How common are engine problems in the 2023 Kia Seltos?

NHTSA lists 19 engine-related complaints out of 46 total complaints for the 2023 Seltos, or 41% of all complaints filed for that model year.

Is there a recall for the 2023 Kia Seltos engine?

Yes. Recall 25V099000 covers 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles with piston oil rings that may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause engine damage. The remedy is dealer inspection and engine replacement if needed, along with installation of a piston-ring noise sensor.

At what mileage do 2023 Seltos engine problems typically show up?

The median mileage at failure reported to NHTSA for engine complaints on the 2023 Seltos is 62,000 miles.

How does the 2023 Seltos compare to other years for engine complaints?

The 2023 Seltos's 41% share of complaints tied to the engine is lower than the 2021 model (74%) and 2022 model (64%), but higher than the 2024 (29%) and 2025 (8%) model years.

2023 Kia Seltos Engine Problems

Engine problems account for 19 of 46 total complaints (41%) on the 2023 Kia Seltos, with a median failure mileage of 62,000. NHTSA recall 25V099000 covers faulty piston oil rings that can cause engine damage on 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles.

Engine complaints: 19; 41% of 46
Crashes reported: 1
Fires reported: 0
Injuries reported: 0
Median mileage: 62,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Vehicle unexpectedly stalls or shuts off while stopped or moving, including after the auto stop/start system engages at a light.
Engine lunges or revs forward unexpectedly when the driver's foot is on the brake, in one case leading to a crash.
White or blowing smoke from the exhaust accompanied by a dealer diagnosis of failing piston rings, sometimes requiring a full engine replacement.
Sudden loss of power or engine stalling while driving on the highway or through intersections, with no warning lights or noises beforehand.
Rattling noise and rough, misfire-like running accompanied by reduced power under 40,000 miles, despite no dashboard warning light.

When 2023 Kia Seltos engine complaints were filed

First complaint Feb 16, 2023, latest Sep 4, 2026.

19 complaints filed with NHTSA from Feb 2023 to Sep 2026; peak Aug 2025 (4).

Engine recalls for the 2023 Kia Seltos

NHTSA 25V099000Feb 17, 2025Engine137,256 vehicles
Engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanical
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Risk: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.

Engine complaints by Seltos model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

2021272 (74%)
202246 (64%)
202319 (41%)
202413 (29%)
20251 (8%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems in the 2023 Kia Seltos?: NHTSA lists 19 engine-related complaints out of 46 total complaints for the 2023 Seltos, or 41% of all complaints filed for that model year.
Is there a recall for the 2023 Kia Seltos engine?: Yes. Recall 25V099000 covers 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles with piston oil rings that may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause engine damage. The remedy is dealer inspection and engine replacement if needed, along with installation of a piston-ring noise sensor.
At what mileage do 2023 Seltos engine problems typically show up?: The median mileage at failure reported to NHTSA for engine complaints on the 2023 Seltos is 62,000 miles.
How does the 2023 Seltos compare to other years for engine complaints?: The 2023 Seltos's 41% share of complaints tied to the engine is lower than the 2021 model (74%) and 2022 model (64%), but higher than the 2024 (29%) and 2025 (8%) model years.