2021 Kia Telluride

365 complaints on file, page 1 of 19.

1. Filed Sep 24, 2026Failure Sep 24, 2026Wayne, MIEngine

   Unfortunately, beginning in June 2025, I experienced a serious engine problem. While driving, the vehicle began sputtering and stalled twice in traffic. I immediately brought it to the dealer, where I was told the engine had no oil, despite no prior warning of abnormal oil loss (no engine warning lights and no leaks). The service department added oil and initiated an Oil Consumption test. On October 4, 2025, the same problem occurred again. While driving, the Telluride began sputtering again, and the dealer again determined that the engine had no oil. I was charged for another oil change and instructed to complete another Oil Consumption test. During this process, the maintenance supervisor acknowledged that excessive oil consumption was a known and serious issue affecting Kia Tellurides and other models, and explained that engine replacement was the appropriate solution. I also observed another Telluride at the dealership undergoing the same type of engine repair. After completing the required testing, the dealer ultimately installed a rebuilt engine in my vehicle to address the excessive oil consumption problem with the original engine. I am now back in the same situation. On September 8, 2026, less than one year after the rebuilt engine was installed, my Telluride once again began sputtering while I was driving. I brought the vehicle to back to the dealer on on September 9, 2026. The service personnel again told me there was no oil in the vehicle, despite it being well within its recommended oil-change interval. More importantly, I was informed that the rebuilt engine currently installed in my vehicle is suspected of having the same excessive oil-consumption problem as the original engine. After following the instructions on yet another engine recheck and Oil Consumption test, I 've been told that the engine is burning oil at an exponential rate.

   NHTSA complaint 11766606
2. Filed Sep 21, 2026Failure Sep 11, 2026South Salem, OHEngine, Power train

   I purchased my 2021 Kia Telluride S new, with only 22 miles from the test drive. XXX (approx. 53,000 miles, vehicle age 18 months): The transmission failed while I was traveling approx. 75-80 mph on a major highway in [XXX]. Upon failure, the vehicle suddenly lurched as if the brakes had locked or the parking brake had been applied, nearly causing us to strike our heads on the dashboard and creating a hazardous situation for other traffic. After the failure, the vehicle would only operate in approx. first through third gears and reverse, and would not exceed 25 mph. We were forced to limp the vehicle off a busy six-lane highway. XXX: Due to parts delays, the vehicle was not returned until November 2022 after the transmission work. XXX (approx. four months later): The vehicle developed engine knock and excessive oil consumption. Advised this may have been related to oil degradation while the vehicle sat waiting for parts. Since then, I had to regularly check and add oil between oil changes. Despite low oil levels, no oil pressure warning light ever appeared. XXX (exact date unknown): While opening the sunroof at a stop, a loud crack occurred and pieces of the sunroof track, plastic and metal, fell onto me and my passenger. The glass is intact but became partially stuck open without the track to guide it. XXX: The engine knock worsened and became a squeal while driving approx. 60 mph. The vehicle lost power, requiring me to turn on hazards and coast off to avoid accident. Dealership mechanic advised that the engine had thrown a rod and blown the oil filter housing gasket. The vehicle is currently at the dealership and available for inspection. Kia has denied coverage despite the failure of a component linked to excessive oil loss and a recently extended 180,000-mile warranty, even after the engine threw a rod following a sudden loss of oil pressure. The failed transmission has likely already been disposed of. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

   NHTSA complaint 11765954
3. Filed Sep 19, 2026Failure Aug 24, 2026Winterville, GAVisibility/wiper

   The sunroof on vehicle is not able to open/close correctly due to track/clips broken. Vehicle was purchased used January 2023. The sunroof has been used less than 5 times during this period. I spoke to a service advisor at the local dealership, Bulldog Kia of Athens , Ga. He confirmed that there is a continual issue with this and that He advises customers to NOT use the sunroof after 60,000 miles. With further research, Kia is aware of this issue and has yet to offer a solution. The cost to repair is $6000.00 for a new sunroof. There is a kit that could be used by dealers to repair.

   NHTSA complaint 11765569
4. Filed Sep 17, 2026Failure Aug 4, 2026Fernandina Beach, FLWarnings

   I have owned this vehicle since new. This vehicle has never had an accident. In the last 3 months the FCAS started sending messages to the dashboard without a vehicle in front, in clear blue skies and the radar element in front is clean. The message lasts 2-3 minutes and disappears. Went to Kia Service At Greenway Kia at the Avenues in Jacksonville, FL. The first time they said no errors codes popped up. They said it it happens again, bring it back. It kept on the same and I went back. No resolution. Then I sent and email to Kia Customer Service and after two weeks called them and the rep stated she found the email. She said take it to Kia Service which I did. Still the issue is unresolved. Made a second call to Kia Customer Service and spoke to another rep and she sent me to an agent "higher up?". He said that he will let the Kia dealership know. I was under the impression he would call them with the "fix". No luck. Why have they not changed the radar element in front? Money? I have driven vehicles for 62 years and never needed FACS. I guess car manufacturers installed this to deal with the current drivers paying attention to their social media accounts instead of driving. There is Kia Telluride Thread I found and several others describe the same issue. All report no solutions. Perhaps a recall only for those vehicles that have this problem. Respectfully,

