2023 Kia Seltos
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
- Complaints
- 47
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Engine
Campaigns on file for 2023
Opened by NHTSA
38% of complaints
Complaints per year
2023: 47 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2021 | 377 |
| 2022 | 75 |
| 2023 | 47 |
| 2024 | 47 |
| 2025 | 13 |
| 2026 | 4 |
| 2027 | 3 |
Known problem areas
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine
38% · 18 reportsShow complaint excerpts
I had two incidents with the Kia listed above involving the feature where the engine stops when at a light, and then turns back on when foot is removed from brake. The first instance happened in a parking lot while I was maneuvering into a spot.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-08-23
My 2024 Kia Seltos, with approximately 50,000 miles, experienced a sudden shutdown while traveling at highway speed, cannot accelerate.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-10-19
Also filed under Electrical system and service brakes
Car was taken In for service and tech noted was low on oil and looked as if was burning oil and advised of a recall.
NHTSA ODI report, 2026-09-04
Electrical system
34% · 16 reportsMost commonly citing speedometer/odometer.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2023 Kia Seltos. The contact stated that while parallel parking her vehicle, the vehicle independently accelerated backward while in the reverse(R) position and crashed into a barrier.
NHTSA ODI report, 2023-05-12
Forward collision avoidance
11% · 5 reportsMost commonly citing warnings and automatic emergency braking.
Service brakes
9% · 4 reportsShow complaint excerpts
Went to stop at a red light and I had no breaks pushed break pedal all to the floor and nothing hit another car no air bags seat belt never tightened no collision warning nothing I was was at fault and charge wreck less driving and ticked.
NHTSA ODI report, 2024-10-06
Also filed under Air bags
Power train
9% · 4 reportsSafety timeline
2 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
2023-09-28Power train23V531000 Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul, Sportage, and 2023-2024 Seltos vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump to overheat.
Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge.
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R
2025-04-04Engine and engine cooling25V099000 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.
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.
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I
2025-08-06Audit queryClosed 2025-12-18 Kia 25V099 Piston Oil Ring Recall Effectiveness
Buy-smart checklist
2023 Kia Seltos — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine: 18 reports on file for this year.
- Electrical system: 16 reports on file for this year.
- Forward collision avoidance: 5 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 23V531000 · Power train
- Recall 25V099000 · Engine and engine cooling
FAQ
- Is the 2023 Kia Seltos reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2023 Kia Seltos?
- The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2023 Kia Seltos have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.