# Kia Telluride 2020–2025 Problems, Recalls & Reliability

Canonical: https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/kia-telluride-2020-2025/

> Kia Telluride 2020–2025: the windshield and oil-consumption years to watch, the fire and roll-away recalls to verify by VIN, real repair costs, and the best years to buy.

Case file · KIA-TELLURIDE-2020-2025 · 1st gen (ON)

# Kia Telluride 2020–2025 Common problems, reliability & repair costs

The first-gen Telluride is one of the best three-row buys of its era: roomy, well-equipped, and backed by a long powertrain warranty. But it launched with real baggage: windshields that crack absurdly easily (now a consolidated class action), 2020 high-beam failures that became a recall, a 3.8L V6 that burns oil in some early cars, and two big safety recalls, seat-motor fires and a roll-away defect, covering nearly every one built through 2024. Verify the recall work is done and buy 2023-or-newer if you can.

[Shop Kia Telluride parts on Amazon →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2BTelluride%2Bparts) Verified part numbers below Affiliate link to Amazon. We may earn a commission if you buy. Your price is the same, and a commission never changes a verdict.

Case data plate KIA-TELLURIDE-2020-2025

Case score
7/10

Best years

2024, 2025

Avoid

2020 (most complaints by far: windshields, high-beam recall, +1 more

Status
Reviewed
Amended 2026-08-30

[How we score →](https://carcasefile.com/methodology/)

Exhibit A · Kia Telluride Benespit · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0) · [Wikimedia](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:0_Kia_Telluride_1.jpg)

Case verdict At a glance

Case score
7/10

Best years

2024, 2025

Years to avoid

2020 (most complaints by far: windshields, high-beam recall, +1 more

Worst system

electrical

#1 problem

**Front power seat motor fire risk (recall SC316, park outside)** · $0

Companion pages for this car generation:

📄 Dossier Overview Active Page [📋 Inspection Checklist Field Guide ->](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/kia-telluride-2020-2025/checklist/) [💰 Maintenance Costs 5-Year Ledger ->](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/kia-telluride-2020-2025/cost-to-maintain/) [🩺 Audit a Quote Estimate Case File ->](https://carcasefile.com/estimate-doctor/?vehicle=Kia%20Telluride)

## Engines

- **Lambda II 3.8 GDI** · 3.8L gasoline, 291 hp

## Transmissions

- **automatic**, 8-speed

## Drivetrain

FWD / AWD

## Body

suv

## Trims

LX, S, EX, SX, SX Prestige, X-Line, X-Pro

Parts desk

## Kia Telluride part-number cross-reference

Start from the OEM number, then pick the brand you trust. Verified equivalents for the Kia Telluride (2020–2025).

Part links go to Amazon, and to eBay where Amazon does not stock the part.
Affiliate links, so we may earn a commission if you buy. Your price is
unchanged, and a commission never changes a verdict.

### Oil filter

3.8L Lambda II V6 (cartridge filter, all years)
swipe →

OEM part
Kia
[Find Kia oil filter on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B26320-3CKB0)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Wix

Metal-free cartridge; also sold as WL10033-EA
[Look up Wix oil filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00YBBCSP4)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Fram

Extra Guard cartridge element
[Check Fram oil filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB01HU1L186)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Purolator

Wix/Purolator cartridge cross
[See Purolator oil filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB076LFWPFS)

Verified via: [EngineOilDB 2025 Telluride oil spec (OEM 26320-3CKB0 + Wix WL10033)](https://engineoildb.com/oil-info/2025-kia-telluride/), [Go-Parts Wix WL10033 fitment (2022 Telluride 3.8 V6)](https://www.go-parts.com/ps-product-new.php?sku=0AF2C31&make=Kia&model=Telluride), [FinditParts Wix WL10033 cross-reference (Fram CH11934, Purolator L18179)](https://www.finditparts.com/products/6579997/wix-filters-wl10033)

### Engine air filter

3.8L V6 (same airbox all years; also fits 2019-2020 Santa Fe 2.0/2.4)
swipe →

OEM part
Kia
[Compare Kia engine air filter on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B28113-A9100)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Fram

Extra Guard rigid panel; Fram lists it replacing 28113-A9100
[Find Fram engine air filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB073VRS5NM)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

K&N

Washable high-flow panel
[Look up K&N engine air filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB08CLP7V2F)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

