2021 KIA TELLURIDE Safety Overview

Component: VISIBILITY/WIPER

"The sunroof won’t close properly, it looks like wind deflector is broken"

Component: SUSPENSION

"I wish to amend my previous report dated 6/22/2026. #11745783. IT is is cv boot on the right side. I had a dealer do the repair. It is not under warranty, If you follow the Kia Telluride complaint page son FB, others have had the same issue. It cost $777.61 to repair. It should not need to be repaired at 72k miles. That is a third of the expected life expectancy. Thank you for considering this safety matter."

Component: SUSPENSION

"The CV axel is bad and needs replaced. I am only at 72,000 miles. If I had not gotten an oil change and the technician saw it, it could have broken while driving this coming weekend for 14 hours. Independent service center is replacing. No warning. This could have caused a serious accident."

Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

"Bought car on a Saturday (6-20-26)and that night noticed the drive mode was broke and the forward Collison is broke and will go on and off. Dealership said they did the whole inspection on the car before they put it on the lot to sell. Also, oil was extremely low when I left the lot and had to go back for an oil change. Took it to them on 6-22 to repair and have had to call to ask about my cars status when they said they would call me. Never would get an answer as to what was going on."

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"The sunroof failed and is stuck open. This creates a hazard as you cannot secure the vehicle, it is open to the elements, and you have highway noise. This is not a simple small motor fix it is $3000+ and a complete replacing of the track/cassette."

Component: SEATS

"I noticed the button to fold captain’s chair began working intermittently beginning of Jun, then the seat began to fold on my granddaughter then my daughter on 2 different occasions. I called dealership to get a diagnostic done but they couldn’t get me in until 29 Jun. After diagnostic I was told the seat actuator wasn’t working, though it wasn’t damaged, and would cost me over $2400 to replace! Kia corporation stated because I was over the 150k warranty, by 30 mi I’d just driven home from airport, they couldn’t help me."

Component: STRUCTURE

"Sunroof won't fully close which becomes a big issue when driving or parking the vehicle in the rain. Kia dealership diagnosed that the full sunroof assembly needs to be replaced at a total expense of $6,441.56 since the vehicle is out of the 5-year warranty period. No warning messages were displayed on the vehicle prior to this issue."

Component: VISIBILITY/WIPER

"Windshield chipped and cracked. Causes a safety issue due to temperamental glass and vision impairment. McKenneys garage has viewed the damage and confirms the damage. No. No."

Component: STEERING,SUSPENSION,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

"The contact owns a 2021 Kia Telluride. The contact stated that the passenger’s side drive shaft boot was leaking. The steering and mileage were affected by the failure. While making a turn, the steering wheel was readjusting. The accelerator pedal was depressed; after the pedal was released, the pedal jerked. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who confirmed there were no open recalls associated with the VIN. The brakes were reprogrammed. The vehicle was diagnosed, and it was determined that the front boot was leaking, and the axle and tires needed to be replaced, and an alignment performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Kia Mentor (9090 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060); who provided the same diagnosis. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed there was no warranty coverage on the vehicle. The BBB was contacted and the Attorney General. The approximate failure mileage was 81,000."

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"May 9, 2026 Opened my Sunroof for first time this year. Would not open all the way. Jammed sideways. Couldn't get it shut. The arms in the track to move the window back and forth disinegrated. Slight water damage to right side headliner. Currently at glass company for repair. Need entire unit. $1,450 for a used one $5,000 for new. Are there any current recalls? 2021 Kia Telleride purchased new; Current mileage 38,000. Will attach copy of repair order when received."

Component: STRUCTURE

"I have used the sunroof on my 2021 Kia Telluride probably less than ten times in the 5 years I've owned it. I started getting a leak in front of my rearview mirror so I searched for the drains by opening the sunroof and fond them. Cleaned them out as best I could. closed the sunroof but was still having a leak. The next time I opened it to look at it, it jammed and wouldn't open completely or close. With a little help, i was able to get it back on track and close but still had the leak. Took to the dealership for service and to have them look for a problem with the sunroof. They said it wasn't closing completely and the entire frame would need replacing at about $3400.00. This seems to be a common problem from what I'm seeing on Kia Forums. I was wondering if you are considering a recall on this issue?"

