Kia Telluride problems
The Kia Telluride is a mid-size crossover SUV with three-row seating manufactured and marketed by Kia since 2019. Positioned above the smaller Sorento, the Telluride was previewed as a concept car in 2016, with the production model debuting in the spring of 2019 as a 2020 model. It shares components and specifications with its sister model, the Hyundai Palisade, including its engine, transmission, and wheelbase. Named after the town of Telluride, Colorado, the Telluride is the largest vehicle Kia has manufactured in the United States.
Overview
The production version of the Telluride was launched at the 2019 North American International Auto Show in January. Previously, the Telluride was displayed as a customized version inspired by fashion designer Brandon Maxwell's Texas-inspired collection, at New York Fashion Week in September 2018. The overall design is similar to the 2016 concept except for the front end which was completely redesigned.
The Telluride is the first Kia designed specifically for the US market, with the design work handled at the Kia Design Center in Irvine, California. The production version Telluride is powered by a 3.8-liter Lambda II V6 Atkinson cycle gasoline engine rated at 291 hp (295 PS; 217 kW) and 355 N⋅m (36.2 kg⋅m; 262 lb⋅ft), paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and either front-wheel drive or all-wheel-drive.
The Telluride features four drive modes – Smart, Eco, Sport and Comfort. Snow and AWD Lock modes are also available for specific driving conditions, and the on-demand electro-hydraulic AWD system with multi-plate clutch plate constantly redistributes power to both axles. In Eco and Smart modes, power is completely routed to the front wheels, whereas Sport mode splits the power down to 65 percent front, 35 percent rear.
The standard towing rate for this SUV is rated at 5,000 pounds (2,300 kg), and it also features the optional self-levelling rear suspension where the ride height is automatically calibrated depending on vehicle load to optimise control and stability.
The Telluride is not marketed in South Korea as it is only produced in the United States, whereas its Hyundai counterpart, the Korean-built Palisade is marketed there instead. Exports from the West Point, Georgia plant to the Middle East started in February 2019. Kia limited exports of the Telluride to around 3,000 units annually.
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Kia Telluride model years
Common Kia Telluride problems
The Kia Telluride, a midsize crossover SUV, has gained popularity since its release in 2020, earning awards such as the 2020 World Car of the Year, 2020 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, and 2020 MotorTrend SUV of the Year. However, despite its accolades, the Kia Telluride has faced several common problems that have disappointed many customers seeking a reliable, safe, and affordable SUV.
One of the most common complaints among Kia Telluride owners is defective windshields. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 98 out of 166 complaints about the 2020 Telluride relate to visibility and windshield issues.
Another area of concern for Kia Telluride owners is transmission problems. The NHTSA has received multiple complaints regarding transmission issues, including sputtering, jumping, and difficulty shifting gears.
Engine problems are also a significant concern for Kia Telluride owners. Some of the most commonly reported engine issues include engine ticking noises, cold start engine squealing, engine failing to start, and overheating.
In summary, the Kia Telluride has faced several common problems that have disappointed many customers. These issues include defective windshields, transmission problems, collision warning system failures, heating and cooling system malfunctions, and engine problems. While Kia has not issued recalls for all of these issues, the company has offered free replacement windshields to some owners and has addressed certain problems through recalls and software updates. It is crucial for Kia Telluride owners to stay informed about these issues, address any problems promptly, and maintain regular vehicle maintenance to ensure their safety and satisfaction with their vehicle.
Does Kia Telluride have any issues?
Kia recalls more than 427,000 Telluride SUVs due to defect affecting parking safety. NEW YORK (AP) — Kia is recalling more than 427,000 of its Telluride SUVs due to a defect that may cause the cars to roll away while they're parked.
Is Kia Telluride really reliable?
According to topspeed.com, the Kia Telluride is a reliable option. Although it's only been out for a few years, it's proved itself in that time. According to motorbiscuit.com, the car scores 85⁄100 in dependability. It's a quality choice if you care about the reliability of your vehicle.
What is the engine problem with the Kia Telluride 2024?
Defective Kia Engine Valve Springs a Fire Risk
The automaker warns drivers that the springs could break when they are driving their SUV. If that happens, the driver could experience a loss of drive power and there is the potential it could cause a hole in the engine block.
What is the life expectancy of a Telluride?
