KIA has issued a major recall for over 137,000 SUVS due to a serious engine flaw that could cause stalling, engine failure, and fire risks. This Kia recall affects Kia Soul and Seltos models manufactured in 2021,2022, and 2023 and equipped with the 2.0L Nu MPI engine. According to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the models with this naturally aspirated engine have defective piston rings that fail to meet the automaker’s quality standards.
While the recall provides free inspections and potential engine replacements, some owners may be left out and therefore fail to qualify for immediate repairs. This raises concerns about their long-term reliability and repair costs.
The Cause of the Problem
The issue with the 2.0L Nu MP engine stems from poorly manufactured piston oil rings which fail to provide a proper seal inside the engine. Over time, issues such as excessive oil consumption, abnormal engine noise, smoke from the exhaust, engine failure or seizure, oil pressure warning light activation, and risk of fire if oil leaks onto hot components are experienced.
So far, Kia has received over 400 reports related to this defect including four confirmed engine fires.
Kia Models Affected
This recall affects the 2021-2023 Kia Soul and Seltos models that use the 2.0 L Nu MPI engine. However, Kia estimates that only about 1% of the recalled vehicles have the defect but it is necessary to have all 137,000 units inspected.
If you are not sure whether your vehicle is one of the affected, you can;
- Check your VIN on Kia’s recall website
- Call Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542
- Contact the NHTSA vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236
- Wait for Kia’s official recall letter, expected in April 2025
Kia’s Plans to Fix the Issue
To fix this issue, Kia has outlined two main solutions. The first is to do engine inspection and replacement where dealers will inspect affected vehicles for signs of piston ring failure. If damage is found, Kia will replace the entire engine at no extra cost.
The second solution is to install software updates for early detection. This software called a Piston-ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) will be installed by dealers to monitor for abnormal engine noise which is an early sign of piston ring failure. If the PNSS detects a defect, Kia will authorize an engine replacement.
Why Some Kia Owners Might be Left Out
Although this is a necessary recall, not all affected vehicles will automatically qualify for engine replacement or repairs. Some may be left out if they do not show signs of excessive consumption, engine noise, or warning lights. Vehicles which had undergone engine work or modifications will also be left out. Lastly, vehicles that had skipped oil changes or those that lack maintenance records will miss out. This is because engine problems might be attributed to poor servicing and maintenance.
Kia Engine Issues Experienced in the Past
Kia has had multiple engine-related recalls in recent years with the Thera II and Gamma Engines. Although the 2.0L Nu MPI engine is not famous, this latest call highlights a concern about Kia’s quality control and engine durability.
What Kia Owners Should Do
If you own a 2021-2023 Kia Soul or Seltos with a 2.0L engine, you should:
- Check your recall status using your VIN on Kia’s recall website.
- Watch for symptoms like oil loss, engine knocking, or smoke, and report them immediately.
- Schedule an inspection with a Kia dealership once recall repairs begin.
- Keep detailed service records to ensure your warranty remains valid if issues arise later.