2021 Kia Seltos VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 KIA Seltos has mixed reliability. There are 2 recalls and 346 owner complaints on file for the 2021 KIA Seltos. Severity signals include 12 crash-related complaints and 5 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (145), Power Train (61), Engine And Engine Cooling (39).
Seltos reliability snapshot
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the KIA Seltos before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Most-reported 2021 KIA Seltos issues
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
- Engine145
- Power Train61
- Engine And Engine Cooling39
- Electrical System36
- Unknown Or Other30
- Air Bags5
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 KIA Seltos
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
- Check for excessive oil consumption by inspecting oil levels and looking for blue smoke from the exhaust
- Test drive to detect any transmission shudder or failure to shift gears
- Inspect for any engine warning lights or unusual engine noises during acceleration
- Verify completion of all relevant recalls, especially those related to engine and piston rings
- Test the vehicle at various speeds to ensure it does not stall or lose power
- Examine the infotainment system for freezing or lagging issues
- Inspect for any signs of electrical system malfunctions, such as dashboard lights flickering
2021 Seltos recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Seltos. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGNHTSA 25V099000Feb 17, 2025
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.
Consequence: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
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. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.
- ENGINENHTSA 21V259000Apr 13, 2021
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
Consequence: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall began June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC209.
2021 KIA Seltos on the road
51,368 2021 KIA Seltos units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 KIA Seltos stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2021 Kia Seltos
The 2021 KIA Seltos presents an elevated reliability risk, scoring below the segment average. Complaints are notably concentrated in the engine and power train categories, indicating potential systemic issues in these critical areas. With 145 complaints related to the engine and 61 concerning the power train, these figures suggest recurring problems that could impact long-term durability and performance.
The vehicle has been subject to two recalls, a limited number, yet the high volume of complaints in key mechanical systems cannot be overlooked. Other areas, such as the electrical system, also show notable concern, though to a lesser extent. As the first model year of a new generation, these issues may reflect teething problems typical of early production runs.
Overall, potential buyers should be aware of the elevated risk associated with the 2021 KIA Seltos, particularly concerning engine and power train reliability.
What you get in a 2021 Kia Seltos report
Check a 2021 Kia Seltos now
Confirm exact options, recall completion, accident history, and odometer accuracy in minutes.
2021 Kia Seltos — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Kia Seltos reliable?
The 2021 KIA Seltos presents an elevated reliability risk, scoring below the segment average. Complaints are notably concentrated in the engine and power train categories, indicating potential systemic issues in these critical areas. With 145 complaints related to the engine and 61 concerning the power train, these figures suggest recurring problems that could impact long-term durability and performance.
How many recalls does the 2021 Kia Seltos have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Kia Seltos. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Kia Seltos problems?
The most-reported 2021 Kia Seltos problem areas are: Engine (145), Power Train (61), Engine And Engine Cooling (39).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Kia Seltos?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Kia Seltos, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.