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"There is no incident that lead to this part breaking. My sunroof broke when it was opened. A part fell out of the assembly into the car. The sunroof will now not open fully or close fully. It's a hazard because I'm not sure if the glass is properly attached to my car and can fly off. I took this to a dealership the other day and was told this was common and not covered under warranty, costing owners thousands of dollars and days of repairs."

Component: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

"I own a 2021 Kia Telluride with approximately 111,000 miles. I initially brought the vehicle to a Kia dealership for an oil consumption issue and engine noise. The dealership diagnosed and repaired a timing chain and tensioner issue, stating the vehicle was “working properly” upon return. After picking up the vehicle, I immediately began experiencing electrical warning lights, including the battery warning light and system alerts (blind spot and general warning indicators). I returned to the dealership, where they performed diagnostic testing and indicated a potential alternator issue, but stated it was in a “borderline” range and that the vehicle was safe to drive. Shortly after leaving the dealership, while driving with my family in the vehicle, the electrical system began to fail. Multiple warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle lost electrical function while in motion. The vehicle ultimately became completely inoperable and shut down in a parking lot, creating a serious safety concern. Prior to the dealership visit and repairs, the vehicle had no history of electrical issues, warning lights, or charging system problems. The dealership later acknowledged that the alternator issue was not present when the vehicle was initially brought in. I am submitting this complaint due to the sudden and complete electrical system failure while driving, which posed a significant safety risk. The progression from no prior symptoms to total failure immediately following dealership service and diagnosis raises concerns about vehicle reliability and potential safety defects related to the charging system."

Component: EQUIPMENT

"The contact owns a 2021 Kia Telluride. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the infotainment center displayed a blank screen. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure. In addition, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under recall or warranty. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 66,000."

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"sunroof - broken wind deflector arms"

Component: ENGINE

"In December of 2025 at approximately 95,000 my 2021 Kia Telluride (VIN [XXX] ) showed the oil level was about two quarts low. My car has had regular maintenance including oil changes at Santa Fe Kia. At the next oil change appointment in March, I pointed out the oil consumption concern. At that point Kia recommended an oil consumption test be performed. The car had 96,700 miles at that point. At 97,700 Kia indicated that the oil level was fine. At 99,600 I checked the oil and discovered it was more than two quarts low. I called Santa Fe Kia to address the issue and they indicated that a quart every 1,000 miles is within Kia standards and recommended another oil consumption test which would take me over the 100,000 warranty. I called Kia customer care to address the issue. A case was opened, but they kept referring me back to the dealership to be dealt with. After researching the issue myself, I presented the well known and documented oil consumption issue amongst Kia consumers to include PCV valve and piston ring issues. I have an appointment scheduled for 4/16/26, but I am being told that I will be liable for the cost of the PCV valve replacement, compression test and oil leak test which are all known issues related to the problem. Santa Fe Kia's service manager is ignoring my request to submit an engine warranty claim citing that they didn't find a problem outside of Kia's acceptable oil consumption and Kia's customer care refuses to open a claim and keeps referring me back to the dealership. I will be at approximately 99,850 when I arrive at my appointment on 4/16/26. I am concerned that the engine has a major issue and will be told that my warranty is over by the time the issue can be determine and resolved. I am also concerned that there has already been engine damage done without noticing the high oil consumption. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)"

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"I recently pressed the button to open the sunroof, and it only retracted a few inches before I heard a loud noise. The sunroof stopped, and simply would not go any further. Thankfully, the vehicle is garaged at home (I was stationary and heading out when this occurred), but with Kia topping the list of most stolen vehicles, along with unpredictable weather, I'm sure you can understand why I was concerned about leaving my sunroof open!  After doing some research online, I found that this is a known problem with Tellurides. I took my car in as soon as possible for service to figure out what was wrong. Unfortunately, I was given an estimate of approximately $4,000 to repair. I purchased the car from Fred Anderson Kia of Raleigh, and took it to the same dealer for service and to report the issue. Video provided from service appointment: [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)"

Component: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE

"Hello, I've contacted customer service for Kia America and also, customer service in Puerto Rico since I'm a resident in Puerto Rico, so that I can address the safety recall with number SC303 and also a technical service bulletin with number BOD319. However, customer service advised that they can't pull up my SUV vehicle information with the VIN provided. I'm unable to address the safety recall and the technical service bulletin since Kia can't pull up the vehicle information. My vehicle is experiencing technical failure with the intermediate shaft as described on the safety recall. Also, the sunroof is experiencing technical difficulties compatible with the information included on the TSB. I ask for your support to address the described issues, accordingly. Thank you!"

