GradeKia Seltos Reliability Grade
Poor reliability
Grade a specific Kia Seltos
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Kia Seltos earns a D overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an F for its engine and a C for its transmission. It ranks 9th of 10 subcompact SUVs we grade. The engine (F) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 492 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2021-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Kia Seltos reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Years to avoid: 2021 (engine failure / knocking)
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Kia Seltos last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Kia Seltos vs. other subcompact SUVs
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Crosstrek | A | A- | A |
| Buick Encore | B+ | A | A |
| Honda HR-V | B+ | B | B |
| Nissan Kicks | B+ | B | B |
| Hyundai Kona | C- | B- | B- |
| Kia Soul | F | B- | C+ |
| Toyota C-HR | B+ | F | C+ |
| Jeep Compass | C+ | C+ | C+ |
| Kia Seltos | F | C | D |
| Chevrolet Trailblazer | C | D | D |
Own a Kia Seltos?
Tell other buyers how yours has held up: mileage, engine, and any problems with what they cost to fix. It takes about a minute, and your first car earns a free full report.
Rate your SeltosKia Seltos reliability FAQ
Is the Kia Seltos reliable?
Poor reliability. The Kia Seltos earns a D overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with an F for its engine and a C for its transmission. It ranks 9th of 10 subcompact SUVs we grade. The engine (F) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 492 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2021-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Kia Seltos last?
We estimate a well-maintained Kia Seltos lasts around 160,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Kia Seltos?
No Kia Seltos model year stands out as exceptionally reliable in NHTSA owner complaints. The best-graded years are 2021, 2022 and 2023.
What Kia Seltos years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Kia Seltos years to be most careful with are 2021. The 2021 grades an F overall (engine F, transmission F), and its top engine/transmission problem is engine failure / knocking.
Is the Kia Seltos transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Kia Seltos transmission a C (below-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Kia Seltos engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Kia Seltos engine an F (poor reliability).