Last updated: 2026-07-26
KIA Seltos Reliability by Year
The KIA Seltos averages 73/100 across 6 model years, rated good.
KIA Seltos Reliability Overview
Data indicates that the KIA Seltos, covering model years 2021 to 2026, has an average reliability score of 73/100, categorizing it as a good choice in terms of reliability. Common issues reported by owners include engine and electrical system problems, particularly in earlier models, with significant improvements noted by 2026, which scores 82/100 and has fewer complaints. Repair costs are rated 3.5/5, suggesting moderate expenses, making it suitable for buyers prioritizing reliability with awareness of early model challenges.
Current generation: 2nd gen (2027–present).
Best & Worst KIA Seltos Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best KIA Seltos Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best KIA Seltos year is 2026 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (79/100) and 2024 (73/100).
KIA Seltos Years to Avoid
The worst KIA Seltos year is 2021 with a score of 59/100, primarily due to engine (145) issues.
KIA Seltos Reliability Score Trend
KIA Seltos reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 78/100 compared to 68/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 82/100 | Excellent |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2026 KIA Seltos
0 recalls · 3 complaints
The 2026 KIA Seltos has excellent reliability. There are 0 recalls and 3 owner complaints on file for the 2026 KIA Seltos. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Service Brakes, Hydraulic (2), Air Bags (1).
2025 KIA Seltos
0 recalls · 12 complaints
The 2025 KIA Seltos has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 12 owner complaints on file for the 2025 KIA Seltos. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (3), Unknown Or Other (2), Exterior Lighting (2).
2024 KIA Seltos
2 recalls · 41 complaints
The 2024 KIA Seltos has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 41 owner complaints on file for the 2024 KIA Seltos. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (12), Unknown Or Other (7), Power Train (4).
2023 KIA Seltos
2 recalls · 44 complaints
The 2023 KIA Seltos has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 44 owner complaints on file for the 2023 KIA Seltos. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (11), Unknown Or Other (9), Engine (6).
2022 KIA Seltos
1 recalls · 69 complaints
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).
2021 KIA Seltos
2 recalls · 346 complaints
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).
Found Your KIA Seltos? Check Its History
Every KIA Seltos has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
KIA Seltos Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
3.5/5
KIA Seltos Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable KIA Models
Compare all KIA models by reliability
Compare KIA Seltos With Similar SUVs
The KIA Seltos competes with other compact suvs such as Mitsubishi Outlander, Toyota C-HR, and Ford Ecosport.
Mitsubishi Outlander reliability
8 years tracked · 398 complaints
Toyota C-HR reliability
5 years tracked · 486 complaints
Ford Ecosport reliability
5 years tracked · 1826 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the KIA Seltos reliable?
- The KIA Seltos has good reliability with an average score of 73/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the KIA Seltos?
- The best year for the KIA Seltos is 2026 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. It has 0 recalls and 3 owner complaints on record. See full 2026 KIA Seltosanalysis →
- What are the KIA Seltos years to avoid?
- The KIA Seltos years to avoid include 2021 (59/100). These model years score significantly below the model average due to higher recall and complaint volumes. See the full years-to-avoid analysis for details. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a KIA Seltos?
- Annual maintenance cost estimates are not available for the KIA Seltos. Based on its reliability score and complaint patterns, check individual year pages for repair cost details when available.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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