What 329 owners told NHTSA about the 2021 Kia Telluride

Engine is consuming excessive amounts of oil between oil changes, causing valve train to produce a metallic clanking noises. Vehicle did not display any type of warning sign on dashboard. Safety concerns if Engine would seize or shut off while driving on freeway/highway becoming a hazard on the road for self and other motorist. Vehicle has been taken to dealership multiple times, dealerships first remedy was replacing the oil filter housing. Dealership claimed oil filter housing was cracked causing oil to leak. Dealership replaced under warranty. Next oil change Dealership advised me again that oil was low in the engine and recommended an oil change and to replace the EGR valve. Service advisor also said to bring the vehicle back after driving it 1000 miles so they can run an oil consumption test. Vehicle was brought back to dealership after the 1000 miles, oil consumption test confirmed engine was consuming more oil than manufacturer allowance and valve train noise did return.

NHTSA ODI 11748358

NHTSA Vehicle Safety Complaint – 2021 Kia Telluride - VIN: [XXX] I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2021 Kia Telluride. I purchased the vehicle on XXX, with approximately 124,000 miles. An oil and filter change was performed shortly before the sale. After about 2,000 miles/126K, the vehicle suddenly lost power and stopped. It was towed to a repair shop, where technicians found the engine oil level was extremely low or empty, despite no low-oil warning light appearing. The oil was serviced, and the vehicle was returned to operation. About 3,000/129K miles later, the vehicle again lost power and stopped in Ardmore TX. It was road side mobile mechanic found little to no oil and he refill the oil. After 100 miles/129.1K again same problem engine stopped and no oil. was towed to the same shop, where technicians found little to no oil and diagnosed severe engine damage requiring engine replacement. Mechanic informed there was no oil leak from the engine however, excessive oil burning in engine causing this issue. My concern is safety. On all three occasions, the vehicle lost power on the freeway at night while my family with two kids was in the vehicle. I believe excessive oil consumption and the lack of a warning before engine failure may represent a safety defect. I request that NHTSA investigate this issue and require Kia to review the vehicle’s engine design and warning systems. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11746847

My 2021 Kia Telluride (approximately 82,000 miles) suffered catastrophic engine failure caused by excessive and abnormal oil consumption. The engine consumed oil at a dangerous rate with no warning lights or dashboard indicators of any kind. The only symptom prior to failure was an unusual engine noise. There was no opportunity to take corrective action before the engine failed completely. This failure occurred while I was driving with my children in the vehicle, creating a serious and immediate safety risk. A sudden engine failure at highway or city speeds — with no prior warning — presents the risk of loss of vehicle control, inability to accelerate out of traffic, and potential collision. The failure has been confirmed by two independent service centers: Vanguard Kia in Arlington, Texas and Christian Brothers Automotive. Both confirmed engine failure. The vehicle and failed components are available for inspection upon request. Kia America has declined to provide warranty assistance or goodwill repair coverage despite this being a widely reported issue among 2021 Telluride owners with the same Lambda II V6 engine. No recall has been issued. Repair cost is approximately $11,000. I am still carrying a loan on this vehicle. I am requesting NHTSA investigate this as a systemic safety defect and consider a mandatory recall.

NHTSA ODI 11744031

I own a 2021 Kia Telluride with approximately 111,000 miles. I initially brought the vehicle to a Kia dealership for an oil consumption issue and engine noise. The dealership diagnosed and repaired a timing chain and tensioner issue, stating the vehicle was “working properly” upon return. After picking up the vehicle, I immediately began experiencing electrical warning lights, including the battery warning light and system alerts (blind spot and general warning indicators). I returned to the dealership, where they performed diagnostic testing and indicated a potential alternator issue, but stated it was in a “borderline” range and that the vehicle was safe to drive. Shortly after leaving the dealership, while driving with my family in the vehicle, the electrical system began to fail. Multiple warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle lost electrical function while in motion. The vehicle ultimately became completely inoperable and shut down in a parking lot, creating a serious safety concern. Prior to the dealership visit and repairs, the vehicle had no history of electrical issues, warning lights, or charging system problems. The dealership later acknowledged that the alternator issue was not present when the vehicle was initially brought in. I am submitting this complaint due to the sudden and complete electrical system failure while driving, which posed a significant safety risk. The progression from no prior symptoms to total failure immediately following dealership service and diagnosis raises concerns about vehicle reliability and potential safety defects related to the charging system.

NHTSA ODI 11739870

I am submitting this complaint regarding my 2021 Kia Telluride experiencing repeated and dangerous electronic system failures while driving. Kia of East Syracuse (NY) diagnosed the issue as related to the backup camera assembly and communication/network failures. While driving, the vehicle experienced loss of power steering assist, instrument cluster failure, speedometer malfunction, incorrect gear indication, backup camera activation while driving forward, blind spot warnings activating incorrectly, flashing/blank temperature display, and multiple driver assistance system failures. The speedometer displayed 0 mph while the vehicle was in motion and later displayed approximately 40 mph while stopped at a traffic light. The vehicle also became stuck in reverse while backing out of my driveway and would not shift properly, leaving the vehicle stopped in the roadway. Multiple safety systems malfunctioned simultaneously, including Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Parking Distance Warning, and Forward Collision Warning systems. The dealership documented multiple fault codes and stated the dashboard lit up “like a Christmas tree” while the instrument cluster stopped functioning entirely. These failures create a serious safety risk because critical driving information and driver assistance systems become unreliable or inoperative while the vehicle is moving. The failures occur unexpectedly and without warning. Photos and video evidence have been retained, including video of the backup camera activating while driving forward and the speedometer malfunctioning while the vehicle was in motion. I am asking NHTSA investigate these failures as a potential safety defect involving the camera system, instrument cluster communication systems, and CAN network communication failures in the Kia Telluride.

NHTSA ODI 11737499

A known Kia Telluride issue arose with the oil filter housing gasket. I came out to find a huge oil leak on my driveway. Not only was the oil really low but it's suspected that it also caused the antifreeze to become low. I had just had the oil change a couple weeks prior so not sure if the technician could have also tightened it too much torque when they tighten the filter cap, causing a crack. It's a known Kia Telluride issue. I was still under 60K warranty but passed the 5 year warranty mark by only 2 months. Since I'd bought my Kia just down the street and faithfully had it serviced there, they service manager tried to be nice and gave me $20 off the $220 bill and told me I should contact Kia since it was a known problem. But when I did they took my case seriously until they learned the dealership gave me $20 off and then proceeded to deny paying for anything. As mentioned, it's a very common issue with this make and model. If I hadn't noticed the oil spot on my driveway, I could have easily driven it until there was no oil (it was already super low) and then had the whole engine blow up. I'm just lucky I park outside and saw it. Now every time I call Kia and try to speak to a supervisor, I go straight to voicemail.

NHTSA ODI 11735532

In December of 2025 at approximately 95,000 my 2021 Kia Telluride (VIN [XXX] ) showed the oil level was about two quarts low. My car has had regular maintenance including oil changes at Santa Fe Kia. At the next oil change appointment in March, I pointed out the oil consumption concern. At that point Kia recommended an oil consumption test be performed. The car had 96,700 miles at that point. At 97,700 Kia indicated that the oil level was fine. At 99,600 I checked the oil and discovered it was more than two quarts low. I called Santa Fe Kia to address the issue and they indicated that a quart every 1,000 miles is within Kia standards and recommended another oil consumption test which would take me over the 100,000 warranty. I called Kia customer care to address the issue. A case was opened, but they kept referring me back to the dealership to be dealt with. After researching the issue myself, I presented the well known and documented oil consumption issue amongst Kia consumers to include PCV valve and piston ring issues. I have an appointment scheduled for 4/16/26, but I am being told that I will be liable for the cost of the PCV valve replacement, compression test and oil leak test which are all known issues related to the problem. Santa Fe Kia's service manager is ignoring my request to submit an engine warranty claim citing that they didn't find a problem outside of Kia's acceptable oil consumption and Kia's customer care refuses to open a claim and keeps referring me back to the dealership. I will be at approximately 99,850 when I arrive at my appointment on 4/16/26. I am concerned that the engine has a major issue and will be told that my warranty is over by the time the issue can be determine and resolved. I am also concerned that there has already been engine damage done without noticing the high oil consumption. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11731375

