The Kia Telluride entered the market as a near-full-sized, three-row SUV marketed to families. It became a popular choice in family haulers thanks to its well-balanced design ergonomics. It has had a few known problems and recalls.
The first-generation Telluride was produced from 2020 to 2025 with the second-generation coming for 2027 after the 2026 model year was skipped.
Major Recalls for the Kia Telluride
The following are the largest recalls affecting the Kia Telluride to date. If you believe your Telluride may be subject to one or more of these recalls, check the How To Check for Recalls section below for information on how to do that.
Incorrect Spare Tire (25V-745): On certain 2025 models, Tellurides were shipped with an incorrect spare tire. If installed, it can impair the Antilock Braking System (ABS) and Traction Control System (TCS). Dealers will inspect and replace the incorrect spare tire.
Front Seat Fire Risk / Park Outside (24V-407): A massive recall affects 2020–2024 models because front power seat motors can overheat, posing a fire risk. Owners are advised to park outside until the bracket and switch repairs are complete.
Rollaway Risk (24V-214): Certain models (2020-2024) experienced issues where the metal shafts connecting the drivetrain to the wheels can become damaged and misaligned. Over time, this can prevent the vehicle from locking into “Park,” allowing the SUV to roll away if the emergency parking brake is not manually engaged. Dealerships will update the electronic parking brake software so it engages automatically when placed in park, and will replace any damaged intermediate shafts.
High Beam Failure (24V-148): On 2020 models, the high-beam headlights may fail intermittently due to a wiring issue. Dealers will inspect and repair/replace the headlight assemblies.
Tow Hitch Harness Fire Risk (22V-626): Affecting 2020-2022 models, moisture and debris can accumulate on the tow hitch wiring module printed circuit board, causing an electrical short that can lead to a fire. Dealers will install a new wiring harness with a revised fuse to fix the issue.
Kia Telluride Technical Service Bulletins
A technical service bulletin (TSB) is a repair procedure from the manufacturer issued to dealerships and technicians for commonly-known issues with a vehicle. Most TSBs cover fixes that are common warranty claims or that are associated with recall repairs.
ECU Emissions Update (SC357): Upgrades the ECU software to improve emissions-related logic for 2020–2025 models.
Highway Speed Vibration (TSB TRA099): Addresses AWD vibration concerns between 60–75 MPH by inspecting/adjusting tire road force values and potentially replacing the propeller shaft.
Backup Camera / Electrical (TSB ELE213): Fixes flickering SVM/AVM camera images on early models by adjusting wire terminals at the passenger-side door connectors.
Rear Shock Noise (TSB CHA113): Details inspection and replacement procedures for rear shock absorber assembly noise.
Telluride Known Problems
Owners and technicians post in in online forums and social media often highlight issues with the Kia Telluride. The following are those most-commonly seen with the 2020-2025 models.
Windshield Cracking: There is a well-known issue with the Telluride’s acoustic windshield being highly prone to cracking from minor road debris.
Oil Consumption: Across online platforms, the 3.8L V6 is often cited for excessive oil burning. This has occasionally led to premature engine failure if not monitored.
Oil Filter Housing: Plastic oil filter housings on some earlier iterations are prone to leaking or cracking, leading many owners to swap them for aftermarket metal alternatives. Most technicians caution against this, however, preferring the plastic replacements that will not cross-thread in the block.
Exterior Trim: Users note that exterior weather stripping, window trim, and LED halo lights occasionally fail, pop/fall off, or stop working. Usually while the vehicle is under warranty.
Screens & Software: Common complaints with interior technology include the infotainment screen freezing, LCD display malfunctions, and glitches with adaptive cruise control in low visibility.
How To Check For Recalls On Your Kia
The easiest way to check for current recalls that may affect your Telluride is to visit the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) Recalls page and enter your license plate or 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) to run a search. You can also do this at the Kia Owner’s Portal.
