2021 Kia Seltos: excessive oil consumption

Filed Nov 2, 2026 · Engine · 110,000 miles · NM

The contact owns a 2021 KIA Seltos. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming engine oil and needed to be topped off regularly. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed with oil consumption failure. The technician stated that the engine was consuming one liter of oil every 1,000 miles. The contact stated that there was a persistent abnormal burning oil odor. The contact stated that the engine had seized on several occasions while making abnormal sounds. The contact stated that the oil consumption failure had started since the vehicle was purchased. The contact associated the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); with the failure; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 110,000.

Filed Oct 31, 2026 · Engine · TX

This complaint concerns the ineffectiveness of the recall remedy for the federal safety agency campaign SC336 (Kia recall for incorrectly manufactured piston oil rings in 2021-2023 Soul/Seltos vehicles; remedy is dealer inspection, engine replacement if necessary, plus piston-ring noise sensing software). The vehicle was purchased new in XXX. On XXX, the vehicle was brought to the Kia dealer in [XXX] for the SC336 recall remedy. The dealer kept the vehicle for 30 days and returned it on XXX. After the recall repair, the vehicle exhibited the exact same symptoms as before (excessive oil consumption / engine malfunction) - the recall remedy was ineffective. The engine defect symptoms persisted unchanged. The complainant subsequently surrendered the vehicle and no longer possesses it. No crash, fire, injury, or death resulted from this complaint. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Sep 29, 2026 · Engine · 158,000 miles · NC

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption. While driving 55 MPH, the vehicle lost motive power in the middle of the highway and came to a stop. The check engine warning light was illuminated, and an abnormal burning odor was coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was pushed to the side of the road with the assistance of a bystander. The vehicle was able to restart but was undrivable. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who informed the contact a week later that the vehicle was operable. Upon retrieving the vehicle, the check engine warning light was still illuminated, and the vehicle was barely operational and made abnormal sounds. The contact informed the dealer of the issues, and the vehicle remained at the dealer and was diagnosed. The vehicle was diagnosed with camshaft failure. The vehicle was in the process of being repaired; however, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under the federal safety agency Campaign Numbers: 21V259000 (Engine) or 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The recall repairs were previously performed. The contact stated that the recall remedy failed to correct the issues. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone, but a supervisor had not yet returned the call. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.

Filed Sep 28, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · ID

the federal safety agency SAFETY COMPLAINT Vehicle: 2021 Kia Seltos VIN: [XXX] Date: December 16, 2025 Complainant: [XXX] I am filing this formal safety complaint regarding serious and recurring engine problems with our 2021 Kia Seltos, VIN [XXX]. We have attempted repeatedly to resolve these concerns through Lithia Kia in Nampa, Idaho, as well as through Kia corporate, but our concerns have not been adequately addressed. Over approximately the past year, the vehicle’s engine has unexpectedly seized or shut down four separate times while the vehicle was being driven. Each incident created a serious safety hazard because the vehicle suddenly lost power. Fortunately, on these occasions, the failures occurred while we were traveling in slower traffic and we were able to maneuver the vehicle safely onto the shoulder. We are extremely concerned that a future occurrence could happen at higher speeds or in heavier traffic, potentially resulting in a serious crash or injury. Following each incident, the vehicle had to be towed. On two occasions, it was towed to an independent mechanic, and on two occasions it was towed directly to the Kia dealership. The independent mechanic diagnosed the vehicle as burning excessive amounts of engine oil. The loss of oil has occurred even within approximately 1,000 miles of an oil change when the engine had been properly topped off. We were informed that the excessive oil consumption was associated with the vehicle's safety systems shutting the engine down. Despite repeatedly reporting this dangerous condition to Lithia Kia, we do not believe the dealership has adequately investigated or corrected the underlying problem. On multiple occasions, the dealership performed relatively minor repairs, but those repairs did not resolve the problem. After the vehicle was returned to us, the same serious condition recurred. We repeatedly communicated to the dealership our extreme concern that this vehicle is unsafe to operate because the INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C

