Last updated: 2026-07-26

2024 KIA Seltos Reliability Report
The 2024 KIA Seltos scores 73/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 41 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
41
Complaint Rate
6.8per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
N/A
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12)
- POWER TRAIN (4)
- ENGINE (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2024 received a second facelift update for the First generation (SP2).
- Changes: Updated front and rear design; New infotainment system.
- Year 4 in this generation (2021–2026).
- 1st generation Seltos (US).
What this means for buyers
Refresh years bring updates but can also introduce new issues. Check early recall data before buying.
2021: First generation (SP2) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2024: This Model Year (Refresh)
2024 received a second facelift update for the First generation (SP2).
Should You Buy the 2024 KIA Seltos?
At 73/100, the 2024 KIA Seltos lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2024 received a second facelift update for the First generation (SP2).
Owners log 41 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (12). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2025 KIA Seltos, which scored 6 points higher. See also the 2023 KIA Seltos for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (12 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Owners of the 2024 KIA Seltos report several distinct issues within the UNKNOWN... (7 complaints)
Compare 2024 KIA Seltos With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (12)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2024 KIA Seltos carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
6.8
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 7.3
Safety Incidents
4
Crashes
1
Fires
2
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2024 KIA Seltos Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2024 KIA Seltos. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul and 2024 Seltos vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the side curtain air bags may deploy unexpectedly.
Consequence
An air bag that deploys unexpectedly can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace both side curtain air bag modules as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 31, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC289.
POWER TRAIN
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.
Consequence
An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
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. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 28, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC275.
Buying a used 2024 KIA Seltos? Check its history first
Every 2024 KIA Seltos has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2024 KIA Seltos NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.9%
Safety Technologies
KIA SeltosRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2024 KIA Seltos.
Inspect engine for oil leaks and check oil levels
Test instrument cluster for visibility issues, especially in cold weather
Verify horn functionality in various temperatures
Check for windshield cracks or chips
Test cruise control on inclines for speed consistency
Inspect for unusual noises or vibrations during acceleration
2024 KIA Seltos Common Problems by Component
41 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
12 complaintsOwners report several electrical system issues with the 2024 Kia Seltos, with the most common being instrument cluster failures, particularly in cold temperatures. Complaints frequently mention that the dashboard goes completely black, leaving drivers unable to see the speedometer, fuel gauge, or engine temperature, typically occurring during winter months. Another reported issue involves the cruise control, which may not maintain set speeds on inclines, and horn failures, especially in freezing conditions. Some owners describe incidents where the vehicle shuts down unexpectedly while driving, posing safety risks, with these issues occurring at various mileage points, from as low as 300 miles. These patterns suggest potential reliability and safety concerns for prospective buyers, especially in colder climates.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2024 KIA Seltos report several distinct issues within the UNKNOWN OR OTHER category. Complaints frequently mention problems with the vehicle's glass, including rear windows shattering due to heat and cracked windshields appearing unexpectedly, often requiring costly replacements. Another common issue is a persistent smell of fire or smoke while driving, suggesting potential electrical faults, with one owner noting concerns based on similar reports. A crash is reported where the vehicle rolled backward, injuring a pedestrian, suggesting possible issues with the vehicle's stability or electronic systems. Additionally, some owners experience a silent horn during emergencies and a non-functional instrument cluster, which are critical for safe vehicle operation. These issues appear within the first several months of ownership, highlighting potential safety implications for prospective buyers.
POWER TRAIN
4 complaintsOwners report recurring issues with the power train of the 2024 Kia Seltos, particularly involving loss of power and engine performance problems. Complaints frequently mention severe shaking during acceleration, jerking between gear shifts, and abnormal noises, with some experiencing complete engine shutdowns at high speeds, posing potential safety risks. These symptoms are often noted between 30-70 mph, with some cases occurring on highways, leading to concerns about vehicle control and safety. Additionally, there are reports of engine failure requiring major repairs or replacements, often after prior component replacements like fuel injectors and spark plugs. One complaint references a recall related to the power train, though parts for repair are reportedly unavailable.
