According to Au7o's analysis of 456+ owner reports, the 2021 Kia Telluride has 19 documented known issues, with 6 rated critical. The most serious are Tow Hitch Wiring Harness Module Fire Risk, Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneously Shattering ($900-$2,500 repair), Piston Oil-Control Ring Coking Causing Excessive Oil Consumption (3.8L Lambda II GDI) ($600-$9,000 repair), Front Power Seat Motor Overheating / Fire Risk, Occupant Classification System Fails to Detect Child Restraint in Front Passenger Seat (Recall 21V164) ($0-$0 repair) and Intermediate Shaft / Driveshaft Disengagement (Rollaway). The most commonly reported issue is Premature Windshield Cracking with 456 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $50 to $9,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Telluride vehicles. The door belt molding trim can delaminate and detach from the vehicle.
Campaign #25V49400028/07/2025
TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 Telluride and 2026 Sorento vehicles. The vehicles are equipped with an incorrect spare tire which, when installed, can impair the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and the traction control system (TCS). As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
Campaign #25V74500031/10/2025
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 Telluride vehicles, equipped with power front seat(s). Due to a manufacturing error, the driver and passenger seat back frame assemblies may fail to properly restrain occupants in a crash.
Campaign #26V10500023/02/2026
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According to Au7o's analysis of 456+ owner reports, the 2021 Kia Telluride has 19 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Tow Hitch Wiring Harness Module Fire Risk, Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneously Shattering, Piston Oil-Control Ring Coking Causing Excessive Oil Consumption (3.8L Lambda II GDI). Of these, 6 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Kia Telluride reliable?
The 2021 Kia Telluride has 19 known issues documented across 456+ owner reports. 6 issues are rated critical: Tow Hitch Wiring Harness Module Fire Risk and Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneously Shattering and Piston Oil-Control Ring Coking Causing Excessive Oil Consumption (3.8L Lambda II GDI) and Front Power Seat Motor Overheating / Fire Risk and Occupant Classification System Fails to Detect Child Restraint in Front Passenger Seat (Recall 21V164) and Intermediate Shaft / Driveshaft Disengagement (Rollaway). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Kia Telluride problems?
Repair costs for known Kia Telluride issues range from $0 to $9,000, 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.
What is the 2020-2022 Kia Telluride Tow Hitch Wiring Harness Module Fire Risk?
NHTSA recall 22V626000 (Kia SC247) covers certain 2020-2022 Telluride vehicles potentially equipped with a Genuine Kia four-pin tow-hitch harness. Debris and moisture on the harness-module circuit board can cause an electrical short and a fire while parked or driving. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride Panoramic Sunroof Glass Spontaneously Shattering?
Telluride owners report the fixed or sliding panoramic sunroof glass exploding without any impact — typically while driving, described consistently as sounding like a gunshot followed by glass raining into the cabin. The failure mode is characteristic of tempered panoramic panels… Repairs typically run $900-$2,500. Severity: high.
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.
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On the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride, nHTSA recall 26V430000 (Kia SC374) covers certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. A front power-seat motor may overheat because of a stuck slide knob or an improper earlier 24V407 repair, causing a fire while parked or driving. This recall replaces 24V407.
Common Symptoms
Power-seat slide knob is stuck
Burning odor, smoke or fire near a front power seat
How to Fix
Check the VIN for recall 26V430000/SC374 and park outside and away from structures until the repair is complete. A Kia dealer installs an electronic fuse assembly free of charge. Vehicles already repaired under 24V407/SC316 still need the new remedy. P0217 and P0128 are unrelated engine codes and are not part of this seat recall.
High ConfidenceVerifiedLast reported by owners Jan 2025Reviewed Aug 2026
On the 2021 Kia Telluride, certain 2021 Tellurides have an air bag control module / occupant classification system calibration that does not correctly classify a child restraint system installed in the front passenger seat. Instead of suppressing the passenger air bag as FMVSS 208 requires, the system can leave it enabled — meaning a forward- or rear-facing child seat in the front position could be struck by a deploying air bag. The condition is silent: the PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF indicator simply does not come on when it should, so an owner who never checks the indicator has no way to know.
