Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

2025 Kia SELTOS problems and owner complaints

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

13 owner complaints analyzed

0 distinct recall campaigns

8,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2025 model year. Data updated: . 1 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Electrical System is the most frequently named component, appearing in 3 of 13 complaints (23.1%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Braking behavior323.1%
Steering behavior215.4%
Electrical and battery issues17.7%
Fuel system concerns17.7%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Electrical System
3
Exterior Lighting
3
Unknown Or Other
3
Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking
2
Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings
2
Engine
1
Lane Departure: Assist
1
Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection
1
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Electrical System3
Exterior Lighting3
Unknown Or Other3
Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking2
Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings2
Engine1
Lane Departure: Assist1
Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection1

Electrical System: 3; Exterior Lighting: 3; Unknown Or Other: 3; Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking: 2; Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings: 2; Engine: 1; Lane Departure: Assist: 1; Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection: 1

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
1
25,000 to 49,999
0
50,000 to 74,999
0
75,000 to 99,999
0
100,000 to 149,999
0
150,000 and above
0
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,0001
25,000 to 49,9990
50,000 to 74,9990
75,000 to 99,9990
100,000 to 149,9990
150,000 and above0

Under 25,000: 1; 25,000 to 49,999: 0; 50,000 to 74,999: 0; 75,000 to 99,999: 0; 100,000 to 149,999: 0; 150,000 and above: 0

Under 25,000 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (1). 12 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2024
2
2025
5
2026
6
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
20242
20255
20266

2024: 2; 2025: 5; 2026: 6

Pattern summary

Electrical System leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 3 complaint narratives. Steering behavior appears in 2 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 1 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Complaint evidence

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 11668451 · 2025-06-22 (June 22, 2025)

i get my lane assist and almost wrecked bc it defaulted without warning. when i came up on a car to fast. it didn’t slow down and try to automatically brake.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11668451 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11673648 · 2025-07-15 (July 15, 2025)

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The braking system appears to have failed. When I attempted to slow down for a stop sign, the brake pedal went straight to the floor and did not respond as expected. I began pumping the brakes out of panic, but they only engaged at the last moment, approximately one foot or less from the vehicle in front of me. The vehicle is currently totaled, but I believe the braking system could still be inspected upon request, pending insurance and tow yard ac…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11673648 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11624432 · 2024-11-10 (November 10, 2024)

I just bought 2025 kia seltos EX for 5 days. oil cooler already leaking oil, car running fine no lights on. And another issue is when I moved steering to left or right, even on slow speed make any turn, I heard 'dot dot dot' mental sounds under passage wheel, can't believe it happened in new car.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11624432 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11752285 · 2026-07-23 (July 23, 2026)

The camber bolts in front struts moved from original location causing uneven tire wear and steering issues. When replacing tires mechanic showed me marks where bolts were originally and where they are now. Mechanic said he has seen multiple of same vehicles with the same issue. Mechanic said most likely poor roads and improperly torque of bolts is causing the issue with this make and model. Caught issue just in time tires were down to threads and wouldn't of lasted much longer. A blowout on a front steer tire would most likely cause an accident…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11752285 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11751360 · 2026-07-19 (July 19, 2026)

KiA started a system update while I was driving on a busy road which caused complete loss of engine power and all electrical. This is nuts. What if you’re on the highway driving 70 mph and this happens?

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11751360 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11712544 · 2026-01-21 (January 21, 2026)

Instrument cluster does not turn on upon ignition, when in cold weather. this has been a repeating incident, first of which started only 2 months after the purchase. even after 7 separate incidents, and handful dealer visits, car was deemed "okay" because they could not replicate the issue. employees at the dealership have taken pictures and videos but have yet to find a solution to fix this issue, and they further "ask" that if the incident happens again, drive as is so they can see the issue. this is a serious safety issue since nothing is v…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11712544 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

13 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-09-30.

7.7%Usable mileage1 / 13 records
100.0%Valid incident date13 / 13 records
100.0%Valid filing date13 / 13 records
100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates13 / 13 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component202120222023202420252026
Engine
22761.2%
ODI 11354905 · 9,000 mi

TRANSMISSION DEFECT , TRANSMISSION OVER HEATS IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC , ALSO CAUSES SKIPPING OF THE GEARS. KIA KNOW THIS IS A PROBLEM AND INDICATED THAT CAR WILL SHUT DOWN ON ITS OWN BECAUSE OF THIS.

