NHTSA complaint #11717072

Owner complaint summary

At approximately 94,000 miles, my 2020 Kia Telluride EX experienced a significant internal engine failure. The vehicle was properly maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, including regular oil changes. A professional inspection required engine teardown. During inspection, the piston for Cylinder 6 was removed. The oil control ring was found to be stuck and would not move, with excessive carbon buildup present on the piston rings and piston crown. The cylinder walls and piston side skirts showed excessive scoring. According to the inspection findings, excessive carbon buildup caused the piston oil control rings to become stuck, allowing oil to bypass and resulting in damage to the cylinder walls. The inspector determined that the required repair is full engine replacement. This failure was not caused by misuse, neglect, or lack of maintenance. The vehicle has been inoperable and in the repair shop since approximately August 2025. An internal engine failure of this nature occurring under normal operating conditions raises concerns regarding engine durability and potential manufacturing or design defects that may affect other vehicles with the same engine configuration. Multiple owners of 2020 Kia Telluride vehicles have independently reported similar symptoms of excessive oil consumption, internal engine failures, and the need for major engine repairs or replacements at comparable mileages, some documented in NHTSA complaint records and owner forums. I am submitting this complaint to document a potential engine defect and to support investigation into similar failures.