Common Symptoms
PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF indicator stays dark with a child seat installed in the front seat
Passenger air bag remains armed with a light occupant in the seat
Occupant classification behaves inconsistently between drives
How to Fix
Free recall remedy under NHTSA 21V164 — dealers reprogram (or replace, where required) the air bag control unit / occupant classification module so the system correctly detects a child restraint and suppresses the passenger air bag. Until the repair is done, do not install a child restraint in the front passenger seat; the second row is the correct location regardless. After the repair, verify the PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF lamp illuminates with the child seat installed.
On the 2020-2022 Kia Telluride, nHTSA recall 22V626000 (Kia SC247) covers certain 2020-2022 Telluride vehicles potentially equipped with a Genuine Kia four-pin tow-hitch harness. Debris and moisture on the harness-module circuit board can cause an electrical short and a fire while parked or driving.
Common Symptoms
Burning odor, smoke or fire near the tow-hitch harness module
Check the VIN and whether the Kia four-pin harness was installed. Until recall 22V626000/SC247 is completed, park outside and away from structures. A Kia dealer installs a new fuse and wiring-harness extension and inspects and replaces the tow-hitch harness assembly as necessary free of charge. Do not attempt generic wiring repairs from this page.
High ConfidenceVerifiedLast reported by owners Oct 2024Reviewed Aug 2026
On the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride, tellurides repeatedly go dead overnight or after a few days parked, with owners jump-starting and replacing perfectly good batteries only to have the problem return. The Telluride's always-on cellular telematics modem (Kia Access / UVO remote start and remote climate) never fully sleeps, and the Intelligent Battery Unit (IBU) — the module that manages charge state and load-shedding — is the second common culprit; a failing IBU or a module that will not enter sleep leaves a parasitic draw well above the ~30-50 mA target. Contributing triggers reported across the owner community include the key fob left within proximity range of the vehicle (which keeps the smart-key ECU and body modules awake), and heavy use of remote-start via the app. Dealers frequently fail to reproduce this because the draw only appears after the vehicle should have entered deep sleep — several owners report the dealership needing a month to catch it.
Common Symptoms
Dead battery after sitting overnight or a few days
Repeat no-start requiring jump start
Multiple batteries replaced with no improvement
Cluster warning lights and radio presets reset after a no-start
Remote start via app fails intermittently
How to Fix
Insist on a proper parasitic draw test, not just a battery load test: with the vehicle fully asleep (typically 40-60 minutes after lock, doors closed with the latch pinned), an ammeter in series on the negative terminal should read under about 50 mA. If it is higher, pull fuses one at a time to isolate the circuit — telematics/AVN and the IBU circuit are the two to check first. Fixes reported include IBU replacement, telematics unit replacement, and Kia software/firmware updates for the modem sleep logic. As an interim measure, store the key fobs well away from the vehicle, disable non-essential remote features in the Kia Access app, and if the vehicle sits for long periods use a battery maintainer. Replace the battery only after the draw is fixed — repeat deep discharges permanently damage it.
On the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride 3.8L Lambda II V6 (G6DH), a large share of Telluride owners report that Idle Stop & Go essentially never works, or works for a while and then stops. The system requires a state-of-charge threshold at the 12V battery (dealers commonly quote roughly 68 percent or better), adequate brake vacuum, and settled coolant and cabin temperatures — and on this vehicle the auxiliary/AGM battery ages quickly enough that ISG is often the first casualty, a useful early warning of a battery going down. A second, separate complaint is behavioral: ISG interacting with Auto Hold produces a lurch when the engine restarts, and the engine shutting down unexpectedly while maneuvering on an incline or easing into a garage. The amber rather than green ISG indicator distinguishes 'system present but not permitted right now' from an actual fault. This is not the same fault as the telematics parasitic drain, though a weak battery from that drain will also suppress ISG.
