Is your Kia guzzling oil faster than it should? You might be affected by a serious manufacturing defect that’s prompted a major recall. Whether you’re driving a newer Soul, Seltos, or an older Kia model, understanding what’s happening with these engines could save you thousands in repair costs and keep you safe on the road.
The 2025 Kia Oil Consumption Recall Explained
Kia recently discovered that certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles with 2.0L naturally aspirated “Nu” engines have a critical defect. The culprit? Improperly manufactured piston oil control rings that cause excessive oil consumption. This isn’t just about having to top up your oil more frequently—it can lead to engine damage, stalling, and in rare cases, even engine fires.
The recall (officially labeled SC336, NHTSA 25V-099) affects over 137,000 vehicles in the United States. If you own one of these models, Kia is required to fix the problem at no cost to you.
Which Kia Models Are Affected by the Recall?
The official recall specifically covers:
- 2021–2023 Kia Soul with 2.0L Nu MPI engines
- 2021–2023 Kia Seltos with 2.0L Nu MPI engines
These vehicles have a manufacturing defect in the piston oil control rings that causes excessive oil consumption, potentially leading to serious engine problems.
While the formal recall focuses on these newer models, many older Kias (2010-2019) have experienced similar issues through different engine defects. These earlier models are generally covered through Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and class action settlements rather than formal recalls.
Warning Signs Your Kia Has an Oil Consumption Problem
Watch for these symptoms that might indicate your vehicle is affected:
- Your oil level drops noticeably between regular oil changes
- You hear unusual knocking or ticking noises from the engine
- The oil pressure warning light illuminates on your dashboard
- Your engine stalls unexpectedly or seizes completely
- You notice an oil smell or visible smoke from the exhaust
- In extreme cases, engine fire
Don’t ignore these warning signs! Continuing to drive with these symptoms increases your risk of catastrophic engine failure. If you notice any of these issues, get your vehicle to a Kia dealership immediately for inspection.
What’s Included in the Recall Fix?
If your 2021-2023 Soul or Seltos is part of recall SC336, here’s what Kia will do:
- Inspect your engine for cylinder wall scoring or oil ring damage
- Install PNSS software (Piston-Ring Noise Sensing System) to monitor for abnormal piston ring noise
- Replace your engine for free if inspection or software indicates damage
- Reimburse you for any out-of-pocket repairs you’ve already paid for related to this issue
Kia began mailing recall notification letters to affected owners on April 4, 2025. You don’t need to wait for a letter, though—you can check if your vehicle is affected by entering your VIN on the NHTSA website.
Older Kia Models with Oil Consumption Issues
If you drive an older Kia model that’s burning oil but isn’t part of the recent recall, you might still have coverage through TSBs and class action settlements. These typically apply to:
- Forte (2010–2013, 2014–2018) – Theta II 2.4L MPI, Nu 2.0L GDI
- Optima (2011–2015) – Theta II 2.4L GDI
- Sorento (2011–2015) – Theta II 2.4L GDI
- Sportage (2011–2019) – Gamma 1.6L GDI, Nu 2.0L GDI
- Soul (2011–2013, 2014–2019) – Gamma 1.6L GDI, Nu 2.0L GDI
While these aren’t part of an official recall specifically for oil consumption, many are covered by warranty extensions and settlement agreements.
Coverage Comparison: Recalls vs. TSBs vs. Settlements
| Coverage Type | Applies To | What’s Covered | How to Qualify |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recall SC336 | 2021-2023 Soul & Seltos with 2.0L Nu MPI | Engine inspection, software installation, engine replacement if needed | Own an affected vehicle; notify dealer |
| TSB Coverage | Various older models | Inspection, repair, possible engine replacement | Vehicle must fail oil consumption test (using >1 qt per 1,000 miles) |
| Class Action Settlement | Various 2010-2019 models | Warranty extension to 15yr/150k miles, reimbursement for repairs, rental cars | Must follow claim process on settlement website |
The Benefits of Class Action Settlements for Older Kias
If you own an older Kia with oil consumption issues, the class action settlements offer significant benefits:
- Extended warranty coverage up to 15 years or 150,000 miles for engine components
- Free diagnostic testing if you report oil consumption problems
- Engine replacement if oil consumption exceeds thresholds (typically 1 quart per 1,000 miles)
- Reimbursement for past repair costs, towing, and rental expenses
- Potential compensation through rebates or buybacks for qualifying vehicles
The settlement process is outlined in Kia TSB ENG222, which includes oil consumption testing, cleaning procedures, and engine replacement when necessary.