Bought my 2021 kia telluride sx with a cpo warranty with a little over 69,000 miles. at about 73,000 my car began to smoke and the dealership that I bought the vehicle from kept it for the day and sent me on my way with no diagnosis just simply stating they couldnt duplicate the issue and confirming they did NO testing on the vehicle. They stated that they topped the coolant and checked the oil in which my oil was in good level. 2 days later I checked the oil trying to figure out why my car was smoking and my dipstick had NO reading and no signs of oil. I topped the oil and immediately took the car to a different dealership where we began doing 1,000 mile testing on oil consumption and losing 1.5 quarts -- CPO warranty will NOT cover the issue because they stated it is A KIA WIDE ISSUE AND RECALL and even though I dont have specific recall they still refuse to cover. My car has been deemed as needing a motor replacement at 78,000 miles. Kia america DOES NOT stand behind their issues and refuse to help and they have denied the claims that have been made even after being escalated, they also refused to give a denial letter in writting or a reason why it was denied!

NHTSA ODI 11731466

Kia has 110,000 miles on it. We’ve regularly changed the oil at 3-5k mile intervals. A week ago, I heard loud knocking from the front of the car, along with loss of power. We drove it to our local Kia dealer (Kia of Bedford, OH), where upon inspection, they found cylinder bank 2 to be inoperative due to loss of oil. They found approx 2 quarts of oil in the engine - way below normal. They observed NO oil leaks. We inspected our garage and driveway floors, and there is no indication of any oil leaks. The Kia dealer said the engine needs to be replaced, at a cost of $12,700. I contacted Kia Customer Care, and they said it’s out of warranty and they won’t help. I replied back with an appeal to escalate to a higher / regional level for help. The oil had been changed at 105,000 miles. No oil leak present. Routine oil changes performed. This engine should never have had this issue at 110,000 miles. I know this is a known issue with this era of Kia engines. I’ve asked Kia to provide assistance in a repair.

NHTSA ODI 11730571

Recently our 2021 Kia Telluride, had a fluttering/metal knocking/mechanical sound and I scheduled a shop visit at our trusted local mechanic. After their inspection, they found that the oil was extremely low and there was metal shavings in the oil filter housing. This was found when absolutely no warning lights were activated that would indicate low oil level or any other engine challenges. The vehicle is maintained with regular oil changes. The vehicle only has 65k miles. Looking further into this online, it seems very similar to the Theta engine recall from Kia. No warning lights/indicator lights, well maintained vehicle with regular oil changes, and to all of a sudden consume almost all the oil and have metal shavings in the oil filter housing is extremely concerning. As of 4/6/2026 the dealer is assessing the vehicle and coming up with a plan and or further actions to be done.

NHTSA ODI 11729326

I am a 2nd owner of a kia telluride and the engine failed without warning at less than 90,000 miles. No check engine light, no temp gauge, no low oil level light. No warning at all. Just failure of the "push rod bearing" ny Kia was regularly maintained and when I took it to the dealership, they told me it was down about 3.5qts of oil! Again no low oil light? It holds 7qts...9,000$ later out of my pocket after being denied a goodwill engine replacement from kia to put a new motor in. I have found many others on on-line forums who have experienced this. Please help

NHTSA ODI 11726203

Driving on the highway when all the lights on the dashboard came on and heard a loud sound. Pulled over and noticed flames coming out. The front part of the car 911 was called. An incident report was made. The flames were out quickly. The car was towed and is at the dealership.

