Kia Telluride brake failure problems

Filed Sep 2, 2026 · CO

After receiving a Kia‑issued transmission control module (TCM) software update, my 2021 Kia Telluride experienced a severe and dangerous transmission malfunction while descending a high mountain pass in Colorado. When I attempted to downshift for engine braking, 3rd gear completely disengaged, causing the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably downhill. None of the lower gears would engage or hold as they had prior to the software update. This forced me to slam on the brakes and ride them continuously down the mountain, creating a serious loss‑of‑control hazard and risk of brake failure. Downshifting is essential for safe descent on steep grades, and the vehicle’s inability to do so created an extremely dangerous situation. The issue was duplicated by the Kia dealership technicians, and Kia field engineers have confirmed awareness of the problem. Despite this, Kia Corporate refuses to authorize transmission replacement or reversal of the software update, leaving the vehicle in an unsafe condition. This is a critical safety defect involving gear disengagement, loss of engine braking, unintended acceleration, and brake‑dependent descent control. The vehicle is unsafe to operate on mountain roads, and Kia has declined to perform the necessary repairs.

Filed Aug 21, 2026 · Brakes · FL

On August 3, 2026, while operating my 2024 Kia Telluride, I experienced a catastrophic and total failure of the service braking system. Without warning, the brake pedal went straight to the floorboard with zero hydraulic pressure or stopping power, resulting in a crash into trees. ​The vehicle was towed to Gerber Collision for accident repairs. While the exterior body damage was repaired, the body shop is not equipped for internal hydraulic or component failure analysis. Furthermore, Kia America has been notified of this critical safety defect but is refusing to cover the diagnostic/inspection fees to investigate the underlying root cause under warranty, attempting to pass the cost onto the consumer. ​This is a severe, life-threatening safety defect involving a total loss of brakes on a nearly new vehicle. I request that the federal safety agency log this complaint and investigate potential systemic hydraulic or master cylinder defects in the 2024 Kia Telluride platform.

Filed Jul 28, 2026 · Brakes · IN

Vehicle experiences intermittent brake failure at normal and low speeds. No indicator lights are present, no warnings are given.

Filed May 18, 2026 · Brakes, Electrical · CA

While operating my Kia vehicle, the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of braking capability and loss of acceleration/power while traveling downhill. Multiple warning lights reportedly illuminated during the event, including the battery light, oil light, and check engine light. The incident created a serious safety concern due to inability to properly control vehicle speed and operation. The vehicle was taken to an authorized Kia dealership for inspection. However, the dealership has refused to provide written confirmation that the vehicle is safe to drive and stated they would not assume liability regarding operation of the vehicle. The dealership further recommended towing the vehicle if I feel unsafe operating it. I am requesting investigation into the safety-related condition involving braking/drivability failure and related warning systems.

Filed Feb 6, 2026 · Brakes, Electrical · NC

On January 28, 2026, I brought my vehicle to Kia of Fayetteville for brake pads, rotor replacement, and brake fluid service. I paid approximately $900 for these services and was provided a dealership loaner vehicle. Upon entering the loaner vehicle, I discovered a loaded firearm inside the vehicle as I was gathering my items. The firearm’s serial numbers appeared to be scratched off. Law enforcement was immediately notified. No apology, acknowledgment, or remedial action was taken by dealership management. During this incident, the service manager, Alex Prat, acted in an aggressive, disrespectful, and unprofessional manner. Shortly after retrieving my vehicle, my husband who was driving the vehicle experienced a complete loss of braking ability. The vehicle was towed to another authorized Kia dealership, Southern Pines Kia, where technicians documented that multiple brake system components were improperly installed and/or unsecured, including missing or improperly fastened hardware. The vehicle was deemed unsafe to operate.

Filed Nov 11, 2025 · Brakes · CA · crash · 1 injury

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? I put the car in park, then turned off the vehicle, and removed my seatbelt. The car then began rolling back on its own. When I hit the break, it did not work to stop or slow the vehicle. Instead, the break hit the floor, and was "floppy". The car then crashed. The vehicle appears to have experienced a "roll-away event" despite being in Park and off. (a term I learned from the prior 2024 Telluride recall, my VIN was not included). • The brake pedal went to the floor and did not stop or slow the vehicle as expected, and felt “floppy” with no normal resistance. • The electronic parking brake / brake actuator did not appear to engage (no sound, no holding force). How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? I had removed my seatbelt, so I sustained whiplash and other bodily harm from crashing into our house. Had I stepped out of the car, i could have been pulled underneath it. It also crashed/crushed into our grill which could have caused an explosion. And most importantly, it could have been fatal to my daughters (22 months and 4yr) who usually stand (95% of the time or more) where the car crashed, waiting for me to get out of the car. My dogs also roam the drive way and it could have runover them as well. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? I have notified KIA customer support and am waiting their response for further steps. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NO, not yet. (see above) Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? The brakes have malfunctioned a few times during reversing or driving. The auto stop has engaged itself when there was no danger of hitting anything, and has once stopped in the middle of an intersection, on its own.