Filed Sep 27, 2026 · Engine · IN

I am writing to file a formal safety complaint against Kia America and Rohrman Fort Wayne Kia regarding a failure to remedy a safety defect under federally mandated Recall SC336 (the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 21V259000 / Piston Oil Ring Defect) for my 2021 Kia Seltos.Current Mileage: 83,740 miles Active Kia Corporate Case Number: XXX Statement of Safety Risk and Incident Timeline:My vehicle recently exhibited severe symptoms identical to the documented manufacturing defect: aggressive, premature engine oil consumption resulting in a severe drop in oil pressure, loss of motive power, and random engine stalling while driving.On XXX, due to the extreme danger of operating a vehicle that stalls randomly in traffic, the vehicle was towed directly to Fort Wayne Kia (Repair Order #XXX).Failure of Recall Remedy and Dealership Misconduct:The dealership service department completed a software update tied to the recall (Piston Ring Noise Sensing System / PNSS) and claimed the vehicle "passed" their computer sensor threshold. However, the physical reality is that the internal mechanical damage from the factory defect had already occurred. Upon attempting to retrieve the vehicle on their lot, the engine failed to maintain a baseline idle and died immediately upon startup.The dealership’s Service Manager, [XXX], has refused to perform the necessary physical diagnostic engine inspections or a mechanical teardown under the recall campaign framework. Instead, the dealership attempted to charge me an out-of-pocket, customer-pay diagnostic fee of $190.00 to read the ensuing engine fault codes (P001700 and P000B00).As a professional automotive technician, I recognize these codes (Crankshaft/Camshaft Correlation and Camshaft Position Slow Response) as the direct, downstream hydraulic consequence of the top-end INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Sep 20, 2026 · Engine · CA

Had the software update for piston recall in April 2025, did all the testing and getting codes p0300 all the way to p0305 being that it only has 4 cylinders a 5th cylinder misfire code leads to piston ring failure, it is also burning oil the spark plugs are ashy which I have photo evidence of all of this and they are covered in oil, my car broke down while driving and lost complete engine power I am medically complex. Dealerships are denying the recall as it was "completed" due to a software update. This is a known safety hazard and I could have died. I have all proof it's the spark plugs failing.

Filed Sep 1, 2026 · Engine · MI

My 2021 Kia Seltos 2.0L is experiencing excessive engine oil consumption between regularly scheduled oil changes. There is no visible external oil leak or oil accumulating underneath the vehicle, but the oil level becomes extremely low before the next scheduled oil change, requiring me to add oil myself. I am concerned that continued excessive oil consumption could result in inadequate engine lubrication, engine damage, engine seizure/stalling, or loss of power while driving. I took the vehicle to an authorized Kia dealership on September 1, 2026 and reported the excessive oil consumption. The dealership did not inspect the vehicle, perform diagnostic testing, or provide a repair order. I was told that because the vehicle has approximately 138,000 miles and is outside the warranty period, there was nothing the dealership or Kia would do and that diagnosis could be expensive. I subsequently contacted Kia Consumer Assistance. Kia confirmed that safety recall SC209 was completed on this vehicle in 2021. Kia advised that this vehicle is not currently included in SC336/the federal safety agency 25V099. Kia has opened a dealer complaint and advised that the matter will be brought to the attention of a District Manager. I am concerned because Kia has identified piston oil-ring-related problems involving increased oil consumption in certain Kia Seltos vehicles. Although my vehicle has not yet been diagnosed and Kia states that it is not included in SC336, I am reporting the excessive oil consumption and potential resulting engine failure as a safety concern. The vehicle is available for inspection.

Filed Aug 31, 2026 · Engine, Fuel system · WI

My 2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo (1.6L Turbo engine) is experiencing severe, excessive oil consumption, burning (and heavy smoke ) approximately 1 to 2 quarts, (Kia dealer oil change standard amount) of oil every 1,000 miles without any external visual leaks. A formal diagnosis by a certified Kia dealership confirms that heavy carbon buildup has accumulated around the piston rings, causing severe ring distortion. Because the oil rings are stuck and distorted, the engine is bypassing oil directly into the combustion chamber and burning it. This exact physical failure mode—carbon buildup causing piston oil ring failure—is identical to the defect described in the federal safety agency Recall 25V099 (Kia Campaign SC336) for the 2.0L Seltos models. However, my vehicle is currently excluded from safety remedies due to its 1.6L Turbo engine variant. This vehicle presents a severe safety hazard, including sudden engine knocking, very heavy smoke from the exhaust, power loss, stalling at highway speeds, or potential engine fire due to running dry on oil. Regulators must expand the scope of the piston ring investigation to include the 1.6L Turbo engine footprint. There were no engine lights, oil lights, or any warning codes. I was told by Kia repair service department that although the car was smoking heavy and smelled like it was burning that I should continue to drive it and then I wasn’t in danger. Please help

