What are the most common problems with the 2023 Kia Seltos?

The 2023 Seltos is subject to significant recalls, including one for critical engine failure due to faulty piston oil rings and another for potential fire risk from the transmission pump controller overheating. Confirm all recall work is completed.

How many recalls does the 2023 Kia Seltos have?

The 2023 Kia Seltos currently has 3 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2023 Kia Seltos a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The 2023 Seltos is subject to significant recalls, including one for critical engine failure due to faulty piston oil rings and another for potential fire risk from the transmission pump controller overheating. Confirm all recall work is completed. Despite a high public reliability score, internal assessments rate the Seltos as 'Average' due to these critical recalls, indicating potential manufacturing defects. The 1.6L engine requires regular fuel, and the AWD system provides confident traction in varied conditions, achieving 27 MPG combined. NHTSA crash test results are strong, with 5 stars in side impact and 4 stars overall, offering peace of mind. No consumer complaints were logged, which is unusual given the recall activity, suggesting issues may not have widely surfaced or been reported. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2023 Kia Seltos?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2023 Kia Seltos.

2023 Kia Seltos Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 10, 2026Ethan Miller1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The 2023 Seltos is subject to significant recalls, including one for critical engine failure due to faulty piston oil rings and another for potential fire risk from the transmission pump controller overheating. Confirm all recall work is completed.
Despite a high public reliability score, internal assessments rate the Seltos as 'Average' due to these critical recalls, indicating potential manufacturing defects.
The 1.6L engine requires regular fuel, and the AWD system provides confident traction in varied conditions, achieving 27 MPG combined.
NHTSA crash test results are strong, with 5 stars in side impact and 4 stars overall, offering peace of mind.

See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $

Overview

2023 Kia Seltos

The 2023 Kia Seltos presents itself as a value-oriented compact SUV, delivering a respectable overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars from the NHTSA. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, achieves an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined. While the Seltos boasts a strong public perception of reliability, internal assessments highlight critical recalls concerning engine mechanical issues and transmission pump overheating. These documented issues, despite a lack of consumer complaints, warrant careful consideration for used car buyers.

Critical Failure Risk

A manufacturing defect in the piston oil rings can lead to excessive oil consumption, engine damage, and potential catastrophic failure. This is a critical recall item.

Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$7,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers seeking a practical, safe, and fuel-efficient compact SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing absolute mechanical reliability with minimal risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Kia Seltos Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 27

CarFocal account required

See the full 2023 Kia Seltos buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Engine Failure (Piston Oil Rings)

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Transmission Pump Overheating

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

3 recall campaign details & remedy notes

Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

Is the 2023 Kia Seltos reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Kia Seltos is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Kia Seltos for daily use?

Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Kia Seltos?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Kia Seltos is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 4.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 Kia Seltos?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Piston Oil Rings) (typical at 30,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $7,000+).

What engine is in the 2023 Kia Seltos?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2023 Kia Seltos use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Seltos, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Kia Seltos?

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Kia Seltos?

17 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2023 Kia Seltos?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Seltos, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2023 Kia Seltos?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Seltos, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2023 Kia Seltos use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Seltos, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Kia Seltos?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Kia Seltos?

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.