NHTSA ODI 11725589

The 3.8L Lambda II GDI V6 engine suffered catastrophic failure at approximately 102,000 miles. The root cause is excessive oil consumption documented by an independent repair shop well before the 100,000-mile powertrain warranty expired. At 81,207 miles, during a routine oil change, the mechanic checked oil level before draining and found nothing on the dipstick. Only about 3 quarts drained from an engine with 6.9-quart capacity, meaning nearly 4 quarts were consumed since the last change. This finding repeated at 88,408 miles, with the shop documenting it was the second time oil was critically low. Both events occurred within the powertrain warranty. Original invoices are available for inspection. At no point during ownership did the vehicle display any warning — no low oil level indicator, no low oil pressure warning, no check engine light — despite oil levels falling dangerously low on multiple documented occasions. The absence of any driver alert while the engine operated with less than half its required oil is a serious safety deficiency. The engine failed on while driving with passengers including three young children, causing complete loss of power and requiring an emergency pullover. Loss of engine power at speed creates serious crash risk. The vehicle was serviced at an authorized Kia dealer at 60,449 miles where a 60K service, multi-point inspection, and recall SC243B were performed. The dealer made no mention of oil consumption, did not reference TSB ENG222 (addressing excessive consumption across multiple Kia engine families), and did not perform an oil consumption test. Kia Consumer Affairs refused to submit a goodwill claim and closed the case, citing incomplete oil change documentation — despite the defect being documented within warranty. Excessive oil consumption in 2020-2021 Tellurides appears systemic based on numerous owner reports describing the identical pattern: extreme consumption, no dashboard warnings, and eventual engine failure.

NHTSA ODI 11723848

This car keeps burning excessive oil. I am on my 3rd oil consumption test each time it burns 0.75q in 1000 miles. The dealer states that that is not enough oil. My mile 3000, there is no longer oil on the dip stick, and we start the process all over again. This car has been burning oil that doesn’t even meet a standard oil changer interval since the cars had 70,000 miles on it. It now has 94k. After reading multiple online forums, it seems like anyone who has a 2020-2021 Kia telluride has this problem, and Kia refuses to acknowledge the his problem.

NHTSA ODI 11723000

2021 Kia Telluride experienced sudden engine failure at approximately 120,000 miles. The failure occurred without any prior warning. There were no oil warning lights, dashboard alerts, or other indicators of low oil or engine malfunction before the engine failed. After inspection, the mechanic found no oil on the dipstick and discovered metal flakes in the engine and oil filter, indicating severe internal engine damage. No external oil leaks were identified that would explain the loss of oil. This suggests a potential internal engine defect or abnormal oil consumption without warning to the driver. The vehicle has been regularly serviced and properly maintained according to recommended maintenance schedules. There was no neglect, missed oil changes, or failure to maintain the vehicle. This sudden and unexpected engine failure creates a serious safety concern. A loss of engine power while driving, especially at highway speeds or in traffic, could significantly increase the risk of a crash and place the driver, passengers, and other motorists at risk.

NHTSA ODI 11722576

No oil in engine can cause fire. Meineke in walkertown inspects the vehicle. No lights or warnings. Vehicle just started running funny. Problem confirmed by Meineke in walkertown. They claim it is a consumption issue because there are no leaks.

NHTSA ODI 11721029

Cooling fans running continuously after the car is turned off, which drains the battery. The dealership has identified that this is due to a faulty fan relay that will need to be completely replaced. The battery has been replaced once and the issue continued indicating that it was not a battery issue. The car ran out of battery in a busy location and caused risk to the passengers that were then exposed to busy traffic. The car has been inspected by repair specialists at the Vaden Hyundai Service Center. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms before the problem began.

