2020 Kia Telluride

The 2020 Kia Telluride marked the debut of this popular mid-size SUV, quickly gaining praise for its spacious three-row seating, upscale interior, and strong value proposition. It came standard with a 3.8-liter Lambda II V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While owners often appreciate the Telluride’s comfortable ride, generous features, and distinctive styling, some have reported certain issues affecting its reliability and overall ownership experience. Common dislikes include occasional transmission hesitation, limited fuel economy, and availability of certain features.

Engine

3.8L Lambda II V6

• Engine Knocking/Ticking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported hearing knocking or ticking noises coming from the engine, especially during cold starts. This may be caused by the gasoline direct injection (GDI) system.
  • Solution: In some cases, the noise subsides as the engine warms up. However, persistent or loud knocking may require inspection by a qualified mechanic and potential repairs to the engine’s internal components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dependent on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent topping off between oil changes. This may be caused by excessive wear of the piston rings.
  • Solution: Requires a compression test and cylinder leak down test to evaluate the condition of the engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced harsh or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. This can be caused by issues within the transmission’s valve body or torque converter.
  • Solution: A software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) can sometimes resolve this issue. However, more severe cases may require valve body replacement or a transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $3,000+ (transmission rebuild).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hesitation/Delay in Gear Engagement
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported a noticeable delay or hesitation when shifting between gears, particularly when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: May require transmission software update or replacement of faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $500+ (sensor replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported clunking or squeaking noises coming from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This can be caused by worn or loose suspension components.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace any worn or damaged suspension components, such as bushings, struts, or sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive, requiring a system reset. This can be caused by software glitches or hardware issues.
  • Solution: A software update or system reset may resolve the issue. However, persistent problems may require replacement of the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,000+ (replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced premature battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or requiring frequent jump starts. This can be caused by parasitic draw from electrical components or a faulty battery.
  • Solution: Inspection of the electrical system for parasitic draws and testing of the battery’s health. Replacement of the battery or faulty electrical components may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Tailgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic tailgate may fail to open or close properly, or it may become stuck in either the open or closed position. This can be caused by issues with the tailgate motor, sensors, or latch mechanism.
  • Solution: Inspection and replacement of the faulty tailgate motor, sensors, or latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seat motors may fail, preventing the seats from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor may fail, resulting in a lack of airflow from the vents.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Kia Telluride, while praised for its design and features, has exhibited some common issues. While some issues, like infotainment glitches, are relatively minor, others, such as transmission problems or excessive oil consumption, can be more severe and costly to repair. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potential safety hazards. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and thoroughly inspect any used 2020 Telluride before purchase. It’s also recommended to check the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider obtaining a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic.