What are the most common problems with the 2024 Kia Seltos?

Early recalls on the **airbag system** and **oil pump controller** require verification of completed repairs.

How many recalls does the 2024 Kia Seltos have?

The 2024 Kia Seltos currently has 4 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2024 Kia Seltos a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Early recalls on the **airbag system** and **oil pump controller** require verification of completed repairs. The **airbag recall** addresses potential unexpected side curtain airbag deployment, a critical safety concern. The **oil pump controller recall** addresses potential overheating and fire risk, necessitating inspection and potential replacement. Despite a good public reliability score, LLM assessment indicates potential quality control issues due to these early recalls. A combined fuel economy of 26 MPG offers reasonable running costs for the segment. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2024 Kia Seltos?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2024 Kia Seltos.

2024 Kia Seltos Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026Daniel Wilson2 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Early recalls on the airbag system and oil pump controller require verification of completed repairs.
The airbag recall addresses potential unexpected side curtain airbag deployment, a critical safety concern.
The oil pump controller recall addresses potential overheating and fire risk, necessitating inspection and potential replacement.
Despite a good public reliability score, LLM assessment indicates potential quality control issues due to these early recalls.

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Overview

2024 Kia Seltos

The 2024 Kia Seltos presents a compelling package for used car shoppers, blending practicality with a strong emphasis on safety, evidenced by its top NHTSA ratings. Its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive delivers adequate performance for daily driving, while achieving a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG. However, potential buyers must be aware of early-life recalls affecting the powertrain and airbag systems. These recalls, while addressed by the manufacturer, signal a need for thorough pre-purchase inspections and verification of completed repairs. The vehicle's reliability, rated as average by LLM assessment despite a good public score, is directly influenced by these early manufacturing concerns. Potential buyers should prioritize confirming recall completion and inspecting key components.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate potential issues with the Idle Stop & Go oil pump controller due to damaged electrical components. This can lead to powertrain issues.

Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns4

Service Bulletins8

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

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

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers seeking a practical and safety-conscious compact SUV with good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing long-term, trouble-free ownership with minimal potential for early-life issues.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2024 Kia Seltos Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic (S8)
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 26

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Most Common Issues

1. Oil Pump Controller Failure

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Airbag System Malfunction

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, Drain Plug Washer) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Drive Shaft Boots - Inspect Steering Gear and Tie Rods - Inspect Suspension Components

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 (9 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

4 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2024 Kia Seltos reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2024 Kia Seltos is 7.2/10. Reliability score is 7.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2024 Kia Seltos for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2024 Kia Seltos?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2024 Kia Seltos is 7.5/10. Overall score is 7.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2024 Kia Seltos?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter, Drain Plug Washer) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Drive Shaft Boots - Inspect Steering Gear and Tie Rods - Inspect Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Oil Pump Controller (typical at 20,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2024 Kia Seltos?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2024 Kia Seltos use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Kia Seltos, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2024 Kia Seltos?

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2024 Kia Seltos?

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

What body style is the 2024 Kia Seltos?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Kia Seltos, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2024 Kia Seltos use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2024 Kia Seltos, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2024 Kia Seltos?

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2024 Kia Seltos?

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.