EPAuto

CA11943 equivalent; budget panel
[Check EPAuto engine air filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07MLHNLZ5)

Verified via: [FRAM official CA11943 (rigid panel Extra Guard)](https://www.fram.com/fram-extra-guard-air-filter-rigid-panel-ca11943), [FinditParts FRAM CA11943 (replaces Hyundai/Kia 28113-A9100)](https://www.finditparts.com/products/8514018/fram-ca11943), [K&N cross-reference for FRAM CA11943 (K&N 33-5075)](https://www.knfilters.com/cross-reference/fram/ca11943-air-filter), [Kia.parts OEM air filter 28113-A9100](https://www.kia.parts/oem-parts/kia-air-filter-28113a9100)

### Cabin air filter

All years (shared with Santa Fe 2019-2020, Stinger, K900)
swipe →

OEM part
Kia

Kia also lists Telluride-specific S9C79-AC100 and related 97133-3M000; same physical filter
[See Kia cabin air filter on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B97133-J5000)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

K&N

Washable; K&N lists it for the Telluride
[Compare K&N cabin air filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DK%2526N%2BVF2061)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Fram

Fresh Breeze/activated-carbon; replaces 97133-J5000
[Find Fram cabin air filter](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DFram%2BCF10735)

Verified via: [KiaPartsNow genuine 97133-J5000 air filter assy](https://www.kiapartsnow.com/genuine/kia-filter-assy-air~97133j5000.html), [Genuine OEM 97133-J5000 fitment (Telluride 20-23, Santa Fe, Stinger, K900)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2F97133-J5000-97133J5000-G8H79AK000-97133S2000-S9C79AC100%2Fdp%2FB086HTCHML&raw=1), [K&N VF2061 cabin air filter (Telluride application)](https://www.knfilters.com/vf2061-cabin-air-filter)

### Spark plugs

3.8L V6 - 6 required, gap 0.039-0.043 in (1.0-1.1 mm), NGK laser iridium
swipe →

OEM part
Kia

NGK-made laser iridium; = NGK SILZKR7E11
[Look up Kia spark plugs on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B18849-11070)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

NGK

NGK stock no. 92315 - the OE plug in NGK retail box
[Check NGK spark plugs](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB078H8KZZL)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Bosch

Cross-ref equivalent (Bosch 0242135564); verify heat range before use
[See Bosch spark plugs](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DBosch%2BYR7SII33X)

Verified via: [Kia.parts OEM spark plug 18849-11070 (NGK SILZKR7E11)](https://www.kia.parts/oem-parts/kia-spark-plug-1884911070), [NGK.com 92315 SILZKR7E11 laser iridium](https://www.ngk.com/ngk-92315-silzkr7e11-laser-iridium-spark-plug), [6x iridium plug + coil kit, Kia Telluride 3.8L 2020-2023 (confirms qty 6 / V6)](https://www.ebay.com/itm/395960935211), [Spark-plug cross-reference NGK SILZKR7E11 (Bosch equivalents)](https://www.sparkplug-crossreference.com/convert/NGK_PN/SILZKR7E11)

### Front brake pads

All trims 2020-2025 (pad shape FMSI 2215; shared front pad with Hyundai Palisade)
swipe →

OEM part
Kia

Palisade uses 58101-S8A00 - different Kia SKU, do not swap by number
[Compare Kia front brake pads on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B58101-S9A00)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Bosch

QuietCast premium ceramic; BE2215H is the same shape with hardware
[Find Bosch front brake pads](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0BHM4RP8P)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Power Stop

Evolution Sport carbon-fiber ceramic
[Look up Power Stop front brake pads](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB098SFN873)

Verified via: [Kia.parts OEM front brake pads 58101-S9A00 (2020-2025 Telluride)](https://www.kia.parts/oem-parts/kia-brake-pads-front-58101s9a00), [Bosch QuietCast BC2215 (Palisade/Telluride front)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FBosch-QuietCast-BC2215-Premium-Ceramic%2Fdp%2FB0BHM4RP8P&raw=1), [Power Stop Z23-2215 (Palisade 2020-2023 / Telluride 2020-2022 front)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPower-Stop-Z23-2215-Ceramic-Hardware%2Fdp%2FB098SFN873&raw=1)

