2025 model year · 234+ owner reports · Updated June 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 234+ owner reports, the 2025 Kia Seltos has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is CVT Hesitation and Jerking Under Load with 234 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $ to $4,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2021-2025 Kia Seltos 2.0L, the Seltos equipped with the 2.0L engine and CVT (IVT) exhibits hesitation, jerking, and poor acceleration response, particularly when merging or climbing hills. The CVT struggles under load and can enter limp mode. Owners report the transmission feels sluggish compared to traditional automatics. Kia has released TCU software updates to improve response.
Have dealer perform TCU software update (latest calibration addresses hesitation). If CVT fluid has not been changed, a fluid service with genuine Kia CVTF may improve response. For persistent issues, CVT replacement under powertrain warranty (10 years/100,000 miles). Some owners find that using Sport mode improves daily driving feel.
Parts and tips from 234+ owners who fixed this issue
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:FLUID/LUBRICANT:PUMP
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul, Sportage, and 2023-2024 Seltos vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump to overheat.
AIR BAGS
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul and 2024 Seltos vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the side curtain air bags may deploy unexpectedly.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
ENGINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
Don't see your problem? Describe your symptoms to get a diagnosis, or get a full repair guide.
According to Au7o's analysis of 234+ owner reports, the 2025-2025 Kia Seltos has 1 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: CVT Hesitation and Jerking Under Load. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
The 2025-2025 Kia Seltos has 1 known issues documented across 234+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
Repair costs for known Kia Seltos issues range from $0 to $4,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
The Seltos equipped with the 2.0L engine and CVT (IVT) exhibits hesitation, jerking, and poor acceleration response, particularly when merging or climbing hills. The CVT struggles under load and can enter limp mode. Owners report the transmission feels sluggish compared to tradit… Repairs typically run $0-$4,500. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