Look up ODI 11354905 at NHTSA ↗

3852.1%
ODI 11443949

I bought a brand new 2022 Kia Seltos a month and a half ago at Monroeville Kia dealership. On December 11, the car started manifesting a transmission temperature overheating problem in the middle of traffic. Once the transmission overheated, the engine lost power. I was driving in busy traffic and had to pull the car over to allow the engine to cool down. The police came over and made me start driving my car again, indicating that I could not pull over in such busy traffic. This is a major risk to my safety and can potentially cause a car accid…

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1737.0%
ODI 11507650 · 300 mi

The contact owns a 2023 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while at a complete stop with her foot on the brake pedal, the vehicle independently lunged forward without warning. The contact also stated that while the vehicle was parked, the engine revved uncontrollably without warning. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 300.

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817.8%
ODI 11551926

Engine valve making a loud noise ( assuming it might be an engine oil leak) I just acquired the vehicle last month Sept 2023. Brand new. I informed the dealership, and they want me to drive it back to the service department, to be checked. I told the sales agent that i am afraid to drive it because it might damage the engine. He said its up to me, to figure it out, . Very disrespectful Thank you

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17.7%
ODI 11624432

I just bought 2025 kia seltos EX for 5 days. oil cooler already leaking oil, car running fine no lights on. And another issue is when I moved steering to left or right, even on slow speed make any turn, I heard 'dot dot dot' mental sounds under passage wheel, can't believe it happened in new car.

Look up ODI 11624432 at NHTSA ↗

125.0%
ODI 11755262

I purchased this new 2026 Kia Seltos with approximately 32 miles. The vehicle now has fewer than 600 miles and has experienced two incidents of sudden, intermittent, complete loss of accelerator response. During one incident in highway traffic, the vehicle unexpectedly began decelerating and pressing the accelerator pedal produced no acceleration or meaningful propulsion. I could not maintain speed or accelerate to move out of surrounding traffic. The vehicle became unable to move normally until it was turned off and restarted. An oil-pressure…

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Unknown Or Other
4612.4%
ODI 11350656 · 100 mi

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE ASSIST W/ PEDESTRIAN DETECT (FCA), SYSTEM DO NOT WORK, NEVER GET ALARMS, IN A NEAR COLLISION SITUATIONS OR A PERSON CROSSING IN FRONT OF VEHICLE. CONTACTED KIA USA CASE # 13716568), RETURN CAR TO DEALER AS INSTRUCTED, PROBLEM NEVER FIX. KIA NOT PROVIDING ANY INFORMATION OR TROUBLESHOOT, TEST OR REPLACE RADAR SENSOR TO FIX THE PROBLEM. IN THE CAR OWNER MANUAL, IT LOOK LIKE THE SYSTEM HAS MORE LIMITATIONS THAN REAL INSTANCES THAT WILL WORK. SYSTEM NOT RELIABLE AT ALL.

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1723.3%
ODI 11444786

wireless CarPlay suddenly disconnects leaving drivers unable to use the navigation system and audio including music, call, navigation instructions, maps, and other features. This is a potential hazard for drivers who depend of navigation systems in an unfamiliar environment. Also, propose a potential risk because the driver may be distracted trying to fix the connectivity issue while driving exposing them and other drivers near to a car crash. Software version affected SP2_22MY.USA.D2V.[phone removed]15

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1737.0%
ODI 11493905

I have been having issues with my touch screen in my car. I bought my car new and the console has not worked correctly. I’ve had this issue with the console since 7/22… have been begging KIA America to fix it. Today I was driving backwards and my backup camera was on. Then when I drove forward the backup camera was still on after i put my car in drive. “Ford issued a recall for 47,046 Bronco SUVs from the 2021 and 2022 model years with 8-inch center display screens because their backup cameras might still display a camera image even after the …

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920.0%
ODI 11632250

Vehicles instrument cluster not showing any display. Unable to see speedometer or any indicator lights. Vehicle has not been in for service yet appointment needs to be made. Issue was resolved temporarily by disconnecting battery and reconnecting battery and issue went away. There was no indication that this issue would happen.