Filed Aug 20, 2026 · Engine · 103,000 miles · IN

I am requesting a formal review of an engine failure involving my 2021 Kia Seltos LX with the 2.0L engine. At approximately 103,000 miles, the original engine failed after losing nearly all of its oil. There was no obvious external oil leak or oil puddle, suggesting that the engine may have been consuming oil internally. Earlier in my ownership, the vehicle also unexpectedly shut off while operating. I paid out of pocket for a replacement engine and installation. Within approximately one to two hours of receiving the vehicle back, the check-engine light began flashing. The diagnostic information reportedly indicated piston noise, even though the replacement engine appeared to run smoothly. These circumstances appear similar to the piston-ring condition described in safety recall SC336/the federal safety agency 25V‑099, including excessive oil consumption, cylinder damage, abnormal piston noise, engine failure, and possible loss of power. However, Kia’s online system currently shows that SC336 is not open for my VIN, and the dealer found no record that the recall had previously been completed. I understand that my VIN may not currently be included, but I am asking Kia to investigate whether my original engine experienced the same defect, confirm in writing why my VIN was excluded, and review my case for reimbursement or goodwill assistance. The failure occurred only about 3,000 miles beyond the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and I have already incurred substantial engine and labor expenses. Please open a formal case, review my vehicle’s production and engine records, and provide a written determination. I can supply the VIN, repair invoices, proof of payment, mileage records, maintenance documentation, diagnostic codes, towing records, and replacement-engine information.

Filed Jul 29, 2026 · Engine · WI

Purchased new, Feb, 2020. Received piston ring defect recall notice (SC209). Serviced by dealer July, 2021. In 2025, noticed engine knocking noise. Car stalling out. No warning lights. Car 3 quarts low on oil. Consumption tests proved excessive oil used. Piston ring soak (Kia's "solution") did nothing to reduce oil use. After ring soak, oil still low at 1000 mile test. I stressed my belief the engine needs replacement and a ring soak is a band aid, NOT a permanent fix. Was asked to drive 3000 miles, check the oil, and top off if necessary. The engine was noisy during this test. At the 3000 mile mark, I pulled the dipstick. Bone dry. Drove to the dealer and told them it was very low. They sent me to the lounge and said they would pull the car in and come get me. When they didn't come, I went to check, to find a service rep putting oil in my car out in the parking lot. He claimed it was only about one quart low. Then, another consumption test at 1000 miles. Low again. They wanted to do another 1000 mile check after this. They changed the oil and told me to come back at 1000 miles. When I came back, I asked to be present to witness the oil level. They took me to the lounge, said they were pulling the car into the shop, and would come get me. Again, they pulled the stick without my presence, and told me it was full. Now, they want me to do another 4000 mile test. I took the vehicle to two independent mechanics. Their borescope inspection proved engine damage. I have filed a complaint with Kia Corporate and it seems to be falling on deaf ears. I demand a full refund at this point! Kia has lost my trust, both in quality and customer service. I have all the maintenance records and a written statement regarding engine damage, along with photos from the borescope.

Filed Jun 25, 2026 · Engine · NY

The vehicle started loosing engine power. The vehicle stalled while driving 5-6 times, this posed a danger to driver, passengers, and others. A car accident can easily happen when the engines dies. Power to all systems was lost, including steering and brakes. No warning lights or check engine lights appeared at anytime, symptoms started a week before. Vehicle was approx 3 quarts of oil low. It was about 2 months from previous oil change. Other 2021 Kia Seltos have an open recall for defective piston rings (SC209 or SC336.) The vehicle was taken to the nearest Kia dealership. They stated this VIN did not fall under the recall and there was nothing they would do. Kia was called directly and also stated no assistance would be offered. No inspection or diagnosis has been made as neither the dealership nor the manufacturer is willing to assist. This vehicle should fall under the recall.

Filed Jun 17, 2026 · Engine · FL

To Whom It May Concern, I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding my 2021 Kia Seltos (VIN: [XXX]). My vehicle was previously serviced by Kia in connection with a recall in 2021. Despite the recall-related repair being completed, the issue has not been resolved. My check engine light continues to illuminate, and my vehicle has repeatedly stalled and completely shut off while stopped at red lights and intersections. This creates a serious safety hazard. When a vehicle unexpectedly loses power in traffic, it places the driver, passengers, and surrounding motorists at risk of an accident, injury, or worse. I understand that there have been reports, recalls, investigations, and consumer complaints involving certain Kia vehicles with engine-related issues, including concerns regarding piston oil rings, excessive oil consumption, engine damage, and engine failure. While I am not a mechanic and cannot state with certainty that this is the cause of my vehicle’s problems, I believe my vehicle may be experiencing a similar issue based on the symptoms it is displaying. My concern is that the ongoing engine warning light and repeated stalling events may be related to an underlying engine defect that was either not corrected by the previous recall repair or has developed despite that repair. Given the known concerns surrounding certain Kia engines and piston oil ring-related issues, I believe my vehicle should be thoroughly reviewed to determine whether it qualifies for coverage under any applicable recalls, warranty extensions, service campaigns, or defect-related repair programs. I have been informed that my vehicle is not covered; however, I respectfully request that Kia reevaluate my VIN and investigate whether the stalling condition is connected to any known engine-related defects or recall conditions. I am requesting that: • Kia provide towing assistance if the vehicle is unsafe to operate. • Kia perform a complete diagnostic inspection at no cost. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION