What Is the Kia Telluride?
The Kia Telluride is a full-size, three-row midsize crossover SUV manufactured by Kia specifically for the North American market. It was unveiled at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show and went on sale as a 2020 model year vehicle, making it the largest SUV Kia has ever sold. Built at Kia’s West Point, Georgia plant, the Telluride sits above the Sorento in Kia’s lineup and shares its platform with the Hyundai Palisade.
Powered by a 3.8-liter V6 Lambda II GDI engine producing around 291 horsepower paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Telluride offers seating for up to 8 passengers across three rows, front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive options, and an impressive suite of driver-assist technologies even on entry-level trims.
Since its debut, the Telluride has consistently ranked among the best midsize SUVs in America, winning awards from Motor Trend, Car and Driver, and others. However, as with any vehicle, not every model year is created equal — and the differences between the best and worst Kia Telluride years are significant.
Quick Reliability Overview — Kia Telluride by Year
Based on data from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and the Auto Reliability Index, here is a bird’s-eye view of how the Kia Telluride has performed across its model years:
The Kia Telluride’s reliability has steadily improved over its production run. Newer model years (2022–2025) average a reliability score of around 72/100, compared to just 60/100 for older units. The 2020 model remains the year to avoid due to its high complaint volume and serious safety recalls.
✅ Best Kia Telluride Years to Buy
If you’re looking for the most reliable Kia Telluride, focus on these model years. Each represents a significant leap in quality, fewer recalls, and improved owner satisfaction.
2025 Kia Telluride
- Only 2 recalls and 32 owner complaints on record
- Highest reliability rating of all Telluride model years
- Minor styling refresh; carries over proven drivetrain
- Most common issue: wiper visibility (minor)
- Excellent value and warranty coverage
2022 Kia Telluride
- Facelifted generation with new LED headlights & grille
- New 10.25-inch center touchscreen standard
- Upgraded 7-pin trailer-towing wiring harness
- Improved build quality over 2020–2021
- Nightfall Edition package introduced
2023 Kia Telluride
- 12.3-inch touchscreen made standard across all trims
- X-Line and X-Pro off-road trim levels added
- Advanced driver-assist systems standard on all trims
- Refreshed exterior styling with updated Kia badge
- Highway Driving Assist with auto lane changes
2024 Kia Telluride
- Good reliability — 4 recalls, 180 owner complaints
- Additional exterior tweaks and feature additions
- Builds on the strong 2022–2023 platform
- Standard safety tech across all trim levels
- Some seat-motor recall — verify fix is completed
2021 Kia Telluride
- J.D. Power scored it 85/100 in initial quality
- Nightfall Edition Package debut
- Remote starter added to key fob
- Still shares some 2020 issues (engine valve springs)
- IIHS “Top Safety Pick” designation
❌ Worst Kia Telluride Years to Avoid
While the Telluride is generally a well-regarded SUV, its first production year came with serious growing pains. Here’s what you need to know about the Kia Telluride years to avoid:
2020 Kia Telluride — THE WORST YEAR
- 6 recalls issued — the highest of any model year
- 667 owner complaints filed with NHTSA
- 8 crash-related complaints and 7 fire-related complaints
- 170 exterior lighting (headlight fading) complaints
- 121 wiper/visibility complaints
- Tow hitch fire hazard recall (85,000+ vehicles affected)
- Engine valve spring breakage risk leading to engine failure
- Transmission slipping and hesitation complaints
- Infotainment system glitches reported frequently
The 2021 Kia Telluride is a slight improvement but still carries over some of the 2020’s structural issues, particularly around engine oil consumption and valve spring failures. While not in the same “avoid” category as the 2020, buyers should be cautious and have a pre-purchase inspection completed.