Common Symptoms
Auto stop-start never shuts the engine off at a stop
ISG indicator shows amber instead of green
Engine shuts down unexpectedly while creeping or on an incline
Lurch or jolt when the engine restarts with Auto Hold active
ISG worked when new and stopped after a year or two
How to Fix
Test the 12V battery under load and check state of charge before anything else — a battery that still cranks fine can be well under the ISG threshold, and replacing it restores the function. Note the correct battery type for the vehicle (ISG-equipped vehicles use an AGM/EFB battery; fitting a conventional flooded battery permanently disables ISG). If the battery is healthy, have the dealer check for a stored fault in the ISG logic and inspect brake booster vacuum. For the lurch-on-restart and shutdown-while-parking complaint, the practical workaround owners settle on is disabling ISG (and often Auto Hold) with the console buttons at each start; there is no software fix. Battery replacement typically $200-$350.
On the 2020-2023 Kia Telluride, owners across multiple model years report the center infotainment (UVO) screen freezing, going black, showing a blue 'reset' screen, or rebooting on a loop while driving, sometimes accompanied by phantom-touch behavior and loss of the backup camera. The unit often becomes unresponsive until reset with the button by the volume knob.
Common Symptoms
Screen freezes or goes black while driving
UVO logo / blue screen and continuous rebooting
Phantom touch / unresponsive touchscreen
Backup camera blank during a screen fault
Requires hardware reset button to recover
How to Fix
Kia has addressed cases with head-unit software updates and, where the fault recurs, free warranty replacement of the display/head unit. Owners should apply the latest UVO software update at the dealer; persistent units are replaced under the new-vehicle warranty.
On the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride, telluride owners report the fixed or sliding panoramic sunroof glass exploding without any impact — typically while driving, described consistently as sounding like a gunshot followed by glass raining into the cabin. The failure mode is characteristic of tempered panoramic panels: ceramic-frit edge stresses combined with the large thin panel and body flex create a stored-stress condition where a microscopic edge flaw propagates catastrophically. Kia has faced class-action litigation over exploding panoramic sunroofs across its lineup, and the complaint volume spans the Telluride's full production run including 2024 and 2025 vehicles. There is no safety recall for this condition, so warranty coverage is decided case-by-case and glass claims are frequently denied as 'road debris'.
Common Symptoms
Loud bang or gunshot-like sound while driving
Sunroof glass shattered with no impact point
Glass shards falling into cabin onto occupants
Glass bowed or blown outward rather than inward
Sunroof shade jammed by glass fragments
How to Fix
Document immediately — photograph the glass in place before cleanup and note that there was no impact event, because the dealer's default position is external road debris. Open a Kia Consumer Affairs case and file an NHTSA complaint; owners who escalated with photos of outward-bowed glass and no impact point have had better luck getting warranty coverage. Repair is replacement of the panoramic glass panel and, if the frame or track was damaged by the failure, the sunroof frame assembly. Comprehensive auto insurance glass coverage often pays this with a lower out-of-pocket than fighting the warranty claim. After replacement, verify the drains and seals were reinstalled correctly to avoid a secondary water leak.
On the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride, the Smart Power Liftgate on EX and above fails in two related but distinct ways. The gas struts on either side of the gate weaken — often within the first year or two, and much faster in cold climates — so the gate stops closing fully, reverses partway, or drops. Separately, the liftgate drive motor/spindle unit fails outright: the gate stops responding entirely, the liftgate configuration options disappear from the infotainment settings menu, and pressing the dash liftgate button produces three beeps with no motion. Because the module drops off the network when the motor unit fails, the settings menu vanishing is the tell that distinguishes a dead motor from a weak strut. Parts availability has been a recurring frustration, with replacement struts and motors reported on backorder with no ETA.
