2024 Kia Seltos

45 complaints on file, page 1 of 3.

1. Filed Sep 16, 2026Failure Jul 13, 2026Jackson, OHEngine, Power train

   Exhaust starting putting out white smoke and loss of power on accelerator while speeding up. Normally when merging onto highway or taking off after stop. Assumed head gasket with coolant in oil. Took to get oil change, milky/sludgy oil to back up that thought. No coolant in reservoir. Took to dealership, they claim lack of maintenance despite all maintenance records. They will not report records to kia corporate leading to denied warranty. Will not provide testing results. Claimed piston rings were destroyed. Would not give explanation for loss of coolant. Will not speed up going onto highway and continues to put out white smoke. No lights on vehicle.

   NHTSA complaint 11764688
2. Filed Sep 10, 2026Failure Sep 9, 2026Dover, DEEngine, Fuel/propulsion system

   The vehicle has experienced two separate episodes of severe engine/propulsion malfunction approximately two months apart. During the first incident, the vehicle began shaking and idling roughly and had very little acceleration. Pressing the accelerator caused the engine to rev, but the vehicle would barely move. A diagnostic scan performed afterward showed DTC P0171 (System Too Lean), but the code was subsequently cleared. The vehicle later returned to normal operation and a Kia dealer was unable to reproduce the condition. During the most recent incident, the vehicle again began idling very roughly and then stalled while being driven. The engine was restarted but stalled again. After another restart, shifting the vehicle into Drive caused the engine to stall again. A tractor-trailer was traveling behind the vehicle during the incident, creating a serious risk of a rear-end collision. The truck driver was able to recognize that the vehicle was having a problem and avoided a collision. There were no warning lights or messages on the instrument panel during the most recent incident. The vehicle is currently at a Kia dealership for inspection. The dealer has not identified the cause and is retaining and road-testing the vehicle in an attempt to reproduce the intermittent failure. The vehicle is available for inspection. Two incidents in less than two months.

   NHTSA complaint 11763361
3. Filed Sep 3, 2026Failure Sep 3, 2026Coral springs, FLEngine, Fuel/propulsion system, Power train

   I need to open a formal safety and warranty complaint regarding my 2024 Kia Seltos. I originally reported an acceleration problem to the dealership when the vehicle was purchased and they said they couldn’t duplicate the issue but they did not resolve it.The vehicle shuts off while I was driving, and afterward would not accelerate beyond approximately 15 mph. I believe the vehicle is unsafe to drive, and I want this documented as an unresolved recurring defect. I did make complaints to Rick case Kia of sunrise and at the time took it back up there three times in the month I purchased it. I’ve been dealing with this randomly since I got the car it shuts off while in motion.

   NHTSA complaint 11761787
4. Filed Jul 27, 2026Failure Jul 23, 2026Los Angeles, CAElectrical system

   My 2024 Kia Seltos (leased, approximately 19,800 miles) received an over-the-air (OTA) software update on [07/03/2026]. The vehicle's screen prompted me to approve the update and stated it would complete with the ignition off. I approved it and exited the vehicle as instructed by Kia's on-screen directions and owner's manual. Immediately after this update, the vehicle developed an intermittent no-start condition, and the 12V battery went completely flat, accompanied by an ESC (Electronic Stability Control) warning. The vehicle had no electrical or starting problems of any kind before the update. The vehicle was disabled and could not be started without a jump start, which is a safety concern — this could strand a driver in an unsafe location or in extreme weather. The dealer (Car Pros Kia Glendale, RO #531279, dated 07/25/2026) performed a full system scan, found no DTCs, and confirmed the 12V battery failed testing. The dealer's repair order documents the customer complaint as "intermittent no start condition and battery went completely flat after the software update." The battery was replaced at my expense. The vehicle's software version after the update was NNK-02-0118 (previous resident version NNK-02-0108). Kia America has acknowledged partial responsibility by approving a 50% goodwill reimbursement. I am reporting this because a manufacturer-initiated OTA update that discharges the battery and disables the vehicle is a safety defect that may affect other vehicles.

   NHTSA complaint 11753039
5. Filed Jun 17, 2026Failure May 9, 2026Chandler, AZBody, Unknown or other, WheelsCrash

   While driving, the vehicle suddenly began handling abnormally. In response, we safely pulled over as quickly as possible. Before we could fully stop, the wheel catastrophically failed. The rim cracked around the entire circumference, the tire completely separated from the vehicle, and the vehicle lost stability and struck the guardrail. As a result of this incident, the vehicle sustained substantial damage, including but not limited to: •Complete destruction of the wheel/rim; •Tire separation; •Axle and suspension damage; •Body damage to the driver-side front and rear panels; and •Additional mechanical damage that is still being assessed. Photographs taken immediately after the incident clearly show that the wheel fractured around the rim itself. The damage pattern is consistent with a catastrophic wheel failure, not ordinary cosmetic damage or curb rash. When I initially contacted the Kia dealership, I was told that they had "never seen anything like it." However, after the vehicle was towed to the dealership, the explanation changed, and I was informed that Kia now believes the vehicle must have struck something and that the impact caused the wheel to fail. That explanation is inconsistent with what occurred. At no point prior to the failure did we strike debris, a pothole, a curb, or any other object that would reasonably explain a complete structural fracture of the wheel and the tire separating from the vehicle. The wheel failed first. The collision with the guardrail occurred only after the catastrophic wheel failure and loss of control while attempting to safely pull over.