### Wiper blades

All 2020-2025; beam-style, sizes unchanged across the generation
swipe →

OEM part
Kia
[Check Kia wiper blades on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B26%2Bin%2Bdriver%2B%252F%2B18%2Bin%2Bpassenger%2B%252F%2B13%2Bin%2Brear)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Michelin

Front pair; pair with any 13 in rear beam blade
[See Michelin wiper blades](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DMichelin%2BStealth%2BUltra%2B26%2Bin%2B%252B%2B18%2Bin)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Rain-X / Bosch / Trico

Size-based fitment - any quality beam blade in these sizes fits
[Compare Rain-X / Bosch / Trico wiper blades](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DRain-X%2B%252F%2BBosch%2B%252F%2BTrico%2B26%2Bin%2B%252B%2B18%2Bin%2Bfront%252C%2B13%2Bin%2Brear)

Verified via: [AllWiperSize Kia Telluride chart (26/18 front, 13 rear)](https://allwipersize.com/kia/telluride), [WiperSized Kia Telluride 2020-2025 (26/18/13)](https://www.wipersized.com/kia/telluride/)

### Serpentine belt

3.8L V6 - single 6-rib main-drive belt, all years
swipe →

OEM part
Kia
[Find Kia serpentine belt on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B25212-3LAC0)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Gates

Micro-V 6-rib; fits Telluride 2020+ / Palisade 2021-2023
[Look up Gates serpentine belt](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00QKYQKAE)

Verified via: [Kia.parts OEM serpentine belt 25212-3LAC0 (2020-2025 Telluride)](https://www.kia.parts/oem-parts/kia-serpentine-belt-252123lac0), [Walmart Gates K060751 fitment (2020 Kia Telluride, 2021-2023 Palisade)](https://www.walmart.com/ip/Gates-K060751-Serpentine-Belt-Fits-select-2020-KIA-TELLURIDE-2021-2023-HYUNDAI-PALISADE/144115058), [PartsHawk Gates K060751 serpentine belt](https://partshawk.com/gates-k060751-serpentine-belt.html)

### Battery

All years (some trims ship AGM)
swipe →

OEM part
BCI Group 94R (H7 / LN4)
[Check BCI Group 94R battery on Amazon](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DBCI%2BGroup%2B94R%2B%2528H7%2B%252F%2BLN4%2529%2B%257E800%2BCCA%252C%2B%257E140%2Bmin%2Breserve%2Bcapacity)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

EverStart

Flooded lead-acid, ~790-800 CCA
[See EverStart battery](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DEverStart%2BMaxx%2BH7%2B%2528Group%2B94R%252FLN4%2529)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

EverStart

AGM, ~800-850 CCA
[Compare EverStart battery](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DEverStart%2BPlatinum%2BAGM%2BH7%2B%2528Group%2B94R%252FLN4%2529)

Cross-ref Verified fit · 07.26

Duralast

AGM, ~850 CCA
[Find Duralast battery](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDuralast%2BPlatinum%2B94R%2BAGM)

Verified via: [PowerTex Batteries - 2022 Telluride BCI Group 94R / H7](https://powertexbatteries.com/products/2022-kia-telluride-car-battery-bci-group-94r-h7-lithium-lifepo4-automotive-battery), [EverStart Maxx H7/LN4/94R 800 CCA (Group size spec)](https://www.walmart.com/ip/EverStart-Maxx-Lead-Acid-Automotive-Battery-Group-Size-H7-LN4-94R-12-Volt-800-CCA/20531542), [Batteries Plus - 2021 Telluride SX 3.8L battery fitment](https://www.batteriesplus.com/battery/car-and-truck/kia/telluride/2021/sx-limited/v6-3.8l-gas)

Amazon and eBay affiliate links. Prices unchanged for you. Confirm fitment against your VIN; mid-generation changes exist.

Verdict

## Should I buy a 2020–2025 Kia Telluride?

Buy it, but do the recall homework first. Mechanically the Telluride is a solid family hauler: one proven V6, a conventional 8-speed auto, and Kia's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (5/60k for second owners). The catches are concentrated in the early years. 2020 cars have the worst complaint record by far: fragile windshields, high-beam failures that became a recall, and the oil-consumption cases. And nearly every 2020–2024 Telluride sits under two open-or-recently-completed safety recalls (seat-motor fire, roll-away). A 2023–2025 car with documented recall completion is a genuinely easy recommendation. A 2020 needs a VIN recall check and an oil-consumption conversation before you hand over money.

