Last updated: 2026-03-04

2025 Kia Telluride Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2025 Kia Telluride scores 78/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 32 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2025 is 2 years after the 2023 refresh refresh.
Recalls
2
Complaints
32
Complaint Rate
2.6
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$573
Major Repair Risk
N/A
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
2 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2025 is 2 years after the 2023 refresh refresh.
- Year 6 in the First generation (ON; 2019) (2020–present).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 1st generation Telluride (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
First generation (ON; 2019)
Should You Buy the 2025 Kia Telluride?
The 2025 Kia Telluride scores 78/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2025 is 2 years after the 2023 refresh refresh.
With 32 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to visibility wiper (8). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
See also the 2024 Kia Telluride for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Low recall count
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- VISIBILITY/WIPER: Owners of the 2025 Kia Telluride frequently report issues with windshield... (8 complaints)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER: Two primary issues with the 2025 Kia Telluride (7 complaints)
Compare 2025 Kia Telluride With
2025 Hyundai Palisade
Score: 70/100
2025 Toyota Grand Highlander
Score: 80/100
2025 Mazda CX-90
Score: 63/100
2025 Nissan Pathfinder
Score: 78/100
2025 Toyota Highlander
Score: 76/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (8)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (7)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- STRUCTURE (4)
- VISIBILITY (2)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)
- SEAT BELTS (1)
- STEERING (1)
- ENGINE (1)
- POWER TRAIN (1)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2025 Kia Telluride has 2 recalls on record. This is a low count. Recalls are manufacturer-initiated fixes for safety or compliance issues and are repaired at no cost to the owner at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
2.6
per 10k soldSegment avg: 4.1
Safety Incidents
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
1
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2025 Kia Telluride Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2025 Kia Telluride. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
TIRES
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 Telluride and 2026 Sorento vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with an incorrect spare tire which, when installed, can impair the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and the traction control system (TCS). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence
Anti-lock braking or traction control systems that do not function properly can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the spare wheel and tire assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 3, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC355. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 13, 2025.
STRUCTURE
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Telluride vehicles. The door belt molding trim can delaminate and detach from the vehicle.
Consequence
A detached trim piece can become a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the belt molding trim assemblies as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 19, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC347.
2025 Kia Telluride NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.5%
Safety Technologies
Kia Telluride Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$573
Repair Frequency
0.4
unscheduled repair visits per year
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2025 Kia Telluride
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect windshield for cracks or chips
- Check sunroof glass for any signs of stress or damage
- Test LCD instrument cluster for proper functionality
- Verify proper operation of automatic braking system
- Inspect headlights for fogging and check visibility
- Check for excessive noise from windows indicating poor sealing
- Examine A/C condenser for damage from road debris
Check Any 2025 Kia Telluride's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2025 Telluride in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific Kia Telluride with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2025 Kia Telluride Common Problems by Component
32 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
VISIBILITY/WIPER
8 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Kia Telluride frequently report issues with windshield cracking. Complaints often describe cracks appearing spontaneously without any apparent impact, or from minor incidents such as small pebbles hitting the windshield, which then rapidly extend. Several owners note that these cracks appear shortly after purchase, with some vehicles having fewer than 5,000 miles. There are no reports of crashes, fires, or loss of control related to these issues, but the visibility impairment from cracks could pose a safety risk, especially at night due to glare. Additionally, some owners experience problems with windshield wipers failing to operate consistently, even after attempted repairs.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
7 complaintsOwners report two primary issues with the 2025 Kia Telluride. Firstly, several complaints describe the front windshield cracking spontaneously without any known impact, often while parked or after a drive, rendering the vehicle undrivable. Secondly, there are reports of the sunroof shattering suddenly while driving, creating a loud explosion-like noise and posing a risk of distraction or loss of control. Additionally, one complaint highlights a vehicle stalling issue where the car shuts off in traffic and fails to restart, requiring police assistance and a tow, which owners find dangerous. These issues are mentioned in new vehicles, some less than seven months old, indicating potential early-life reliability concerns.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
5 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Kia Telluride report several electrical system issues, with some common patterns emerging. Multiple owners describe problems with the LCD instrument cluster failing to activate, leaving them unable to view essential information such as speed and fuel levels. These issues are noted in vehicles with as few as 430 miles. Additionally, there are reports of the vehicle's automatic braking system activating without warning during highway driving, despite clear road conditions, posing a potential safety risk due to unexpected deceleration. Another issue involves the car unexpectedly shutting off and prompting a shift to neutral or park, which some owners encounter at low speeds or when stationary. These complaints highlight potential safety implications, particularly concerning sudden braking and engine shutdowns.
STRUCTURE (4 complaints)
STRUCTURE
4 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Kia Telluride report several structure-related issues. A common complaint involves excessive noise from both passenger and driver side windows, described as resembling the sound of open windows, despite the dealer's confirmation that seals are intact. Another issue involves the front grille design, which owners say allows road debris to damage the A/C condenser, leading to costly repairs. Additionally, there are reports of the sunroof glass unexpectedly exploding, causing damage to the vehicle's exterior and potentially posing a safety risk, as one incident occurred at just 300 miles. These issues are important considerations for potential buyers, particularly regarding repair costs and safety implications.