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"Sunroof wouldn’t fully close when a rainstorm hit, causing driver panic attack. This appears to be a known issue under TSB BOD-319."

Component: ENGINE

"Kia has 110,000 miles on it. We’ve regularly changed the oil at 3-5k mile intervals. A week ago, I heard loud knocking from the front of the car, along with loss of power. We drove it to our local Kia dealer (Kia of Bedford, OH), where upon inspection, they found cylinder bank 2 to be inoperative due to loss of oil. They found approx 2 quarts of oil in the engine - way below normal. They observed NO oil leaks. We inspected our garage and driveway floors, and there is no indication of any oil leaks. The Kia dealer said the engine needs to be replaced, at a cost of $12,700. I contacted Kia Customer Care, and they said it’s out of warranty and they won’t help. I replied back with an appeal to escalate to a higher / regional level for help. The oil had been changed at 105,000 miles. No oil leak present. Routine oil changes performed. This engine should never have had this issue at 110,000 miles. I know this is a known issue with this era of Kia engines. I’ve asked Kia to provide assistance in a repair."

Component: ENGINE

"Recently our 2021 Kia Telluride, had a fluttering/metal knocking/mechanical sound and I scheduled a shop visit at our trusted local mechanic. After their inspection, they found that the oil was extremely low and there was metal shavings in the oil filter housing. This was found when absolutely no warning lights were activated that would indicate low oil level or any other engine challenges. The vehicle is maintained with regular oil changes. The vehicle only has 65k miles. Looking further into this online, it seems very similar to the Theta engine recall from Kia. No warning lights/indicator lights, well maintained vehicle with regular oil changes, and to all of a sudden consume almost all the oil and have metal shavings in the oil filter housing is extremely concerning. As of 4/6/2026 the dealer is assessing the vehicle and coming up with a plan and or further actions to be done."

Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"I have 2 issues going on with my vehicle. The trim on the outside of my doors is coming off which I know was a recall for some telluride vehicles about this old. Also ive been having some electrical issues/hot smell like something is burning if the heated seats get turned on."

Component: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

"Code P0087 on a Kia Telluride indicates that the fuel rail pressure is too low. This means the engine is not receiving enough fuel, often resulting in poor acceleration, stalling, rough idle, and decreased power. It is frequently caused by a faulty high-pressure fuel pump... This is the code is threw when it stalled in busy traffic on a hill. The CEL came on at this point. Then continued to stall. Before this incident, it would periodically stall while in park, or rough idle and prolonged startup. However, this was sporadic and couldn't be recreated when taken to a mechanic. We were coming back from vacation with 5 kids in the car ranging from a baby to a 12 year old. It was towed BY Kia to the nearest dealership. They claimed the recalls were addressed and the software updates cleared the codes. I came home tonight and it almost immediately started acting up again. This is a known and recognized issue in certain other vehicles (like the Sedona) and has been given an extended warranty. I'm not sure why this isn't addressed in all their GDI vehicles with these High Pressure Fuel Pumps. I'm afraid of it dying and being stranded in the heat again with young children, as well as being hit when/if it stalls."

Component: SUSPENSION

"I have 2021 Kia Telluride with 38000 miles on it. When I wash my car, I normally wash the roof and in order to do that I put one foot on 3 step ladder and one foot on the back tire. I always had a plenty space above the tire and under the fender and I could stand up on the tire while I was washing the roof. On my last wash after the harsh winter weather, I notice I can not place my foot on the tire anymore. I google the height from the bottom of the fender to the ground and I noticed is way down. I read on Google that is covered by KIA for 15 years or 180000 miles. I contacted the Riverhead Kia and they replaced the shocks. When I came out of the dealer I immediately noticed the height has not been improved. I informed the service advisor, he said that is not going to be like a new 2026 vehicle and it should be Ok. Two days later over the weekend I noticed Roaring sound and when I hit the bump it seems my chasing banging on the axle. I am planning to go back to dealer tomorrow."