Common Symptoms
Liftgate will not close the last few inches
Liftgate drifts down or reverses on its own
Three beeps from the dash liftgate button with no movement
Liftgate settings missing from the infotainment menu
Power liftgate inoperative below freezing
Liftgate will not stay up when opened manually
How to Fix
Distinguish the two failures first. If the gate moves but will not close the last few inches or drifts down, replace the gas struts in pairs — straightforward and far cheaper. If the liftgate options have disappeared from the settings menu and the dash button gives three beeps, the powered spindle/motor assembly or its control module has failed and needs replacement. Before condemning either, try the reset sequence owners report working: ignition on, vehicle in Park, then press and hold the close button and the manual close button by the license plate for about three seconds to re-initialize the gate travel limits. Also check the 12V battery state of charge — low system voltage will disable the power liftgate and mimic a hardware fault. Covered under the 5yr/60k basic warranty.
On the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride, telluride owners report unusually high rates of windshield cracking from minor road debris that would not crack windshields on other vehicles. Over 46% of NHTSA visibility complaints for the Telluride relate to windshield cracking. Cracks typically originate from the lower passenger-side corner and spread toward the center. The issue may be related to the windshield glass thickness or tempering specification. No official recall, but NHTSA has received significant complaint volume.
Common Symptoms
Crack appears from edge of windshield without obvious impact point
Small chips rapidly spread into long cracks
Cracking from lower corners spreading upward
Multiple windshield replacements needed within ownership period
How to Fix
File NHTSA complaint at safercar.gov to support potential investigation. Replacement windshield ($400-800 depending on features). Comprehensive insurance typically covers windshield replacement with $0-100 deductible. Some owners report aftermarket windshields from Safelite are more durable than OEM replacements. Consider a windshield protection film like ClearPlex for prevention.
Owner tips & cautions
TipFile an NHTSA complaint even for minor windshield cracks. Higher complaint volumes increase the chance of a formal investigation
TipConsider ClearPlex or ExoShield windshield protection film ($300-500 installed) to prevent chips from spreading into cracks
Medium ConfidenceVerified456 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2025Reviewed Feb 2026
On the 2020-2022 Kia Telluride 3.8L Lambda II GDI V6 (G6DH), owners of early-build 3.8L Lambda II GDI Tellurides report consuming roughly one quart of oil per 1,000 miles or worse, with several forum cases of the engine running effectively dry between scheduled changes. The root cause discussed repeatedly in the owner community is the low-tension oil-control ring package used on this GDI V6: the thin oil rings carbon up (coke) in the ring lands from GDI-related combustion deposits and stop scraping oil back into the sump, so oil passes into the combustion chamber and is burned. This is distinct from fuel-driven oil dilution — here the dipstick level FALLS rather than rises. Dealers frequently open a formal oil-consumption test (measured burn over 1,000 miles) before authorizing repair, and multiple owners have reported short-block or full engine replacement being required.
Common Symptoms
Low oil warning light between scheduled oil changes
Dipstick reads at or below minimum after 1,000-2,000 miles
Blue-gray smoke on startup or hard acceleration
Burning-oil smell
Fouled spark plugs / rough idle
Requiring multiple quarts of top-up oil per change interval
How to Fix
Have the dealer open a documented oil-consumption test while still inside the 10yr/100k powertrain warranty — this is the gatekeeper for any covered repair. If consumption exceeds Kia's threshold, the fix is a short-block/engine sub-assembly replacement with the revised piston and ring set; ring-and-piston-only repair is rarely authorized. Out of warranty, mitigation includes shortening the oil change interval, using a full-synthetic meeting the correct spec, checking the dipstick at every fuel stop, and having an intake-valve/ring de-coke performed. Do not assume dealer 'oil consumption is normal' statements are final — several owners escalated to Kia Consumer Affairs and got coverage.
On the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride 3.8L Lambda II V6, the 3.8L Lambda II V6 in the Telluride experiences fuel dilution of the engine oil when driven primarily on short trips (under 10 miles). Fuel washes past the piston rings during cold starts and does not fully evaporate because the oil never reaches full operating temperature. The diluted oil has reduced viscosity and lubrication properties, accelerating engine wear. The issue is more pronounced in cold climates. Oil analysis shows fuel contamination levels of 3-5% in severe cases.
