Kia is recalling 147,249 2021 Seltos subcompact SUV and 2020-2021 Soul wagons to address a problem with the engine. According to Consumer Reports, an inconsistent heat-treating process for the piston oil rings can damage the engine and lead to loss of power increasing the risk of a crash. Owners will be directed in June 2021 to bring their vehicles to their local Kia dealership for inspection. If necessary, the engine will be replaced.
Details of the Recall
Further, dealerships will install software to alert the driver of potential damage to the piston oil ring. The automaker will reimburse owners who paid for work related to these issues. There have been four reported fires potentially related to this problem, according to paperwork filed by the automaker with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Kia is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this problem. When the recall begins, dealerships will inspect the engine and add software to alert of a detected problem. In some cases, dealers may go ahead and replace the engine. If you are a vehicle owner and have questions, contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. To see if your vehicle has been recalled, visit NHTSA’s website and enter your vehicle’s 17-digit vehicle identification number or VIN.
This recall affects mostly the Kia Soul. These account for the majority of the cars in the recall, about 125,000 vehicles. The Kia Seltos accounts for about 22,000 cars. Specifically, it’s the 2.0 liter Nu MPI engine-equipped Seltos, which are affected.
Auto Product Liability Issues
Auto defects could arise from manufacturing errors or they may also arise from design flaws. Regardless of how and why they occur, vehicle defects such as issues with the engine, could result in car accidents, injuries or even fatalities. Engine problems, for example, could lead to oil leaks, fires and stalling engines – all of which have the potential to cause catastrophic crashes or fires.
If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a vehicle defect, you may be able to seek compensation for your damages and losses by filing an auto product liability lawsuit against the automaker and other potential parties. Injured victims may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering, property damage and emotional distress. An experienced auto defect lawyer will be able to help injured victims and their families navigate what could be a complex legal process and help them secure fair and full compensation for their losses.
Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/kia-seltos-and-soul-recalled-due-to-engine-trouble/
