Hi, I’m Orland Howell. I’ve spent four years writing about lawsuits to help people understand tricky legal stuff in simple words. I’ve worked with law firms to explain car recalls and lawsuits like this one. My job is to give you clear, honest facts so you can decide what to do. This guide explains the 2025 Kia Soul and Seltos engine recall lawsuit (Recall SC336) in very easy wordings. I’ll walk you through it step by step.
What’s the Kia Soul and Seltos Engine Recall?
In February 2025, Kia recalled over 137,000 cars. This recall is for 2021-2023 Kia Soul and 2021-2023 Kia Seltos models. The problem is with small engine parts called piston oil rings in the 2.0L Nu MPI engine. These rings keep oil in the right place inside the engine.
If the rings are bad, they wear out fast. This makes the engine use too much oil or leak. Over time, the engine gets damaged and might stop working. In rare cases, it could even catch fire. Kia started noticing more engine repair complaints in October 2024. By early 2025, they found the issue came from a mistake by their supplier, Kia Autoland Hwaseong.
This is a big deal. Over 800 owners reported their cars stalling since 2021. Stalling means the car suddenly stops running, which is scary on roads. There were also four engine fires in Soul models. No one was hurt, but it’s still dangerous. The recall is to check and fix engines before they cause bigger problems.
I’ve studied many car recalls, and I know one bad part can cause a lot of trouble. Owners feel upset because they bought cars that aren’t safe. That’s why many are suing Kia.
Which Cars Are Part of the Recall?
Not every Kia Soul or Seltos has this problem. Only some with the 2.0L Nu MPI engine are affected. Here’s the list:
- Kia Soul: 2021-2023 models, made from July 2, 2020, to April 19, 2022. About 83,621 cars.
- Kia Seltos: 2021-2023 models, made from July 2, 2020, to July 1, 2022. About 53,635 cars.
To see if your car is included, find your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). It’s a 17-digit number on your dashboard, driver’s side door sticker, or insurance papers. Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and type in your VIN. You can also call Kia at 1-800-333-4542. If your car is on the list, you get a free fix.
Kia sent recall letters starting April 4, 2025. If you didn’t get one, don’t worry—you can still check. But hurry, because dealers get busy.
How to Know If Your Car Has Engine Trouble
You might notice problems before getting a recall letter. Here are signs your engine could be faulty:
- Using too much oil: Check your oil dipstick every week. If the oil goes down fast, that’s a problem.
- Funny engine sounds: Listen for knocking, ticking, or rattling noises, especially when you push the gas pedal.
- Oil warning light: If this light shows on your dashboard, it means low oil. Stop driving right away.
- Car stalling: Your car turns off while driving, like at stoplights or on hills.
- Check engine light: This light might turn on with codes about oil or engine parts.
One owner said, “My 2021 Seltos stopped on the highway. The dealer said it was okay, but it happened again.” I’ve read many stories like this. If you see these signs, don’t drive. Tow your car to a dealer to stay safe.
What Kia Does to Fix the Problem
Kia offers a free repair, but it takes time. Here’s what they do:
- Check the engine: Dealers use tools to look for damage.
- Add software: They install a system that listens for bad noises from the piston rings.
- Replace the engine if needed: If the software finds a problem, Kia puts in a new engine with better rings.
The repair might take a few hours or a whole day, depending on parts. If you paid for engine fixes before the recall, Kia will pay you back. Keep your receipts.
There’s a problem, though. In August 2025, the NHTSA started checking Kia’s fix. Over 47 owners said their cars still stalled or leaked oil after the repair. Some dealers do better checks than others, and parts can run out. If your fix doesn’t work, call NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.
I’ve seen recalls change over time. Kia might improve the fix soon, so keep in touch with your dealer.
Why Are People Suing Kia?
In March 2025, a lawsuit started called Jasinski v. Kia America Inc. A man named Eric Jasinski from Pennsylvania bought a 2021 Soul in June 2021. He says Kia knew about the engine problem since 2021 but didn’t tell owners. The lawsuit claims:
- Kia sold cars that lose value because of the defect.
- Kia didn’t warn people about stalls or fire risks.
- The recall fix isn’t good enough—software can’t stop all engine damage.
The lawsuit wants to include all U.S. owners and a special group in Pennsylvania. It asks for money back, repair costs, and payment for cars worth less now. As of October 2025, the case is still in court. No settlement yet, but other Kia lawsuits have paid owners a lot.
I’ve covered lawsuits like this before. They don’t prove Kia is wrong, but they show how owners are struggling.
What Are Owners Asking for in the Lawsuit?
Owners want help for their problems. Here’s what they’re asking for:
- Money for expenses: Cash for oil, towing, or repairs they paid for before the recall.
