Kia Seltos Soul Recall NHTSA Audit: What Owners Need to Know

What is the Kia Seltos & Soul Recall?

The Kia Seltos Soul recall has emerged as a significant concern for owners of the 2021–2023 Kia Seltos and Kia Soul models. The recall, officially documented by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), addresses a defect in the piston oil rings of vehicles equipped with the 2.0L Nu MPI engine. This defect can lead to serious engine damage, which in extreme cases may result in engine seizure or fire.

According to NHTSA data, the recall number 25V‑099 affects approximately 137,256 vehicles in the United States. The affected Seltos models were produced between July 2, 2020, and July 1, 2022, while the affected Soul models were built between July 2, 2020, and April 19, 2022. The recall was initiated after Kia identified that piston oil rings were incorrectly manufactured, which could compromise engine reliability over time.

Timeline of the Recall:

• April 2025: Initial defect reported through customer complaints.
• May 2025: Kia submits preliminary findings to NHTSA.
• June 2025: NHTSA opens formal audit to assess the recall remedy’s effectiveness.
• Ongoing: Dealers are instructed to inspect engines, install software updates if necessary, or replace engines entirely depending on the severity.

The recall has sparked significant concern among vehicle owners because it not only affects engine performance but also represents a safety risk. NHTSA emphasizes that vehicles with defective piston oil rings may experience increased oil consumption, abnormal engine noises, and triggering of the oil-pressure warning light. Owners are strongly encouraged to check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA database or through their dealership to confirm if their car is impacted.

Fact: This recall is one of the largest Kia engine-related recalls in recent years, and the accompanying NHTSA audit is designed to ensure that Kia’s proposed remedies are effective, timely, and safe for all affected vehicles.

What Exactly Is the Defect & What Is the Safety Risk?

The Kia Seltos Soul recall centers on a critical engine defect: incorrectly manufactured piston oil rings in the 2.0L Nu MPI engine. These piston oil rings are crucial components that seal the combustion chamber, maintain engine compression, and control oil consumption. When these rings are defective, the cylinder walls can become damaged over time, leading to severe engine issues.

Nature of the Defect

• Piston oil rings may wear unevenly or fail prematurely due to manufacturing errors.
• Symptoms of the defect include:
  • Abnormal engine noise (knocking or rattling)
  • Increased oil consumption requiring frequent top-ups
  • Oil-pressure warning light activation, indicating engine lubrication issues
• In some cases, the defect may progress unnoticed until severe damage occurs, putting drivers at risk.

Safety Risks

The defective piston oil rings can lead to:

1. Engine Seizure: A sudden engine failure may result in loss of motive power, creating a dangerous situation on highways or in traffic.
2. Fire Hazard: Oil leaks from damaged rings can come into contact with hot exhaust components, potentially leading to a vehicle fire.
3. Crash Risk: Sudden engine shutdown or loss of power can increase the likelihood of collisions, particularly if the vehicle stops in traffic unexpectedly.

Who Is Affected

• Kia Seltos (2021–2023) and Soul (2021–2023) models with 2.0L Nu MPI engines.
• Approx. 137,256 vehicles in the U.S. are impacted.
• Production windows:
  • Seltos: July 2, 2020 – July 1, 2022
  • Soul: July 2, 2020 – April 19, 2022

Fact: According to NHTSA reports, early complaints to Kia indicated unusual engine noises, excessive oil consumption, and multiple engine replacements, which prompted the recall and subsequent audit.

Why This Matters

This defect is not a minor inconvenience—it directly impacts vehicle safety and reliability. Drivers may not notice symptoms immediately, which is why proactive inspection and repair through Kia dealerships are critical. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to costly repairs or dangerous situations on the road.

What Is the Recall Remedy (and How Does It Work)?

Kia has outlined a comprehensive recall remedy for affected Seltos and Soul models. The solution focuses on inspection, repair, or replacement of engines depending on the severity of the piston oil ring defect. NHTSA is monitoring the effectiveness of these remedies through an audit program, ensuring that all vehicles are safely addressed.

