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Do you drive a Kia Soul or Kia Seltos? Owners of those SUVs might need to visit a local dealership for service due to a dangerous recall. The engine could erupt into flames due to a manufacturing error. 

Kia Soul and Kia Seltos recall alert due to engine fires 

The tiniest Kia SUVs are facing a massive problem. Due to a manufacturing problem, over 140,000 Kia Soul and Kia Seltos models are at risk of suddenly bursting into flames. 

As a result, the manufacturer has issued a recall to correct the issue. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the impacted SUVs are 2021 – 2023 models. Only the units with the 2.0-liter engine are at risk. 

The problem stems from piston oil rings that were improperly manufactured by the supplier. As a result, they could damage the piston cylinder, leading to engine damage. In some cases the engine may stall, but it could also catch on fire. 

Kia technicians will inspect the engine and replace it as necessary, at no charge. Plus, they’ll install piston-ring noise suspension system (PNSS) software to prevent the problem. 

Drivers at risk will be notified by Kia via mail in early April. Owners can contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542 for more information. The number for this recall is SC336. 

You can also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236. If you don’t want to wait for a letter to arrive in the mail, visit the NHTSA site to enter your 17-digit V.I.N. to see if your SUV is involved. 

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield is a MotorBiscuit Staff Writer and covers all things Trucks and SUVs. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her on test drives.