Best years

2024, 2025

Years to avoid

2020 (most complaints by far: windshields, high-beam recall, oil consumption), 2021 (carryover windshield and oil-consumption reports)

Inspection Companion

### Pre-Purchase Checklist for Kia Telluride

[Open Field Checklist Page ->](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/kia-telluride-2020-2025/checklist/)

- ☐ Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup. Confirm the seat-motor fire recall (Kia SC316) and the roll-away/intermediate-shaft recall (Kia SC303, NHTSA 24V-214) are both completed. They cover nearly every 2020–2024 Telluride.
- ☐ Check the windshield edge-to-edge for chips and repaired cracks, and ask if the glass has ever been replaced. This generation's windshields crack easily and replacements with ADAS camera recalibration aren't cheap.
- ☐ On 2020 cars with halogen headlights, test the high beams. A failed high-beam shield gear was recalled (NHTSA 24V-148). Also night-test the low beams; dim output is a common complaint.
- ☐ Ask when oil was last topped up between changes. On 2020–2021 cars especially, check the dipstick on the test drive; a low reading on a recently serviced car is the oil-consumption tell.
- ☐ Feel for harsh 1–2 shifts around town and shudder under light throttle at 50–70 mph. Torque-converter shudder shows up on some cars and is warranty territory, not a live-with-it quirk.
- ☐ With the car in Park on a slope, foot off the brake, confirm it holds. The roll-away recall exists because worn intermediate-shaft splines let some cars move in Park.
- ☐ Confirm the 10-year/100k powertrain warranty status: it drops to 5-year/60k for second owners, which changes the math on an oil-burning engine.

Verified-fit parts for the Kia Telluride (2020–2025).

Parts desk

Parts cross-reference

OEM number first, verified equivalents below it. Links go to Amazon.

Oil filter

3.8L Lambda II V6 (cartridge filter, all years)

- [OEM Kia 26320-3CKB0 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B26320-3CKB0)
- [Wix WL10033 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00YBBCSP4)
- [Fram CH11934 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB01HU1L186)
- [Purolator L18179 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB076LFWPFS)

Engine air filter

3.8L V6 (same airbox all years; also fits 2019-2020 Santa Fe 2.0/2.4)

- [OEM Kia 28113-A9100 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B28113-A9100)
- [Fram CA11943 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB073VRS5NM)
- [K&N 33-5075 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB08CLP7V2F)
- [EPAuto GP943 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB07MLHNLZ5)

Cabin air filter

All years (shared with Santa Fe 2019-2020, Stinger, K900)

- [OEM Kia 97133-J5000 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B97133-J5000)
- [K&N VF2061 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DK%2526N%2BVF2061)
- [Fram CF10735 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DFram%2BCF10735)

Spark plugs

3.8L V6 - 6 required, gap 0.039-0.043 in (1.0-1.1 mm), NGK laser iridium

- [OEM Kia 18849-11070 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B18849-11070)
- [NGK SILZKR7E11 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB078H8KZZL)
- [Bosch YR7SII33X →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DBosch%2BYR7SII33X)

Front brake pads

All trims 2020-2025 (pad shape FMSI 2215; shared front pad with Hyundai Palisade)

- [OEM Kia 58101-S9A00 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B58101-S9A00)
- [Bosch BC2215 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0BHM4RP8P)
- [Power Stop Z23-2215 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB098SFN873)

Wiper blades

All 2020-2025; beam-style, sizes unchanged across the generation

- [OEM Kia 26 in driver / 18 in passenger / 13 in rear →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B26%2Bin%2Bdriver%2B%252F%2B18%2Bin%2Bpassenger%2B%252F%2B13%2Bin%2Brear)
- [Michelin Stealth Ultra 26 in + 18 in →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DMichelin%2BStealth%2BUltra%2B26%2Bin%2B%252B%2B18%2Bin)
- [Rain-X / Bosch / Trico 26 in + 18 in front, 13 in rear →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DRain-X%2B%252F%2BBosch%2B%252F%2BTrico%2B26%2Bin%2B%252B%2B18%2Bin%2Bfront%252C%2B13%2Bin%2Brear)