Common Symptoms
Oil level rising above the full mark on dipstick
Gasoline smell from engine oil on dipstick
Oil appearing thinner than normal
Oil change interval warning appearing early
Increased engine noise from reduced oil film strength
How to Fix
Change oil more frequently if driving primarily short trips — every 3,000-4,000 miles instead of the 7,500-mile factory interval. Take the vehicle on a 20+ minute highway drive weekly to bring the oil to full operating temperature and boil off fuel contamination. Use a quality full-synthetic 5W-30 oil that resists fuel dilution better than conventional oil. Consider oil analysis testing (Blackstone Labs, $30) to monitor fuel dilution levels. If fuel dilution exceeds 5%, investigate injector spray patterns.
On the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride, nHTSA recall 24V214000 (Kia SC303) covers certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft may not be fully engaged, which can allow the vehicle to roll away while in Park.
Common Symptoms
Vehicle rolls after being placed in Park if the driveline disengages
How to Fix
Check the VIN for recall 24V214000/SC303. Until repaired, manually engage the emergency parking brake before exiting. A Kia dealer updates the electronic parking-brake software and replaces a damaged intermediate shaft as necessary free of charge. Generic U-joints or carrier bearings are not this recall remedy.
High ConfidenceVerifiedLast reported by owners Dec 2024Reviewed Aug 2026
On the 2020-2021 Kia Telluride 3.8L Lambda II V6 (G6DH), aWD-only defect on 2020-2021 Tellurides built from start of production through 28 February 2021. Owners report a vibration that builds between roughly 60 and 75 mph and — the diagnostic tell — appears specifically when the powertrain is applying steady throttle, such as with cruise control set on level or slightly uphill road. Tapping the brake or dropping cruise speed makes it disappear instantly. Because it is load-dependent rather than speed-dependent alone, tire balancing alone frequently fails to cure it. Kia's TSB 099 202201 walks a flowchart from tire pressure and road-force balance up to replacing the rear propeller shaft assembly and the AWD coupling. FWD Tellurides do not have these components and are not affected; the vibration should not be confused with the rear self-leveling shock knock on the same model years.
Common Symptoms
Vibration felt through the floor and seat between 60 and 75 mph
Vibration present only while the engine is applying throttle
Vibration stops immediately when brakes are tapped or cruise is cancelled
Persists after new tires and repeated balancing
Worse uphill or with a load
How to Fix
Have the dealer run TSB 099 202201. Step one is a road-force balance and tire pressure check; if the vibration survives that, the fix is replacement of the rear propeller shaft assembly and the AWD coupling. Insist the technician reproduce it with cruise control holding throttle at 65-70 mph, not just on a coast-down, or it will be written up as 'no trouble found'. Covered under the 5-year/60,000-mile basic and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for original owners; out of warranty the shaft and coupling together typically run $1,200-$2,200 installed.
On the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride, the third-row seat fold-down mechanism in the Telluride jams, preventing the seats from folding flat or locking back into the upright position. The latch mechanism uses a cable-actuated release that stretches and binds over time. When the latch jams in the released position, the seat back flops freely and cannot be secured for passenger use. The issue is exacerbated by frequent folding/unfolding of the third row.
Common Symptoms
Third row seat will not fold down when release is pulled
Third row seat back will not lock in upright position
Seat back flops freely and cannot secure
Clicking or grinding from latch mechanism
Release handle feels loose or does not spring back
How to Fix
Lubricate the latch mechanism and release cable with white lithium grease or dry Teflon lubricant. If the cable has stretched, it needs to be adjusted or replaced. In some cases, the latch striker on the seat frame bends and needs to be realigned. Dealer repair involves replacing the seat latch assembly. Covered under the 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
WD-40 Specialist 30061 White Lithium Grease, 10 oz
OEMWD-40 Specialist 30061
Lubricate the exposed metal-to-metal pivot/contact of an intact but dry or sticky third-row latch Fitment/availability: Maintenance material only after inspection; not a repair for a cable, spring, striker, fastener or latch that is bent…
On the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride, tellurides equipped with the panoramic sunroof develop headliner sagging and separation around the sunroof opening. The headliner adhesive fails due to heat cycling from the large glass panel above, causing the fabric to detach from the backing board. The sagging starts at the edges of the sunroof opening and progresses outward. This is both a cosmetic and functional issue, as the sagging fabric can obstruct the sunroof shade operation.