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"Opens sunroof and part broke"

Component: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

"I am submitting this complaint regarding my 2021 Kia Telluride experiencing repeated and dangerous electronic system failures while driving. Kia of East Syracuse (NY) diagnosed the issue as related to the backup camera assembly and communication/network failures. While driving, the vehicle experienced loss of power steering assist, instrument cluster failure, speedometer malfunction, incorrect gear indication, backup camera activation while driving forward, blind spot warnings activating incorrectly, flashing/blank temperature display, and multiple driver assistance system failures. The speedometer displayed 0 mph while the vehicle was in motion and later displayed approximately 40 mph while stopped at a traffic light. The vehicle also became stuck in reverse while backing out of my driveway and would not shift properly, leaving the vehicle stopped in the roadway. Multiple safety systems malfunctioned simultaneously, including Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Parking Distance Warning, and Forward Collision Warning systems. The dealership documented multiple fault codes and stated the dashboard lit up “like a Christmas tree” while the instrument cluster stopped functioning entirely. These failures create a serious safety risk because critical driving information and driver assistance systems become unreliable or inoperative while the vehicle is moving. The failures occur unexpectedly and without warning. Photos and video evidence have been retained, including video of the backup camera activating while driving forward and the speedometer malfunctioning while the vehicle was in motion. I am asking NHTSA investigate these failures as a potential safety defect involving the camera system, instrument cluster communication systems, and CAN network communication failures in the Kia Telluride."

Component: ENGINE

"NHTSA Vehicle Safety Complaint – 2021 Kia Telluride - VIN: [XXX] I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2021 Kia Telluride. I purchased the vehicle on XXX, with approximately 124,000 miles. An oil and filter change was performed shortly before the sale. After about 2,000 miles/126K, the vehicle suddenly lost power and stopped. It was towed to a repair shop, where technicians found the engine oil level was extremely low or empty, despite no low-oil warning light appearing. The oil was serviced, and the vehicle was returned to operation. About 3,000/129K miles later, the vehicle again lost power and stopped in Ardmore TX. It was road side mobile mechanic found little to no oil and he refill the oil. After 100 miles/129.1K again same problem engine stopped and no oil. was towed to the same shop, where technicians found little to no oil and diagnosed severe engine damage requiring engine replacement. Mechanic informed there was no oil leak from the engine however, excessive oil burning in engine causing this issue. My concern is safety. On all three occasions, the vehicle lost power on the freeway at night while my family with two kids was in the vehicle. I believe excessive oil consumption and the lack of a warning before engine failure may represent a safety defect. I request that NHTSA investigate this issue and require Kia to review the vehicle’s engine design and warning systems. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)"

Component: ENGINE

"2021 Kia Telluride experienced sudden engine failure at approximately 120,000 miles. The failure occurred without any prior warning. There were no oil warning lights, dashboard alerts, or other indicators of low oil or engine malfunction before the engine failed. After inspection, the mechanic found no oil on the dipstick and discovered metal flakes in the engine and oil filter, indicating severe internal engine damage. No external oil leaks were identified that would explain the loss of oil. This suggests a potential internal engine defect or abnormal oil consumption without warning to the driver. The vehicle has been regularly serviced and properly maintained according to recommended maintenance schedules. There was no neglect, missed oil changes, or failure to maintain the vehicle. This sudden and unexpected engine failure creates a serious safety concern. A loss of engine power while driving, especially at highway speeds or in traffic, could significantly increase the risk of a crash and place the driver, passengers, and other motorists at risk."

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"Sunroof wouldnt close. Broken assembly."

Component: ENGINE

"My 2021 Kia Telluride (approximately 82,000 miles) suffered catastrophic engine failure caused by excessive and abnormal oil consumption. The engine consumed oil at a dangerous rate with no warning lights or dashboard indicators of any kind. The only symptom prior to failure was an unusual engine noise. There was no opportunity to take corrective action before the engine failed completely. This failure occurred while I was driving with my children in the vehicle, creating a serious and immediate safety risk. A sudden engine failure at highway or city speeds — with no prior warning — presents the risk of loss of vehicle control, inability to accelerate out of traffic, and potential collision. The failure has been confirmed by two independent service centers: Vanguard Kia in Arlington, Texas and Christian Brothers Automotive. Both confirmed engine failure. The vehicle and failed components are available for inspection upon request. Kia America has declined to provide warranty assistance or goodwill repair coverage despite this being a widely reported issue among 2021 Telluride owners with the same Lambda II V6 engine. No recall has been issued. Repair cost is approximately $11,000. I am still carrying a loan on this vehicle. I am requesting NHTSA investigate this as a systemic safety defect and consider a mandatory recall."

