Kia Motors is recalling more than 137,000 vehicles in the U.S. due to a potential engine defect that could lead to serious damage, fire hazards, and increased risks of crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recall impacts certain 2021-2023 Kia Seltos and Kia Soul models.
Why Is Kia Recalling These Vehicles?
The recall was triggered after safety regulators discovered that the piston oil rings in the affected vehicles may have been manufactured incorrectly. If these rings are not functioning properly, they can cause excessive engine wear, potentially leading to complete engine failure. In the worst-case scenario, this defect could also result in a vehicle fire, endangering drivers, passengers, and others on the road.
According to the NHTSA, this manufacturing flaw significantly increases the likelihood of an accident or injury, making it crucial for owners of these vehicles to take immediate action.
Which Kia Models Are Affected?
Kia has confirmed that the recall applies to two popular models:
- Kia Seltos (Model years: 2021-2023)
- Kia Soul (Model years: 2021-2023)
These vehicles were sold across the United States and have been flagged for potential engine defects. If you own one of these models, you are advised to check your vehicle’s recall status as soon as possible.
What Should Kia Owners Do?
Kia dealers will replace the affected engines free of charge. In addition, they will install new piston-ring sensing noise software at no cost to vehicle owners. This software is designed to detect early signs of piston ring issues, potentially preventing major engine failures before they occur.
Kia will begin notifying owners through official recall letters, which are expected to be mailed on or around April 4, 2025. Vehicle owners are strongly encouraged to respond to these notices promptly to ensure their vehicle is inspected and repaired as needed.
How to Check if Your Kia Is Recalled
If you own a 2021-2023 Kia Seltos or 2021-2023 Kia Soul, you can verify whether your vehicle is affected by this recall through the following methods:
- Kia Customer Service: Call 1-800-853-1403 and reference Recall Number SC336.
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: Call 1-888-327-4236.
- NHTSA Website: Visit www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check recall status.
- Kia’s Official Website: Kia also offers a recall lookup tool on their website where owners can enter their VIN for verification.
Why This Recall Matters
This is not the first time Kia has faced large-scale recalls due to engine-related problems. In recent years, the automaker has issued recalls affecting thousands of vehicles due to similar engine failure risks. This latest issue highlights the ongoing importance of quality control in automobile manufacturing.
With over 137,000 vehicles impacted, Kia is under pressure to ensure that affected owners receive the necessary repairs quickly and efficiently. Vehicle fires and engine failures pose serious safety risks, and addressing this issue promptly could help prevent accidents and injuries.
If you own a 2021-2023 Kia Seltos or 2021-2023 Kia Soul, take this recall seriously. Checking your vehicle’s status and scheduling an appointment for a repair can help protect you and your passengers from potential harm. Kia is committed to resolving the issue, but vehicle owners must act quickly to ensure their safety.
For the latest updates on this recall and other vehicle safety news, stay tuned to official announcements from Kia and the NHTSA.
