2020 Kia Telluride used buying checklist
What to check on a used 2020 Kia Telluride before you pay, based on what owners report, its recalls and the repairs the maker covers. Print it and take it to the test drive.
Test for the problems owners report most
The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.
- Headlights failing or too dim168 owner complaints, usually around 11,800 miles, owners paid about $1,800
Check every exterior and interior light, and look for condensation inside the headlights.
- Excessive oil consumption87 owner complaints, usually around 93,364 miles, owners paid about $5,000
Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.
- Windshield cracks77 owner complaints, usually around 4,400 miles, owners paid about $1,200
Test the wipers, washers, defrosters and every window. Look for chips or cracks in the windshield.
Make sure these recalls were done
Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.
- SeatsRecall number 26V430000, Jul 2, 2026
- SeatsRecall number 24V407000, Jun 5, 2024
- Power trainRecall number 24V214000, Mar 20, 2024
- Exterior lightingRecall number 24V148000, Feb 26, 2024
- Trailer hitchesRecall number 22V626000, Aug 15, 2022
- Forward collision avoidanceRecall number 20V436000, Jul 28, 2020
- Seat beltsRecall number 19V594000, Aug 13, 2019
Repairs the maker may still cover
Warranty extensions can cover a known problem beyond the normal warranty. Check whether this car is still within the time or mileage limit.
- Owner notification (WTY049)Sep 25, 2026
- Reimbursement form (WTY049)Sep 25, 2026
- Dealer principal memo (WTY049)Sep 23, 2026
- Dealer parts and service manager memo (WTY049)Sep 23, 2026
- Question and answer (WTY049) –Sep 23, 2026
- Owner notification (WTY045)Apr 30, 2026
Service bulletins worth asking about
Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.
- Excessive engine oil consumption (rev 1)Oct 7, 2026
- Excessive engine oil consumptionSep 25, 2026
- AWD coupler noise/vibration logic improvementMay 23, 2026
Before you pay
- Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
- Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
- Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
- Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
- Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.
See every 2020 Kia Telluride problem
VIN decoder
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Buying a used 2020 Kia Telluride?
Check the exact car before you pay: accidents, salvage or flood titles, odometer readings and previous owners.
Check its history