2023 Kia Telluride Safety Report
2023 KIA TELLURIDE SAFETY REPORT
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2023 Kia Telluride
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2023 Kia Telluride. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | High (5) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (168) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 7 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Unknown Or Other | Compare unknown or other issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2025 | Compare against the 2025 Kia Telluride with 44 complaints and 3 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2020 | Check the 2020 Kia Telluride before buying across this generation. |
Kia Telluride Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Kia Telluride years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Kia Telluride | 185 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2022 Kia Telluride | 287 | 6 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2025 Kia Telluride | 44 | 3 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2021 Kia Telluride | 293 | 4 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2020 Kia Telluride | 684 | 6 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
2023 Kia Telluride Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2023 Kia Telluride, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Unknown Or Other
27 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Kia onlyVisibility/Wiper
19 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Visibility/Wiper issues Kia onlyElectrical System
17 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Kia onlyStructure
8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Structure issues Kia onlyPower Train
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Kia onlyEngine
6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Kia onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2023 Kia Telluride
Reliability Score
The 2023 Kia Telluride receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2023 Kia Telluride
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2023 Kia Telluride
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2023 Kia Telluride:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster Failure The instrument cluster, which displays critical safety information, has failed in multiple vehicles, leading to a complete loss of visibility of speed, fuel, and safety warnings. |
High | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
| Power Seat Assembly Issues Front power seat assemblies have experienced fit and adjustability problems, causing discomfort and potential safety concerns for drivers and passengers. |
Medium | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
| Structural Issues Exterior trim issues, including door belt molding trim detachment, have been reported, potentially affecting the vehicle's structural integrity. |
Medium | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
| Driveline Issues Driveshaft issues have been reported, causing driveline problems that can affect vehicle performance and safety. |
Low | Rare | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2023 Kia Telluride:
Issues with the instrument cluster, which displays critical safety information, have been reported.
Fit and adjustability problems with the front power seat assemblies have been reported.
Door belt molding trim detachment issues have been reported.
Driveshaft issues have been reported.
Recall Details for the 2023 Kia Telluride
The following 5 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Kia Telluride by NHTSA:
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Telluride vehicles. The door belt molding trim can delaminate and detach from the vehicle.
Consequence: A detached trim piece can become a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the belt molding trim assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC347.
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The front power seat motor may overheat due to a stuck power seat slide knob, which can result in a fire while parked or driving.
Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will install a bracket for the power seat switch back covers and replace the seat slide knobs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 30, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC316.
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft may not be fully engaged, which can result in vehicle roll away while in PARK.
Consequence: A vehicle roll away increases the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Owners are advised to manually engage the emergency parking brake prior to exiting the vehicle until the recall remedy is performed. Dealers will update the electronic parking brake software and replace any damaged intermediate shafts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 15, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for th...
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage, Sportage Hybrid, Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, Niro Hybrid, Niro Plug-in Hybrid, Soul, and Telluride vehicles equipped with a digital instrument cluster containing a 4.2" LCD screen. The instrument cluster may fail to display any information when the vehicle is started. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 101, "Control and Displays," and 138, "Tire Pressure Monitorin...
Consequence: A blank instrument cluster display will not show critical information, such as tire pressure, warning messages, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC270.
Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Telluride vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the wire harnesses for the second row seat side air bags may become damaged, causing them not to deploy in the event of a crash.
Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace, or secure the air bag wire harnesses, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 28, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC262.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2023 Kia Telluride
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2023 Kia Telluride with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 2 complaints involved crashes.
The sunroof on my 2023 Kia Telluride spontaneously exploded. An authorized Kia dealership inspected the sunroof and determined that the sunroof exploded outward - which is consistent with a manufacturing defect that should be covered under the vehicles bumper-to-bumper warranty. However, Kia's Consumer Affairs Department is denying warranty coverage and forcing me to file an insurance claim or pay...
The contact owns a 2023 Kia Telluride. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driver's rear door belt molding trim detached. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact was informed that the parts were on back order. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V49...
