What to Know About Kia Recall for 2021 to 2023 Seltos and Soul Vehicles

Potential Lemon Law Claims for Affected Owners of Kia Seltos and Kia Soul

What to Know About Kia Recall for 2021 to 2023 Seltos and Soul VehiclesCALIFORNIA — Kia is recalling over 137,000 vehicles due to a critical engine issue that could lead to engine failure and even a fire, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recall affects two popular models: the 2021-2023 Kia Seltos and 2021-2023 Kia Soul.

The problem stems from incorrectly manufactured piston oil rings, which can cause serious engine damage. This defect increases the risk of engine failure, and in some cases, may even lead to a fire – significantly raising the chances of a crash or injury. While Kia is addressing the issue by offering free engine replacements and installing updated software to detect piston-ring noise, the question remains: what are your rights as an affected vehicle owner, and how can you pursue a claim under California’s Lemon Law?

How Does California’s Lemon Law Apply to Affected Kia Owners?

California’s Lemon Law protects consumers who purchase or lease new or used vehicles that have significant defects that impair the vehicle’s use, value, or safety. If your Kia Seltos or Kia Soul is impacted by this recall and has been repeatedly repaired for the engine issue you may be eligible. You may also have a case if your vehicle remains unsafe even after multiple attempts to fix the defect. Those who qualify are entitled to a replacement vehicle or a buyback under the state’s Lemon Law.

When Do You Qualify for a Lemon Law Claim?

To qualify under California’s Lemon Law, the following criteria must typically be met:

  1. Substantial Defect: The defect (in this case, the faulty piston oil rings that could lead to engine failure or a fire) must significantly impair the vehicle’s safety, value, or functionality.

  2. Repair Attempts: If your Kia has undergone multiple repair attempts by the dealer or manufacturer, and the defect persists or reoccurs, it might be considered a “lemon.” Generally, if the vehicle has been in the shop for the same issue more than two or three times, it may qualify.

  3. Time in the Shop: If the vehicle has been out of service for repairs for a cumulative total of 30 days or more, you may also be eligible for a replacement or refund.

What Should You Do if You Own an Affected Kia?

  1. Schedule Repairs: Contact your local Kia dealer as soon as possible to have your vehicle’s engine replaced free of charge and the necessary updates applied. Ensure that you get detailed records of all repair attempts.

  2. Keep Track of Repair Attempts: Document every visit to the dealership for repairs related to the engine issue, including the dates, repairs made, and how long your vehicle was out of service. These records can serve as critical evidence for your Lemon Law case.

  3. Contact a Lemon Law Attorney: If your vehicle continues to have issues or the dealer is unable to fix the defect in a reasonable amount of time, you may be entitled to a replacement vehicle or a buyback. A qualified Lemon Law attorney can guide you through the process of filing a claim and help you seek the compensation you deserve.

What’s Next for Affected Kia Owners?

Kia will be notifying owners by mail beginning on April 4, 2025. Car owners may also contact Kia customer service at 1-800-853-1403. Use recall number SC336.

Finally, if you own one of the affected Kia models with these or other issues, it’s vital that you understand your rights under California’s Lemon Law. Don’t wait – contact California Lemon Law attorney to discuss your options for a new vehicle or a full buyback.

California Lemon Law Attorney James Johnson 1-(800) 558-1087

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Do you own a defective Kia experiencing repeated engine problems, a dangerous fire risk, or another safety issue? If so, there doesn’t have to be a recall before you reach out to an experienced attorney and get help. California Lemon Law Attorney James Johnson will review your case and let you know if it qualifies as a lemon.

We highly recommend Kia owners obtain invoices for all repairs and recall visits from the dealership. These documents are a paper trail that will support your potential case. Should the vehicle experience repeated issues or become a safety risk, these documents validate your Lemon Law Claim. Contact us for a free case review at 1-(800) 558-1087 or read on for answers to frequently asked questions. 

Published on Feb. 25, 2025

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about vehicles that may be covered by the California lemon law. However, the lemon law has very specific requirements that must be met for your vehicle to be considered a lemon. Every case has a unique set of circumstances and there are specific criteria that must be met for the lemon law to apply. It is imperative that you take immediate action if you believe your vehicle may qualify.

James Johnson ESQ
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