Component: ENGINE

"No oil in engine can cause fire. Meineke in walkertown inspects the vehicle. No lights or warnings. Vehicle just started running funny. Problem confirmed by Meineke in walkertown. They claim it is a consumption issue because there are no leaks."

Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE

"Cooling fans running continuously after the car is turned off, which drains the battery. The dealership has identified that this is due to a faulty fan relay that will need to be completely replaced. The battery has been replaced once and the issue continued indicating that it was not a battery issue. The car ran out of battery in a busy location and caused risk to the passengers that were then exposed to busy traffic. The car has been inspected by repair specialists at the Vaden Hyundai Service Center. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms before the problem began."

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER

"The sunroof on my 2021 Kia Telluride broke and is stuck open. We had to take it to Kia to have the repair quoted and they want to charge $6k to have it replaced. This is a huge safety issue, as it is winter and we have rain/snow getting in the car, as well as the potential for someone to break into my car through the sunroof as well. I have read numerous reports online of other 2021 Kia Tellurides with this same issue. Please have Kia issue a recall to have this issue addressed."

Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

"I attempted to use my sunroof today 2/18/26 and I heard a popping sound and it sounded like something broke. I rolled the sunroof back closed and now the back of the sunroof (moonroof) is now propped open and won't close. I have tried the manual overide for 10 to 15 seconds and it just makes a clicking sound. I am pretty upset as I have only used my sunroof maybe 10 times in the 4 years I have had the car. After research there is a TSB 319 that clearly documents it is a known problem on 2019 to 2022 Telluride models yet, no recall. While it is not a major safety issue, it is now a concern that when it rains, it will get into my my vehicle causing further damage. This should be a covered repair on Kia's behalf especially when it seems it is happening most often after factory warranty or 60,000 miles for most who are reporting it. Sounds like a scam to get another 5,000 dollars out of their customers. Won't be buying a Kia again."

Component: ENGINE

"The 3.8L Lambda II GDI V6 engine suffered catastrophic failure at approximately 102,000 miles. The root cause is excessive oil consumption documented by an independent repair shop well before the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty expired. At 81,207 miles, during a routine oil change, the mechanic checked oil level before draining and found nothing on the dipstick. Only about 3 quarts drained from an engine with 6.9-quart capacity, meaning nearly 4 quarts were consumed since the last change. This finding repeated at 88,408 miles, with the shop documenting it was the second time oil was critically low. Both events occurred within the powertrain warranty. Original invoices are available for inspection. At no point during ownership did the vehicle display any warning — no low oil level indicator, no low oil pressure warning, no check engine light — despite oil levels falling dangerously low on multiple documented occasions. The absence of any driver alert while the engine operated with less than half its required oil is a serious safety deficiency. The engine failed on while driving with passengers including three young children, causing complete loss of power and requiring an emergency pullover. Loss of engine power at speed creates serious crash risk. The vehicle was serviced at an authorized Kia dealer at 60,449 miles where a 60K service, multi-point inspection, and recall SC243B were performed. The dealer made no mention of oil consumption, did not reference TSB ENG222 (addressing excessive consumption across multiple Kia engine families), and did not perform an oil consumption test. Kia Consumer Affairs refused to submit a goodwill claim and closed the case, citing incomplete oil change documentation — despite the defect being documented within warranty. Excessive oil consumption in 2020-2021 Tellurides appears systemic based on numerous owner reports describing the identical pattern: extreme consumption, no dashboard warnings, and eventual engine failure."

Component: ENGINE

"A known Kia Telluride issue arose with the oil filter housing gasket. I came out to find a huge oil leak on my driveway. Not only was the oil really low but it's suspected that it also caused the antifreeze to become low. I had just had the oil change a couple weeks prior so not sure if the technician could have also tightened it too much torque when they tighten the filter cap, causing a crack. It's a known Kia Telluride issue. I was still under 60K warranty but passed the 5 year warranty mark by only 2 months. Since I'd bought my Kia just down the street and faithfully had it serviced there, they service manager tried to be nice and gave me $20 off the $220 bill and told me I should contact Kia since it was a known problem. But when I did they took my case seriously until they learned the dealership gave me $20 off and then proceeded to deny paying for anything. As mentioned, it's a very common issue with this make and model. If I hadn't noticed the oil spot on my driveway, I could have easily driven it until there was no oil (it was already super low) and then had the whole engine blow up. I'm just lucky I park outside and saw it. Now every time I call Kia and try to speak to a supervisor, I go straight to voicemail."

