Control (ABS/ESC) systems on some 2021-2023MY Seltos vehicl

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: TRANSMISSION FLUID APPLICATION GUIDE - This bulletin provides information relating to the correct transmission fluid type and fill quantity requirement for each Kia model. A flush is required ONLY when a transmis

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: MAINTENANCE REMINDER FEATURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area.This bulletin provides inform

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: OWNER NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner notification advising that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign to inspect and, if necessary, repair the transfer case oil seal and to perform the All-Whe

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PRINCIPAL MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer principals that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign on certain All-Wheel Drive 2021-2023 MY Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L en

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: DEALER PARTS AND SERVICE MANAGER MEMO - This document is the announcement to the dealer Parts and Service Managers that Kia is conducting a Voluntary Service Campaign on certain All-Wheel Drive 2021-2023 MY Selto

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Service Campaign (SC242).

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: QUESTION AND ANSWER - This document is the Question and Answer Guide containing the most frequently asked questions regarding the Voluntary Service Campaign (SC242).

100000 POWER TRAIN

VOLUNTARY SERVICE CAMPAIGN: TRANSFER CASE LEAKAGE/OVERHEATING WHEN USING SPARE TIRE (SC242) - This bulletin provides the procedure to inspect the front wheel transfer assembly for oil leakage and update the 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) (also referre

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE REMINDER SETTING RESET PROCEDURE - This bulletin provides the procedure to turn OFF the service reminder lamp, at the first service interval reminder alert that will display on the instrument cluster. The

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: REAR OCCUPANT ALERT (ROA) W/REAR DOOR LOGIC - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This Pitstop provides informatio

220000 SEATS

100000 POWER TRAIN

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: MIL ON DTC P0605 AND/OR P2181 ECM LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (SA463) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar i

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR PISTON RING NOISE DTC P1327 (SC209Y) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in th

100000 POWER TRAIN

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

SUBSEQUENT REPAIR ACTION: ENGINE REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR PISTON RING NOISE DTC P1327(SC209Y) - This bulletin provides information related to the Technical Service Bulletin previously published in (SC209A) titled "ECM Logic Improvement

350000 EQUIPMENT

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: EXCESSIVE OIL CONSUMPTION NU/GAMMA/THETA/KAPPA ENGINES - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. Th

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: BATTERY DEALER (SHIPPING)/CUSTOMER MODE SWITCH - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This Pitstop provides informa

350000 EQUIPMENT

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN - SERVICE ACTION: MIL ON DTC P0605 AND/OR P2181 ECM LOGIC IMPROVEMENT (SA463) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar

119127 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY:THERMAL MANAGEMENT:FLUID/COOLANT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE ACTION: DA 2.0V SOFTWARE UPDATE FOR WIRELESS CARPLAY FUNCTION (SA492) - This bulletin provides information to update the Display Audio 2.0V software for the wireless CarPlay function on the models listed

353610 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:INFOTAINMENT:SOFTWARE

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

061500 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

103110 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: INFORMATION FOR HEADLAMP CONDENSATION AND MOISTURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This b

160000 STRUCTURE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FRONT VIEW CAMERA REPLACEMENT AND SOFTWARE UPGRADE INSTALLATION - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin

350000 EQUIPMENT

260000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

270000 LANE DEPARTURE

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: FRONT VIEW CAMERA REPLACEMENT AND SOFTWARE UPGRADE INSTALLATION - This bulletin provides the procedure to update the software logic of the Front Camera (FR_CMR) system on the vehicles listed below, which have had

260000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

270000 LANE DEPARTURE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: FRONT RADAR SENSOR MOUNTING INSPECTION (PS704) - This pitstop provides information regarding front radar sensor alignment on 2014MY and later vehicles that may exhibit a warning light ON related to radar sensor alignment errors in

260000 FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

PITSTOP: BLUETOOTH MEMORY AND VOICE RECOGNITION CONCERN WITH AVN 5.0/W - This Pitstop provides information for resolving a memory concern with the AVN 5.0 Wide head unit while downloading the contact list from a paired phone. The concern al

100000 POWER TRAIN

SC199 - Owner Letter - Seltos: Second notification to Seltos vehicle owners advising them of a Voluntary Emissions Service Campaign to improve the Transmission Control Module (TCM) logic and, if necessary, replace the Intelligent Variable T

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

010000 STEERING

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN:SERVICE ACTION: EPS LOGIC IMPROVEMENT FOR DTC C160404 (SA466) - This bulletin provides the procedure to improve the software logic of the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system on some 2021MY Seltos (SP2) and Soul

220000 SEATS

PITSTOP: RATTLE/CLUNK NOISE FROM REAR SEAT - This Pitstop provides information regarding a rattle or clunk noise from the rear seat area on some 2021MY Seltos (SP2) vehicles when driving over bumps or uneven road surfaces.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: SERVICE REMINDER SETTING RESET PROCEDURE - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin pr

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NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA SELTOS

