Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: Some of the most common problems with the 2024 Kia Telluride include electrical issues, brake problems, and engine malfunctions.
These issues have led to at least three major nationwide recalls, some of which address serious safety issues.
Notably, recalls have been issued for potential vehicle rollaway due to an issue with the parking brake, as well as engine valve spring defects that may cause loss of drive power or even sudden vehicle fire.
Take a look below for a more detailed look at common 2024 Kia Telluride problems to stay informed about how they might affect your vehicle’s safety and performance.
Common 2024 Kia Telluride Problems
- Electrical System: Instrument Cluster Errors; Software Issues; Dashboard Goes Blank; Seat Belt and Alarm System Failures; ON/OFF Button Issues; Battery Drain
- Forward Collision Avoidance: False Alarms; FCA System Failing to Activate; Camera and Radar Sensor Issues; Software Glitches
- Powertrain: Transmission Slipping; Coolant Leaks; AWD System; Gear Seizure
- Engine: Excessive Oil Consumption; Cold Start Engine Squealing; Engine Ticking Noise; Engine Overheating; Coolant Leaks
- Seats: Seat Belt Alarm Issues; Power Seat Control Problems; Vehicle Fires
Having Vehicle Problems?
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2024 Kia Telluride Electrical System Problems
Owners of the 2024 Kia Telluride have reported several troubling electrical system problems. A major concern involves the instrument cluster, which can unexpectedly go dark, leaving drivers without crucial information such as speed, fuel level, and warning lights.
In addition to this, the primary dashboard system has been known to freeze or become unresponsive, disrupting access to essential features like navigation and media controls.
Another frequently reported issue is with the seat belt warning system, which may activate intermittently even when the seat is unoccupied. Some owners have also faced complete failures of the security alarm, leaving the vehicle vulnerable during break-ins.
Additionally, the start/stop button has been problematic, with some drivers unable to start the engine even when the key fob is inside the vehicle.
Lastly, sudden and unexplained battery drain has left several drivers stranded, creating significant inconvenience and frustration for many Telluride owners.
2024 Kia Telluride Forward Collision Avoidance Problems
The 2024 Kia Telluride has experienced multiple complaints from owners related to its Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) system.
One of the most common concerns involves false alarms, where the system triggers warnings or even applies the brakes despite no visible obstacles being present. These unexpected alerts can startle drivers and create unnecessary stress while on the road.
In other cases, drivers have also reported that the FCA system can fail to activate during situations when a collision risk was actually present.
This kind of malfunction raises serious safety concerns, as it undermines the very purpose of the technology.
Some Telluride owners have also reported issues with the camera and radar sensors that support the FCA system.
Loose wiring connections, sensor misalignment, and calibration errors can interfere with how the system interprets its surroundings.
Software glitches have been cited as another factor affecting the reliability of the FCA system. In certain instances, a software update may be required to correct the erratic behavior.
Given that these problems involve critical safety technology, they have been especially frustrating for owners who rely on the FCA system for added protection on the road.
2024 Kia Telluride Powertrain Problems
Some 2024 Kia Telluride owners have reported various powertrain-related issues that impact the vehicle’s performance and drivability.
One commonly cited problem involves the transmission slipping after the vehicle has been driven for an extended period.
In these cases, the engine may rev into high RPMs before the transmission finally shifts, creating hesitation and discomfort while accelerating.
Coolant leaks have also been a source of frustration. Owners have reported persistent leaks that require multiple visits to the dealership for repairs, sometimes without a permanent fix being found. This can raise concerns about long-term engine health and reliability.
There are additional complaints involving the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. In certain conditions, such as when the vehicle is stuck in snow, the AWD system may disengage entirely, making it difficult or even impossible to regain traction and get moving again.
Another troubling issue includes gear seizure. Some drivers have experienced the vehicle locking into 5th gear, which results in sluggish acceleration and limited power output. This can create safety concerns, especially during highway merging or passing situations.
Adding to these concerns, a major recall was issued on March 20, 2024, under NHTSA Campaign Number 24V-214.
According to Kia America, Inc., a defect in the intermediate shaft and right front driveshaft may prevent them from fully engaging.
This condition could allow the vehicle to roll away unexpectedly, even while in PARK, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
To address the issue, Kia is advising owners to manually engage the emergency parking brake each time they exit the vehicle until the recall repair is completed.
Dealers will perform a software update for the electronic parking brake and inspect or replace any damaged intermediate shafts at no cost.
For more information, Kia customer service can be reached at 1-800-333-4542, and the official recall number is SC303.
2024 Kia Telluride Engine Problems
The 2024 Kia Telluride has drawn several complaints from owners about its engine performance, with one of the more widespread issues reported being excessive oil consumption.
Some drivers have noticed that their vehicles require oil top-offs more frequently than expected, sometimes well before scheduled maintenance intervals.
Another recurring issue involves a high-pitched squealing sound during cold starts. This noise typically occurs at lower temperatures and is especially noticeable when the engine is first turned on in the morning.
In addition to the squeal, some owners have reported a persistent ticking noise coming from the engine compartment, which may raise concerns about internal engine wear.