   NHTSA complaint 11744857
6. Filed Jun 11, 2026Failure Nov 10, 2025Crestwood, ILEngine, Fuel/propulsion system, Power train

   Since November 2025, this vehicle has experienced repeated loss of power, severe shaking during acceleration, jerking between gear shifts, abnormal humming/grinding noises, and multiple check engine light events. The condition is most noticeable between approximately 40-70 mph and has repeatedly occurred while driving on highways. On multiple occasions, the vehicle struggled to accelerate properly and would not respond normally to throttle input. During one occurrence, the vehicle had difficulty accelerating beyond approximately 55 mph while on the expressway. The shaking became severe enough that I feared mechanical failure could occur while driving. I was forced to pull off to the shoulder of the highway because I no longer felt it was safe. The inability to maintain speed and accelerate normally created a safety risk for both myself and surrounding traffic. The vehicle has been returned to the dealership six times for the same recurring issue. Repairs have included replacement of the ECU, catalytic converter, ignition components, fuel injectors, and other engine related components. Despite these repairs, the problem continues to return. The condition has been repoduced and documented by the dealership, and a manufacturer field technician was involved in the most recent diagnosis process. Most recently, after the vehicle was inspected and believed to be repaired, the check engine light illuminated again while the service manager was moving my vehicle to be washed inside of their garage, as I waited (today, June 11th 2026). The recurring loss of power, repeated check engine light events, and inability to permanently correct the defect raise significant safety concerns while operating the vehicle. I have all documentation in my notes, as well as the dealership repair documents.

   NHTSA complaint 11743542
7. Filed May 6, 2026Failure Jan 24, 2026Saint Clair Shores, MIElectrical system

   Under extremely cold temperatures, approx 10° the main display does not work. The MPH & other vehicle information will not display. KIA service requires the vehicle to be brought to the facility while condition exists in order to troubleshoot, however once the vehicle warms up, the non functioning display begins to operate normally and the problem does not exist. Speaking with the service advisor and service manager in charge, they are aware of the problem and know of other vehicles with this display problem.

   NHTSA complaint 11735970
8. Filed Feb 15, 2026Failure Feb 10, 2026Seminary, MSUnknown or other

   Came out of work to a cracked windshield. There was no crack in my windshield prior to this. The crack spans across half of the windshield requiring a full replacement which is going to come completely out of pocket for me because I had a $1000 deductible. Had I known this was such a common issue with this year make and model, I would’ve opted for the $0 glass deductible. As many others have reported and stated, this was never an issue I’ve had with any other vehicle I’ve owned. It is clearly a manufacturing defect and SHOULD be covered by Kia. I’ve had this car for 7 months.

   NHTSA complaint 11718087
9. Filed Feb 12, 2026Failure Feb 6, 2026Euclid, OHElectrical system, Wheels

   While driving in traffic, my 2024 Kia Seltos suddenly shut down without warning again. I lost propulsion while the vehicle was in motion with passengers inside, creating an immediate safety hazard. The issue appears electrical or powertrain-related. This occurred during normal operation and could result in a serious crash. My vehicle shutting down in active traffic with passengers is unacceptable, and there is no recall remedy in place to correct this hazard. I am requesting a manufacturer-level resolution under Ohio Lemon Law and the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act.

   NHTSA complaint 11717634
10. Filed Feb 2, 2026Failure Dec 9, 2024Lebanon, TNElectrical system, Exterior lighting

    The dashboard goes completely black and will not work when it is really cold outside. This is a dangerous problem because I cannot see my speedometer, how much gas I have in my car, or the engine temperature. I have been to the Kia dealership 3 or 4 times for this problem and have them report it to Kia. They always tell me that they cannot replicate the problem so they cannot fix it. I have video evidence of this happening and have showed it to the dealership. This has happened now for 2 winters. There have been no warning messages or anything before this happens.

    NHTSA complaint 11714925
11. Filed Feb 1, 2026Failure Jan 11, 2024jefferson, OHElectrical system

    When the temperature is around zero my dashboard will not come on. I have been to the dealership 5 times for this issue. It takes me an hour to get to the dealership and by the time I get there it comes on. Dealership (Ken Ganley) states they can’t find the problem if it’s on. This is total bullshit, they know they have an issue and can fix it. Bought the car brand new. I believe it’s a safety hazard when I have no speedometer, gas guage or indicator lights. This has been going on since I purchased the vehicle in July 2024.

