- Kia has issued a recall for certain Seltos and Soul models ranging from the 2021 to 2023 model years.
- The recall affects 53,635 Seltos and 83,621 Soul vehicles, totaling 137,256, and the problem could require a replacement engine.
- The issue stems from a potentially defective piston ring, which may lead to increased oil consumption and could eventually damage the engine.
Kia is recalling 137,256 Seltos and Soul models from the 2021 to 2023 model years. The recall population is split between the two models, with 53,635 Seltos and 83,621 Soul vehicles on the list. Recall documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that the issue is a potentially defective piston oil ring. In both models, the recall affects the non-turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The optional turbo 1.6-liter is not included in the recall.
According to the recall report, a quality deviation by the piston ring supplier may cause damage to the surface of the cylinder wall over time. In turn, the damaged cylinder could increase oil consumption causing increased damage, an engine seizure, and, in limited cases, a fire in the engine bay.
The recall documents list increased oil consumption, abnormal engine noise, and illumination of the oil pressure light on the dash as warnings of the issue. Kia will notify all owners with impacted vehicles with instructions to bring their cars to a Kia dealer to be fixed.
The recall documents show that Kia will inspect each engine, replacing those with damaged cylinder walls. The dealers will also install piston-ring noise-sensing software as a preventive measure. In the event that the piston ring issue arises, Kia will replace the engine. The automaker will also reimburse owners for repair expenses related to the recall that have already occurred.
Kia dealerships have already been notified of the recall, with the automaker planning to begin owner notifications on April 4. Any owners worried their car may be involved can check the NHTSA recalls site here beforehand with their vehicle’s VIN.
Jack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1.
After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf.
Source: Motor - aranddriver.com