ENGINE (3 complaints)
ENGINE
3 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2024 KIA Seltos engine, particularly concerning oil consumption and engine noise. Complaints frequently mention engines seizing or making loud noises, with one owner attributing a seized engine to melted spark plugs at 33,000 miles. Another owner describes significant oil loss over several oil changes, with a dealership attributing it to piston rings but finding them within specifications; they express concern about potential engine fires. A third owner notes loud engine valve noise shortly after acquiring the vehicle, fearing an oil leak. These issues appear in vehicles with varying mileages, from brand new to over 30,000 miles, and may pose safety risks such as engine fires or catastrophic engine damage.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (3 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2024 KIA Seltos report issues with visibility related to the rearview camera and windshield. Common complaints include rain collecting on the rearview camera, obstructing visibility during wet conditions, and windshields that are easily chipped by gravel, bugs, and small rocks. Some owners describe sudden cracks appearing in the windshield, particularly near the rearview mirror, which may obstruct the driver's view and pose a safety concern. These issues are reported within the first year of ownership, though specific mileage is not consistently mentioned. Buyers should be aware of these visibility-related concerns when considering this vehicle.
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2024 Kia Seltos report issues related to the vehicle's structure. One complaint describes a catastrophic wheel failure leading to a crash, where the rim cracked completely, resulting in tire separation, axle and suspension damage, and body damage. This incident occurred while driving, with the owner noting no prior impact with any object. Another complaint involves visibility issues caused by black plastic strips on the steering wheel and dashboard, which impair the driver's and passenger's vision. The reported mileage for these issues is approximately 118 miles. Safety implications are significant in the first case due to the crash resulting from the wheel failure.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2024 KIA Seltos report issues with the vehicle's steering and related systems. One complaint describes a malfunction in the lane-assist system, which in low-light conditions, pulls the steering wheel abruptly and causes a loss of control, leading to a crash and injury. Another owner reports the vehicle shutting down completely while driving at highway speeds, posing a severe safety risk as they were nearly struck by a truck. Both complaints highlight issues with electronic systems and a lack of adequate warning signals. These incidents occur relatively early in the vehicle's life, with one owner experiencing problems within the first few months of ownership. Potential buyers should be aware of these serious safety implications, including the risk of crashes and unexpected vehicle shutdowns.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (2 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the engine and engine cooling system of the 2024 Kia Seltos, particularly involving oil leaks. Complaints frequently mention instances of the vehicle dumping oil, which can lead to smoke emission from the engine area. In one case, a vehicle with approximately 10,000 miles experienced a significant oil leak that resulted in engine damage, requiring a potential engine replacement. This incident also involved a reported fire risk, as the vehicle began smoking and needed to be towed. Safety implications are noted, as the oil loss occurred while driving on a highway, posing a potential hazard to the driver and other road users.
SEATS (1 complaints)
SEATS
1 complaintDriver side seat stays warm all the time I tried removing both seat heater fuses and in plugged the seat warmer plugs but the back seat rest still stay warm
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintIssue: Defective Seatbelt Sensor - Refused Warranty Repair Vehicle: 2024 Kia Seltos EX Make/Model/Year: Kia Seltos, 2024 Mileage (approx.): 12,033 I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding a malfunctioning seatbelt sensor on my 2024 Kia Seltos EX. The front passenger seatbelt alarm goes off repeatedly even when there is no one sitting in the seat, and this behavior is unpredictable and distracting while driving. When I contacted the Kia dealership (Summit Place Kia, Auburn Hills, MI), they refused to inspect or repair the issue without charging me $180 upfront, even though my vehicle is fully under warranty and this clearly relates to a safety system. They claimed they would only waive the fee if they determine it’s covered, which gives them the option to deny responsibility arbitrarily. Kia Consumer Affairs was contacted and gave the same answer: pay up front or we won’t look at it. This raises major concerns about Kia’s warranty practices and possible violations of federal law requiring free repairs of safety-related defects under warranty. I am reporting this to request investigation and to hold the manufacturer accountable for failing to honor federally mandated coverage.
When Do 2024 KIA Seltos Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
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).
2026
2025
2024
(Current Model)
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. Current year highlighted.
| 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 |
KIA Seltos Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2024 KIA Seltos reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2024 KIA Seltos?
How many recalls does the 2024 KIA Seltos have?
Is the 2024 KIA Seltos expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2024 KIA Seltos without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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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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