    NHTSA complaint 11714763
12. Filed Jan 27, 2026Failure Jan 25, 2026Klamath Falls, ORWarnings, Assist, SteeringCrash1 injured

    During the incident in question, the vehicle’s lane‑assist system malfunctioned in a manner I have never previously experienced. As I approached an area with multiple lane markings, the system appeared to become confused—possibly due to low‑light conditions—and abruptly pulled the steering wheel with significant force. This deviation was severe enough that I temporarily lost control, causing the vehicle to drift toward the left-side ditch. When the steering suddenly released and became limp, I attempted to correct the trajectory, but the response window was too narrow to avoid impact. The vehicle struck a wooden signpost, resulting in damage to the right headlight assembly and the complete detachment of the right fog light. No lane‑departure warnings were issued at any point. Under normal circumstances, the vehicle provides audible alerts regardless of whether lane assist is active, and I am familiar with the areas where such alerts typically occur. Additionally, the forward‑collision warning system failed to activate, despite its usual tendency to trigger even in non‑hazard situations. This inconsistency has been present since I acquired the vehicle. Prior to this event, I had also been experiencing intermittent electrical issues. I attempted to seek service at the nearest Kia dealership; however, reaching it requires traveling through a national forest during winter conditions, which is unsafe unless absolutely necessary. I attempted to file an incident report with local law enforcement, but was informed that a report could only be taken if another motor vehicle was involved. I then attempted to file a report with the DMV, but the online system requires an Oregon‑issued driver’s license. I currently hold a valid Oklahoma license and have been unable to update it due to financial constraints and an anticipated move later this year. I have experienced neck pain between my shoulders since the incident.

    NHTSA complaint 11713766
13. Filed Jan 12, 2026Failure Jan 11, 2026Ocilla, GAElectrical system

    When the stop and go feature re-enables the engine to go. Causes all clusters/ infotainment to shut off and reset. It remain black for a 10-15 seconds

    NHTSA complaint 11710459
14. Filed Dec 22, 2025Failure Nov 15, 2025Hayward, CAElectrical system, Power train

    Electrical control unit car just shuts off in drive completely goes black no matter what within seconds even on freeway going 70 mph car tune off loss of control then starts back up very dangerous

    NHTSA complaint 11706681
15. Filed Dec 1, 2025Failure Nov 25, 2025Massillon, OHUnknown or other

    When pressing the horn on the steering wheel of my 2024 Kia Seltos SX Turbo AWD during an emergency no sound was heard. Horn is silent. Fuse is not blown and it appears likely the horn is defective.

    NHTSA complaint 11702358
16. Filed Nov 16, 2025Failure Nov 6, 2025Hurt, VASeats

    Driver side seat stays warm all the time I tried removing both seat heater fuses and in plugged the seat warmer plugs but the back seat rest still stay warm

    NHTSA complaint 11699697
17. Filed Oct 29, 2025Failure Oct 10, 2025Cypress, TXElectrical system, Engine and engine cooling, Windshield

    See attached document for complaint.

    NHTSA complaint 11696416
18. Filed Oct 14, 2025Failure Sep 6, 2024Weidman, MIEngine

    I bought this Kia with 25 miles on it and I had all oil changes done and then at 33,000 miles the engine seized and Kia refused to honor my 100,000 mile warranty. The dealership told me that the spark plugs melted causing the issue and that it definitely wasn’t an oil issue. Kia still refused to honor the warranty. I only owned the car from June 2023 to September 2024 I want them to pay the remaining balance since I had to give it back to the bank for them to only be able to sell it for 8000.00 dollars. I will never deal with Kia ever again but they need to do the right thing by paying the remaining balance for something they refused to take accountability for. I contacted the lemon law attorney office for the state of Michigan and they wanted to help me but couldn’t because Kia refused to give me any vehicle repair invoice or anything documentation on the vehicle while it was in their care. I tried hard to find a lawyer to help me with my case but I couldn’t find one that does these particular cases.

    NHTSA complaint 11693492
19. Filed Sep 29, 2025Failure Sep 23, 2025Kissimmee, FLUnknown or other

    Rear window shattered due to heat

    NHTSA complaint 11690242
20. Filed Sep 22, 2025Failure Aug 31, 2023Queens, NYUnknown or other

    My car smells like fire since day 1 of purchase. When driving the smell gets so bad I think the car will go on fire. Not sure if it’s faulty electrical or something else. I have read many reviews and too many people have experienced the same thing. What is going on? Other Kia Seltos models have caught fire. Why hasn’t this been addressed. This is a matter of safety. Why do I smell smoke or fire when driving?

    NHTSA complaint 11688806