Component: ENGINE

"Driving on the highway when all the lights on the dashboard came on and heard a loud sound. Pulled over and noticed flames coming out. The front part of the car 911 was called. An incident report was made. The flames were out quickly. The car was towed and is at the dealership."

Component: ENGINE

"Engine is consuming excessive amounts of oil between oil changes, causing valve train to produce a metallic clanking noises. Vehicle did not display any type of warning sign on dashboard. Safety concerns if Engine would seize or shut off while driving on freeway/highway becoming a hazard on the road for self and other motorist. Vehicle has been taken to dealership multiple times, dealerships first remedy was replacing the oil filter housing. Dealership claimed oil filter housing was cracked causing oil to leak. Dealership replaced under warranty. Next oil change Dealership advised me again that oil was low in the engine and recommended an oil change and to replace the EGR valve. Service advisor also said to bring the vehicle back after driving it 1000 miles so they can run an oil consumption test. Vehicle was brought back to dealership after the 1000 miles, oil consumption test confirmed engine was consuming more oil than manufacturer allowance and valve train noise did return."

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"Sunroof bracket broke off when opening"

Component: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

"Bought my 2021 kia telluride sx with a cpo warranty with a little over 69,000 miles. at about 73,000 my car began to smoke and the dealership that I bought the vehicle from kept it for the day and sent me on my way with no diagnosis just simply stating they couldnt duplicate the issue and confirming they did NO testing on the vehicle. They stated that they topped the coolant and checked the oil in which my oil was in good level. 2 days later I checked the oil trying to figure out why my car was smoking and my dipstick had NO reading and no signs of oil. I topped the oil and immediately took the car to a different dealership where we began doing 1,000 mile testing on oil consumption and losing 1.5 quarts -- CPO warranty will NOT cover the issue because they stated it is A KIA WIDE ISSUE AND RECALL and even though I dont have specific recall they still refuse to cover. My car has been deemed as needing a motor replacement at 78,000 miles. Kia america DOES NOT stand behind their issues and refuse to help and they have denied the claims that have been made even after being escalated, they also refused to give a denial letter in writting or a reason why it was denied!"

Component: SERVICE BRAKES

"Kia had a safety recall which required a software update to address the potential of the car moving/ rolling away while parked. Kia addressed this by updating the software to automatically set the parking brake when the vehicle is turned off. In the northeast/ rust belt states where there is water/ salt and rust, the brake pads rust and freeze to the rotor. The brakes lock up, physically jerk and cause damage to the braking system when driving away. Owner's manuals normally recommend that the parking brake not be set when under these wet and winter conditions. The brake rotors and pads are being prematurely damaged and may result in sudden failure. This "cheap software fix" needs to be changed and the drivetrain parts/ parking pin should be appropriately repaired on all affected vehicles."

Component: ENGINE

"The checked engine light came on with Code: P219C00. Vehicle was taken to the Kia Perris dealership for maintenance inspection. This happened after the vehicle had to be taken back to dealership for an oil leak post oil change service. The issue has been reported by multiple owners on Reddit. Seems like a manufacturer issue that should be addressed."

Component: STRUCTURE

"The plastic arms of the sunroof deflector assembly broke. Part # - (81690-S8000). Now my sunroof won't close."

Component: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

"On 12/24/25 the vehicle experienced the very same issue, on the highway, with my family in the car, coming from Christmas Eve festivities. The car decelerated and NO cel (check engine light) ever came on. when transporting to dealer, the car began rough idling like it wanted to die, but still no CEL. At this time, I am told there is a need for a new engine but no supporting documents or other diagnostic documentation has been shared with me and KIA at this time is refusing to resolve the issue under the powertrain warranty and the car is still under 80k miles (powertrain is until 100k) Additional Info: on Aug 5, 2025, the vehicle, with no warning lights or CEL present, the vehicle decelerated on the highway, putting me and my family in imminent danger (large truck behind us who narrowly missed hitting us) and after about 10 min the CEL came on. the vehicle would not drive above 45mph. Once the car was stopped, the CEL went off and the vehicle was diagnosed as failed high-pressure fuel pump, OCV harness, and solenoid, along with accompanying lines/gaskets/plugs and seals. After the repairs were done, I reported rattling noise to the dealer within 5 days of picking up the vehicle, when I had to bring it in for an axle joint replacement (aprox 8/12/25)."