Look up ODI 11632250 at NHTSA ↗

323.1%
ODI 11649477

My Seltos was sitting in my driveway and a crack appeared this morning. It wasn't there two days ago when I last drove it.

Look up ODI 11649477 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Power Train
6718.1%
ODI 11331711 · 250 mi

MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM WITH THE NEW 2021 KIA SELTOS WITH THE DUAL CLUTCH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. IT CAN MISS 1ST, 3RD, 5TH AND 7TH GEARS. IT MISSED 1ST GEAR WHILE MY WIFE WAS TURNING LEFT FROM A STOPPED CONDITION... IT WAS NEARLY AN ACCIDENT, AND COULD HAVE BEEN A FATAL ACCIDENT SINCE THERE WAS A PASSENGER. IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THAT THIS TRANSMISSION IS ALREADY A RECALL IN SOUTH KOREA. A WEBSITE HAS A VIDEO SHOWING THE PROBLEM MY WIFE ALSO ENCOUNTERED. PLEASE SEE THIS WEBSITE: HTTPS://WHEELBHP.COM/KIA-SELTOS-DCT-PROBLEMS-3119881/ IT DOES IND…

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1013.7%
ODI 11443949

I bought a brand new 2022 Kia Seltos a month and a half ago at Monroeville Kia dealership. On December 11, the car started manifesting a transmission temperature overheating problem in the middle of traffic. Once the transmission overheated, the engine lost power. I was driving in busy traffic and had to pull the car over to allow the engine to cool down. The police came over and made me start driving my car again, indicating that I could not pull over in such busy traffic. This is a major risk to my safety and can potentially cause a car accid…

Look up ODI 11443949 at NHTSA ↗

48.7%
ODI 11580580

The check engine light came on .. for a day then went off. Took it they said they couldn’t find anything.. 2 days later a symbol triangle with exclamation point. Not sure what it means but the orange warning lights wouldn’t come on if nothing is wrong 24 thousand miles on it . All factory warranty service has been done

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613.3%
ODI 11559122

The contact owns a 2024 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V531000 (Power Train) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool showed no open recall.

Look up ODI 11559122 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Electrical System
4512.1%
ODI 11361711 · 900 mi

MY KIA SELTOS WITH ONLY 900 MILES HAS DONE THE FOLLOWING TWICE: WHEN AT A STOP AND I STEP ON THE GAS THE CAR TURNS OFF. THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED I WAS AT A STOP LIGHT AND WHEN I STEPPED ON THE GAS THE CAR TURNED OFF AND TOOK A COUPLE OF MINUTES BEFORE I WAS ABLE TO TURN THE CAR BACK ON. THE SECOND TIME IT HAPPENED I PUT THE CAR IN REVERSE AND STEPPED ON THE GAS AND IT TURNED OFF. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT IT APPEARS TO BE A PROBLEM WITH THE ENGINE CONTROL UNIT. NOW MY CAR HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOR 15 DAYS SO FAR WITH NO KNOWLEDGE OF WHEN…

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79.6%
ODI 11478006

Car is giving codes C162604/ C164202 stating there is an issue with the electric stability control as well as lane keeping assistance. Emergency break lines came on (abs) as well. There was no incidents before this happened. This was a previous issue with the 2021 Kia Seltos that may have not been addressed properly while making the 2022. I am unsure if I am able to drive the vehicle safely to the dealership due to the stability control issue.

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1430.4%
ODI 11493905

I have been having issues with my touch screen in my car. I bought my car new and the console has not worked correctly. I’ve had this issue with the console since 7/22… have been begging KIA America to fix it. Today I was driving backwards and my backup camera was on. Then when I drove forward the backup camera was still on after i put my car in drive. “Ford issued a recall for 47,046 Bronco SUVs from the 2021 and 2022 model years with 8-inch center display screens because their backup cameras might still display a camera image even after the …

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1431.1%
ODI 11560018

All systems failed, including all lights, speedometer, ALL ADAS - this happened in more than one occasion. When I put the car in park it still registered to be in drive mode. Safety of myself and others at risk- the headlights and brake/taillights went out while driving in the dark. Brake assist went out while I was on a steep downgrade, the speedometer went out completely. Also the car indicated that my air bags were off and my seat belt malfunctioned. This occurred on snow and ice covered roads and in the fog. I took it to the dealership 3 ti…

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323.1%
ODI 11635043

The main instrument cluster will not illuminate on initial start ups. The screen will not illuminate on it's own, a vehicle restart is required after a extended period of driving/engine running. Speedometer, tachometer and fuel gauge are not visible. It is a recurring problem. The vehicle was taken to the dealership and the service department said it is a known problem with the Seltos and other models. They said Kia hasn't identified the problem.