More serious reports include instances of engine overheating. In these cases, the temperature gauge climbs quickly, sometimes accompanied by dashboard warnings, which can lead to breakdowns or engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Some powertrain-related problems, like transmission slipping and coolant leaks, have also been linked with overall engine performance.
Drivers have described situations where the engine revs unusually high before the transmission shifts, especially after extended driving.
Others have experienced ongoing coolant leaks, often requiring repeated dealership visits to address the issue.
A significant recall was issued on February 7, 2024, under NHTSA Campaign Number 24V-077, affecting certain 2024 Telluride models.
According to Kia, a defect in the engine valve springs may cause them to break during operation. This failure can lead to a sudden loss of power and, in severe cases, may puncture the engine block, increasing the risk of fire or serious engine damage.
For additional details, owners can contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 and reference recall number SC296.
2024 Kia Telluride Seat Problems
Owners of the 2024 Kia Telluride have reported several seat-related issues that affect both comfort and safety.
One of the most common complaints involves the seat belt alarm system. In particular, the alarm for the third-row rear seat has been known to sound intermittently, even when the seat is unoccupied. This false alert can be a persistent nuisance for drivers and passengers alike.
Another issue involves the vehicle’s power seat controls. Some drivers have noted problems with the power seat control switch and the seat slide knobs, such as the seat failing to move backward as expected.
In certain cases, the seat may become stuck in one position, making it difficult to adjust for comfort or proper driving posture.
Additionally, the heating and cooling functions of the seats may not always work properly. Some drivers have found that the seat warmers or coolers fail to activate or maintain consistent temperatures, reducing the overall driving experience.
On June 5, 2024, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced Campaign Number 24V-407.
The recall stems from a defect in the front power seat motor, which can overheat due to a stuck seat slide knob.
This poses a risk of fire, even when the vehicle is parked. As a precaution, owners are advised to park their vehicles outdoors and away from other vehicles or buildings until the repair is completed.
For more information, owners can contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 with reference recall number SC316.
What Telluride Owners Say…
“The front passenger seat of my 2024 Kia Telluride began emitting smoke while I was driving it. It quickly incapsulated the entire interior of my vehicle in thick smoke. The fire department had to be called to extinguish the fire. Prior to a fire starting while I was driving my vehicle, my vehicle had been in for a recall where they allegedly fixed the problem. The Kia telluride is not safe for anyone to drive when the product they’re producing starts a fire while it’s being driven.”
“Transmission constantly slipping after driving and transmission gets warmed up. Vehicle continues to rev up and enter high RPMS before changing gears and then jolts the vehicle as changing gears. Also steadily leaking coolant fluids, have taken vehicle to the dealership as of now THREE times to have the coolant issue serviced.”
I should have read the preceding customer feedbacks before buying this big lemon. Within 50K miles the front passenger side trimming came loose and was flapping that I have to remove it. Replacement didn’t arrive until after 6 months. It took 3 visits within 1 year for them to finally diagnose that the worsening rattle was from a rear shock absorber. I was charged $40 for inflating a low pressure tire. At 14k miles the engine symbol lit up which took 7 working days to diagnose and “fix”. Since the waiting time for a loaner car was 5 weeks (!), quite revealing, I had to rent a car out of pocket. After a few more miles of driving, the orange engine sign lit up again within about a month. It’s been 2 weeks now and the lemon is still ripening in their shop!
How the Lemon Law Can Protect Your Rights
If your 2024 Kia Telluride is plagued by persistent issues—whether mechanical, electrical, or otherwise—that remain unresolved despite several repair attempts, you may be entitled to compensation under your state’s lemon law.
These laws are designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that fail to meet expected safety, reliability, or performance standards while under warranty.
If your Telluride has defects that affect its drivability, value, or overall safety, you could be eligible for a remedy.
Lemon law remedies can vary by state but typically include options such as a refund, vehicle replacement, or cash settlement. In the case of a refund, the manufacturer may reduce the amount based on how long the Telluride operated without issues.
If you’re offered a replacement vehicle, you may need to pay the difference if the new model is more expensive, as well as any applicable usage fees.
One of the most important aspects of lemon law claims is that, if successful, the manufacturer is usually required to cover your legal fees and other expenses. This means pursuing a resolution for your defective Telluride won’t place a financial burden on you.
If you believe your vehicle qualifies for lemon law protection, reaching out to a legal professional with experience in automotive cases can help you understand your rights and the best next steps.
Take Action Today by Calling the Lemon Law Experts!
If your 2024 Kia Telluride has been back to the dealership multiple times for the same issue—whether it’s electrical system glitches, engine trouble, or powertrain defects—it may qualify as a lemon under your state’s law.
At the Lemon Law Experts, we’ve been dedicated to protecting consumers since 2009. Our experienced legal team focuses exclusively on lemon law and warranty claims, and we’ve successfully helped thousands of vehicle owners.
Don’t let ongoing vehicle problems disrupt your life. Contact the Lemon Law Experts for a free consultation.
Call us at (877) 885-5366 or fill out our online form to find out if your Telluride is eligible for a refund, replacement vehicle, or cash compensation.