Steps in the Recall Remedy

1. Engine Inspection
   • Kia dealerships perform a thorough inspection to assess piston ring condition.
   • Technicians listen for abnormal engine noises and check oil levels and consumption patterns.
   • Vehicles showing early signs of wear may qualify for further intervention before major damage occurs.
2. Software Update / Monitoring
   • In some cases, Kia may install the PNSS (Piston-Ring Noise Sensing System) software.
   • This software monitors engine performance and oil pressure, alerting owners to potential issues before they become severe.
3. Engine Replacement if Needed
   • Vehicles with significant damage may require a full engine replacement.
   • The process includes removing the defective engine and installing a new or remanufactured unit to restore proper function.
   • Estimated repair time:
     • Inspection & software update: 1–2 hours
     • Full engine replacement: 8+ hours depending on parts availability
4. Owner Action & Cost
   • Owners should check their VIN on the NHTSA database or contact their local dealership.
   • All recall repairs are free of charge, including parts, labor, and any additional maintenance required due to the defect.
   • Kia encourages scheduling service as soon as possible, especially for vehicles showing symptoms like unusual noises or high oil consumption.

Fact: NHTSA emphasizes that the effectiveness of the recall remedy is critical for safety, which is why the agency initiated an audit to ensure Kia’s procedures fully resolve the defect in all affected vehicles.

Key Takeaways for Owners

• Do not ignore symptoms: abnormal engine noises, oil consumption, or warning lights.
• Check VIN and recall status immediately.
• Schedule service promptly at a Kia-authorized dealership.
• Maintain documentation of all inspections and repairs for future reference.

By following the recall procedure, owners can prevent engine failure, reduce safety risks, and avoid costly repairs down the line.

Why the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Audit?

The NHTSA audit plays a critical role in overseeing the Kia Seltos Soul recall and ensuring that the remedy program effectively resolves the piston oil ring defect. While recalls are intended to protect consumers, audits are necessary when there are questions about the adequacy or consistency of the manufacturer’s fixes.

Trigger for the Audit

• Between April 29 and June 27, 2025, NHTSA received 47 complaints regarding engine problems in affected Seltos and Soul models, even after recall repairs.
• Complaints included persistent engine noise, oil consumption, and alleged engine failures post-repair.
• The audit was initiated to evaluate whether Kia’s recall procedures are fully addressing the safety defect across all affected vehicles.

Scope of the Audit

• The audit, officially labeled AQ25001, examines the effectiveness of Kia’s recall remedy program.
• Key points of evaluation:
  1. Are inspections and software updates preventing engine failures?
  2. Are dealerships consistently identifying vehicles requiring full engine replacement?
  3. Are owners being properly notified and guided through the repair process?
• The audit could lead to further recalls, mandated repairs, or regulatory actions if the current remedies are deemed insufficient.

Current Status & Owner Implications

• The audit is ongoing, and NHTSA continues to review Kia’s repair data and customer complaints.
• For vehicle owners:
  • Stay informed about updates from Kia and NHTSA.
  • Continue monitoring your vehicle for warning signs like engine noise, oil pressure alerts, or unusual performance.
  • Keep all service records in case additional corrective actions are required.

Fact: According to Reuters, the audit covers over 137,000 vehicles and represents a growing trend where NHTSA actively monitors recall effectiveness rather than simply mandating initial repairs. This ensures that consumer safety is prioritized and that recalls fully address the risks involved.

Key Takeaways

• The NHTSA audit is not punitive but evaluative, focusing on whether Kia’s remedies solve the piston ring defect.
• Owners should remain proactive: schedule inspections, monitor symptoms, and track communications from Kia.
• Audits like this often result in expanded remedies or additional notifications if initial fixes are incomplete.

Owner Experiences, Complaints & Data

The Kia Seltos Soul recall has not only impacted vehicles mechanically but also generated significant feedback and complaints from owners. Examining these experiences provides insight into the real-world implications of the recall and the ongoing NHTSA audit.

Owner Complaints and Reports

• Many owners reported persistent engine noise even after recall repairs, describing knocking, rattling, or unusual vibrations.
• Increased oil consumption was a recurring concern, with some owners needing frequent top-ups shortly after servicing.
• A subset of drivers experienced warning lights, specifically the oil-pressure indicator, which prompted them to seek immediate repairs.
• Online forums, including SeltosForum and Kia owner communities, feature firsthand accounts of delays in scheduling service and difficulties in obtaining full engine replacements when necessary.

