Kia is recalling more than 137,000 Soul and Seltos models due to a serious engine defect that could lead to stalling, power loss, or even a fire. The issue? Faulty piston rings could cause excessive wear inside the engine, increasing oil consumption and, in the worst-case scenario, leading to total engine failure.
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall applies to:
- Kia Seltos (2021–2023) – 53,635 vehicles
- Kia Soul (2021–2023) – 83,621 vehicles
The problem stems from a manufacturing defect in the piston oil rings—small but essential components that help regulate compression and oil flow in the engine. If they fail, the engine can wear out prematurely, leading to serious mechanical issues.
Safety Concerns & Reported Incidents
Kia has received over 400 reports of stalling incidents linked to this defect. In four cases—all involving the Kia Soul—the issue escalated to engine block damage and fires. Fortunately, no injuries or accidents have been reported.
Signs Your Kia Might Be Affected
If you own one of these vehicles, keep an eye (and ear) out for warning signs, including:
✅ Excessive oil consumption – If you’re constantly adding oil, something’s off.
✅ Unusual engine noises – Knocking or ticking sounds could signal trouble.
✅ Smoke from the exhaust – Blue or white smoke is a red flag.
✅ Oil pressure warning light – Low oil levels could indicate excessive consumption.
What Kia Is Doing & Next Steps for Owners
To fix the issue, Kia dealerships will:
🔧 Inspect affected vehicles for engine damage.
🔧 Replace defective engines if necessary—free of charge.
🔧 Install a software update that detects abnormal piston ring noise and alerts drivers. If the issue occurs again, Kia will replace the engine.
Owner Notifications: Kia will start notifying owners in early April. If you think your vehicle might be affected, you can:
📞 Call Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 (Reference: Recall SC336).
🌐 Check your vehicle’s recall status on the NHTSA website (www.nhtsa.gov).
📞 Call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
Other Kia Recalls to Know About
Kia has been dealing with several recalls recently. Here are some others you should be aware of:
🚗 462,869 Kia Tellurides – Potential seat fire risk.
🚙 427,000 Telluride SUVs – Risk of rollaway incidents.
More Recent Car Recalls
Kia isn’t the only automaker facing recall issues. Here are some other major recalls:
🚙 Ford & Lincoln SUVs – 240,000 vehicles recalled for faulty seat belts.
⚡ Tesla Models – 370,000 vehicles recalled over power steering issues.
🚐 Toyota Sienna Minivans – 168,000 units recalled due to seat back concerns.
If you’re driving any of these vehicles, it’s a good idea to check for recalls and take action sooner rather than later.
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Hi, I’m Nathan Cross, a writer and avid reader who loves crafting articles for newspapers and online platforms. Words are my passion, whether I’m telling stories, sharing insights, or sparking conversations. When I’m not writing, you’ll find me lost in a book or out on the baseball field, enjoying the game that keeps me grounded. Writing, reading, and baseball—these are the things that define me.