📊 All Kia Telluride Model Years Ranked
Here is a comprehensive Kia Telluride reliability ranking across every model year, based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, recalls, and third-party reliability scores:
| Model Year | Reliability Score | Recalls | NHTSA Complaints | Key Issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 78–79/100 | 2 | 32 | Wiper visibility (minor) | Best Buy |
| 2024 | 69/100 | 4 | 180 | Seat motor overheating recall | Buy |
| 2023 | 73/100 | 3 | ~200 | Minor electrical glitches | Buy |
| 2022 | 72/100 | 3 | ~220 | Paint/tow hitch (resolved) | Buy |
| 2021 | ~65/100 | 4 | ~350 | Valve springs, oil consumption | Acceptable |
| 2020 | 55–57/100 | 6 | 667 | Headlights, fire risk, transmission | Avoid |
🔧 Most Common Kia Telluride Problems
Understanding the most common Kia Telluride problems can help you inspect a used vehicle more effectively and anticipate future repair costs. These issues have been reported across multiple model years, with 2020 and 2021 being the most affected.
Headlight Fading & Failure
The #1 complaint across all years — especially 2020. Headlights can fade, fog up, or fail at low mileage. 170 NHTSA complaints filed for the 2020 model alone.
Transmission Hesitation & Slipping
Some owners report the transmission slipping into neutral unexpectedly, delayed gear engagement, and erratic driving behavior — particularly in 2020 units.
Tow Hitch Fire Hazard
Moisture and debris buildup on the tow hitch harness circuit board created fire risk. ~36,500 vehicles were recalled for this issue across 2020–2021 models.
Engine Valve Spring Breakage
A manufacturing defect in early Tellurides allowed valve springs to break, potentially leading to engine failure. Kia identified this issue in April 2022.
Wiper & Visibility Issues
Wiper failures and poor visibility complaints rank among the top 3 issues across all model years (288 total NHTSA complaints). Common in cold-weather conditions.
Infotainment & Electrical Glitches
Screen freezing, Bluetooth disconnects, climate control malfunctions, and software bugs have been reported — particularly in 2020–2022 models. Software updates typically resolve these.
Paint Fading & Peeling
Some owners have reported premature paint fading or peeling, especially on darker color options. This appears to be an isolated manufacturing quality issue.
Seat Motor Overheating (2020–2024)
In June 2024, Kia recalled over 462,000 Tellurides due to powered front seat motors overheating and potentially catching fire when misaligned seat controls get stuck.
✅ Advantages & ❌ Disadvantages of the Kia Telluride
Here is a balanced breakdown of the Kia Telluride’s pros and cons to help you decide if this SUV is right for you.
✅ Advantages
- Spacious 3-row interior with seating for up to 8 passengers
- Premium interior quality that punches above its price class
- Powerful and smooth 3.8L V6 engine (291 hp)
- Strong towing capacity of 5,000 lbs
- Extensive standard safety tech even on base trims
- Competitive pricing vs. Toyota Highlander & Honda Pilot
- Low estimated annual maintenance cost (~$573)
- Excellent resale value — high demand on used market
- Built in the USA (West Point, Georgia)
- IIHS “Top Safety Pick+” on newer models
- AWD available on most trims
- 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (original owner)
❌ Disadvantages
- 2020 model year has serious reliability concerns
- Headlight fading is a recurring issue across years
- No hybrid or plug-in hybrid option (until 2027 gen)
- V6 fuel economy is average at ~20 mpg combined
- Infotainment system glitches in early models
- Higher trim levels can become expensive quickly
- Third-row legroom is tight for adults on long trips
- Limited off-road capability (except X-Pro trim)
- Seat motor recall affects a large number of units
- Paint quality inconsistencies reported by some owners
🛡️ Is the Kia Telluride Safe?
Yes — the Kia Telluride is a safe vehicle, particularly in model years 2021 and beyond. It has earned prestigious safety ratings and comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies.