   NHTSA complaint 11765011
5. Filed Sep 17, 2026Failure Apr 23, 2026APO, NYElectrical system, Seats

   My wife and I purchased a 2021 Kia Telluride brand new a few years ago when we lived in [XXX]. We are currently active duty USAF and brought our KIA Telluride with us here, while stationed in [XXX]. The vehicle is currently under two recalls SC316R and SC374 and is a fire risk. Under these types of recalls, vehicle shipping companies will not transport vehicles on their boats. We know this because we had to have two recalls (SC247F and SC243B) completed before we could have our vehicle shipped from the [XXX] to [XXX]. I am looking for assistance on how to have recalls and warranty service during our assignment here in [XXX]. We've reached out to Kia, opened 3 customer service cases, and have talked to them shortly to try to setup a repair. Then Kia stops communicating and ignores our calls and emails. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

   NHTSA complaint 11764881
6. Filed Sep 15, 2026Failure May 25, 2026Norwalk, CTElectrical system

   The problem first occurred at the end of May 2026. The digital instrument cluster completely stopped working while driving, cutting off all FMVSS 101 compliance indicators including the speedometer, fuel gauge, engine temperature, and RPMs. This problem has persisted on and off since May 2026. This is a huge safety concern because I am unable to determine my vehicle speed, etc. while driving. The issue occurs without warning and completely affects my ability to safely operate the vehicle. I took it to the Kia Stamford, CT dealer on June 5th and they were unable to replicate the problem saying when they turned the car on the instrument cluster was functioning normally. They said they "hard reset" it at that time. The very same day after leaving the dealership, the problem occurred again and has occurred intermittently ever since

   NHTSA complaint 11764554
7. Filed Sep 14, 2026Failure Sep 14, 2026Spring Valley, MNVisibility/wiper

   Every time the wiper blades are in intermittent mode they randomly stop at various spots on the windshield. I have to switch to low or high or turn them off completely for the motor to engage and work again.

   NHTSA complaint 11764208
8. Filed Sep 9, 2026Failure Aug 5, 2026seattle, WAUnknown or other

   Spontaneous shatter of sunroof. Danger to myself, passengers in the car, and others on the road. Insurance claim complete and the sunroof is now replaced/repaired No warning signs, no impacts prior or at the time of shattering. Glass puckered up as if pressure from the car caused the shatter rather than something external to the car.

   NHTSA complaint 11762949
9. Filed Sep 8, 2026Failure Aug 24, 2026Independence, IAEngine

   My 2021 Kia Telluride has developed progressively worsening engine problems without any warning lights ever appearing that may present a serious safety concern. Approximately two months ago, the vehicle began experiencing significant engine shaking and rocking. Maintenance and repairs were performed, and the symptoms temporarily improved. The engine symptoms later returned. The vehicle began making a noticeable ticking noise that progressively became much louder and occurred both while idling and during acceleration. The vehicle subsequently shut off after being driven to an independent mechanic. Multiple warning/diagnostic alerts appeared, and the vehicle would not remain running when restarted. The mechanic checked the engine oil and found it essentially empty. Approximately 4½ quarts of oil were added. The ticking noise continued despite the addition of oil. Later that same day, the engine developed a pronounced knocking noise that continued while driving. There was also a hot smell, and I had noticed discolored smoke coming from the exhaust. The vehicle is currently parked and is available for inspection. I have stopped driving it because I am concerned about an engine failure and the possibility of the vehicle shutting off or losing power while being operated. The vehicle has been maintained and I have documentation of its maintenance and repair history. The underlying cause of the severe oil loss and engine symptoms has not been determined.

   NHTSA complaint 11762904
10. Filed Sep 6, 2026Failure Jul 18, 2026Marietta, GAUnknown or other

    I opened my sunroof to let the heat out as we were getting back in after seeing a movie and the track popped and the sunroof glass was not broken, but not able to close because of the track. Kia dealership claimed not a warranty item and $7,000 to have fixed since it was the track that was faulty. Full mechanism needs replacing. Charged $250 for the diagnostic review and disabled the use of sunroof and moon roof until I pay to have the whole thing fixed. We were not driving when this happened. We were parked in a parking lot.