Drivers cluster screen (which include all gauges, odometer, temp gauge, gas gauge, critical safety features, etc.) has gone completely black with zero visibility to essential functions. Took to dealer. Dealer says screen is covered under warranty but is backordered from Kia. ETA for new screen is late May 2026.This happened on January 15, 2026 with no warning signs. Currently driving vehicle as it...
I am reporting a recurring safety concern with seatbelt fit and adjustability that I have experienced in multiple passenger vehicles. As a [XXX] driver, the shoulder belt in many vehicles consistently rubs my neck rather than resting across the center of my shoulder, even when height adjusters are set to their lowest positions. Additionally, as a [XXX] occupant ([XXX]), rear seatbelts in many vehi...
I am reporting a safety concern with the seatbelt system in my 2023 Kia Telluride related to fit and adjustability, not a mechanical failure. The vehicle is available for inspection. As a [XXX] driver, the shoulder belt consistently rubs my neck rather than resting across the center of my shoulder, even when the height adjuster is set to its lowest position. Because I must raise the seat and sit ...
1. Instrument panel failure, can’t see speed, fuel, mileage. Blind spot warning does not work, lane assistance does not work. This issue was not solved by recall related to software update. 2. Unsafe to drive with no way to see speed, blind spot warning failure, can’t tell if blinker is on or how much gas is in car. 3. Dealer reproduced. It’s not a sporadic issue, the panel does not turn on 4. Y...
KIA/HYUNDAI INSPECTED AND FOUND CYLINDER 2 TO NOT FIRE ALONG WITH OIL LEAKING FROM LOWER 02 SENSOR. ENGINE BLOCK HAS HOLE, CYL 2 PISTON AND ROD ARE NO LONGER WITH/IN ENGINE. THIS OCCURED WHILE ACCELERATING ON THE FREEWAY ALL OF A SUDDEN VEHICLE STARTED SMOKING THEN LOST THE ABILITY TO ACCELERATE IT WAS VERY SCARY BEING STUCK ON THE FREEWAY WAS ALMOST HIT MULTIPLE TIMES.
I’m writing to report an ongoing issue with my vehicle’s windshield washer system. The washer fluid is not dispensing properly, and as a result, the windshield is not being cleared effectively while driving. This creates a safety concern, especially in poor weather conditions or when road debris accumulates on the windshield. The reduced visibility makes it difficult to drive safely and confident...
The engine’s serpentine belt started to fail prematurely. In cold weather, the engine’s belt would scream for 1 to 5 minutes when warming up the engine (under no load and not moving). The belt had less than 40,000 miles on it (when Kia expects it to go 80,000 miles).
Upon starting suv, the instrument panel / cluster did not display. There is now no way to know speed, safety warnings such as malfunctioning sensors or safety features . No odometer or any driving feedback of any kind. Have scheduled appointment with dealer tomorrow.
The contact owns a 2023 KIA Telluride. The contact stated the vehicle was experiencing heating system failures. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer on three occasions for heating and cooling failures. The dealer replaced an unknown sensor and the thermostat; however, the heat became inoperable. The contact stated that the heat was only operable while driving, and the vehicl...
Upon starting the vehicle, the gauge cluster screen was and remained completely blank. No indication as to an error, no visual indicator was available as to my speed or the vehicle's status, and no problem lights were visible. The vehicle appeared otherwise operable, and the media control screen was fully functional
The contact owns a 2023 Kia Telluride. The contact stated that after starting the vehicle, the instrument cluster display screen failed to activate and was inoperable. During the failure, the driver was unable to view several needed features, such as the speedometer and fuel gauge, and the blind spot monitoring system. The vehicle was cautiously driven to the dealer, who diagnosed that the instrum...
The contact owns a 2023 Kia Telluride. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the instrument cluster went blank. The speedometer and fuel gauge failed to display as needed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V298000 (Electrical System); however, the VIN was not included in th...
