2021 Kia Telluride Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Multiple safety-critical recalls, including air bag system defects and fire risks, impact the 2021 Telluride's overall reliability assessment.
- The air bag system recall (SC207) is a significant concern, potentially affecting occupant protection.
- Fire risk recalls related to trailer hitches (SC247) and power seats (SC316) require verification of completed repairs.
- The driveshaft recall (SC303) addresses potential vehicle roll-away and needs confirmation of software updates or component replacement.
2021 Kia Telluride
Critical Failure Risk
Multiple recalls have targeted the air bag system, specifically the Occupant Classification Sensor and Control Module. Failure can lead to improper deployment or non-deployment of airbags, posing a significant safety risk.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Watch-outs include high fuel consumption.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Families seeking a spacious and comfortable three-row SUV.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers who prioritize a completely trouble-free ownership experience above all else.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Kia Telluride Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Kia Telluride.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 8
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 21
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Most Common Issues
1. Air Bag System Defects
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Trailer Hitch Wiring Fire Risk
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Inspect Air Filter
Est. shop cost: $100 - $180
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Kia Telluride reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Kia Telluride is 7.6/10. Reliability score is 7.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 11. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2021 Kia Telluride for daily use?
Practicality score is 6.3/10. Watch-outs include high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 8. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 595 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Kia Telluride?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Kia Telluride is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 6.3/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Kia Telluride?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection - Inspect Air Filter at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Kia Telluride?
Base MSRP is $42,190.
What engine is in the 2021 Kia Telluride?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.8.
What transmission does the 2021 Kia Telluride use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Telluride, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Kia Telluride?
EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Kia Telluride?
14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Kia Telluride?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Telluride, seating capacity is 8.
What body style is the 2021 Kia Telluride?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Telluride, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Kia Telluride use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Kia Telluride, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Kia Telluride?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Kia Telluride?
This model year has 11 official safety campaigns listed.