Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2021 Kia Seltos
The 2021 Kia Seltos has several engine-related recalls and numerous complaints, primarily about its engine and power train. Buyers should be aware of potential engine damage due to piston oil ring issues. While other systems have fewer complaints, engine performance should be thoroughly inspected before purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2021 Kia Seltos has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns and 382 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #25V099000 Engine Damage May Cause Stall or Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V259000 Improperly Heat-Treated Piston Oil Rings NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 235 complaints
- Power Train 69 complaints
- Electrical System 48 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 46 complaints
- Unknown or Other 46 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 26 complaints
Of the 382 complaints on file, 13 report a crash and 6 a fire; across all 382 complaints, owners report 8 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Piston oil ring issues
How to check: Check for any unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Potential engine damage
How to check: Inspect engine for signs of oil leaks or burning.
Power train issues
How to check: Listen for abnormal noises during acceleration.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for irregular engine noises.
Red flag: Persistent knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe for excessive vibrations.
Red flag: Unusual shaking or vibrating
- 03
Low-speed drive
What to check: Check for smooth transmission shifts.
Red flag: Jerky or hesitant shifts
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor power delivery consistency.
Red flag: Lack of power or surges
- 05
Braking
What to check: Feel for smooth stopping without noise.
Red flag: Brakes squealing or grinding
- 06
Turning maneuvers
What to check: Steering should be smooth and responsive.
Red flag: Difficulty steering or noise
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine ever been repaired?
- Are all recall repairs completed?
- Was any engine work done under warranty?
- Any issues with the transmission?
- Any check engine light incidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service and maintenance records
- Warranty repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2021 Kia Seltos at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2021 Kia Seltos? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.