How to Check if Your Kia is Under Recall
There are three easy ways to verify if your vehicle is included in a recall:
- Visit the NHTSA recall website and enter your VIN
- Check Kia’s official recall lookup page
- Call your local Kia dealership with your VIN number
Even if you’re not the original owner, recalls still apply to your vehicle. The recall status is tied to the VIN, not the owner.
Tips for Kia Owners Dealing with Oil Consumption
Keep Detailed Records
Documentation is your best friend when dealing with warranty claims and recalls:
- Save all oil change receipts
- Note dates and mileage when you add oil between changes
- Keep records of any dealer visits or communications
- Take photos of oil dipstick readings or dashboard warning lights
Request an Oil Consumption Test
If you suspect your Kia is burning excessive oil but haven’t received a recall notice:
- Contact your Kia dealer and specifically request an “oil consumption test”
- This standardized test measures how much oil your engine uses over a set distance
- If consumption exceeds 1 quart per 1,000 miles, your vehicle typically qualifies for repair
Know Your Rights for Reimbursement
If you’ve already paid for repairs related to oil consumption:
- Gather all repair invoices and payment receipts
- Submit these through Kia’s reimbursement program
- Include documentation showing the repair was related to piston rings or oil consumption
Don’t Take “No” for an Answer
Some owners report initial resistance from dealers:
- If a dealer denies your claim, contact Kia Customer Service directly
- Reference the appropriate recall number or settlement
- Consider filing a complaint with NHTSA if you’re experiencing a safety issue
- For persistent problems, consult with a lemon law attorney
Understanding the Technical Problem
What exactly goes wrong with these engines? The issue centers around the piston oil control rings—thin metal rings that sit in grooves on the piston. These rings have two critical jobs:
- Scrape oil from cylinder walls during engine operation
- Return that oil to the crankcase
In affected engines, these rings were improperly manufactured, creating gaps that allow oil to seep past and into the combustion chamber. This oil then burns, causing:
- Reduced oil levels in the engine
- Blue-tinged exhaust smoke
- Carbon buildup on valves and spark plugs
- Potential engine damage as lubrication diminishes
When an engine burns too much oil, it can eventually run dangerously low, causing metal-on-metal contact between moving parts, leading to engine seizure or failure.
Real Owner Experiences
Many Kia owners report similar patterns with oil consumption issues:
- Initially noticing they need to add 1-2 quarts between regular oil changes
- Warning lights appearing intermittently
- Dealerships sometimes downplaying the issue as “normal consumption”
- Problems gradually worsening over time
- Sudden catastrophic engine failure in some cases
One owner of a 2022 Kia Soul reported on a forum discussion that their vehicle consumed nearly 3 quarts of oil in just 3,000 miles before finally receiving warranty coverage for a full engine replacement.
Another owner described on Reddit how their 2021 Seltos required oil top-ups every 1,000 miles before the recall was announced. After multiple dealer visits, they finally received a new engine under warranty.
Proactive Steps Every Kia Owner Should Take
Even if your vehicle isn’t currently showing symptoms, be proactive:
- Check your oil level regularly – Get in the habit of checking your dipstick every 1-2 weeks
- Verify your recall status – Don’t assume you’ll receive a letter; check online using your VIN
- Follow maintenance schedules – Keep up with recommended oil changes and use the correct oil type
- Document everything – Create a log of all maintenance and any unusual symptoms
- Act quickly if problems arise – Don’t delay if you notice excessive oil consumption
Long-Term Implications for Kia Owners
If your vehicle is repaired under recall or warranty, you might wonder about long-term effects:
- Resale value: Properly documented and repaired recall work shouldn’t significantly impact resale value
- Future reliability: Most owners report good performance after engine replacement
- Extended coverage: Many repaired vehicles receive additional warranty coverage on the new engine
- Disclosure requirements: When selling, you should disclose major repairs but can also show the issue was properly addressed
Final Thoughts for Kia Owners
The 2025 Kia oil consumption recall represents a significant acknowledgment of a serious manufacturing defect. While dealing with any recall is inconvenient, this particular issue can lead to expensive engine damage if left unaddressed.
If you own a 2021-2023 Soul or Seltos, take advantage of the recall program to have your vehicle inspected and repaired at no cost. For older Kia models with similar symptoms, explore your rights under the various class action settlements and warranty extensions.
Remember that properly documenting your vehicle’s condition and maintaining regular service records is your best defense against potential problems. By staying informed and proactive, you can protect both your vehicle investment and your safety on the road.