Filed Sep 15, 2025 · Brakes, Electrical · CA

I am writing to bring to your attention several safety issues with my vehicle that have not been addressed despite my previous attempts to have them resolved. The first issue concerns the brake system on my vehicle, specifically the brake failure that I have been experiencing. The brakes on my vehicle are not functioning properly, and as a result, I have had multiple instances of brake failure which have put not only my safety but the safety of others at risk. Despite bringing this issue to the attention of your team, the necessary repairs have not been carried out, and the problem persists. This is extremely concerning as the continued malfunction of the brakes poses a significant threat to the safety of both myself and other road users. I urge you to take immediate action to rectify this issue and ensure that the brakes on my vehicle are functioning correctly. Furthermore, I would also like to highlight another safety issue with the seatbelt system in my vehicle. There have been instances where the seatbelt, the third row seat and passenger seat, fails to latch properly sometimes. I have personally experienced difficulties with the latching mechanism and have had to pay for the third-row seatbelt to be fixed as well. Given the critical role that seatbelts play in ensuring the safety of passengers in a vehicle, it is imperative that this issue is addressed promptly to prevent any potential accidents or injuries. I request that the seatbelt system in my vehicle be thoroughly inspected and repaired to ensure that it is functioning correctly and reliably. I trust that you will take the necessary steps to address these safety concerns promptly and effectively. Failure to do so not only compromises my safety but also places the lives of others at risk. I appreciate your prompt attention to these

Filed Aug 6, 2025 · Brakes, Driver assistance · CT

Driving and trying to brake and brake pushed to floor and still not stop.I pulled over and called AAA.While waiting for AAA to arrive low brake fluid light came on.AAA driver arrived and stated bolts protecting driver side rear tire were gone and caliper on that side were left hanging.Towed to Kia Dealer and stated bolts were clearly removed.Last visit to Kia dealer was 30 days ago only for oil change not brake work.Dealer repaired caliper bolts and pistons for over 2000.Dealer had no idea why bolts came off by themselves and why it happened. There was no warning or lights going off until after brakes failed.Luckily when it happened i was only on back roads so could slow down eventually without incident but if I had been on highway not know how I would have come to a stop before crashing.Can anyone tell me why this happened and how to prevent it from ever happening to me or anyone else owning a Kia Telluride

Filed May 1, 2025 · Brakes, Engine · IL

The vehicle has now been towed three times, completely shut down while driving three times, with the latest incident being especially dangerous-the car shut off while in drive, the brakes failed, and the steering wheel locked. My [XXX] child was in the car with me, and we were nearly hit by a semi-truck. It was a terrifying experience that could have been fatal. Not to mention when I was able to get the vehicle to stop, the hazards wouldn't even turn on and continued to put us in danger. My Telluride has been at the dealership for 7 weeks, and the service department still has no clear answer as to why this is happening. Kia corporate has been unresponsive, not taking the situation seriously, and offering no resolution or accountability. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Feb 25, 2025 · Brakes · NV · crash

22May2023: 2022 Kia Telluride had a complete brake failure while exiting an elementary school garage, leading to a collision with the closed gate. ABS warning lights came on and witnesses heard ABS sounds despite dry pavement and slow speed. Driver stopped car by throwing into park. CCTV captured the incident. Can send higher res but your site won't allow large files. Inspections (22-24 May 2023): Multiple ABS and electronic stability control (ESC) errors were detected by local repair shops and a Kia dealer. Other Reports: Owner found other Facebook with similar ABS-related brake failure. They claimed they had contact with about 7 others with same issue - allegedly signed secrecy agreements with Kia to receive compensation/buy back. Dealer Inspection Blocked (30Nov2023): Kia scheduled another brake inspection at dealer, but a regional Kia executive intervened and canceled it last minute. No explanation given. Kia's Refusal (8Apr2024): Kia denied ABS issues could cause brake failure, despite evidence. 20May2024 Recall: Kia recalled a wheel sensor linked to ABS malfunctions but claimed it does not affect braking ability. Settlement Offer: Kia offered compensation but required a secrecy agreement and other terms not acceptable to owner. I have documentation for all.