According to vehiclehistory.com, a standard Kia Telluride will last around 200,000 miles with proper maintenance and care.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Kia Telluride years
We have researched Kia problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Kia Telluride cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Kia Telluride model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Kia Telluride model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Kia Telluride years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Kia Telluride car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Kia Telluride , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Visibility/wiper problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Kia Telluride vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Telluride model years
A total of 23 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Telluride model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Telluride model years
There were a total of 24 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1107 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Kia Telluride . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Kia Telluride vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Kia Telluride 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5XYP3DHC5NG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Sunroof is stuck in an open position unable to be closed. Upon attempting to open the sunroof, the deflector snapped off the assembly and the sunroof track broke. Took car to dealership (Raceway Kia, 4044 US-9, Freehold, NJ 07728) for service. Dealership indicated the sunroof is beyond repair and requires installation of an entirely brand new sunroof assembly at a cost of $5730 because it occurred outside the warranty (warranty expired at 60,000 miles and the car had 70,463 miles when sunroof broke). They were unable to manually close the sunroof as a temporary solution. Therefore, the sunroof remains open due to the broken track and is covered with plastic to avoid the elements. There were no prior symptoms indicating that the sunroof would break in this way. In fact, in three years of ownership, the sunroof was rarely used and only opened a handful of times before breaking. At this time of this writing, the sunroof is available for inspection while I look for more economical means of repair versus the dealership's plan to replace the entire assembly.
Kia Telluride 2022
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 5XYP5DHC3NG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The sunroof broke while being opened which required immediate repair since it was propped open. The only fix according to the dealer was to replace the entire unit which cost more than $5k with parts and labor
Kia Telluride 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 5XYP64GC7RG
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Windshield cracked.
Kia Telluride 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5XYP3DHC3LG
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Engine is burning oil deal ship says noting is wrong with the car so then where is the oil going if it does not have any leaks at all
Kia Telluride 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 5XYP24HCXLG
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights perform poorly when fully functional, one is out and when I replaced the light it still is not working and now that one is out I am scared to drive at night for fear of hitting a child or pet in my complex. And i will not allow my son to drive because he may get seriously hurt as well. This issue needs to be resolved as to why the headlights just go out and are not fixable with a bulb replacement.
Kia Telluride 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5XYP64HC6LG
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: One morning when I went to get into my car I noticed a large crack approximately 12in in length across my windshield. There had been no noticeable chips in the windshield prior and there was no sign of being hit of any kind. I took the car to be looked at by a family member in glass and he said the issue is a manufacturing issue and the glass is thin and unsafe. The dealer said they won’t replace because it isn’t in the date range involved in the class action lawsuit. Since this I have had several more chips and the crack now runs all the way across the glass and extends up and down
Kia Telluride 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 5XYP54HC3MG
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: Sunroof/moonroof will no longer close. It is stuck in the open position and this will cause water to enter the cabin if it rains. The vehicle was examined by the dealer and they confirmed that a component is fault and will need to be replaced. No warning lamps or additional symptoms were noticed prior to the sunroof malfunctioning. The vehicle only has 44,100 miles.
Kia Telluride 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-14
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 5XYP34HC2MG
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Was opening the sunroof and heard a popping sound. Wind deflector arm broke and now the sunroof will not close all the way leaving the risk of interior of car getting wet and creating mold since I live in an already humid climate.
Kia Telluride 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: 5XYP6DGC0RG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Sunroof shattered while driving. Nothing struck the glass, we were not around any other vehicles, etc. it just exploded. The slide was closed, so no glass fell in vehicle.
Kia Telluride 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: 5XYP34HC1LG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Paint peeling from 2020 Kia Telluride. It seems to be a known issue with many Kia Telluride owners experiencing the same paint defects. This is a serious quality issue, I've had many vehicles for 10+ years and never experienced the issues I'm having with this car. The car has under 50000 miles and for it to be peeling like this seems to be a manufacture defect. Kia has refused to fix the issue as they claim its not under warranty.
Kia Telluride 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 5XYP6DHC3LG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The sunroof snapped when opening appears the wind deflector had broken in the corners
Kia Telluride 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- VIN: 5XYP34HC0MG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I have it so the doors do not automatically unlock when I arrive somewhere. When I arrive at a destination and put the car in park, the people in the backseat cannot pull the handle to get out. If the child safety lock (which is a button on the door handle with the window and lock buttons) is ON, the back windows and the door latches do NOT work. If the child safety lock is OFF, the windows work but the door still cannot be opened using the latch. This seems like a safety issue to me, since most people will reach for the latch in an emergency, but they can't get out. I have to push the unlock button form the driver door. If it is pushed on the front passenger door, it will not unlock the back doors.
