2021 Kia Seltos engine and engine cooling problems
43 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine and engine cooling on the 2021 Kia Seltos — 12% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and turning into the driveway, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and there was no oil in the engine, and metal flakes were found…”
filed Aug 20, 2026
“The contact owns a 2021 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while driving at 45 mph the engine experienced a complete loss of automotive power, and no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and the contact was advised that the engine was…”
filed Aug 5, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Related recalls
- Piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damageCampaign 25V099000 · Feb 17, 2025
Engine and Engine Cooling problems in other Seltos years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Seltos | 2 | 4% |
| 2023 Seltos | 2 | 4% |
| 2022 Seltos | 9 | 13% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2021 Kia Seltos
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.