NHTSA ODI 11720148

After owning this Telluride for a year the engine started stalling. I took it into the nearest Oil change company, and they informed me that the oil was completely out and dry. I always stay up to date with my oil changes, so this was a huge shock. There was no light that ever came on stating an oil concern and there was no light that came on even when the engine stalled. This company sent me directly to Kia stating they have seen this several times with this vehicle and they have oil consumption issues. I went to Kia and they had me do the oil consumption test. When completed they stated I was within the "standard" oil consumption levels. I asked why the car didn't even have an oil light or engine light come on as a warning and they had no answers for me. Had a light come on I would've taken it to be looked at prior to having the engine stall on me which was a major safety issue. Fast forward, I ended up and purchased another car and gave the Telluride to my husband. I drive a lot for work and he doesn't, so it made more sense to help with the oil. We are now having to put at least 3 quarts of oil in it in between oil changes. And he has still experienced the engine puttering. Both times with our kids in the car, steering becomes difficult and he has to pull off the road. Once he turns it off and restarts, it seems to be fine. Another mechanic told us that they anticipate a recall to come out with the 2021 Telluride soon since they have already recalled previous years for the same issues. It is absurd to have to put in 3 quarts of oil in between oil changes. The fact that no warning lights have ever come on is safety concern. The car randomly stalling is a safety concern. Kia needs to do something about this before someone gets injured.

NHTSA ODI 11719571

Component/System Failure: The engine and lubrication system appear to be malfunctioning. The vehicle has repeatedly experienced sudden engine shutdown while stopped at traffic lights and during low-speed operation. The dealership has identified oil leakage involving the oil pan and oil filter housing and has indicated there may be an internal oil leak within the engine. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: When the engine shuts off unexpectedly, the vehicle loses propulsion in active traffic. This creates a risk of rear-end collision and prevents immediate maneuvering out of traffic flow. The loss of engine power while stopped or moving at low speeds presents a serious safety hazard to myself and surrounding drivers. I am concerned that the suspected internal oil issue may lead to catastrophic engine failure while driving. Dealer Confirmation / Reproduction: The issue has been reported to the dealership multiple times beginning in January 2025. The vehicle has undergone multiple inspections and repair attempts, including partial fuel injector replacement, battery replacement, and an oil consumption test. The dealership has acknowledged oil leakage and has stated that replacing the oil pan gasket and oil filter housing may not resolve the suspected internal oil leak. The defect has not been permanently corrected. Inspection by Manufacturer or Others: The vehicle has been inspected multiple times by the dealership. The matter has been escalated to Kia Corporate for review. No police or insurance inspections have occurred, as no collision has yet resulted from the stalling events. Warning Lamps / Symptoms: During each stall event, the check engine light illuminates along with multiple dashboard warning lights. The stalling first began in January 2025. Oil-related concerns and possible oil loss were reported during prior service visits. The condition continues despite repair attempts.

NHTSA ODI 11715428

On 12/24/25 the vehicle experienced the very same issue, on the highway, with my family in the car, coming from Christmas Eve festivities. The car decelerated and NO cel (check engine light) ever came on. when transporting to dealer, the car began rough idling like it wanted to die, but still no CEL. At this time, I am told there is a need for a new engine but no supporting documents or other diagnostic documentation has been shared with me and KIA at this time is refusing to resolve the issue under the powertrain warranty and the car is still under 80k miles (powertrain is until 100k) Additional Info: on Aug 5, 2025, the vehicle, with no warning lights or CEL present, the vehicle decelerated on the highway, putting me and my family in imminent danger (large truck behind us who narrowly missed hitting us) and after about 10 min the CEL came on. the vehicle would not drive above 45mph. Once the car was stopped, the CEL went off and the vehicle was diagnosed as failed high-pressure fuel pump, OCV harness, and solenoid, along with accompanying lines/gaskets/plugs and seals. After the repairs were done, I reported rattling noise to the dealer within 5 days of picking up the vehicle, when I had to bring it in for an axle joint replacement (aprox 8/12/25).