    NHTSA complaint 11762432
11. Filed Sep 4, 2026Failure Jun 2, 2025Athol, MAAutomatic emergency braking, Body, Unknown or other

    After having a recall, performed on the emergency parking brake it would engage while parked, but when trying to put it in drive or reverse, it would not disengage this began happening approximately two weeks to one month after the recall was performed. It isn’t happening constantly, but it does happen often. On occasion, while driving, it will engage and pull the car to the side nearly pulling me off the road. After looking for other instances of this online, I came across a post that stated it happens to their car, but only when it was over a certain temperature. After watching more closely, I had figured out that it only happens above 70°F and it would only happen occasionally it was not every time it was above this . I have also brought it to the repair shop and they have no idea is what is causing it. I have found other postings about people having this issue with their Telluride same year. It is still occurring now and they are unsure of why or what is the cause.

    NHTSA complaint 11762168
12. Filed Sep 2, 2026Failure Jun 13, 2026Denver, COUnknown or other

    After receiving a Kia‑issued transmission control module (TCM) software update, my 2021 Kia Telluride experienced a severe and dangerous transmission malfunction while descending a high mountain pass in Colorado. When I attempted to downshift for engine braking, 3rd gear completely disengaged, causing the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably downhill. None of the lower gears would engage or hold as they had prior to the software update. This forced me to slam on the brakes and ride them continuously down the mountain, creating a serious loss‑of‑control hazard and risk of brake failure. Downshifting is essential for safe descent on steep grades, and the vehicle’s inability to do so created an extremely dangerous situation. The issue was duplicated by the Kia dealership technicians, and Kia field engineers have confirmed awareness of the problem. Despite this, Kia Corporate refuses to authorize transmission replacement or reversal of the software update, leaving the vehicle in an unsafe condition. This is a critical safety defect involving gear disengagement, loss of engine braking, unintended acceleration, and brake‑dependent descent control. The vehicle is unsafe to operate on mountain roads, and Kia has declined to perform the necessary repairs.

    NHTSA complaint 11761741
13. Filed Aug 29, 2026Failure Aug 28, 2026Lakeland, FLSeats

    I had recall 26V430000 service performed at: Regal Kia [XXX] After the work was performed, both front power seats were inoperative. I was never informed by the service rep that the power seats were inoperative. I received a text of the multi-point inspection which included a quote for $546.87 for both front seat power switches. Never had the service rep discuss this with me while I was at Regal Kia, but reviewing my invoice at home I saw where the technician stated the power seats were inoperative after performing the recall SC374 service. The technician stated after following the applicable TSB for the recall they recommend replacement of both power seat switches at a cost of of $546.87 which Regal Kia wanted me to pay. It appears the TSB maybe doesn’t resolve the issue or perhaps a technician error during installation. I contacted Kia Customer Care ([XXX]) to see if I could have a local repair shop review the repair. They said only a dealership could do recall repairs. They recommended the next closest dealership in [XXX], but it is a one hour drive for me. They assigned case XXX and said they would contact Regal Kia and someone would call me back. I received no return call. I share the vehicle with my wife and she is now unable to adjust the driver seat to a comfortable and safe position. Why I was never informed prior to leaving Regal Kia is unacceptable as seat position is very important while driving. As both fronts seats were operative prior to the recall work, I don’t believe I should be responsible for the cost of new switches. As my power seats no longer work, I do not believe Regal Kia resolved the recall 26V430000 issue without cost to me. I would like to formally file a complaint against Regal KIA for not correcting the recall issue without cost to vehicle owner. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11760550
14. Filed Aug 29, 2026Failure Aug 2, 2026Clermont, FLSuspension

    Constant failure of the rear self leveling shocks there is tsb on the issue but manufacturer will only replace first set of shocks which causes the owner to pay every 20k plus miles for new rear shocks

    NHTSA complaint 11760537
15. Filed Aug 26, 2026Failure Jun 24, 2026Westminster, MDBody

    Vehicle sunroof came off track on July 22, 2025. Possibly by the fault of the customer. Customer sought repair. Authorized Kia dealer recommended complete replacement of sunroof. On August 29, 2025, Customer paid authorized Kia dealer to replace sunroof with official Kia parts. On June 25, 2026, sunroof broke again through no fault of the customer. Wind deflector arms broke, got stuck open, and caused the glass to go off-track, rendering the sunroof inoperable and completely ruined. Took the vehicle to the same Kia dealer that repaired the sunroof originally. Even though the vehicle was within the 12 month warranty, it was over the 12,000 mile warranty, and Kia would not fix the sunroof. We opened a complaint with Kia Customer Care, and they did not resolve the issue for two months. Our claim was denied. We cannot afford to fix the sunroof again after 10 months, and if we do, we are concerned about it malfunctioning again. I am concerned that the sunroof glass could come dislodged while driving and strike another vehicle or cause a collision.