VIN: [XXX] Owner: [XXX] Purchase Date: December 2022 I am filing an urgent safety complaint regarding my 2023 Kia Telluride. For nearly two years, I have unknowingly driven this vehicle with multiple active safety recalls, including: •Airbag wiring harness defect (airbags may not deploy) •Seatbelt pretensioner/tensioner defects •Front power seat motor overheating (fire hazard) •Driveshaft engag...
after receiving my car on Friday morning 10/31 from the dealership, I drove to work, where all my dashboard lights popped on, I lost power steering, and I lost my speedometer (which is what it was in the shop for that whole week). I tried to drive it back to Kia and it completely stopped working in the middle of the road, even though it was turned on, it wouldn’t drive or change gears. Leaving me ...
2023 Kia Telluride – Instrument cluster intermittently goes blank while operating the vehicle. This has happened multiple times over the last few years since we bought it brand new, even after the official recall repair (SC270). Dealer has told us to disconnect the battery as a temporary fix. This is my wife’s primary vehicle for transporting our children and it’s unsafe because she cannot see spe...
2023 PEARL WHITE KIA TELLURIDE. WHILE WASHING MY CAR NOTICE CLEAR COAT COMING OFF FRONT OF CAR
I am writing to file a complaint regarding my 2023 Kia Telluride (VIN: [insert VIN here]) which has two active safety recalls: 1.SC303 / NHTSA 24V214 – Intermediate shaft/driveshaft may not be fully engaged, causing the vehicle to potentially roll away while in Park. The remedy is available but has not yet been scheduled for my vehicle. 2.SC347 / NHTSA 25V494 – Door belt molding trim may delaminat...
Drivers display panel not working, no vehicle information is available, it's a black screen. This is the 4th incident since new in 2023. Car can't be driven with nothing displayed.
Showing 20 of 168 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2023 Kia Telluride
Has the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE been recalled?
Yes, the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE has 5 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE have?
The 2023 KIA TELLURIDE has 168 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 5 involved crashes. 2 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
The 2023 KIA TELLURIDE received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE involve unknown or other (27 complaints), visibility/wiper (19 complaints), electrical system (17 complaints). Other affected components include structure, power train, engine.
How many crash reports does the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE have?
There are 5 crash reports associated with the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE out of 168 total complaints (3.0% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE have?
There are 2 fire reports for the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE out of 168 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE.
How many injuries are reported for the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
2 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE is acceptable with caveats. It has 168 complaints, 5 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
The components with the most failures on the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE are: 1. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (27 complaints), 2. VISIBILITY/WIPER (19 complaints), 3. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (17 complaints), 4. STRUCTURE (8 complaints), 5. POWER TRAIN (7 complaints). UNKNOWN OR OTHER is the single most-reported problem area with 27 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
Be cautious of potential instrument cluster and power seat assembly issues. Regular maintenance and inspection are recommended. The 2023 KIA TELLURIDE has 168 NHTSA complaints and 5 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
The 2023 KIA TELLURIDE receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 168 owner complaints, 5 recalls, and 7 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Instrument Cluster Failure and Power Seat Assembly Issues.
What are the known issues with the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
Known issues with the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE include: Instrument Cluster Failure, Power Seat Assembly Issues, Structural Issues, Driveline Issues. These are based on patterns found across 168 NHTSA complaints. 5 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the most common safety issues with the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
Common issues include instrument cluster failures, power seat assembly problems, exterior trim detachment, and driveline issues.
Are there any recalls for the 2023 KIA TELLURIDE?
Yes, recalls have been issued for issues such as instrument cluster failures, power seat assembly problems, and driveline issues.
What should I do if I experience instrument cluster failure?
Contact an authorized Kia dealership for inspection and repair. Ensure the vehicle is serviced regularly.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of potential instrument cluster and power seat assembly issues. Regular maintenance and inspection are recommended.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2023 Kia Telluride
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2023 Kia Telluride. The data includes 168 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 5 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2023 Kia Telluride an overall safety rating of 5 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.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-16