Serpentine belt

3.8L V6 - single 6-rib main-drive belt, all years

- [OEM Kia 25212-3LAC0 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DKia%2B25212-3LAC0)
- [Gates K060751 →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB00QKYQKAE)

Battery

All years (some trims ship AGM)

- [OEM BCI Group 94R (H7 / LN4) ~800 CCA, ~140 min reserve capacity →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DBCI%2BGroup%2B94R%2B%2528H7%2B%252F%2BLN4%2529%2B%257E800%2BCCA%252C%2B%257E140%2Bmin%2Breserve%2Bcapacity)
- [EverStart Maxx H7 (Group 94R/LN4) →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DEverStart%2BMaxx%2BH7%2B%2528Group%2B94R%252FLN4%2529)
- [EverStart Platinum AGM H7 (Group 94R/LN4) →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DEverStart%2BPlatinum%2BAGM%2BH7%2B%2528Group%2B94R%252FLN4%2529)
- [Duralast Platinum 94R AGM →](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3DDuralast%2BPlatinum%2B94R%2BAGM)

Confirm fitment against your VIN. Mid-generation changes exist. Affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Known faults

## Common Kia Telluride problems & repair costs

### Windshield cracks and chips from minor impact

$400–$1,500

body / glass moderate 2020–2022 (worst on 2020; reported into later years) ~0–30k mi (often within the first year)

**Symptoms:** A small chip from ordinary road debris, or in some owner accounts nothing identifiable at all, spreads into a full crack within days. Multiple owners report two or three replacements, with the replacement glass cracking again.

**Fix:** Windshield replacement plus forward-camera (ADAS) recalibration. Aftermarket glass with calibration runs roughly $400–$900 at an independent glass shop; OEM glass at a dealer runs well past $1,000. CarComplaints logs averages over $2,000. Kia replaced some 2020 windshields as goodwill; a consolidated class action (Ritzler/Sanchez v. Kia) over the alleged defect survived Kia's motion to dismiss and is still active. Glass coverage on your insurance is the practical protection.

Sources: [ClassAction.org: 2020 Telluride windshield defect complaint](https://www.classaction.org/news/class-action-says-defective-2020-kia-telluride-windshields-prone-to-crack-chip-fracture), [CarComplaints: Telluride windshield class action update (2025)](https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2025/kia-telluride-windshield-class-action-lawsuit-update.shtml)

### Excessive oil consumption (3.8L V6)

$500–$8,000

engine severe Mostly 2020–2021 ~40k–120k mi

**Symptoms:** Oil level drops noticeably between changes with no external leak. Owner reports run from a quart per 1,000–1,500 miles to dipsticks reading dry a few thousand miles after service. Sometimes accompanied by blue exhaust smoke on startup.

**Fix:** Start with a documented dealer oil-consumption test. That paper trail is what gets an engine repair approved under Kia's 10-year/100k powertrain warranty (Kia's threshold is roughly 1 quart per 1,000 miles). Causes reported include PCV valve failure (cheap) up to piston-ring wear and blow-by requiring rings or a replacement engine. Out of warranty, an engine job runs $5,000–$8,000; CarComplaints' logged average is about $7,000 at 114k miles. Until fixed: check the dipstick every 1,000 miles.

Sources: [Kia Telluride Forums: excessive oil consumption thread](https://tellurideforum.org/threads/excessive-oil-consumption.13758/), [CarComplaints: Kia Telluride engine problems](https://www.carcomplaints.com/Kia/Telluride/)

### Front power seat motor fire risk (recall SC316, park outside)

$0–$0

electrical safety 2020–2024

**Symptoms:** Burning smell or smoke from under a front seat; melted seat-motor components. Kia reported seven seat fires and eleven melted seat motors. The seat-slide switch can be dislodged or stick, running the motor continuously until it overheats, including while the car is parked.

**Fix:** Free recall repair. This is a 2026 're-recall' of about 462,900 cars after the earlier seat-switch fix (SC267) proved inadequate. Dealers install a switch-cover bracket, replace the slide knobs, and add an electronic fuse that cuts power if the switch jams. Until it's done, NHTSA's advice is to park outside and away from structures. Check completion by VIN before buying.