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY
2 complaintsOwners of the 2025 Kia Telluride report issues with the sunroof glass exploding while driving at highway speeds, with no prior impact or warning. Complaints frequently mention a loud noise resembling a gunshot followed by the discovery of shattered glass. These incidents are reported at relatively low mileages, specifically around 1,470 and 5,899 miles. Although no injuries or crashes are reported, the sudden nature of the sunroof failure could pose a distraction risk to drivers. Potential buyers should be aware of these reports when considering the vehicle, especially if planning to use the sunroof frequently.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2025 Kia Telluride's exterior lighting, particularly the headlights. Complaints frequently mention that the headlights become foggy after a hand wash, with one owner noting a dealership's willingness to replace the gasket due to ventilation needs. Another common issue is inadequate headlight visibility, described as having blind spots and incomplete projection, which remains unresolved according to a dealership technician. These issues occur under various conditions, including clear roads and very dark environments, potentially impacting night-time driving safety. No specific mileage range is mentioned, but the symptoms suggest concerns that may affect visibility and collision warning systems.
SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintWe have a 2025 KIA Telluride and in the second row seats the right hand seat receiver you have to grab it and hold it up tight to insert the seat belt. You have to be strong to do this. We went to Billion KIA in Rapid City SD toi get it fixed and they can't fix it. So they called KIA Corp and KIA said it is not a design flaw and they won't fix it. Someone could get hurt or killed in an accident. Thank you for any help.
STEERING (1 complaints)
STEERING
1 complaintSafety-relatedThe contact rented a 2025 Kia Telluride. The contact stated that there was damage to the rear bumper upon retrieval. While using lane assist, traveling around a curve at 55 MPH, the steering wheel was pushing and pulling, and failed to turn and continued going straight; the vehicle crossed the highway and crashed into a ditch. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact sustained injuries to his back and had bruises, but no medical assistance was provided. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The air bags deployed. There was no reported fire. A police report was filed. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The rental company was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not notified OF THE FAILURE. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000. The VIN was not available.
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintENGINE SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING. VEHICLE WARNING "Engine off! Shift to P or N, then start engine". THE ENGINE SHUTTING OFF WHILE DRIVING IS A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD IN REGARDS TO HAVING ENOUGH TIME TO PULL OVER FOR ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND STALLING AT/IN A STOPLIGHT/INTERSECTION. THE PROBLEM HAS NOT YET BEEN REPRODUCED BY THE DEALERSHIP. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN INSPECTED BY THE MANUFACTURER WITH THE SERVICE CENTER STATING "COULD NOT DUPLICATE CONCERN AT THIS TIME, VEHICLE HAS ALREADY BEEN DRIVEN ABOUT 68 MILES AND VEHICLE IS OPERATING NORMALLY". THERE WERE NO OTHER warning lamps, messages or other symptoms OF THE PROBLEM PRIOR TO FAILURE. FIRST APPERANCE ON 8/4/25. OTHER INSTANCES OCCURED ON 9/15/25 AND 10/6/25.
POWER TRAIN (1 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
1 complaintIssue: Engine stall & loud tapping/grinding noise Vehicle only has 1,100 miles and has stalled about 5 times when slowing down to about 10mph & then accelerating again. Issue has also happened when going about 3mph & then accelerating. About 10sec stall & then vehicle takes off. Several of the stalls happened even though the Auto/Start switch was engaged to disable feature since I thought maybe a bad switch was the issue causing the stalls, but stalling happens with it on & off. Another issue engine makes a tapping noise when in gear & accelerating up to about 1200rpm. Issue has been getting louder since purchase. At 1100 miles started car & pulled into garage after vehicle set for about 2hours (75F outside), upon doing this the engine sounded terrible like there were a handful of marbles in the engine, super loud sound, at this point made appointment with dealer, but they are so backed up vehicle can't go in for service for about 2 weeks per no loaner car available until then, since it can take up to 1 week to get looked at. Will update with their findings but looking at form pages & You-tube videos it seems like the ongoing engine tapping complaint resulting in an engine replacement & maybe part of the 2024 recall Valve Spring breaking resulting in the loud marble sound I am hearing. Car stalling is a major safety concern since a few of the stalls happened when pulling in front of traffic going 60mph.
When Do 2025 Kia Telluride Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Kia Telluride Years
Best Kia Telluride Years to Buy
The best Kia Telluride year is 2025 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2024 (69/100) and 2023 (68/100).
2025(this page)
2 recalls · 32 complaints
2024
4 recalls · 180 complaints
2023
5 recalls · 161 complaints
Kia Telluride Years to Avoid
The worst Kia Telluride year is 2020 with a score of 55/100, primarily due to exterior lighting (170) issues.
See full Kia Telluride years-to-avoid analysis →Kia Telluride Reliability Score Trend
Kia Telluride reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 72/100 compared to 60/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 55/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 78/100 | Good |
Kia Telluride Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 Kia Telluride reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2025 Kia Telluride?
How many recalls does the 2025 Kia Telluride have?
Is the 2025 Kia Telluride expensive to maintain?
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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