2021–2024 Kia Seltos · common problems & known faults

1.6L turbo (S/SX) oil consumption and rare bearing concerns.

Typically appears

50,000+ miles

What to inspect

Check oil level and listen for knock; confirm any engine recall.

CVT on base cars can drone; DCT on turbo can hesitate.

Typically appears

Any

What to inspect

Test-drive both smoothness and low-speed take-up.

Infotainment and camera glitches.

Typically appears

Any

What to inspect

Test the screen and reversing camera.

Interior rattles and trim fit.

Typically appears

Any

What to inspect

Listen for rattles over bumps.

Piston oil ring failure leading to severe oil consumption, misfires, or complete engine seizure due to improper factory heat treatment.

Typically appears

15,000-40,000 miles

What to inspect

Pull the dipstick to check oil level and condition. Listen for abnormal bottom-end knocking when revving from cold. Check history for the piston ring recall.

Clunking or clicking noise from the steering column when changing direction at low speeds, caused by premature wear of the MDPS flexible coupling.

Typically appears

30,000-60,000 miles

What to inspect

With the engine running and vehicle stationary, rock the steering wheel rapidly left and right by a few inches. Listen for a distinct plastic-on-metal clunk.

Air conditioning blows warm or cuts out intermittently due to a faulty evaporator temperature sensor or failing compressor clutch relay.

Typically appears

20,000-50,000 miles

What to inspect

Set climate control to maximum cold with the engine running. Ensure the compressor engages (listen for a click under the bonnet) and vents blow ice-cold within 60 seconds.

Water ingress into the front footwells, often caused by poorly sealed roof rails or blocked scuttle panel drains.

Typically appears

2-4 years

What to inspect

Press firmly on the front carpets and under-mats in both footwells to check for dampness. Sniff the cabin for a musty, mouldy odour indicating trapped moisture.