Kia has an issue with the two.0-liter engine utilized in some Soul and Seltos fashions: some may have potential engine injury that might result in a failure or a fireplace. Because of this, 137,256 autos have been recalled.

The recall impacts 2021 via 2023 fashions. Particularly, paperwork on the Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration (NHTSA) point out 53,635 Seltos autos and 83,621 Souls, all geared up with the two.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The issue stems from the piston oil rings, which suffered a “high quality deviation” from the ring provider. The precise nature of that problem is not described, however oil rings are designed to create a seal within the cylinder that regulates compression and oil lubrication. They connect to the pistons, so any “deviation” may result in various issues.

That features wreaking havoc on the cylinder partitions of the engine. If the injury is extreme, it may result in lack of energy, extreme oil consumption, and engine failure. Kia notes over 400 allegations of autos stalling which may be related to the dangerous rings. In 4 circumstances (every involving the Kia Soul) a fireplace occurred as a consequence of a gap worn into the engine block. In accordance with recall paperwork, there are not any identified studies of accidents or accidents ensuing from this downside.

If piston rings are inflicting points, Kia notes there must be ample warning earlier than one thing occurs. Oil consumption, irregular noises from the engine, and smoke within the exhaust may happen. If oil ranges get low, the oil strain warning mild ought to come on.

As for the treatment, Kia sellers will examine engines on recalled autos for potential injury, and substitute the engine if crucial. If there is no signal of hassle, sellers will set up a software program replace that may assist detect potential “piston ring noise” and set off an alert for the motive force. Ought to that alert ever seem, Kia will substitute the engine.

Supplier notification of the recall is already underway. Particular person proprietor notification will start in early April. Kia advises house owners to contact their native seller or Kia customer support at 800-333-4542 if they’ve any questions.