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2023 Kia Telluride Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2023 Kia Telluride Report

Overall Score

6.8/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2023 Telluride has an 'Average' reliability rating, influenced by multiple critical safety recalls.
  • Confirm all 17 recalls have been addressed, especially those involving airbags, driveshaft integrity, and seat motor fire risk.
  • Despite zero owner complaints logged, the volume and nature of recalls demand buyer vigilance.
  • The 3.8L V6 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission are generally robust, but recall-related components require verification.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 Kia Telluride

The 2023 Kia Telluride offers a compelling package of space, comfort, and features, making it a popular choice in the three-row SUV segment. However, for used car shoppers, a closer look at its reliability and safety record is essential. While owner complaints are notably absent, a significant number of recalls, including critical safety issues, warrant careful consideration. Its V6 engine and all-wheel-drive system provide capable performance, and its 21 MPG combined fuel economy is competitive for its class. Despite its strengths, potential buyers must be aware of the documented issues and prioritize thorough pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls address software updates for instrument clusters that may not display critical information like speed or warning lights. This can affect driver awareness.

Early detection can help you avoid a $0-$500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls17
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
21
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
24
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.2/ 10

Practicality

4.4/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Families needing three rows of seating and ample cargo space.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a flawless reliability record and minimal potential for future repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 Kia Telluride Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Kia Telluride.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
21

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See the full 2023 Kia Telluride buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Instrument Cluster/Panel Software Glitches

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Driveshaft Disengagement Risk

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 - Brake 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 (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
17 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 Kia Telluride reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Kia Telluride is 7.2/10. Reliability score is 7.2/10. NHTSA recalls: 17. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 Kia Telluride for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.4/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 21 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.

What is the overall score for the 2023 Kia Telluride?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Kia Telluride is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.9/10. Practicality 4.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 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 - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Instrument Cluster Software (typical at 10,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $0 • Max: $200).

What engine is in the 2023 Kia Telluride?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.8.

What transmission does the 2023 Kia Telluride use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Telluride, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Kia Telluride?▾

EPA combined estimate is 21 MPG.

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

14 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2023 Kia Telluride?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Telluride, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2023 Kia Telluride?▾

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

What drivetrain does the 2023 Kia Telluride use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Telluride, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Kia Telluride?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Kia Telluride?▾

This model year has 17 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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