IIHS Top Safety Pick+
Awarded to 2022+ model years for excellent crash test performance
IIHS Top Safety Pick
2020 & 2021 models earned “Top Safety Pick” designation
Auto Emergency Braking
Standard across all trim levels — prevents frontal collisions
Adaptive Cruise Control
Stop-and-go adaptive cruise control standard on most trims
Lane Keeping Assist
Active lane keeping and lane departure warning standard
Blind Spot Monitoring
Available on higher trims; standard on SX and above
Crash test performance results for the Kia Telluride are consistently strong, with “Good” ratings in small overlap front (driver & passenger), moderate overlap front, side, and roof strength categories from the IIHS.
⏳ How Long Does a Kia Telluride Last?
The Kia Telluride’s lifespan depends on maintenance habits, driving conditions, and which model year you own. Here’s what owners and experts typically report:
- Expected Lifespan: With proper maintenance, most Kia Tellurides can reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles (approximately 240,000–320,000 km).
- Key Maintenance Milestones: Oil changes every 5,000–7,500 miles, transmission fluid every 45,000 miles, spark plugs at 60,000 miles, and timing belt/chain inspection at 100,000 miles.
- Powertrain Warranty: New Tellurides come with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty (for the original owner), providing excellent long-term peace of mind.
- Resale Value: The Telluride holds its value exceptionally well — often retaining 55–65% of its original value after 3 years, outperforming most rivals in its class.
- High-Mileage Tellurides: Several owners have reported crossing the 150,000-mile mark with only routine maintenance required, particularly on 2022+ models.
🛒 How to Buy a Used Kia Telluride — Expert Tips
Follow these expert tips for buying a used Kia Telluride to avoid costly mistakes and get the best value for your money.
- Target the Right Year: Focus on 2022–2025 models. These offer the best reliability, most features, and fewest open recalls. Avoid the 2020 unless it’s priced significantly below market.
- Check the VIN for Recalls: Visit nhtsa.gov and enter the VIN. Confirm that ALL open recalls — especially the seat motor fire recall and tow hitch recall — have been completed.
- Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: Always have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle. Ask them to specifically check the engine valve springs, transmission behavior, and headlight condition on 2020–2021 models.
- Review the Vehicle History Report: Use Carfax or AutoCheck to look for accident history, flood damage, number of previous owners, and service records.
- Test Drive Thoroughly: Test the infotainment system, climate control, wipers, headlights, and all seat adjustments. Listen for any transmission hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
- Negotiate Based on Known Issues: If you’re buying a 2020–2021 model, use the known issues and recall history as leverage to negotiate the price down.
- Prioritize Low Mileage: Aim for vehicles with fewer than 50,000 miles to remain within the factory powertrain warranty period if purchasing a newer model.
2025 — Top reliability score (78–79/100)
2023 — Best features-per-dollar value
2022 — Post-facelift with major improvements
2024 — Good reliability, modern tech
2020 — Most recalls, most complaints, fire risk
2021 (early builds) — Valve spring/oil issues
Any year with open NHTSA recalls
Any unit with high mileage + no service history
🏁 How the Kia Telluride Compares to Rivals
The Kia Telluride competes in a tough segment against some strong alternatives. Here’s how it stacks up:
| SUV | Seating | Engine | Avg. Reliability | Starting MSRP | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Telluride | Up to 8 | 3.8L V6 | 66–71/100 | ~$36,190 | Interior quality, value |
| Hyundai Palisade | Up to 8 | 3.8L V6 | ~68/100 | ~$36,900 | Family comfort |
| Toyota Highlander | Up to 8 | 2.4L Turbo | ~75/100 | ~$39,000 | Long-term reliability |
| Honda Pilot | Up to 8 | 3.5L V6 | ~72/100 | ~$40,000 | Practicality |
| Mazda CX-90 | Up to 8 | 3.3L Turbo 6 | ~70/100 | ~$40,000 | Driving dynamics |
The Telluride’s biggest advantage is its combination of interior quality and value. It regularly beats vehicles costing $10,000–$15,000 more in interior feel and features. However, the Toyota Highlander still leads in long-term reliability, and the Honda Pilot offers more practical storage solutions.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Kia Telluride best and worst years:
The best year for the Kia Telluride is 2025, scoring 78–79/100 on reliability with only 2 recalls and 32 owner complaints. Among used models, the 2022 and 2023 are the sweet spot — they feature the facelifted design, improved tech, and significantly fewer problems than the 2020–2021 first-generation units. The 2021 model also earned an 85/100 J.D. Power initial quality score, but it still carries some early-generation issues.
