2021 Kia Seltos Safety Report
2021 Kia Seltos: Strong Crash Ratings Undermined by Widespread Engine Failures and Fire Risk
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Kia Seltos
Reliability Score
The 2021 Kia Seltos receives a reliability score of 30 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
Known Issues for the 2021 Kia Seltos
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Kia Seltos:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Failure/Stalling Numerous reports of engines seizing, stalling while driving, or entering limp mode, often linked to defective piston oil rings and excessive oil consumption. This is the subject of two major recalls. |
High | Common | 30000-90000 miles |
| Engine Fire Several complaints describe engines catching fire, a consequence explicitly mentioned in recall notices due to oil leaks onto hot exhaust components. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Excessive Oil Consumption Owners report engines burning through oil rapidly, leading to low oil levels, knocking noises, and eventual engine damage or failure. |
High | Common | 30000-90000 miles |
| Check Engine Light/Misfires Frequent illumination of the check engine light, often accompanied by codes like P0304 (misfire) or P0017 (cam/crank correlation), indicating internal engine problems. |
Medium | Common | 30000-90000 miles |
| Recall Remedy Ineffectiveness/Denial Many owners report that recall repairs did not resolve the engine issues, or dealerships denied recall-related engine replacements, leading to continued problems or out-of-pocket expenses. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Kia Seltos:
113 complaints directly cite the ENGINE, indicating widespread issues such as stalling, knocking, and complete failure, often linked to piston oil ring defects.
34 complaints relate to ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, further emphasizing mechanical engine problems, including overheating or related component failures.
27 complaints mention POWER TRAIN issues, which can encompass transmission problems or engine power delivery, sometimes intertwined with engine failures.
13 complaints specifically combine POWER TRAIN and ENGINE, highlighting issues where engine problems directly impact the vehicle's ability to transmit power.
8 complaints for ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, which could be related to sensor failures, battery issues, or other electrical faults that might impact engine operation or warning lights.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Kia Seltos
Is the 2021 Kia Seltos safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Kia Seltos has strong crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star side), but its safety is significantly compromised by widespread and severe engine issues, including stalling, loss of power, and fire risks, as evidenced by 306 complaints, 10 crashes, 5 fires, and 6 injuries, many directly related to two engine recalls.
What are common problems with the 2021 Kia Seltos?
The most reported issues for the 2021 Kia Seltos revolve around the engine, with 113 complaints for 'ENGINE' and 34 for 'ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING'. Common problems include engine stalling, complete engine failure, excessive oil consumption, knocking noises, and engine fires, often stemming from defective piston oil rings as detailed in NHTSA recalls 25V099 and a separate recall for 2.0L Nu MPI engines.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Kia Seltos?
Yes, there are two significant recalls for the 2021 Kia Seltos. One (NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 / Kia Recall SC336) addresses incorrectly manufactured piston oil rings in 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles, which can lead to engine damage, stall, or fire. Another recall covers 2020-2021 Soul and 2021 Seltos vehicles with 2.0L Nu MPI engines for improperly heat-treated piston oil rings, also risking engine stall and fire.
How does the 2021 Kia Seltos perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Kia Seltos received favorable crash test ratings from NHTSA, achieving an overall 4-star safety rating. Specifically, it earned 4 stars for frontal crash protection, an excellent 5 stars for side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.
What should I do if my 2021 Kia Seltos engine is having problems?
If your 2021 Kia Seltos is experiencing engine problems like stalling, knocking, or excessive oil consumption, immediately contact a Kia dealership. Reference NHTSA Recall 25V099 (Kia Recall SC336) and the recall for 2.0L Nu MPI engines, as your vehicle may be covered. Document all symptoms, service attempts, and communications with the dealership, and if issues persist or are denied, consider filing a complaint with NHTSA.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high incidence of severe engine failures, including fire risks, despite strong crash test ratings, exercise extreme caution when considering a 2021 Kia Seltos. Thoroughly investigate if the engine recall remedies have been effectively applied and if the vehicle shows any signs of oil consumption or engine noise before purchase.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Kia Seltos
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Kia Seltos. The data includes 306 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 5 fire incidents, 6 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Kia Seltos an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.