2023 Kia Seltos Safety Report

The 2023 Kia Seltos presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but concerning patterns in owner complaints and two significant recalls. NHTSA awarded the Seltos an overall 4-star safety rating, including 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover. This indicates good protection in various collision scenarios. However, the vehicle has accumulated 41 total complaints, with 3 crashes, 0 fires, and 3 injuries reported, which is notable for a relatively new model year. The most frequent complaint component is the ENGINE, accounting for 6 complaints, followed by UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4) and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3). These complaints often describe serious issues such as sudden engine stalls, loss of motive power, excessive oil consumption, and even smoke from the engine compartment, directly aligning with the two major recalls. The recall history is particularly critical. One recall (25V099) addresses incorrectly manufactured piston oil rings in 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles, which can lead to engine damage, stalling, or fire. Several complaints directly mention being told they need a new engine due to this issue, or experiencing symptoms consistent with it, such as burning oil or engine failure. The second recall targets the electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly in 2023 Soul, Sportage, and 2023-2024 Seltos vehicles, where damaged electrical components can cause overheating and increase the risk of fire. Owner complaints also describe the Idle Stop & Go system causing the vehicle to stall and not restart, or the engine shutting down at red lights, which aligns with the potential consequences of this recall. Beyond the engine and Idle Stop & Go issues, there are recurring complaints about the vehicle's advanced safety systems, specifically the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) system engaging emergency braking without driver input (phantom braking), causing dangerous situations at highway speeds. Other electrical issues include the horn failing and infotainment screen malfunctions. While the crash test ratings are reassuring, the volume and nature of the complaints, coupled with two significant recalls, suggest potential reliability and safety concerns, particularly related to the engine and critical electronic systems, that buyers should be aware of.

Our recommendation: Despite good crash test ratings, potential buyers should be cautious due to two significant recalls and numerous complaints regarding engine issues, electrical failures, and advanced safety system malfunctions. Verify all recalls have been completed and consider an extended warranty.