2021 Kia Seltos recalls and problems
The 2021 Kia Seltos has 2 safety recalls and 385 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2021 Kia Seltos vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2021 Kia Seltos recalls
Recall 25V-099: Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: 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.
Risk: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix: 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 this recall is SC336.
Recall 21V-259: Engine
Problem: 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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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 recall is SC209.
2021 Kia Seltos problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 238 | |
| Power Train | 68 | |
| Electrical System | 48 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 47 | |
| Unknown or Other | 46 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 26 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 11 | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 9 | |
| Air Bags | 6 | |
| Service Brakes | 6 | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 5 | |
| Seat Belts | 5 |
Most reported parts
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 4
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Automatic Emergency Braking — 3
- Structure › Body — 2
- Electrical System › Horn — 2
- Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 2
- Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 2
- Air Bags › Side/Window › Curtain › Inflator — 1
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Control Module › Software — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 45,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2021 Kia Seltos complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kia Seltos years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2021 Kia Seltos have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Kia Seltos: 25V-099 (engine and engine cooling), 21V-259 (engine). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 Kia Seltos?
Owners report engine problems most often (238 reports), followed by power train (68). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 45,000 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.