Component: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE

"I purchased the 2021 Telluride (former owner of a Sportage, Rio and Sorento). I have our local mechanic handle maintenance and service. After paying $1,400 for a tune up to address misfiring, we quickly concluded the transmission was shot and my engine was burning theough every drop of oil before it was due for a change. I went to Kia of Des Moines, since it is covered under a 200k/20-year warranty. They replaced the transmission under warranty, I shared my mechanic details for records, and they told me they were going to do an oil consumption test. They sent me on my way, asking for me to return after 1,000 miles. I did (and then my car began shaking, but we thought it was due to snow conditions) and they quickly said, "Yes, it is an issue!" My Telluride burned through almost 2.5 quarts of oil in 1,000 miles. I left on 12/15, being told they would have direction from Kia corporate on next steps and acknowledged I need a vehicle loaner during repairs (single disabled mother, who has to travel safely). I did not hear back, chasing for updates. Yesterday, Steven text me saying I would need to authorize $1,600 engine tear down fee in order to confirm issue. I asked for Denny, the manager to contact me. I also called Kia Care, who said it is up to dealer. I am seeing so many issues with Tellurides burning oil. And, I do not have $1,600 to make my vehicle safe - that amount would make me sacrifice my home or another necessity. Google said to fight it and to submit a form to you also. I have to fight this because I have no other choice than to sell an organ. I will stock up on oil to keep filling it so my engine doesn't blow up, but have incredible fear of being stranded and not being able to get my vehicle towed or us home safely. If there is anything you can assist with, I appreciate it. I just found out my parent's 2023 telluride is burning too much oil too - they haven't got the $1,600 sticker, but I know that amount will wreck them also."

Component: SUSPENSION

"Rear shocks unstable. When on rough roads or small imperfections in the road it’s hard to control vehicle and items/people get abruptly jostled. The dealership has been notified but says it’s not a recall and will look at it but can only take pictures and send it off to main office. No warning of this failure."

Component: SEAT BELTS

"The seat belt buckle in the driver position is failing to latch. It has to be pushed in multiple times in a row and very hard to get the seat belt buckle firmly latched. There has also been more than 1 occasion that I have been driving and all of a sudden the seat belt unbuckles and my seat belt not buckled light and dinging goes off. So it seemed it was fully buckled, but was not. This would be horrible if it unbuckled in a crash! This issues has been ongoing for about 2 months."

Component: POWER TRAIN

"The oil filter housing is made of plastic and it cracked causing a major oil leak. There were no warning lights on the dash. Our family had just gotten into the car to visit family for Thanksgiving. I ran back into the house to get something and when I came back I first saw a large puddle of oil where the car was parked then I looked at the car and could see oil streaming out. At first I thought the filter or the oil drain plug had come loose. We had our local mechanic look at it and he said it was a common problem they see with plastic housings instead of metal. We called the closet KIA dealership and they said it was a known problem but KIA has not issued a recall. I searched online and found many complaints. If I had not noticed the leak we could have either had a fire or major damage to the engine."

Component: UNKNOWN OR OTHER

"1) What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The panoramic sunroof assembly — specifically the sunroof panel and its track/mechanism — failed. The sunroof panel came off its track and damaged related components (e.g., guide rails/wind deflector arms). The damaged sunroof and broken parts are available for inspection upon request. 2) How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The sunroof panel dislodged unexpectedly during normal use. This could have caused objects or glass to fall into the cabin or onto the roadway, presenting a risk of injury to occupants or other road users. Sudden failure of the sunroof mechanism also poses a distraction while driving. 3) Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes. The dealership/service center inspected the vehicle and confirmed the sunroof panel was off its track and broken. (If the dealer refused to acknowledge it as a defect, state: “The dealership inspected the failure but did not classify it as a warranty defect.”) 4) Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle/sunroof was inspected by an authorized Kia dealership service department. (If applicable: “Insurance representatives were not involved.” / “Kia corporate has not inspected the vehicle.”) 5) 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 lamps or dashboard messages prior to the sunroof failure. There were no abnormal noises or operational symptoms immediately before the sunroof panel disengaged from its track."

Component: ENGINE

"First there are holes in the block from a rod bearing coming off. It was leaking oil and started on fire. There are many recalls and law suits regarding this matter and we shouldn’t be on the hook for putting a new engine in."