Kia Telluride 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 5XYP64HC4LG
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: We contacted Kia US after taking the Kia Telluride to a Kia service station for an oil change.The service tech told us that they were not going to do an oil change because,”the Telluride was a ticking time bomb.” This was said in front of the Kia service Mgr.We were very nervous driving the vehicle because no one explained what that meant.Shortly after the service appointment, the Telluride’s engine caught on fire.We call Kia US that same day to open up a case.We explained all the issues we had with the Telluride (windshield issues, headlight issues, main display screen issues, luggage rack issues, sunroof, drive shaft, wiper fluid filter issues), to include the engine. After paying an attorney to provide all documents that Kia US requested from us, including every oil change receipt for the Telluride, Kia US only offered to only pay for the parts for the driveshaft/engine fire issues. To make matters worse, the Kia service department said that the 100+ parts needed to repair the engine, were on back order. Our Telluride’s engine caught fire in April and Kia US has done nothing for us, even though the issues are under 2 recalls. This is unacceptable for a manufacturer to ignore recalls, especially when it comes to the safety of people, families and children. We contacted Kia US for 6 months with no help from them. We sent registered/certified letters to Kia US executives, legal Dept, Kia Finance and the last communication from Kia US was that they are not doing anything for us- no repairs for the recalls, even though we mentioned the recalls associated with our Vin/Telluride. They are completely disregarding the entire situation. Since then, we have had to find another option for transportation since we have been without the Telluride for 6 months. Kia US needs to take back the Telluride and either provide us with a safe/working vehicle or reimburse us for what we have spent on the Telluride. Thank you for your assistance. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Kia Telluride 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: 5XYP54HC1LG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: White Pearl paint flaking off front of car above windshield
Kia Telluride 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: 5XYP5DHC6LG
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Paint peeling off car
Latest 5 recalls Kia Telluride
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 23 recalls for different components of the Kia Telluride.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Kia Telluride 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-05
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The front power seat motor may overheat due to a stuck power seat slide knob, which can result in a fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will install a bracket for the power seat switch back covers and replace the seat slide knobs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 30, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC316.
- Model: Kia Telluride 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-05
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The front power seat motor may overheat due to a stuck power seat slide knob, which can result in a fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will install a bracket for the power seat switch back covers and replace the seat slide knobs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 30, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC316.
- Model: Kia Telluride 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-05
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The front power seat motor may overheat due to a stuck power seat slide knob, which can result in a fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will install a bracket for the power seat switch back covers and replace the seat slide knobs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 30, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC316.
- Model: Kia Telluride 2020
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-05
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The front power seat motor may overheat due to a stuck power seat slide knob, which can result in a fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will install a bracket for the power seat switch back covers and replace the seat slide knobs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 30, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC316.
- Model: Kia Telluride 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-06-05
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The front power seat motor may overheat due to a stuck power seat slide knob, which can result in a fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: A fire increases the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will install a bracket for the power seat switch back covers and replace the seat slide knobs, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 30, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC316.
Latest negative Kia Telluride car reviews
Latest positive Kia Telluride car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2021
This is a great family SUV with 3rd row seating and plenty of cargo room for family trips to the beach! It offers the space of a minivan with the style and handling of a European SUV like the Range Rover.
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Vehicle year: 2021
Dealers pricing over sticker is insane. Let's discuss and find a solution together.
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Vehicle year: 2022
I read all the reviews and I'm happy to say that it doesn't disappoint. It has a smooth ride, excellent visibility, and great utility. I've had it for a month and I'm so glad I purchased it.
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Vehicle year: 2021
I recently started looking for a new mid-size SUV as my Infinity QX50 lease was ending. After consulting with Edmunds, I test drove the Honda Passport and liked it. However, when I test drove the Telluride, I was blown away by how quiet and comfortable it was. The tech and safety features are top-notch! I understand that some people are unhappy with the 'market adjustment' or bump sticker, but I took that into consideration when trading in our late model Corvette. Although we loved it as a weekend driver, it wasn't practical. The Kia dealership offered more than $11k higher than any previous trade-in offer, making the decision easy. I traded the Corvette for an EX 2-wheel drive Telluride in white (we live in FL) with the premium package. The dealership extended the bumper-to-bumper 5-year and 10-year 100k mile powertrain warranty to a lifetime warranty for free. How amazing is that? We have been extremely satisfied with our purchase and it has exceeded our expectations. If you're in the market for a mid-sized (closer to full-size) SUV, I highly recommend considering the Telluride. Take it for a test drive and you'll be hooked!
