A recall for close to 150,000 vehicles manufactured by Korean-born automaker, Kia, has recently been issued amidst concerns of a potential defect that could result in a fire or accident.
Recall issued for Kia Soul and Kia Seltos models due to possible defects
Kia Soul and Kia Seltos vehicles with model year 2021 to 2023 are currently being recalled according to a recent announcement released by federal highway safety officials. A total of 137,256 of the Soul and Seltos models are being recalled after a potential defect that poses a fire risk or an auto accident risk was picked up.
On February 17, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sent out a recall notice for the Kia Soul and Seltos vehicle models citing “manufacturing errors in the engine’s piston oil ring of certain vehicles could damage the cylinder wall over time, potentially leading to engine problems, vehicle stalling or even a fire” as the reason.
Lubrication and oil control is managed by the piston oil ring in the vehicle which is why officials are concerned that this defect could result in excessive oil consumption. A vehicle cannot operate in this manner for very long and if the problem persists, it could result in the vehicle seizing. In the best case scenario, engine seizure or damage of this nature could cause a loss of power. However, increased oil consumption could lead to a potential fire if the oil leaks onto the exhaust, the outcome of which could even be life-threatening to the driver and their passengers.
As such, Kia is urging drivers in possession of the Soul and Seltos models to monitor the oil levels in their vehicles. Drivers need to keep an eye out for “increased oil consumption, abnormal engine noise and illumination of the oil pressure warning lamp,” as these are all factors that indicate a potential problem with the engine.
A breakdown of the recall
The issue first gained attention around September 27, 2024 after the automaker’s Safety Office notice an irregular abundance of engine replacement claims during the routine warranty data review. As a result, an investigation into the affected engines was launched between October and December of 2024 which revealed a quality issue with the piston oil ring. The suspected root of the issue was determined to be the placement of the piston oil ring by the supplier.
Subsequently, a voluntary recall notice was sent out on February 10 with the company “citing more than 400 reported incidents of vehicles stalling while driving and four potential fires related to the issue.”
At present, there have been no reported incidents of crashes or injuries related to the defect but as stated previously, drivers are urged to monitor the oil consumption in their vehicles daily until they are able to schedule an inspection.
On April 4, 2025, customers will begin receiving notification letters from Kia. The company is offering free inspections and engine replacements if necessary and the notification letter will provide customers with the necessary steps to take to schedule a booking.
Additionally, if a driver of either the Soul or Seltos had previously sent their vehicle in for this kind of repair at their own personal expense, prior to the recall notices being sent out, they should immediately notify the company as they are eligible for a reimbursement.
Who to contact
According to the recall notice Kia’s number for this recall is SC336. Customers can contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542, or the company’s contact for this recall, Emily C. Smith, via email at [email protected].
Impacted drivers with any additional questions may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.