Sources: [NHTSA: Kia Telluride park-outside recall for fire risk](https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/kia-telluride-recall-fire-risk), [CBS News: Kia recalls ~463,000 Tellurides for fire risk](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/kia-recall-telluride-almost-463000-catch-fire-being-driven-parked-nhtsa/)

### Roll-away in Park: intermediate shaft spline wear (recall 24V-214)

$0–$0

drivetrain safety 2020–2023 and early-production 2024

**Symptoms:** Vehicle creeps or rolls after being shifted into Park; may be preceded by clicking or grinding from the right front axle area. Caused by incomplete factory engagement of the intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft, which wears the splines until Park no longer holds the wheels.

**Fix:** Free recall repair covering about 427,400 cars (Kia SC303): a software update auto-applies the parking brake when you shift to Park or open the driver's door, plus intermediate-shaft replacement where inspection shows wear. Kia logged 16 unintended-movement reports. Until the recall is done, use the parking brake every time, good practice anyway.

Sources: [Consumer Reports: Telluride recalled, may roll away in Park](https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-recalls-defects/kia-telluride-recalled-may-roll-away-when-put-in-park-a7222585228/), [RepairPal: NHTSA recall 24V-214 detail](https://repairpal.com/recall/24V214000)

### High-beam failure and dim halogen headlights

$0–$1,200

electrical / lighting moderate 2020 (halogen-equipped cars) ~30k–80k mi

**Symptoms:** High beams stop working entirely with no warning. The low beams still work, but there's no way to get brights. Separately, many owners rate the halogen low beams too dim past about 20 yards, especially on curves. It's the single biggest complaint category on the 2020 model at CarComplaints (172 exterior-lighting complaints).

**Fix:** Heat from the halogen bulbs damages the high-beam shield gear mechanism inside the headlamp. NHTSA investigated in 2023 and Kia recalled about 35,000 halogen-equipped 2020 Tellurides (NHTSA 24V-148 / Kia SC299). The recall repair is free, so check the VIN first. Outside recall scope, replacement headlamp assemblies run several hundred dollars per side. LED-equipped trims aren't affected.

Sources: [CarComplaints: 2020 Telluride exterior lighting complaints](https://www.carcomplaints.com/Kia/Telluride/2020/lights/exterior_lighting.shtml), [CarComplaints: Telluride headlight recall (2020 model year)](https://www.carcomplaints.com/news/2024/kia-telluride-headlight-recall-2020.shtml)

### Harsh low-speed shifts / torque-converter shudder (8-speed auto)

$250–$3,000

transmission moderate 2020–2024 (most reports on 2020–2021) ~20k–90k mi

**Symptoms:** Jerky or clunky 1–2 and 2–1 shifts around town, hesitation pulling away, and a shudder or vibration under light throttle at 50–70 mph (classic torque-converter lockup shudder, easiest to feel climbing a grade between gears).

**Fix:** First step is cheap: a transmission fluid exchange and any outstanding TCM software updates ($250–$450 independent) resolves a lot of the shudder and shift-quality complaints. Persistent cases point to the torque converter or valve body, at $1,500–$3,000 independent, but this is powertrain-warranty territory (10yr/100k original owner), so document it at a dealer while covered. Outright transmission failures are rare on this platform.

Sources: [Kia Telluride Forums: known transmission issues (2020)](https://tellurideforum.org/threads/known-transmission-issues-2020.15090/), [CarComplaints: Kia Telluride transmission problems](https://www.carcomplaints.com/Kia/Telluride/)

Day to day, a Telluride is inexpensive to run for a 4,400-lb three-row: the 3.8L V6 and 8-speed are conventional and cheap to service, and the big-ticket defects (seat motor, roll-away, 2020 high beams, 2024 valve springs) are all recall-covered at no cost. Budget realistically for glass. A windshield with ADAS recalibration is a when-not-if expense on early cars, so carry glass coverage. The one open-ended risk is an oil-burning early V6 out of powertrain warranty; that's a $5,000+ problem, which is why the dipstick check and warranty-status question belong in every pre-purchase inspection. Tires, brakes, and fluids are ordinary midsize-SUV money.

Cost calculator

### What will this Kia Telluride cost you by a given mileage?

Drag to a mileage. We total the documented problems whose typical onset falls at or before it. The same cost ranges listed above, nothing new invented.