Look up ODI 11635043 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine And Engine Cooling
4211.3%
ODI 11462402 · 21,000 mi

The contact leased a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while his son was driving in traffic, he heard an abnormal banging noise and noticed smoke emerging from the engine compartment. The driver was able to pull off the road and exit the vehicle. The vehicle spontaneously caught fire and was engulfed in flames. The fire department was on the scene to extinguish the fire. The driver did not sustain any injuries. There were no police reports filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent lot. The contact called the local dealer but the veh…

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912.3%
ODI 11647664

The contact owns a 2022 Kia Seltos. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

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24.3%
ODI 11683412

The contact owns a 2023 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was gray smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled on the drive back to the residence. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving 70 MPH, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The contact stated that the RPM fluctuated, and the e…

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12.2%
ODI 11696416

See attached document for complaint.

Look up ODI 11696416 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Fuel/Propulsion System
267.0%
ODI 11354905 · 9,000 mi

TRANSMISSION DEFECT , TRANSMISSION OVER HEATS IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC , ALSO CAUSES SKIPPING OF THE GEARS. KIA KNOW THIS IS A PROBLEM AND INDICATED THAT CAR WILL SHUT DOWN ON ITS OWN BECAUSE OF THIS.

Look up ODI 11354905 at NHTSA ↗

11.4%
ODI 11740429

My 2022 Kia Seltos out of nowhere started smoking, losing power, total control and braking. There were no lights on the dashboard warning of any kind complete stall than a little bit of power hesitation stall no brakes. I managed to coast it into a parking space at a hotel with it smoking so bad I couldn’t see. It then burst into flames and golfing the entire Engine bay and melting the front of the car about 90 seconds after I got out of the car all of the symptoms here are completely aligned with the recall on this vehicle and the soul. In fac…

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00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

36.7%
ODI 11743542

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…

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00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

125.0%
ODI 11755262

I purchased this new 2026 Kia Seltos with approximately 32 miles. The vehicle now has fewer than 600 miles and has experienced two incidents of sudden, intermittent, complete loss of accelerator response. During one incident in highway traffic, the vehicle unexpectedly began decelerating and pressing the accelerator pedal produced no acceleration or meaningful propulsion. I could not maintain speed or accelerate to move out of surrounding traffic. The vehicle became unable to move normally until it was turned off and restarted. An oil-pressure…

Look up ODI 11755262 at NHTSA ↗

Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings
41.1%
ODI 11483317

Today 9/7/2022 I was driving down a hill going about 55mph, when all of a sudden the car started jerking all of the warning lights on the dashboard came on (ABS, ACC, AEB, BSW, FCW, LDW, and the LKA). So essentially all the cool features. The vehicle then popped up a warning decrease speed immediately. Ever since then the car is like in a limp mode thing where it will not allow me to drive over 35mph. It continually jerks, and shakes. It stutters. Absolutely ridiculous. I haven't even had this car long enough to make the first payment. It feels…

Look up ODI 11483317 at NHTSA ↗

22.7%
ODI 11503833

Summary: Failure of Vision system causes unpredictable computer behavior, and such failure may not be known by vehicle operator. 3 Separate Incidents on same car . Occurance 1, 10/22: Brakes locked (with smoke) and stalled in heavy traffic; fortunately traveling only 5MPH so no accident. Restart allowed car to run, although rough. NOTE: Front collision Avoidance turned OFF but computer reset system anyway on camera failure. Kia towed to nearest dealer, admitting that it is NOT SAFE to drive. Once computer went blind, the front vis…