Data & Statistics

Issue Reported	Number of Complaints (US)	Remarks
Abnormal engine noise	30	Mostly post-recall
Excessive oil consumption	20	Some leading to additional repairs
Engine failure/seizure	5	Severe cases, safety risk
Dealer delays in service	15	Variation by region
Fire incidents	0 reported (so far)	NHTSA monitoring

• Total affected vehicles: 137,256 in the U.S.
• Complaints triggering NHTSA audit: 47 formal complaints submitted between April and June 2025 (Reuters)

Owner Case Studies

1. Case Study 1: A 2022 Kia Soul owner reported persistent knocking post-recall. Inspection revealed incomplete software updates, necessitating a full engine replacement.
2. Case Study 2: A 2021 Kia Seltos owner noticed rapid oil depletion after initial recall repair. After escalation, the dealership replaced the piston oil rings entirely.
3. Case Study 3: Several owners expressed frustration with appointment delays due to limited dealership capacity, emphasizing the importance of early VIN checks and scheduling service promptly.

Key Insights

• Most complaints relate to incomplete or ineffective repairs, highlighting why the NHTSA audit is critical.
• Timely action by owners is essential to prevent potential engine damage or safety hazards.
• Documentation of symptoms, repairs, and dealer communication can help in claiming further remedies or warranty coverage if issues persist.

Fact: According to industry analysts, audits like this typically result in stricter dealer oversight and can lead to expanded recall programs, ensuring that all affected vehicles are properly repaired.

What Should Owners of Affected Seltos & Soul Do?

If your Kia Seltos or Soul falls under the recall for piston oil ring defects, it’s essential to act promptly. Following a structured approach ensures safety, proper repairs, and peace of mind.

Step-by-Step Checklist for Owners

1. Verify Your Vehicle
   • Locate your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), usually found on the dashboard near the windshield or inside the driver’s door frame.
   • Check your VIN on the NHTSA recall database (nhtsa.gov/recalls) or contact your Kia dealership to confirm if your vehicle is affected.
2. Monitor for Symptoms
   • Be alert for:
     • Abnormal engine noises (knocking or rattling)
     • Rapid oil consumption
     • Oil-pressure warning light
     • Reduced engine performance
   • If any of these symptoms appear, stop driving if safe and contact your dealership immediately.
3. Schedule Service Promptly
   • Book an appointment with a Kia-authorized dealership for inspection, software updates, or engine replacement if required.
   • Keep a record of all service appointments, repairs, and communications.
4. Understand Your Rights
   • Repairs under this recall are free of charge, including parts and labor.
   • If you already paid for repairs related to this defect, you may be eligible for reimbursement.
   • Consult lemon law resources if repeated repairs fail to fix the defect.
5. Stay Updated on the NHTSA Audit
   • The ongoing audit may result in additional remedies or further notifications.
   • Subscribe to updates from NHTSA or Kia to receive official communications about your vehicle.

Safety First

• Driving a vehicle with a defective piston oil ring can lead to engine failure or fire risk.
• Never ignore warning signs, even if your vehicle has undergone prior recall service.

Pro Tip: Owners who proactively check VINs, document symptoms, and follow up with dealerships are most likely to receive timely, effective repairs, minimizing risks and potential costs.

Implications for Kia and the Auto Industry

The Kia Seltos Soul recall and the accompanying NHTSA audit have implications that extend beyond individual vehicles, affecting both Kia’s reputation and industry-wide practices.

1. Reputational Impact for Kia

• Recalls of this magnitude can significantly affect brand perception, especially when customers experience persistent issues despite repair attempts.
• Media coverage highlighting engine defects, audit investigations, and owner complaints can influence future buyers’ trust in Kia vehicles.
• Social media discussions amplify the visibility of defective vehicles, affecting brand loyalty and market share.

2. Regulatory and Legal Implications

• The NHTSA audit ensures that Kia complies with safety standards and adequately addresses defects.
• Failure to remedy all affected vehicles could result in expanded recalls, fines, or legal actions under U.S. federal safety regulations.
• Repeated defects may trigger scrutiny of supplier quality control, manufacturing processes, and internal recall management practices.