Common Symptoms
Headliner fabric drooping around sunroof opening
Visible wrinkles in headliner near sunroof edges
Sunroof shade catching on sagging headliner
Headliner separating from backing board
Issue worse in hot climates
How to Fix
Dealer warranty repair involves replacing the entire headliner assembly, which requires removing the windshield, rear glass, or significant interior trim depending on the repair method. For minor sagging, some owners use headliner adhesive spray (3M Super 77 or equivalent) to re-bond the fabric, though this is considered a temporary fix. If out of warranty, an automotive upholstery shop can re-bond or replace the headliner for less than dealer cost.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
3M 38808 Headliner & Fabric Adhesive, 18.1 oz
OEM3M 38808
Re-bond a small diagnosed headliner-fabric area when the foam and backing board are still sound Fitment/availability: Universal automotive headliner adhesive, not a Telluride headliner replacement. Use only after warranty/water-ingress c…
On the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride, tellurides fitted with the rear self-leveling (load-leveling) shock absorbers — standard on tow-package and higher trims — develop a distinct knock, thump or pop from the rear of the vehicle over bumps and expansion joints, often accompanied by a harsh, stiff ride. Kia first addressed this with TSB CHA113 (rear shock absorber assembly noise), which replaces the rear self-leveling shock insulator and locking nut on 2020-2021 vehicles built Jan 1 2019 - Dec 1 2020. The insulator turned out to be only part of the story: owners report the self-leveling shocks themselves subsequently failing outright — losing damping, leaking oil, or losing the self-leveling function so the rear sits low or bounces after bumps. Kia later issued warranty extension WTY040 (Aug 2024) covering the rear suspension noise / firm ride condition out to 15 years / 180,000 miles, which is an unusually long extension and signals a design-level defect rather than wear.
Common Symptoms
Knocking, thumping or popping from the rear over bumps
Harsh or overly firm rear ride quality
Rear of vehicle bounces or floats after a dip
Oil film/weeping on rear shock body
Rear ride height sagging when loaded
How to Fix
First verify the noise is actually from the rear — this condition is very commonly misdiagnosed as front stabilizer bar links or bushings, leading to unnecessary front-end work. If in the TSB CHA113 population, the dealer replaces the rear self-leveling shock insulator and lock nut. If the shocks themselves have failed (oil weeping down the body, no rebound control, rear ride-height not self-correcting), the fix is replacement of the rear self-leveling shock absorbers in pairs. Because of warranty extension WTY040, have this diagnosed at a Kia dealer first — the repair is very likely free up to 15yr/180k miles.
On the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride, telluride owners report the air conditioning blowing warm air due to A/C compressor failure, with some vehicles having the compressor replaced more than once (often with a remanufactured unit). Common root causes are internal compressor mechanical/electrical failure or refrigerant leaks; repeat failures within warranty are documented across owner forums.
Common Symptoms
A/C blowing warm or inconsistent air
A/C stops cooling intermittently in hot weather
Compressor noise or clutch not engaging
Repeat compressor replacements
Low refrigerant / detectable leak
How to Fix
Diagnose for refrigerant leak vs. compressor failure; Kia dealers replace failed compressors under the new-vehicle warranty, typically with a remanufactured unit. Persistent repeat failures may warrant escalation to Kia consumer affairs / lemon-law review.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
Genuine Kia 97701-C6950RU remanufactured A/C compressor
OEMKia 97701-C6950RU
Confirm VIN and A/C configuration before ordering.
On the 2020-2022 Kia Telluride, the 8-speed automatic exhibits torque-converter (damper clutch) shudder felt as a vibration around 45 mph and during uphill gear changes, plus hesitation and weak pickup on re-acceleration and merges. Early 2020 units could log P0741 damper-clutch faults; some required full transmission/torque-converter replacement.