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36.5%
ODI 11504398

My car sensors go off when they aren’t supposed to. My front collision sensor goes off when cars are 2 cars in front of me. My side sensors will go off when I’m im the only one on a street. My console has electrical issues… internal issues. This car qualifies for Lemon Law. That’s how many times I sent it in and they were unable to repair it. Please investigate Kia 2023 seltos. Thanks

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36.7%
ODI 11634720

The front brakes prematurely failed at 5,000 miles and this is a brand new vehicle. We had 3 miles or so at purchase (purchase date: August 7, 2024). By January 4, 2025 or so, the front brakes began making grinding noises. We had a licensed, independent shop inspect this and then replace the worn brakes on January 6, 2025. We have driven the vehicle as we have driven other vehicles and we have never seen brand new brakes wear out after 5,000 miles with standard driving. We believe it could be due to the driver assistance technology and would l…

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215.4%
ODI 11673648

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The braking system appears to have failed. When I attempted to slow down for a stop sign, the brake pedal went straight to the floor and did not respond as expected. I began pumping the brakes out of panic, but they only engaged at the last moment, approximately one foot or less from the vehicle in front of me. The vehicle is currently totaled, but I believe the braking system could still be inspected upon request, pending insurance and tow yard ac…

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00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Vehicle Speed Control
92.4%
ODI 11376017 · 3,400 mi

CAR HAS 3000 MILES,CAR HAD BEEN SURGING WHEN ACCELERATING, IT REVVED UP WHEN IN DRIVE, WOULDN'T GO AS I WAS EXITING OFF OF INTERSTATE. WAS TOWED TO DEALER, THEY COULDN'T FIND ANYTHING WRONG, SENT ME HOME. I MADE IT 47 MILES WHEN IT STOPPED ACCELERATING AND STOPPED GOING. WAS TOWED BACK TO DEALER, WHERE IT HAS BEEN FOR OVER 2 WEEKS. THEY ARE PUTTING IN A NEW TRANSMISSION.

Look up ODI 11376017 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

36.7%
ODI 11560018

All systems failed, including all lights, speedometer, ALL ADAS - this happened in more than one occasion. When I put the car in park it still registered to be in drive mode. Safety of myself and others at risk- the headlights and brake/taillights went out while driving in the dark. Brake assist went out while I was on a steep downgrade, the speedometer went out completely. Also the car indicated that my air bags were off and my seat belt malfunctioned. This occurred on snow and ice covered roads and in the fog. I took it to the dealership 3 ti…

Look up ODI 11560018 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

250.0%
ODI 11731946 · 1,322 mi

The contact owns a 2026 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while driving 25 MPH and depressing the brake pedal to make a right turn, the brake pedal went to the floorboard and the vehicle accelerated independently. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was towed to the dealer to be diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the brake line needed to be tightened and the brake fluid reservoir needed to be topped off. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed that there was no warranty for the repair. The…

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Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
No usable records for this analysis.

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

2 reports2024-102026-09

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-112None
ODI 11624432

I just bought 2025 kia seltos EX for 5 days. oil cooler already leaking oil, car running fine no lights on. And another issue is when I moved steering to left or right, even on slow speed make any turn, I heard 'dot dot dot' mental sounds under passage wheel, can't believe it happened in new car.

Look up ODI 11624432 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11627634

When I drive this vehicle at night it seems like the low beam headlights are not aimed correctly. It seems like they are angled too far down on the road as I feel like I could not see more than 15-20 feet in front of the vehicle without my high beams on, also the low beams are angled so far down towards the road that it did not illuminate any traffic signs on the side of the road so I could not make them out either. It was scary not being able to see far out as I’m used to.

Look up ODI 11627634 at NHTSA ↗

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-011None
ODI 11635043

The main instrument cluster will not illuminate on initial start ups. The screen will not illuminate on it's own, a vehicle restart is required after a extended period of driving/engine running. Speedometer, tachometer and fuel gauge are not visible. It is a recurring problem. The vehicle was taken to the dealership and the service department said it is a known problem with the Seltos and other models. They said Kia hasn't identified the problem.

