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Kia is under scrutiny once again. This time not for issuing a recall, but for how well they fixed one.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an official audit into the effectiveness of Kia’s previous recall remedy involving over 137,000 2021–2023 Kia Soul and Seltos models equipped with 2.0-liter Nu MPI engines.
The concern? The fix may not be working – and owners are sounding the alarm.
Why the Original Recall Happened
Earlier this year, Kia issued a recall to address a defect in the piston oil rings of these engines. When these rings fail, they can lead to engine damage, excessive oil consumption, internal noise, and in worst-case scenarios—engine failure or fire.
To remedy the issue, Kia rolled out a software update to detect unusual piston-ring noise, carried out inspections, and offered engine replacements when specific trouble codes were detected.
Why the NHTSA Is Now Investigating
Between April and June 2025, NHTSA received 47 complaints from owners who say the fix either doesn’t work, wasn’t properly applied, or is not available. In some cases, owners continued experiencing engine problems after the so-called repair.
As a result, the Office of Defects Investigation has opened an audit into 137,256 vehicles to determine whether Kia’s remedy is truly effective. Or, if a more robust solution is needed.
What Kia Owners Should Do Now
If you drive a 2021–2023 Soul or Seltos, you can check your vehicle’s recall status using Kia’s official lookup tool or through NHTSA.gov.
This investigation could lead to further recalls or expanded repair coverage depending on what federal regulators uncover.
How Kia Drivers Can Take Back Control
While this investigation is ongoing, many drivers remain frustrated by recurring engine issues and excessive oil consumption, even after repeated service visits. These problems have the potential to escalate into further action, underlining the importance of protecting consumer rights.
If you struggle with vehicle troubles and feel cornered against big vehicle brands, remember it is always better to have experts with you. With extensive experience and successful cases at hand, The Lemon Firm is your best bet. With dedicated team members always at your disposal, the package becomes too good to be true. So, if your car is giving you a headache, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Call 833 Lemon Firm and speak with a case analyst today!