Common Symptoms
Shudder/vibration around 45 mph
Whole-vehicle shudder during uphill gear changes
Hesitation and weak pickup on re-acceleration
Harsh or slamming shifts
Vibration below 1,500 rpm
How to Fix
Kia service action SA428 (TSB 090, early-2020 units built May 18-20, 2020) replaced the entire automatic transmission and torque converter for noise/vibration below 1,500 rpm; later rough-shift/hesitation complaints on MY22 addressed under SA490 (TSB 232) with ECU and TCU software updates. Dealers diagnose via campaign lookup; reflash first, hardware replacement if shudder persists.
On the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride, tellurides develop paint bubbling and peeling at body panel seams, particularly the hood leading edge, roof rail joints, and rear liftgate seams. The issue is caused by insufficient e-coat coverage at spot-welded seams, allowing moisture to penetrate under the paint. The bubbling starts small but spreads if not addressed, eventually leading to visible rust. Dark-colored vehicles show the issue sooner. Kia has acknowledged the issue but has not issued a formal recall.
Common Symptoms
Small bubbles in paint along hood front edge
Paint peeling at roof rail seam joints
Rust-colored bubbles at liftgate seam
Paint flaking when touched at bubble locations
Issue worsening in wet/humid climates
How to Fix
If under Kia's 5-year/60,000-mile paint warranty, have the dealer document and repair under warranty (they will sand, prime, and respray the affected panels). If out of warranty, sand the affected area to bare metal, treat any rust with a converter, apply primer, and respray. For preventive care, apply paint protection film (PPF) to the hood leading edge and high-risk seam areas. Ceramic coating helps but does not prevent the underlying adhesion issue.
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 or an improper recall 24V407 repair, which can result in a fire while parked or driving.
Campaign #26V43000002/07/2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2024 Telluride vehicles. The engine valve springs may break while driving, which can result in a loss of drive power and possibly create a hole in the engine block.
What is the 2020-2022 Kia Telluride Piston Oil-Control Ring Coking Causing Excessive Oil Consumption (3.8L Lambda II GDI)?
Owners of early-build 3.8L Lambda II GDI Tellurides report consuming roughly one quart of oil per 1,000 miles or worse, with several forum cases of the engine running effectively dry between scheduled changes. The root cause discussed repeatedly in the owner community is the low-… Repairs typically run $600-$9,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride Front Power Seat Motor Overheating / Fire Risk?
NHTSA recall 26V430000 (Kia SC374) covers certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. A front power-seat motor may overheat because of a stuck slide knob or an improper earlier 24V407 repair, causing a fire while parked or driving. This recall replaces 24V407. Severity: high.
What is the 2021 Kia Telluride Occupant Classification System Fails to Detect Child Restraint in Front Passenger Seat (Recall 21V164)?
Certain 2021 Tellurides have an air bag control module / occupant classification system calibration that does not correctly classify a child restraint system installed in the front passenger seat. Instead of suppressing the passenger air bag as FMVSS 208 requires, the system can… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride Intermediate Shaft / Driveshaft Disengagement (Rollaway)?
NHTSA recall 24V214000 (Kia SC303) covers certain 2020-2024 Telluride vehicles. The intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft may not be fully engaged, which can allow the vehicle to roll away while in Park. Severity: high.
What is the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride Rear Self-Leveling Shock Absorber Insulator Failure and Shock Blow-Out (Knock/Thump Over Bumps)?
Tellurides fitted with the rear self-leveling (load-leveling) shock absorbers — standard on tow-package and higher trims — develop a distinct knock, thump or pop from the rear of the vehicle over bumps and expansion joints, often accompanied by a harsh, stiff ride. Kia first addr… Repairs typically run $0-$1,400. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride Parasitic 12V Battery Drain from Telematics Modem / Intelligent Battery Unit (Repeat No-Start)?