Look up ODI 11635043 at NHTSA ↗

2025-021None
ODI 11642950

Car delivered [XXX] since then we have had 3 incidents of the dash control lights going out along with the head lights going dim making it very dangerous to drive in the dark. Car had about 1200 miles on it when it started and it had 1823 miles on it when they had a appointment for me to get the car in. We are going on a 3 week trip south at the end of march and based on my experience with the Saltos, the dash lights go out and the head lights either go out or go very dim. How do I know, I had a 2023 Seltos that had the same problem, answ…

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2025-031None
ODI 11649477

My Seltos was sitting in my driveway and a crack appeared this morning. It wasn't there two days ago when I last drove it.

Look up ODI 11649477 at NHTSA ↗

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-061None
ODI 11668451

i get my lane assist and almost wrecked bc it defaulted without warning. when i came up on a car to fast. it didn’t slow down and try to automatically brake.

Look up ODI 11668451 at NHTSA ↗

2025-071None
ODI 11673648

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The braking system appears to have failed. When I attempted to slow down for a stop sign, the brake pedal went straight to the floor and did not respond as expected. I began pumping the brakes out of panic, but they only engaged at the last moment, approximately one foot or less from the vehicle in front of me. The vehicle is currently totaled, but I believe the braking system could still be inspected upon request, pending insurance and tow yard ac…

Look up ODI 11673648 at NHTSA ↗

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-011None
ODI 11712544

Instrument cluster does not turn on upon ignition, when in cold weather. this has been a repeating incident, first of which started only 2 months after the purchase. even after 7 separate incidents, and handful dealer visits, car was deemed "okay" because they could not replicate the issue. employees at the dealership have taken pictures and videos but have yet to find a solution to fix this issue, and they further "ask" that if the incident happens again, drive as is so they can see the issue. this is a serious safety issue since nothing is v…

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2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-051None
ODI 11740799 · 8,000 mi

The contact owns a 2025 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while driving in snowy, inclement weather; the entire rear end of the vehicle would become covered in snow. The contact stated snow would become to heavy for the rear windshield wiper which would obstruct his vision while driving in the snow. In addition, the contact stated that the rear tail lights would also become covered in snow which made it difficult for fellow motorist to see his tail lights. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and suggested that the contact purchase an…

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2026-061None
ODI 11744606

While driving at night with the Headlights on Low Beam the light that is projected onto the road is a dull yellowish color, not a bright white color. When the High Beam Lights are turned on there is no difference of the light being projected onto the road. While driving from [XXX] to [XXX] on [XXX] I noticed that I was unable to see or read the Exit Signs for any of the Exit Off Ramps or even the Mileage Signs the show the mileage to the next Towns. When I switched from Low Beam to High Beam it made no difference on Illuminating the Road Si…

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2026-072None
ODI 11751360

KiA started a system update while I was driving on a busy road which caused complete loss of engine power and all electrical. This is nuts. What if you’re on the highway driving 70 mph and this happens?

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ODI 11752285

The camber bolts in front struts moved from original location causing uneven tire wear and steering issues. When replacing tires mechanic showed me marks where bolts were originally and where they are now. Mechanic said he has seen multiple of same vehicles with the same issue. Mechanic said most likely poor roads and improperly torque of bolts is causing the issue with this make and model. Caught issue just in time tires were down to threads and wouldn't of lasted much longer. A blowout on a front steer tire would most likely cause an accident…

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2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-09 (partial)1None
ODI 11765477

I am reporting multiple safety concerns involving my leased 2025 Kia Seltos, which currently has approximately 22,000 miles. I first reported an unusual smell coming from the vehicle in June 2025. The vehicle has been taken in for service multiple times, most recently on September 5, 2026, but the concern has not been satisfactorily resolved. During the September 5 service visit, I also informed the dealership that I had experienced an acceleration problem. The vehicle felt as though cruise control had been activated even though I had not int…

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Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 232 reports

2022: 22 complaints · 2023: 32 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2022101522
2023132132
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
20227003
20234105

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentElectrical SystemExterior LightingUnknown Or OtherForward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency BrakingForward Collision Avoidance: WarningsEngineLane Departure: AssistLane Departure: Blind Spot Detection
Electrical System—
1
ODI 11642950

