Overview

• The audit launched on August 8 will assess whether Kia’s inspections and engine replacement procedures meet federal safety requirements.
• Kia’s February recall covered 137,256 model-year 2021–2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles over improperly manufactured piston oil rings linked to engine damage and fire risk.
• Between April 29 and June 27, the NHTSA’s Recall Management Division logged 47 complaints citing remedy ineffectiveness, unavailability and inconsistent inspection outcomes.
• Depending on audit results, NHTSA could mandate expanded inspections, additional engine replacements or a rare “recall of the recall” campaign.
• Under federal safety law, NHTSA can enforce stricter remedial actions to ensure automakers deliver timely and consistent recall remedies.