2021 Kia Seltos

2021 Kia Seltos

The 2021 Kia Seltos is a subcompact crossover SUV that offers a combination of style, functionality, and affordability. It is available with a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter inline-four and a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four. Transmission options include a six-speed automatic, an eight-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT), and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

The Seltos has received positive reviews for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive fuel economy. However, some owners have reported experiencing issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior.

Engine

• 2.0-liter Inline-Four
  • Cylinder Wall Scuffing
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive wear on the cylinder walls, leading to reduced engine performance and oil consumption.
    • Solution: Engine replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 1.6-liter Turbocharged Inline-Four
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the turbocharger, resulting in reduced engine power and increased exhaust smoke.
    • Solution: Turbocharger replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Recall Number 22V-082

Transmission

• Six-Speed Automatic
  • Shifting Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, or delayed gear engagement.
    • Solution: Transmission repair or replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Eight-Speed CVT
  • CVT Overheating
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission overheating when under heavy load or driving up hills.
    • Solution: CVT replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Seven-Speed DCT
  • Clutch Pack Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of the clutch pack, resulting in shuddering, slipping, or loss of power.
    • Solution: Clutch pack replacement
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Premature Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive wear on the front lower control arm bushings, leading to a knocking or rattling noise when driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replacement of front lower control arms and bushings
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden loss of electrical power, causing the vehicle to stall or become inoperable.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of electrical system components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Recall Number 21V-739

Exterior

• Roof Rack Crossbars
  • Rust and Corrosion
    • Description/Symptoms: Premature rust and corrosion on the roof rack crossbars
    • Solution: Replacement of roof rack crossbars
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $750+
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Armrest
  • Squeaking and Rattling
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive squeaking and rattling of the center console armrest when driving over bumps or rough roads.
    • Solution: Tightening or replacement of center console armrest
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner
  • Sagging and Drooping
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric becoming loose and sagging, especially in hot weather.
    • Solution: Re-gluing or replacement of headliner
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2021 Kia Seltos offers a compelling package of features and value, owners have reported a number of issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. Some of the issues, such as engine cylinder wall scuffing and turbocharger failure, can be costly to repair. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and can be resolved with reasonable effort and expense.