NHTSA ODI 11709402

The checked engine light came on with Code: P219C00. Vehicle was taken to the Kia Perris dealership for maintenance inspection. This happened after the vehicle had to be taken back to dealership for an oil leak post oil change service. The issue has been reported by multiple owners on Reddit. Seems like a manufacturer issue that should be addressed.

NHTSA ODI 11708378

Bought the vehicle in February. The vehicle is burning oil too fast. In 1 week 5 qts. I don't drive much as I work from home. Kia dealer wants thousands of dollars. I paid for extended warranty.

NHTSA ODI 11707979

I purchased the 2021 Telluride (former owner of a Sportage, Rio and Sorento). I have our local mechanic handle maintenance and service. After paying $1,400 for a tune up to address misfiring, we quickly concluded the transmission was shot and my engine was burning theough every drop of oil before it was due for a change. I went to Kia of Des Moines, since it is covered under a 200k/20-year warranty. They replaced the transmission under warranty, I shared my mechanic details for records, and they told me they were going to do an oil consumption test. They sent me on my way, asking for me to return after 1,000 miles. I did (and then my car began shaking, but we thought it was due to snow conditions) and they quickly said, "Yes, it is an issue!" My Telluride burned through almost 2.5 quarts of oil in 1,000 miles. I left on 12/15, being told they would have direction from Kia corporate on next steps and acknowledged I need a vehicle loaner during repairs (single disabled mother, who has to travel safely). I did not hear back, chasing for updates. Yesterday, Steven text me saying I would need to authorize $1,600 engine tear down fee in order to confirm issue. I asked for Denny, the manager to contact me. I also called Kia Care, who said it is up to dealer. I am seeing so many issues with Tellurides burning oil. And, I do not have $1,600 to make my vehicle safe - that amount would make me sacrifice my home or another necessity. Google said to fight it and to submit a form to you also. I have to fight this because I have no other choice than to sell an organ. I will stock up on oil to keep filling it so my engine doesn't blow up, but have incredible fear of being stranded and not being able to get my vehicle towed or us home safely. If there is anything you can assist with, I appreciate it. I just found out my parent's 2023 telluride is burning too much oil too - they haven't got the $1,600 sticker, but I know that amount will wreck them also.

NHTSA ODI 11707761

First there are holes in the block from a rod bearing coming off. It was leaking oil and started on fire. There are many recalls and law suits regarding this matter and we shouldn’t be on the hook for putting a new engine in.

NHTSA ODI 11707297

On 11/01/2025, while traveling on the highway traveling at a speed of 80mph, my vehicle suddenly would not accelerate beyond 60 mph. I managed to exit safely, but this created a dangerous situation for both me, my daughter and other motorists . The next day, Firestone inspected the vehicle and informed me the engine contained zero oil—yet no oil light, check-engine light, temperature warning, or sensor alerts were triggered at any point. There were no visible oil leaks, suggesting internal oil consumption, which I had reported to Kia in October of 2024. On 10/21/2024, I paid $3,300 for a flywheel/ignition repair at a Kia dealership. When I dropped off the vehicle for that repair, I specifically reported abnormal oil consumption and requested it be checked. Kia did not diagnose or remedy the concern. The combination of: -Complete oil loss -No warning indicators -Sudden loss of power and inability to accelerate -Occurring at highway speed constitutes a critical safety defect. Drivers cannot take preventative action if the vehicle provides no indication of catastrophic engine failure until it is already occurring. This defect exposes drivers, passengers, and surrounding motorists to severe risk of collision or injury. Additionally, the dealership later provided a Carfax entry simple stating "car maintenance" on 10/22/2024. No record of what was repaired, indicating inaccurate or incomplete documentation. I am requesting that NHTSA: -Review this incident as a potential engine safety defect. -investigate whether other 2021 Kia Telluride owners are experiencing similar catastrophic oil -loss or lack of warning indicators. -Assess whether current recalls adequately address this failure pattern. -Determine whether an additional recall or investigation is warranted.

NHTSA ODI 11700236