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Vehicle year: 2023
The absence of a hitch on Kia vehicles has upset some owners, but it should be noted that it was not available at the time of purchase. However, it is now available as an OEM part or aftermarket, depending on the buyer's preference. I personally tow with my 23 and it performs exceptionally well. In fact, I sold my Palisade to get the 23 Telluride, which has an upgraded interior with dual screens - a game changer! While the gas mileage is slightly lower than my Palisade with the same configuration, it is still a smooth ride with plenty of tech and an impressive appearance. In this price segment, there is simply no comparison. Some have complained about the stereo system, but adjusting the settings, doing the update, and turning on QLS can greatly improve the sound quality. Overall, the Kia Telluride is a top-performing vehicle that is worth the investment.
Are you having problems with your Kia Telluride?
Montana Friesen 2025-05-15
Vehicle year: 2023
I had a few issues with my new 2023 Telluride, some of which were covered under recalls. Unfortunately, KIA did not stand by their warranty and their dealership wanted to charge a fee to determine if the warranty would cover grills falling off the vehicle, a rear bumper cover coming loose, and electrical issues. As a result, I decided to trade in my KIA for a Toyota. I have never had any issues with Toyota on warranty issues. I would recommend considering other options before choosing KIA.
Ronny Koch 2025-05-13
Vehicle year: 2024
Transitioning to the Telluride from my previous car, a Lexus GS350 F-Sport, has been an adjustment. After researching for two months, I considered the Highlander, Pilot, and RX350, but found that the Telluride offered the best value for its price. I've been driving the Telluride for about a month now and it's a solid vehicle. Although it's not as solid as the Lexus, it still has quiet and stable handling with more than adequate power. I appreciate that the 3.7 engine is naturally aspirated and conservatively rated, which gives a smooth torque curve and should bode well for reliability. I purchased the EX, but I do miss the front parking sensors. Unfortunately, you have to move up the trim scale and pay more to get that safety asset. The tech is good, but I would prefer to have wireless CarPlay. However, it's not too expensive to get an aftermarket device for wireless. The Kia Connect mobile app is a nice gimmick, but it's woefully slow and requires a subscription to continue using it. The seating is really supportive and offers plenty of adjustment. I was surprised to find that I can easily get about 24 mpg around town driving. I'm still clocking the interstate cruising mpg, but it looks like 28 is in the cards. The second row seats are really accessible for a child seat or for our codger friends alike. I have no regrets about this purchase. Update: I've had the 2023 Telluride EX since February 2023 and it's been a great car all around with no problems. However, getting service has been incredibly frustrating. Both my local dealer service phones don't get answered and both have full emails. After numerous attempts to call and schedule a routine service without success, I finally drove to one of the dealers and found out that you have to call and make an appointment. I paid dealer retail for an oil filter and will do it myself. I wrote to Kia corp asking how I should get service and they responded that the dealers are all independent and Kia has no authority over them. They recommended that I call the dealer.Great car if you're a DIY person.
Lane Morissette 2025-04-24
Vehicle year: 2022
At around 3,000 miles, the drive belt broke, causing the coolant and oil to drain from the car, damaging the electronics and overheating the engine. Although the required parts are not yet available, I am confident that the vehicle will be repaired and returned to me as soon as possible.
Coy Daniel 2025-04-22
Vehicle year: 2023
I was impressed with this vehicle when we got it last year. However, after having it for 15 months, it seems to be consuming oil. I have put in 4 quarts of oil with only 12000 miles. The Kia dealer I take it to insists this is normal, which I totally disagree with. It is concerning that most owners don't even check their oil levels. Some owners are now facing lawsuits because Kia is blaming them for a damaged engine. Buyers should be aware that this is a great vehicle that performs very nicely. However, Kia is aware of this problem and has yet to do the right thing to fix it. Personally, I had two Sorentos (2017-2020) which never needed any additional oil.
Alexie Sipes 2025-04-19
Vehicle year: 2021
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with the 2021 Telluride. I've noticed that the windshield is quite delicate and can crack easily from even small impacts. Unfortunately, my windshield cracked twice, but thankfully Kia was able to replace it for me. On another note, I've also noticed some peeling paint on the front grill of my white pearl Telluride. I'm planning on having it repainted soon. If you have a Telluride, it might be worth checking your paint as well. I hope this information is helpful to you. Have a great day!