Car delivered [XXX] since then we have had 3 incidents of the dash control lights going out along with the head lights going dim making it very dangerous to drive in the dark. Car had about 1200 miles on it when it started and it had 1823 miles on it when they had a appointment for me to get the car in. We are going on a 3 week trip south at the end of march and based on my experience with the Saltos, the dash lights go out and the head lights either go out or go very dim. How do I know, I had a 2023 Seltos that had the same problem, answ…

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000000
Exterior Lighting
1
ODI 11642950

Car delivered [XXX] since then we have had 3 incidents of the dash control lights going out along with the head lights going dim making it very dangerous to drive in the dark. Car had about 1200 miles on it when it started and it had 1823 miles on it when they had a appointment for me to get the car in. We are going on a 3 week trip south at the end of march and based on my experience with the Saltos, the dash lights go out and the head lights either go out or go very dim. How do I know, I had a 2023 Seltos that had the same problem, answ…

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—000000
Unknown Or Other00—0
1
ODI 11751360

KiA started a system update while I was driving on a busy road which caused complete loss of engine power and all electrical. This is nuts. What if you’re on the highway driving 70 mph and this happens?

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00
1
ODI 11751360

KiA started a system update while I was driving on a busy road which caused complete loss of engine power and all electrical. This is nuts. What if you’re on the highway driving 70 mph and this happens?

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Forward Collision Avoidance: Automatic Emergency Braking000—
1
ODI 11673648

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The braking system appears to have failed. When I attempted to slow down for a stop sign, the brake pedal went straight to the floor and did not respond as expected. I began pumping the brakes out of panic, but they only engaged at the last moment, approximately one foot or less from the vehicle in front of me. The vehicle is currently totaled, but I believe the braking system could still be inspected upon request, pending insurance and tow yard ac…

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0
1
ODI 11668451

i get my lane assist and almost wrecked bc it defaulted without warning. when i came up on a car to fast. it didn’t slow down and try to automatically brake.

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0
Forward Collision Avoidance: Warnings00
1
ODI 11751360

KiA started a system update while I was driving on a busy road which caused complete loss of engine power and all electrical. This is nuts. What if you’re on the highway driving 70 mph and this happens?

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1
ODI 11673648

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The braking system appears to have failed. When I attempted to slow down for a stop sign, the brake pedal went straight to the floor and did not respond as expected. I began pumping the brakes out of panic, but they only engaged at the last moment, approximately one foot or less from the vehicle in front of me. The vehicle is currently totaled, but I believe the braking system could still be inspected upon request, pending insurance and tow yard ac…

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—00
1
ODI 11751360

KiA started a system update while I was driving on a busy road which caused complete loss of engine power and all electrical. This is nuts. What if you’re on the highway driving 70 mph and this happens?

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Engine00000—00
Lane Departure: Assist000
1
ODI 11668451

i get my lane assist and almost wrecked bc it defaulted without warning. when i came up on a car to fast. it didn’t slow down and try to automatically brake.

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00—0
Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection00
1
ODI 11751360

KiA started a system update while I was driving on a busy road which caused complete loss of engine power and all electrical. This is nuts. What if you’re on the highway driving 70 mph and this happens?

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0
1
ODI 11751360

KiA started a system update while I was driving on a busy road which caused complete loss of engine power and all electrical. This is nuts. What if you’re on the highway driving 70 mph and this happens?

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00—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

2 patterns with matching reports.

Brake response concerns

1 mentions · 7.7% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 11673648

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The braking system appears to have failed. When I attempted to slow down for a stop sign, the brake pedal went straight to the floor and did not respond as expected. I began pumping the brakes out of panic, but they only engaged at the last moment, approximately one foot or less from the vehicle in front of me. The vehicle is currently totaled, but I believe the braking system could still be inspected upon request, pending insurance and tow yard ac…

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Matching rule\b(brake fail\w*|brakes fail\w*|brake pedal|braking distance|unintended braking|phantom braking)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

1 mentions · 7.7% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 11673648

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The braking system appears to have failed. When I attempted to slow down for a stop sign, the brake pedal went straight to the floor and did not respond as expected. I began pumping the brakes out of panic, but they only engaged at the last moment, approximately one foot or less from the vehicle in front of me. The vehicle is currently totaled, but I believe the braking system could still be inspected upon request, pending insurance and tow yard ac…

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Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b