Why Are Kia Soul and Seltos Owners Worried About Their Engines?
If you drive a 2021-2023 Kia Soul or Seltos with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, you’ve probably heard the buzz—and not the good kind. In late 2024, Kia flagged a problem with piston oil rings that, if left unchecked, could spell disaster for your engine. We’re talking cylinder wall damage, excessive oil burning, and, in the worst cases, total engine failure. Not exactly what you want to hear about your daily ride.
Kia’s response? A recall covering more than 137,000 vehicles. Dealerships were told to inspect engines and swap them out if needed. But here’s where things get sticky: the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has now stepped in, questioning whether Kia’s fix is actually doing the trick. Since the recall, the NHTSA has reviewed 47 complaints from owners who say the repairs haven’t solved the problem—or, in some cases, haven’t even been completed because of part shortages or inconsistent inspections.
What’s the Real Issue With the Engine Defect?
Let’s break it down. The heart of the problem is the piston oil rings. If these are manufactured incorrectly, they can let oil slip past and burn up inside the engine. Over time, this leads to scoring on the cylinder walls and, eventually, engine stalling or seizing. It’s not just a theory—Kia documented over 400 incidents of engine stalling and even four engine fires before the recall was announced.
Imagine driving on the highway and suddenly losing power. That’s not just inconvenient; it’s downright dangerous. And with the NHTSA now auditing Kia’s recall process, it’s clear this isn’t just a handful of isolated cases.
How Effective Has Kia’s Recall Really Been?
This is the million-dollar question. According to the NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation, many owners are still experiencing issues after the recall repair. Some say their engines weren’t replaced even though they had symptoms. Others report delays because dealerships didn’t have the necessary parts. There’s also concern about how consistently the inspections are being performed—are all dealerships following the same playbook, or is it a bit of a free-for-all?
The NHTSA’s audit query is designed to get to the bottom of this. If they find Kia’s fix isn’t up to snuff, the automaker could be forced to issue a new recall or expand the current one. It’s a developing story, and owners are understandably anxious.
What Should Kia Owners Do Right Now?
If you own a 2021-2023 Soul or Seltos, don’t wait for the next headline. Check your VIN on the official NHTSA recall website to see if your car is affected. If you’ve already had the recall work done but are still noticing engine trouble—like knocking sounds, excessive oil consumption, or warning lights—document everything. Keep records of your dealership visits and any communication with Kia.
It’s also smart to report ongoing problems directly to the NHTSA. The more data they have, the better they can push for a solution that actually works. And if you’re stuck waiting for parts or answers, don’t be shy about contacting Kia’s customer service line for updates. Persistence pays off.
How Does This Recall Compare to Other Recent Automotive Issues?
Engine recalls aren’t new, but the scale and persistence of this one stand out. According to industry data, engine-related recalls have been on the rise across multiple brands, often tied to manufacturing shortcuts or supply chain hiccups. What’s unique here is the rapid escalation from initial warranty claims to a full-blown federal investigation.
Other automakers have faced similar scrutiny, but the NHTSA’s willingness to launch an audit query signals just how seriously they’re taking owner complaints. It’s a reminder that recalls aren’t a one-and-done fix—they require ongoing oversight and, sometimes, a second (or third) look.
What’s Next for Kia and Its Customers?
Until the NHTSA wraps up its investigation, there’s a bit of a waiting game. Kia may be required to expand the recall or improve its repair process if the audit finds gaps. In the meantime, owners should stay proactive—monitor for symptoms, keep up with oil changes, and don’t ignore warning lights.
The big takeaway? Car safety isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, whether it’s scheduling a recall check or keeping better records, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Sometimes, a little vigilance goes a long way.