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

AQ, Closed , Model Year: 2021

Kia 25V099 Piston Oil Ring Recall Effectiveness

On August 6, 2025, the Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) opened Audit Query (AQ) 25001 to assess the implementation of Kia America, Inc.’s (Kia) remedy program for Safety Recall 25V099, involving incorrectly manufactured piston oil rings which may damage the engine causing a loss of motive powe... r or fire. This AQ was opened in response to consumer complaints alleging of an ineffective remedy, inconsistent inspection results to determine whether an engine replacement was needed, and the unavailability of recall remedies. On August 11, 2025, an Information Request (IR) was issued to Kia requesting: 1) why the inspection test was revised from requiring a ‘cold’ engine to a ‘warm’ engine; 2) why the recall remedy was suspended from April 30, 2025 to May 7, 2025; 3) how Kia notified customers of the recall remedy suspension and the need to re-test engines that failed the ‘cold’ engine test; 4) the number of post-recall remedy complaints alleging engine or other engine related failures; and 5) the warranty coverage Kia is offering to vehicles that passed either inspection tests. On September 10, 2025, Kia responded to NHTSA’s IR: Kia reported the change in temperature from ‘cold’ to ‘warm’ engine testing was done to increase accuracy. The inspection test uses diagnostic tools that detects abnormal engine vibrations to identify damaged engines. From the initial launch of the Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) on April 4, 2025 through April 28, 2025, ‘cold’ engine testing resulted in a higher-than-expected failure rate when compared to the pre-recall warranty claim rate. This discrepancy led Kia to re-evaluate its inspection test and found that performing the inspection on a ‘cold’ engine can result in imprecise test results due to normal cold-start vibrations. Kia revised the inspection to ‘warm’ engine testing to minimize vibration interference. Kia sampled the field and performed a comparative analysis between ‘cold’ and ‘warm’ engine testing, and validated that ‘warm’ engine testing was more accurate in identifying damaged engines. Kia also reported the suspension of the recall remedy was due to a software error in the diagnostic tool, which was introduced in concert with the April 29, 2025 launch of the TSB that revised the inspection from ‘cold’ to ‘warm’ engine testing. The software error resulted in all inspection tests reporting false positives for a damaged engine. On April 30, 2025, Kia suspended the remedy until May 7, 2025, which was when the software error was corrected with the release of the latest TSB and software update. The recall remedy remains available to eligible customers. Kia reported owners were not mailed letters concerning the suspension to the recall remedy. Kia reasoned since it resolved the issue faster than it would have taken to draft and mail letters, Kia did not want to create unnecessary customer confusion involving an issue that would have already been addressed upon receipt of a letter. Kia also determined that mailing letters about re-testing engines was unnecessary since those vehicles were already at the dealer awaiting engine replacement. In most instances, Kia Customer Care agents would respond to customer inquiries related to the recall, including remedy availability, dealer issues, and questions about differing test results. Kia provided ODI a review of engine related consumer complaints received on post recall-remedied vehicles. Kia did not find any common patterns or trends related to those complaints following completion of the recall, as the complaints included issues that were unrelated to the subject defect. To aid in the diagnosis of whether a complaint is related to the recall, the remedy includes the installation of a software program, the Piston-ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS), that monitors the engine for unusual noise patterns (an indicator of potential damage to the piston oil rings), and alerts the customer by flashing the check engine light and setting Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) P1327. Kia confirmed that it is not offering any specific warranty coverage for this recall. Instead, Kia has instructed dealers to replace the engine, at no cost to the customer, with no time or mileage limitation, following the installation of the PNSS software and the presence of DTC P1327. On September 4, 2025, Kia issued Subsequent Repair Action (SRA) # SC336YZ, which provided engine diagnosis and replacement instructions for vehicles with a potentially related complaint following completion of the recall. Under this SRA, customers whose vehicles set DTC P1327 will have their engine replaced. If DTC P1327 is not set and it is unclear whether the issue is related to the recall, dealers are instructed to contact Kia's Technical Assistance Center to ensure the issue is appropriately handled. Kia notes that any issues determined to be unrelated to the recall are subject to the 10-year / 100,000-mile Powertrain warranty for original purchasers and a 5-year / 60,000-mile Limited Basic Warranty for subsequent purchasers. In summary, Kia identified the insufficiencies of its initial inspection test that led to a pause to its recall campaign, explained why it did not mail letters to affected customers about the paused campaign or revised inspection test, reviewed existing consumer complaints that did not identify any potential trends related to the recall, and identified its warranty coverage for any vehicles exhibiting qualifying engine symptoms. After review of Kia’s response to the IR, ODI has determined that no further action from Kia is necessary at this time, and ODI will close this AQ investigation accordingly. The Agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by future circumstances. To review the ODI reports cited in the Closing Resume ODI Report Identification Number document, go to NHTSA.gov.Read more

KIA SELTOS - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the KIA SELTOS across all model years (2021, 2024).

7 Total Recalls

738 Total Complaints

1 Investigations

38 Reported Crashes

11 Reported Fires

0 Reported Deaths

KIA SELTOS - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2026	0	4	View
2025	0	16	View
2024	2	66	View
2023	2	78	View
2022	1	97	View
2021 (current)	2	477

Other KIA Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
SORENTO	188	13,593	View
SPORTAGE	165	6,601	View
SEDONA	118	3,350	View
OPTIMA	100	10,128	View
TELLURIDE	70	2,186	View
SOUL	66	7,233	View
SORENTO HYBRID	62	159	View
SOUL EV	62	50	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2021 KIA SELTOS

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

NHTSA Safety Ratings, 2021 KIA SELTOS

Safety Technology

Technical Service Bulletins, 2021 KIA SELTOS

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, KIA SELTOS

KIA SELTOS - All Years Overview

KIA SELTOS - Year by Year

Other KIA Models