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DIY repairs

## How to fix common Kia Telluride problems (DIY)

### Engine & cabin air filter change

easy 20–30 min saves ~$60–$130

**Tools:** None required (hands only; small flathead helps with airbox clips)

- Unclip the airbox lid in the engine bay (driver's side), lift it, and slide the old engine filter out.
- Seat the new panel filter with the rubber edge flush all the way around, then re-clip the lid.
- Inside, open the glovebox, squeeze the sides to release the stops, and let it hang down.
- Unclip the cabin-filter cover behind the glovebox, slide the old filter out, and note the airflow-arrow direction.
- Insert the new cabin filter with the arrow matching, refit the cover, and clip the glovebox back up.

Parts

- [Engine air filter (Kia Telluride 3.8L)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D2020-2025%2Bkia%2Btelluride%2Bengine%2Bair%2Bfilter) · Amazon $15–$30
- [Cabin air filter (Kia Telluride)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D2020-2025%2Bkia%2Btelluride%2Bcabin%2Bair%2Bfilter) · Amazon $10–$20

### Oil & filter change (with consumption check)

easy 45–60 min saves ~$60–$120

**Tools:** Floor jack + jack stands or ramps, Oil drain pan, Socket set (drain plug), Oil filter wrench, Funnel and gloves

- Warm the engine briefly, then raise and support the front of the vehicle on ramps or stands.
- Remove the drain plug and drain into a pan; replace the crush washer and snug the plug.
- Swap the oil filter, wiping the mating surface and oiling the new gasket first.
- Refill with the grade and quantity on the oil cap / owner's manual, then check the level on level ground after a short idle.
- Log the date, mileage, and level. On this V6, re-check the dipstick every 1,000 miles between changes so any consumption trend is documented for warranty.

Parts

- [Oil filter (Kia Telluride 3.8 V6)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3D2020-2025%2Bkia%2Btelluride%2B3.8%2Boil%2Bfilter) · Amazon $8–$15
- [Full synthetic oil (see oil cap for grade)](https://carcasefile.com/go?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dfull%2Bsynthetic%2Bmotor%2Boil%2B5%2Bquart) · Amazon $30–$50

Some parts links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no cost to you. We only list parts that fit this generation.

## The short version

The first-generation Telluride is the SUV that made Kia a default pick for three-row shoppers, and mechanically it deserves the reputation: one naturally aspirated 3.8L V6, a conventional 8-speed automatic, and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The problems that matter are concentrated early and mostly checkable before you buy.

Three things dominate the record. First, **windshields**: 2020–2022 cars crack glass from trivial or no impact often enough that a consolidated class action is still working through federal court in 2026. Second, **oil consumption**: a minority of 2020–2021 V6s burn oil badly enough that Kia has replaced engines under warranty, but only for owners who documented it. Third, **recalls**: nearly every Telluride built through 2024 falls under the seat-motor fire recall (a 2026 “park outside” re-recall after the first fix failed) and the roll-away/intermediate-shaft recall, plus a 2020-only high-beam recall and a small 2024 valve-spring recall that got affected cars new engine sub-assemblies.

## What that means when you’re shopping

Start with the VIN, not the test drive. NHTSA’s free recall lookup tells you in thirty seconds whether the seat-motor (SC316), roll-away (SC303), and, on a 2020, high-beam (SC299) repairs are done. All are free at a Kia dealer; none are optional.

On a **2020–2021 car**, add two checks: inspect the windshield for chips and ask about prior replacements, and pull the dipstick. A low oil level on a recently serviced car is the tell for the consumption issue, and whether the 10-year/100k powertrain warranty transferred (it drops to 5/60k for second owners) decides how scary that tell is.

A **2023–2025 car** with clean recall paperwork is about as low-drama as three-row shopping gets. Buy on condition and history like any used car.

## The recalls are the paperwork, not the verdict

It’s easy to read “463,000 vehicles, fire risk, park outside” and walk away. Don’t. The repairs are free, quick, and done at huge scale. A Telluride with completed recall work has had its known landmines defused; the one with “no recalls performed” on the Carfax is the one to negotiate down or skip.

**How this file is built:** failure modes and cost ranges are compiled from NHTSA complaint, investigation, and recall records, court filings on the windshield litigation, CarComplaints data, and Telluride owner-forum reporting, then sanity-checked against shop-floor experience. Cost figures are independent-shop estimates and vary by region. Spot something off? [Tell us](https://carcasefile.com/disclaimer/).

