Short answer: The biggest problems with the 2021 Kia Telluride are engine problems, electrical system issues, and structure problems.
Engine problems are the most common while electrical issues and structure problems aren’t as common.
Some of these problems have even resulted in recalls: Kia has announced four for this vehicle, two of which have fire risk warnings associated with them.
The 2021 Kia Telluride is one of Kia’s larger offered vehicles, ideal for families who want a capable and reliable SUV.
Not every Telluride manages to hit that bar, though, so consumers report the issues they end up having. In this article, we discuss those issues so you can be a more informed buyer or current Telluride owner.
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Common 2021 Kia Telluride Problems
2021 Kia Telluride Engine Problems
2021 Telluride owners reported their vehicles burning through oil too quickly; in some cases, vehicle fires were reported to take place because of the oil burning too quickly.
Oil Burns Too Quickly, Excessive Consumption
- Severity: Severe; extreme oil loss can lead to engine “seizing” or a complete loss of power while driving. Low oil levels also increase the risk of the engine overheating and potentially catching fire.
- Manufacturer’s Response: Kia issued TSB ENG 222 for this issue.
- Fix: Per TSB ENG 222, dealers must perform a 1,000-mile “Oil Consumption Test.” If the vehicle fails, the fix involves a combustion chamber cleaning. If consumption remains high after cleaning, Kia may authorize a full engine replacement under the powertrain warranty.
2021 Kia Telluride Electrical System Issues
Owners of the 2021 Kia Telluride mainly mentioned their infotainment systems experiencing software glitches.
Infotainment System Glitches
- Severity: Mild; these glitches might make certain information harder to access for the driver, but the defect is not unsafe on its own.
- Manufacturer’s Response: Kia released TSB ELE 320 for this issue.
- Fix: Kia dealers will perform a software update to address the glitches.
Halogen Headlight Failure
- Severity: Severe; failing headlights or high beams create a severe safety hazard during night driving and can cause the vehicle to fail state safety inspections.
- Manufacturer’s Response: While a recall exists for 2020 models (NHTSA 24V-148), the 2021 model is currently involved in active class-action investigations regarding internal wiring defects and moisture intrusion.
- Fix: This typically requires the replacement of the entire headlamp assembly,
2021 Kia Telluride Structure Problems
2021 Kia Telluride owners reported issues with their sunroofs, either from the sunroof derailing or shattering.
Sunroof Shattering or Derailing
- Severity: Severe; spontaneous shattering can cause driver panic and minor injuries from glass spray. A derailed sunroof can become stuck in an open position, leading to water damage and theft risks.
- Manufacturer’s Response: Kia has released TSB #319 to address sunroof mechanical failures (derailing), though there is still no formal recall for the shattering glass issue despite numerous NHTSA complaints.
- Fix: For derailing, technicians replace the tilt lever shoes and wind deflector. For shattering, a complete glass panel replacement is required.
2021 Kia Telluride Drivetrain Issues
Rollaway Risk / Driveshaft Engagement
- Severity: Severe; the vehicle can roll away after being placed in “Park” if the parking brake is not manually set.
- Manufacturer’s Response: NHTSA Recall 24V-239 was issued after 16 confirmed field reports of unintended movement and numerous complaints of grinding noises.
- Fix: Dealers will perform a software update to the Electronic Parking Brake that forces it to engage whenever the car is in Park. Worn driveshafts are replaced if damage is found.
What Telluride Owners Say
“Sunroof has got jammed in open position. You have issued a statement on this now Kia will not manufacture the parts to the roof (backorder really) and wants to charge you $5000 to put a whole new roof on.”
“No oil in engine can cause fire. Meineke in walkertown inspects the vehicle. No lights or warnings. Vehicle just started running funny. Problem confirmed by Meineke in walkertown. They claim it is a consumption issue because there are no leaks.”
“My engine started jerking when stopped. Then the electrical started acting up, like the windows wouldn’t roll back up. Then the engine just shut off while I was driving.”
How to Assert Your Lemon Law Rights
Lemon laws provide protections for consumers when a vehicle develops substantial defects during the manufacturer’s warranty period, and those problems cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts.
Issues that significantly affect a vehicle’s safety, reliability, or value may qualify if they persist despite dealership repairs or cause the vehicle to remain out of service for an extended period.
These laws are intended to ensure that consumers are not left responsible for ongoing manufacturing defects that manufacturers fail to correct.
Careful documentation of repair visits, service records, and days out of service often plays an important role in determining whether a vehicle meets the legal criteria for relief.
| Affected Model | Average Lemon Law Settlement |
| 2021 Kia Telluride | $65,980 |
*Please note, the figures presented in the chart are approximations based on past case results and should not be interpreted as a prediction or guarantee. Each case is unique and requires personalized legal guidance.
Call the Lemon Law Experts Now for Help
Dealing with a defective vehicle can be a major source of stress for drivers, especially when the issues keep returning after repairs.
If you decide to bring a lemon law claim, consider working with the Lemon Law Experts!
Our team would love to evaluate your claim and assist you. Call us today at (877) 885-5366 or fill out an online contact form on our website.