Tellurides repeatedly go dead overnight or after a few days parked, with owners jump-starting and replacing perfectly good batteries only to have the problem return. The Telluride's always-on cellular telematics modem (Kia Access / UVO remote start and remote climate) never fully… Repairs typically run $200-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride Power Liftgate Motor and Gas Strut Failure (Won't Close, Three-Beep Fault)?
The Smart Power Liftgate on EX and above fails in two related but distinct ways. The gas struts on either side of the gate weaken — often within the first year or two, and much faster in cold climates — so the gate stops closing fully, reverses partway, or drops. Separately, the… Repairs typically run $180-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2021 Kia Telluride AWD Propeller Shaft and AWD Coupling Vibration at 60-75 MPH (TSB 099 202201)?
AWD-only defect on 2020-2021 Tellurides built from start of production through 28 February 2021. Owners report a vibration that builds between roughly 60 and 75 mph and — the diagnostic tell — appears specifically when the powertrain is applying steady throttle, such as with crui… Repairs typically run $1,200-$2,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride A/C Compressor Failure / No Cold Air?
Telluride owners report the air conditioning blowing warm air due to A/C compressor failure, with some vehicles having the compressor replaced more than once (often with a remanufactured unit). Common root causes are internal compressor mechanical/electrical failure or refrigeran… Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2022 Kia Telluride 8-Speed Automatic Torque-Converter Shudder and Re-Acceleration Hesitation?
The 8-speed automatic exhibits torque-converter (damper clutch) shudder felt as a vibration around 45 mph and during uphill gear changes, plus hesitation and weak pickup on re-acceleration and merges. Early 2020 units could log P0741 damper-clutch faults; some required full trans… Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride Oil Dilution from Short Trip Driving (3.8L V6)?
The 3.8L Lambda II V6 in the Telluride experiences fuel dilution of the engine oil when driven primarily on short trips (under 10 miles). Fuel washes past the piston rings during cold starts and does not fully evaporate because the oil never reaches full operating temperature. Th… Repairs typically run $50-$500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride Premature Windshield Cracking?
Telluride owners report unusually high rates of windshield cracking from minor road debris that would not crack windshields on other vehicles. Over 46% of NHTSA visibility complaints for the Telluride relate to windshield cracking. Cracks typically originate from the lower passen… Repairs typically run $250-$1,000. Severity: low.
What is the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride Idle Stop & Go Fails to Engage or Restarts Roughly (Auto Hold Interaction)?
A large share of Telluride owners report that Idle Stop & Go essentially never works, or works for a while and then stops. The system requires a state-of-charge threshold at the 12V battery (dealers commonly quote roughly 68 percent or better), adequate brake vacuum, and settled… Repairs typically run $200-$400. Severity: low.
What is the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride Paint Bubbling at Hood and Roof Seams?
Tellurides develop paint bubbling and peeling at body panel seams, particularly the hood leading edge, roof rail joints, and rear liftgate seams. The issue is caused by insufficient e-coat coverage at spot-welded seams, allowing moisture to penetrate under the paint. The bubbling… Repairs typically run $0-$1,500. Severity: low.
What is the 2020-2025 Kia Telluride Third Row Seat Latch Jamming?
The third-row seat fold-down mechanism in the Telluride jams, preventing the seats from folding flat or locking back into the upright position. The latch mechanism uses a cable-actuated release that stretches and binds over time. When the latch jams in the released position, the… Repairs typically run $50-$500. Severity: low.
What is the 2020-2023 Kia Telluride Infotainment / UVO Touchscreen Freezing and Random Reboot?
Owners across multiple model years report the center infotainment (UVO) screen freezing, going black, showing a blue 'reset' screen, or rebooting on a loop while driving, sometimes accompanied by phantom-touch behavior and loss of the backup camera. The unit often becomes unrespo… Severity: low.
What is the 2020-2024 Kia Telluride Headliner Sagging Near Panoramic Sunroof?
Tellurides equipped with the panoramic sunroof develop headliner sagging and separation around the sunroof opening. The headliner adhesive fails due to heat cycling from the large glass panel above, causing the fabric to detach from the backing board. The sagging starts at the ed… Repairs typically run $50-$1,200. Severity: low.
