The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an audit into Kia’s recall fix for over 137,000 Seltos and Soul SUVs of 2021-2023.
These vehicles were recalled in February due to faulty piston oil rings, which could damage the engine and, in rare cases, cause a fire.
Kia dealers were instructed to replace engines and install piston-ring sensing noise software at no cost.
However, the agency reviewed 47 complaints between April and June alleging the fix is ineffective or unavailable.
The defect, caused by a supplier’s manufacturing issue, may lead to abnormal engine noise, high oil consumption, warning lights, and potential engine failure.