California Lemon Law News + Info

Kia Recalls Soul, Selto Vehicles With MPI Engines For Fire Risk

Kia recalled nearly 167,000 Kia Soul and Selto vehicles that may need their Kia Nu MPI engines replaced.

The recall affects 2020–2021 Kia Soul and 2021 Kia Selto vehicles with Kia Nu MPI 2-liter engines. The piston oil rings were not properly heat-treated, which could damage the affected engines and even lead to vehicle fires.

In December 2020, a Kia Soul owner sent a complaint reporting engine noises, seizing and vehicle stalling. When Kia investigated the reported engine problems, it found that the engine had a chipped piston oil ring, a scratched bore and a damaged connecting rod bearing.

In February 2021, Kia learned about a 2020 Kia Soul engine fire. An investigation revealed that oil leaked onto the exhaust through a hole a damaged connecting rod had made in the engine block. At the same time, Kia noticed potential engine problems at an assembly plant, later learning that the supplier for the piston oil rings had a problem with the heat treatment process.

Kia said it knows of four engine fires. Potential signs of these problems may include engine noises, increased oil consumption and an illuminated oil pressure warning light.

The recall begins June 11, 2021. Kia dealers will inspect and replace affected engines and, when possible, install piston ring noise sensing system software to warn drivers of potential piston oil ring damage.

Source: CarComplaints.com


Lemon Law Help by Knight Law Group is an automotive lemon law firm that exclusively practices in California. If you are a California resident who purchased or leased a defective vehicle from a licensed dealership in California, we may be able to help you get rid of your potential lemon and recover significant cash compensation. Model year restrictions apply: 2017–Present vehicle models only.

However, we cannot help those who reside outside of California or purchased their vehicle outside of California unless they are active duty members of the Armed Forces, nor will we be able to refer those to a lemon law firm in their states.

To learn more about the California Lemon Law and your legal rights, visit our guides on the California Lemon Law and Used Car Lemon Law for more information.

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