The 2022 KIA Seltos has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 69 owner complaints on file for the 2022 KIA Seltos. Severity signals include 6 crash-related complaints and 3 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (23), Unknown Or Other (12), Power Train (10).
Seltos reliability snapshot
72/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (good)
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.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Engine23
Unknown Or Other12
Power Train10
Electrical System8
Engine And Engine Cooling8
Air Bags3
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2022 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 level and consumption history
☐Test for engine stalling or shutdown during a test drive, especially at idle or low speeds
☐Inspect for any engine knocking noises or abnormal sounds
☐Verify recall completion for engine and piston ring issues
☐Check for any signs of white smoke from the exhaust
☐Test Idle Stop & Go (ISG) feature for proper functionality
☐Inspect for any signs of transmission overheating or shuddering
What owners reported
2022 KIA Seltos owner complaints in detail
Owners have reported 6 crashes, 3 fires and 2 injuries to NHTSA for the 2022 KIA Seltos. These are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defect rates.
Owner complaints23
ENGINE
Owners of the 2022 Kia Seltos frequently report issues with excessive oil consumption, often without visible leaks or dashboard warnings. Complaints commonly describe engines consuming oil rapidly, with some vehicles requiring additional oil every 1,000 miles. Many reports involve engine stalling, loss of power, or complete engine failure, typically occurring around 44,000 to 84,000 miles. Several owners mention their vehicles shutting down unexpectedly while driving, posing potential safety risks. These issues are often linked to a recall related to piston rings, with some owners expressing dissatisfaction with recall handling and resolution.
Owner complaints12
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2022 Kia Seltos frequently report issues related to engine performance and unexpected vehicle shutdowns. Symptoms described include the engine stalling, losing power, and sudden halts, often accompanied by low oil levels without visible leaks and burning smells. Several complaints involve the vehicle shutting off at traffic lights or while driving, sometimes requiring multiple attempts to restart. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, with some occurring as early as 2,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes and one instance of an engine fire. Additional complaints mention sunroof explosions and wireless CarPlay connectivity issues, which may distract drivers.
Owners of the 2022 Kia Seltos frequently report issues related to the power train, particularly concerning excessive oil consumption and transmission overheating. Symptoms described include engines burning oil rapidly, often accompanied by check engine lights, and transmission temperature warnings leading to power loss. These issues appear to occur across various mileage ranges, with some reports around 60,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, with one report involving a crash and others mentioning risks of stalling in traffic and potential engine fires. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these reported concerns, particularly the potential for significant engine and transmission issues.
Owners report several issues with the electrical system of the 2022 Kia Seltos, with multiple complaints highlighting problems with the Idle Stop & Go (ISG) feature. This feature sometimes fails to restart the engine after stopping, leading to stalling, particularly at intersections. Additionally, there are reports of the vehicle's navigation system causing erratic behavior in the instrument panel, and instances of the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly, which in one case led to a crash. Another serious issue includes a vehicle fire, which one owner describes as occurring without warning and resulting in significant damage. These issues often emerge at various mileages, with one report mentioning around 30,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of loss of control, a crash, and a fire.
Owners of the 2022 Kia Seltos frequently report issues related to engine performance, particularly linked to a recall that has been placed on hold, leading to parts distribution disconnects. Common symptoms include engine stalling at various speeds, hesitation while accelerating, and excessive oil consumption, with some vehicles requiring additional oil every few days. White smoke from the exhaust and abnormal knocking sounds are also noted, often without warning lights. These issues are reported at mileages ranging from approximately 36,000 to over 200,000 miles. No incidents of crashes or fires are mentioned, but the potential for engine failure and stalling may pose safety risks. Used car buyers should be aware of these recurring engine issues and the ongoing delays in recall repairs.
Owner complaints3
AIR BAGS
Owners of the 2022 Kia Seltos report issues with airbag non-deployment in crash situations. Two complaints involve frontal crashes where airbags failed to deploy, resulting in injuries, including neck spasms and a severe head concussion. Both incidents describe significant front-end damage, with one vehicle deemed a total loss due to extensive damage. One report notes the vehicle had approximately 100,000 miles at the time of the incident. These complaints highlight potential safety implications for occupants in the event of a collision, which prospective buyers should consider.
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2022 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.
2022 KIA Seltos on the road
44,897 2022 KIA Seltos units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2022 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.
The 2022 KIA Seltos scores a 72 out of 100, aligning precisely with the segment average, indicating moderate reliability. The complaints are somewhat concentrated, with the engine category being the most frequently reported issue, followed by a smaller spread across power train and electrical system concerns. This suggests a focus on engine-related reliability challenges.
The model has experienced only one recall, which is limited and suggests that severe, widespread defects are not prevalent. The facelift year may introduce some variability in reliability, as updates often bring both improvements and new challenges. Overall, the Seltos presents a moderate reliability profile, with no single overwhelming issue but a notable concentration of engine complaints.
In summary, the 2022 KIA Seltos carries a moderate reliability risk, consistent with the segment average, with particular attention needed on engine performance.
What you get in a 2022 Kia Seltos report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
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2022 Kia Seltos — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2022 Kia Seltos reliable?
The 2022 KIA Seltos scores a 72 out of 100, aligning precisely with the segment average, indicating moderate reliability. The complaints are somewhat concentrated, with the engine category being the most frequently reported issue, followed by a smaller spread across power train and electrical system concerns. This suggests a focus on engine-related reliability challenges.
How many recalls does the 2022 Kia Seltos have?
1 NHTSA safety recall has been issued for the 2022 Kia Seltos. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2022 Kia Seltos problems?
The most-reported 2022 Kia Seltos problem areas are: Engine (23), Unknown Or Other (12), Power Train (10).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2022 Kia Seltos?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2022 Kia Seltos, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
