Kia Piston Oil Ring Recall Investigated by NHTSA

What’s the Problem

Kia has recalled over 137,000 vehicles in the U.S., including 2021–2023 Kia Soul and 2021–2022 Kia Seltos models equipped with 2.0L MPI engines, due to improperly manufactured piston oil rings. These rings may cause excessive oil consumption, engine damage, and, in severe cases, engine seizure or fire risk.

Allegations

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received 47 owner complaints between April 29 and June 27, 2025. Owners claim Kia’s recall inspections were inconsistent, some repairs were delayed for weeks or months due to parts shortages, and in some cases, no repairs were offered at all despite ongoing engine issues.

NHTSA has now opened a formal audit query into Kia’s handling of the recall to determine whether the remedies provided are adequate and compliant with federal safety standards.

Recall/TSB

• Recall ID: 25V-099

• Recall Start Date: April 4, 2025

• Remedy: Kia dealers will inspect affected vehicles, install Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software, and, if needed, replace the engine free of charge.

• Estimated Repair Time: PNSS installation — 1–2 hours; Engine replacement — 8+ hours.

Symptoms

Owners have reported:

• Excessive oil consumption between service intervals

• Knocking or ticking engine noises

• Oil pressure warning light illumination

• Engine stalling or seizure while driving

• Burning oil smell or visible smoke from the exhaust

If you are experiencing these symptoms, continuing to drive the vehicle may cause additional damage or safety risks.

How to Proceed

Document Issues: Keep detailed records of all repairs and communications with the manufacturer. While at the dealership, ensure that all of your complaints are noted in the work order that you receive when you first drop off your vehicle.

Reasonable Number of Repair Attempts: While the law doesn't specify an exact number, generally, if the same problem persists after four or more repair attempts, or if the vehicle is out of service for more than 30 days cumulatively, it may qualify as a "lemon."

Monitor Symptoms: Any new engine noises, warning lights, or loss of power? Stop driving immediately and seek inspection and let the dealership know.

Talk to a Lemon Law Attorney, like Valero Law, APC: If repairs fail, or if you experience repeated issues, you may be entitled to relief under California law. Remedies can include a repurchase of the vehicle or a cash settlement.

Protect Your Rights Under California Lemon Law

If you are like many Kia owners now facing serious engine issues due to defective piston oil rings, you may be entitled to compensation under the California Lemon Law.

Compensation may include:

• A complete repurchase of your defective vehicle

• A replacement vehicle

• Or substantial cash reimbursement for damages already caused by the defect

At Valero Law, APC, we focus exclusively on California Lemon Law cases. If you own a 2021–2023 Kia Soul or 2021–2022 Kia Seltos and are experiencing engine trouble—even after recall repairs—call Valero Law, APC at (424) 299-4447 or complete our free Lemon Law case evaluation form today.

We handle cases on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win.