EngineRecall 21V-259 · Kia vehicles
Kia Motors America recall 21V-259 covers 147,249 Kia vehicles for a engine problem, reported to NHTSA on April 13, 2021. The manufacturer's latest report (2023 Q1) shows 82% of affected vehicles repaired.
Source: NHTSA recall 21V259000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The 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.
The 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.
The 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.
Owners 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.safercar.gov.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
How fast cars are being fixed
82%repaired
Share of affected vehicles repaired in each quarterly report the manufacturer filed with NHTSA. 10,150 vehicles were listed as unreachable.