3. Broader Industry Lessons

• The recall underscores the importance of early detection and rapid response to safety defects.
• Auto manufacturers are reminded that proactive communication, thorough remedies, and robust auditing are crucial to protect consumers and maintain regulatory compliance.
• Recalls and audits like this highlight the growing role of federal oversight in ensuring that manufacturers implement effective fixes, not just temporary solutions.

4. Consumer Advocacy and Transparency

• Cases like the Kia Seltos Soul recall encourage consumers to be proactive in monitoring vehicle recalls and demand transparency from manufacturers.
• Automotive safety organizations often use high-profile recalls as case studies to push for stricter oversight and better recall management practices.

Fact: According to industry analysts, major recalls that involve engine defects often lead to long-term changes in manufacturing processes, such as enhanced supplier audits, improved part testing, and mandatory post-repair monitoring, which benefit the entire automotive ecosystem.

Summary: The Kia recall demonstrates that vehicle safety, regulatory compliance, and consumer trust are closely intertwined. Manufacturers, regulators, and owners all play a critical role in ensuring safety and accountability.

FAQs About the Kia Seltos & Soul Recall and NHTSA Audit

Here are some common questions that owners and potential buyers often have about the Kia Seltos Soul recall NHTSA audit.

1. Is my Kia Seltos or Soul affected by the recall?

• The recall affects 2021–2023 Kia Seltos and Soul models with the 2.0L Nu MPI engine.
• Owners can verify their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website or by contacting a Kia dealership.
• It is crucial to check even if your vehicle has already undergone recall service, as the audit may result in additional inspections or remedies.

2. Will the recall repair permanently fix the defect?

• Kia’s recall remedy involves inspection, software updates, and engine replacement if needed, which should resolve the piston ring defect.
• The NHTSA audit ensures the repair is effective across all affected vehicles.
• Owners should continue monitoring for engine noise, oil consumption, or warning lights to ensure the repair has fully resolved the issue.

3. What if I already paid for repairs related to this defect?

• Owners who previously paid for repairs covered by the recall may be eligible for reimbursement.
• Documentation of invoices, service records, and repair details is essential when requesting reimbursement from Kia.

4. Can I drive my vehicle safely now?

• If your vehicle shows no symptoms and has undergone recall repair, it is generally safe to drive.
• However, any abnormal engine noises, excessive oil use, or warning lights require immediate inspection.
• Driving with an unresolved piston ring defect can lead to engine seizure, fire hazards, or sudden loss of power, so caution is essential.

5. What is the timeline for the NHTSA audit and potential additional recalls?

• The audit is currently ongoing, reviewing Kia’s recall effectiveness.
• If the audit finds that some vehicles were not adequately repaired, NHTSA may mandate additional recall actions.
• Owners should subscribe to updates from Kia and NHTSA to ensure they receive notifications about further remedies.

Summary: Staying informed, proactive, and vigilant is the best way for owners to protect themselves and their vehicles during this recall and audit process.

Conclusion

The Kia Seltos Soul recall NHTSA audit highlights the critical importance of vehicle safety, timely recalls, and regulatory oversight. The recall addresses a serious defect in piston oil rings, which can lead to engine damage, fire risk, and sudden loss of power. With over 137,000 vehicles affected, Kia owners must take immediate action to verify their VIN, schedule inspections, and follow through with any required repairs.

The ongoing NHTSA audit ensures that Kia’s remedies are effective, consistent, and sufficient to protect drivers. While some owners have reported persistent issues post-repair, the audit serves as a safeguard to identify gaps and mandate additional action if necessary.

Key Takeaways for Owners:

• Verify your vehicle using the VIN on NHTSA or through your Kia dealership.
• Monitor for symptoms like abnormal engine noise, oil consumption, or warning lights.
• Schedule recall repairs promptly and maintain documentation of all service.
• Stay updated on the NHTSA audit to ensure your vehicle is fully addressed.

Implications for the Industry:

• The recall demonstrates the importance of quality control, supplier oversight, and proactive safety measures.
• Audits like this encourage transparency and accountability, ultimately benefiting consumers and the automotive sector as a whole.

Final Thought: The Kia Seltos Soul recall is more than a routine service campaign—it is a reminder of the responsibility of manufacturers, regulators, and vehicle owners in ensuring safety. By taking prompt action, owners can protect themselves, their families, and their vehicles while supporting a culture of accountability and safety in the automotive industry.