The worst year for the Kia Telluride is the 2020 model, which scores only 55–57/100 on reliability. It recorded 6 NHTSA recalls, 667 owner complaints (including 8 crash-related and 7 fire-related), major headlight failure issues (170 complaints), transmission problems, and a serious tow hitch fire hazard. The 2021 is also problematic due to engine valve spring breakage and oil consumption issues inherited from the first generation.
Generally, yes — the Kia Telluride is a reliable SUV, with an average reliability score of 66–71/100 across all model years. Newer models (2022–2025) average 72/100, which is solid for the midsize SUV segment. Its estimated annual maintenance cost of just $573 is lower than many competitors. However, the 2020 model pulls the average down significantly — buyers should stick to 2022 and newer for the best reliability experience.
You should primarily avoid the 2020 Kia Telluride due to its widespread reliability issues, fire risk, and poor NHTSA scores. Be cautious with early 2021 production units as well. If purchasing a 2021 model, have the engine valve springs and oil consumption checked by a mechanic before buying. For any model year, verify that all NHTSA recalls — especially the 2024 seat motor recall affecting 2020–2024 models — have been completed.
With proper maintenance, a Kia Telluride can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles (approximately 240,000–320,000 km). Consistent oil changes, transmission fluid service, and proactive recall repairs are the keys to longevity. New Tellurides come with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty for the original owner — one of the best in the industry. Many owners have reported crossing 150,000 miles with only routine maintenance on 2022+ models.
The most common Kia Telluride problems include: (1) Headlight fading and failure — especially on 2020 models; (2) Transmission hesitation or slipping — mainly 2020–2021; (3) Tow hitch fire hazard — recall completed on most units; (4) Engine valve spring breakage — early production units; (5) Seat motor overheating — a major recall affecting 2020–2024; (6) Wiper and visibility issues — present across all years; (7) Infotainment glitches — software updates typically resolve these; (8) Paint peeling — isolated issue on some units.
Yes — the 2022 Kia Telluride is one of the best used options available. It received the facelifted design with new LED headlights, a redesigned grille, new Kia badging, and a larger 10.25-inch center touchscreen. Reliability improved significantly over 2020–2021 models. The 2022 also introduced the X-Line and X-Pro trim levels. Just verify that the tow hitch recall and any other open recalls have been completed. It offers excellent value and features in the used market.
Yes — the Kia Telluride is available with AWD, but it is not standard on all trims. The base LX trim is front-wheel drive only. AWD is optional on the S, EX, and SX trims, and standard on upper trims including the SX Prestige, X-Line, and X-Pro. The AWD system features a locking center differential for improved traction in slippery conditions, and the X-Pro adds terrain drive modes and all-terrain tires for light off-road use.
The estimated annual maintenance cost for a Kia Telluride is approximately $573, based on independent repair cost databases. This is lower than many comparable midsize SUVs. Common maintenance items include oil changes ($70–$100), tire rotations (~$40), brake service ($300–$600 per axle), and transmission fluid changes (~$200). The 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty on new vehicles covers major mechanical repairs, significantly reducing ownership costs for original buyers.
The Kia Telluride is defined as a mid-size crossover SUV (body-on-unibody construction) with 5-door body style, three-row seating for up to 8 passengers, front-engine layout with FWD or AWD drivetrains, and a unibody chassis. It belongs to the D-segment (large crossover) category. The name “Telluride” references a mountain ski town in Colorado, USA — fitting for an SUV marketed specifically for the American family-adventure lifestyle. It was first produced in February 2019 for the 2020 model year.