Myths, checked

## Viral car myths, checked against this car

Misleading

### [Is the "$1 Japanese oil trick" that stops engine wear forever real?](https://carcasefile.com/claims/1-dollar-japanese-oil-trick-mos2-engine-wear/)

The 'Japanese oil trick' is almost certainly MoS2 (molybdenum disulfide), a real industrial friction modifier. It is German, not Japanese (Liqui Moly popularized it), sold openly at every parts store for $15-20, has real but modest measured friction benefits, and was never buried by anyone.

Dangerous

### [Is the "$2 liquid that destroys engine sludge forever" real? Our shop-floor verdict.](https://carcasefile.com/claims/2-dollar-engine-sludge-destroyer-liquid/)

An aggressive solvent flush on a high-mileage engine is a textbook way to spin a bearing. The viral 'kitchen-cabinet flush' is folklore that real shops spend money cleaning up after.

Appendix

## Frequently asked questions

### Which Kia Telluride years should I avoid?

2020 is the year to be most careful with. It has by far the most complaints (fragile windshields, the high-beam failure that became a recall, and most of the oil-consumption reports), and 2021 carries some of the same baggage. 2023–2025 cars, after the mid-cycle refresh, have a much cleaner record. No year is an automatic no. A 2020 with the recalls done, sound glass, and a stable dipstick can still be a fine buy at the right price.

### Are the Telluride fire and roll-away recalls fixed for free?

Yes. The seat-motor fire recall (Kia SC316, ~463,000 2020–2024 cars) and the roll-away/intermediate-shaft recall (NHTSA 24V-214, ~427,000 2020–2023 and early 2024 cars) are both free at any Kia dealer. Run the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls before you buy; until the seat recall is done, NHTSA's guidance is to park outside and away from structures.

### Does the Telluride's 3.8 V6 burn oil?

Some do, mostly 2020–2021 engines, with owner reports ranging from a quart per 1,000–1,500 miles to dipsticks reading dry between changes. Causes reported run from PCV valves to piston-ring blow-by. If you catch it inside the 10-year/100k powertrain warranty (5-year/60k for second owners) with a documented dealer consumption test, Kia has replaced engines. Out of warranty it's a $5,000–$8,000 problem, so check the dipstick on any test drive.

### Why do Telluride windshields crack so easily?

Owners allege the glass itself is defective, cracking from small chips or no identifiable impact, sometimes repeatedly after replacement. A consolidated class action over 2020-era windshields survived Kia's motion to dismiss and is still active as of 2026. There's no recall, so practically: inspect the glass before buying, carry glass coverage, and budget for a replacement plus ADAS camera recalibration.

### Is the Kia Telluride reliable overall?

Yes, more than its recall headlines suggest. The powertrain is conventional and durable, there's no CVT or turbo to fret over, and complaint volume drops sharply after 2021. The realistic picture: a well-sorted Telluride is a 200k-mile family hauler; the risks are concentrated in early-build glass, 2020 lighting, a minority of oil-burning engines, and recall paperwork, all checkable before purchase.

Cross-reference

## Cross-shopped rivals

Files on what buyers weigh against the Kia Telluride of this era.

- [Ford Explorer 2020–present 5/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/ford-explorer-2020-2024/)
- [Toyota Highlander 2020–present 8/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/toyota-highlander-2020-2024/)
- [GMC Acadia 2017–2023 5/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/gmc-acadia-2017-2023/)
- [Nissan Pathfinder 2022–2026 7/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/nissan-pathfinder-2022-2026/)

## More Kia case files

- [Kia Soul 2020–2025 5/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/kia-soul-2020-2025/)
- [Kia K5 2021–2026 7/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/kia-k5-2021-2026/)
- [Kia Sorento 2021–2026 6/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/kia-sorento-2021-2026/)
- [Kia Optima 2016–2020 6/10](https://carcasefile.com/vehicles/kia-optima-2016-2020/)

Spot an error in this case file?

Wrong cost, a fault we missed, or a part number that doesn't fit. Tell us and we'll fix it. See our [verification methodology](https://carcasefile.com/methodology/) and [corrections policy](https://carcasefile.com/disclaimer/).

Reviewed The CarCaseFile editorial team · Independent automotive reviewers with combined decades on independent-shop and dealership floors. · filed 2026-07-16 · updated 2026-08-30

Cost figures are independent-shop estimates and vary by region and condition. Always confirm a diagnosis before authorizing repairs.