    NHTSA complaint 11759860
16. Filed Aug 26, 2026Failure Mar 25, 2025Andover, MAEngine

    I believe my engine to be defective and Commonwealth Kia to be neglegent in finding the defect dispite having been tasked to repair an issue while my car was under warranty. I first mentioned the problem on the XXX visit at $85,000 miles. Asked them to check the filters. Mentioned again at the XXX visit at 92,000 there is not documentation of the complaints on either of these visits but it does say ont eh XXX visit that the car "STILL LACKS POWER..." indicating that there have been previous discussions about the issue. The car was at 99,000+ miles at the XXX visit (still under warranty) I returned on XXX and XXX and was told on 1/20 that they FINALLY found the problem and that I would have to pay to have the entire engine replaced. I have since done some research and the issues that I am having are very similar to the Class Action Suit against Kia and the THETA II engine. [XXX] I have also seen on multilple owners boards on social media and in reports found on the internet that 2020-2023 Kia Tellurides have been having the same issues as THETA II engine models. [XXX] I find it difficult to believe Commonwealth Kia Service have not heard similar complaints nor have the ability to diagnose the problem on the first or second mention of the problem (which was while the car was still under warranty) I have called Kia USA who can not help me due to the fact that I am the second owner. The car was sold to me as "Certified Pre-Owned" by Kia. I believe Commonwealth Kia willfully misdiagnosed my problems so as to push the replacement cost to me and not the warranty INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

    NHTSA complaint 11759773
17. Filed Aug 17, 2026Failure Aug 10, 2026Angier, NCEngine

    I purchased this 2021 Kia Telluride new and have had it routinely serviced and maintained by authorized Kia dealerships. At approximately 60,000–80,000 miles, the engine began consuming excessive oil. I reported the condition to the Kia dealer at approximately 80,000 miles, while the vehicle was still within Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The dealer initially recommended a tune-up, but the oil consumption continued. During a later visit, the dealer identified an issue involving the OEM oil-filter housing and replaced the affected component. Despite this repair and continued maintenance, oil consumption progressively worsened. The vehicle now has approximately 160,000 miles and requires approximately one pint of oil every 2–3 weeks. The current diagnosis indicates potential internal engine damage, including cylinder-wall scoring that may allow oil to bypass the piston rings and burn in the combustion chambers. I have been advised the engine may require replacement at an estimated cost of approximately $13,000. My primary concern is that this condition began and was reported to Kia while the vehicle was still under the powertrain warranty, but the repairs did not correct it. Continued excessive oil consumption and internal engine damage create a safety concern because they could result in low oil pressure, engine seizure, stalling, or sudden loss of propulsion while driving. The vehicle is available for inspection, and its maintenance history, prior complaints, dealer repairs, and current condition are documented through Kia dealership service records.

    NHTSA complaint 11757571
18. Filed Aug 14, 2026Failure Jul 21, 2026Lynchburg, VASuspension

    My 2021 Kia Telluride has suffered two consecutive component failures of the rear suspension's self-leveling shock absorbers. This component is the exact subject of Kia's August 15, 2024 Extended Warranty Program (WTY040), which acknowledges a widespread engineering defect causing premature rear shock failures. The factory-installed original shock failed previously. The official Kia genuine replacement part (redesigned by Kia to permanently address the original defect) has now failed prematurely under the exact same mechanical conditions. The failed replacement component bears a manufacturing date stamp of 11/2023. Kia America Corporate is utilizing an administrative loophole regarding the component's manufacturing date code to deny safety coverage, actively refusing to honor or remedy the failure of their own redesigned replacement part. The local Kia dealership service manager inspected the vehicle and formally endorsed 100% replacement coverage due to this premature safety failure, but Kia Corporate has completely stalled the repair (I have had a formal 100% goodwill coverage request submitted since 7/21/26 without resolution), leaving a known vehicle stability defect unaddressed on a public roadway.

    NHTSA complaint 11757006
19. Filed Aug 13, 2026Failure Aug 12, 2026Stuart, FLUnknown or other

    Sunroof broke when trying to open it. Now it’s in the open, venting, position unable to close. Dealership can’t look at it for a week so I’m risking water damage. Vehicle only has 31,000 miles on it and is just past the 5 yr warranty of course

    NHTSA complaint 11756864
20. Filed Aug 12, 2026Failure Mar 12, 2026Kissimmee, FLEngine, Power train

    Was low on oil and check oil light don't go on have to put oil very 2 week because it get low and I don't have no oil leak at all I found out because the motor start shaking and making noise tow it home and mechanical came to check it out and didn't have oil he say I was lurking I was not in the highway because it could lock the mortar and cause a accident

    NHTSA complaint 11756506