- Lower car value: Recalled cars can lose up to 20% of their worth when sold.
- Safety worries: Money for missed work or stress from driving an unsafe car.
- Fire damage: Payment if an engine caught fire, though this is rare.
If the lawsuit becomes a class action, thousands of owners could join. You can’t sign up yet—wait for notices. If you paid for repairs, save receipts for later.
In other recalls I’ve studied, owners got $500 to $5,000, depending on their proof.
What Could You Get from the Lawsuit?
The lawsuit wants more than Kia’s recall fix. If it wins, you might get:
- Cash payments: For repairs, rentals, or lost car value.
- Longer warranties: Extra coverage for new engines.
- Car buybacks: Kia could buy your car back at a fair price.
In past Kia lawsuits, owners got free loaner cars during repairs or discounts on new Kias. Experts think this case may settle by late 2026 with similar offers.
Don’t wait for lawsuit money. Get the recall fix first—it’s the quickest help.
How to File for the Recall or Lawsuit
Ready to do something? Here’s how in simple steps.
For the Recall Fix
- Check your VIN: Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls or call Kia at 1-800-333-4542.
- Call a dealer: Contact your local Kia dealer and say it’s for recall SC336. Ask for a loaner car if you need one.
- Get the repair: Inspection and software are fast. A new engine takes longer, so plan ahead.
- Get money back: If you paid for repairs before, send receipts to Kia Consumer Affairs online or by mail.
For the Lawsuit
- Wait for approval: The court will decide if it’s a class action. Check topclassactions.com for news.
- File a claim: If approved, submit your VIN, purchase date, and proof of problems online.
- Get free help: Talk to the lawsuit’s lawyers at no cost. You can also contact lemon law experts for state claims.
If your state has lemon laws for cars needing many repairs, file a separate claim. Don’t wait too long—deadlines are short.
What Kia Owners Are Saying
Real stories show how this affects people. Here are some examples:
- A mom from Florida said, “My Seltos needed oil every 500 miles. It stopped in traffic, and my kids were so scared.”
- A driver in Texas shared, “My engine made loud noises at 40,000 miles. The dealer gave me a new one, but I’m still nervous.”
- Someone on Reddit wrote, “I joined the lawsuit after a fire scare. Kia’s software fix isn’t enough.”
These stories are like others I’ve heard. Owners are scared and upset but want things to be fair.
Tips to Stay Safe Until It’s Fixed
Here’s how to protect yourself while waiting:
- Park safely: If you see problems, don’t park in a garage because of fire risk.
- Save records: Keep notes of oil checks, dealer visits, and costs.
- Drive less: Use another car if you can until yours is repaired.
- Skip extra warranties: Don’t buy one for a recalled car yet.
As an expert, I say keep all records. They help if you file a claim.
Kia’s Past Engine Problems
Kia has had engine issues before with models like Optima, Sorento, and Sportage. Those recalls were about fire risks, too. Settlements paid millions and gave warranties up to 15 years. This Soul and Seltos case is similar—bad parts cause big fixes.
NHTSA checks help, but lawsuits from owners make the biggest changes. Kia is doing better in 2025, but you need to stay alert.
What’s Next for the Recall and Lawsuit?
In October 2025, NHTSA is looking at whether Kia’s fix works. The lawsuit is moving forward with meetings, and a settlement might start by late 2025. Check your mail or email for updates. If you don’t hear anything, call NHTSA.
Let’s Wrap Up: Stay Safe and Act Now
The Kia Soul and Seltos engine recall is a serious issue, but you’re not alone. Thousands of owners are facing the same problem. By acting now, you can protect your car, your wallet, and your peace of mind. Get the free recall repair as soon as possible to make your car safe. Keep an eye on the lawsuit for a chance to get money back for repairs, lost car value, or stress. Save all receipts and records—they’ll help if you file a claim. If your car shows signs of trouble, like stalling or strange noises, contact Kia or a lawyer right away. Stay informed, stay safe, and drive with confidence!
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Information is based on public records as of October 6, 2025, and may change. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your case. Orland Howell and affiliates are not liable for any damages, losses, or claims resulting from actions taken based on this article. For official recall details, visit nhtsa.gov or contact Kia.
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Orland Howell is a seasoned content writer with four years of deep expertise in crafting compelling and informative content about lawsuit settlements. With a keen understanding of legal nuances and a talent for translating complex topics into clear, engaging narratives, Orland helps law firms, legal professionals, and clients communicate effectively. His work spans blog posts, articles, whitepapers, and website content, all designed to educate, inform, and drive results. Passionate about empowering audiences with knowledge, Orland combines precision, creativity, and industry insight to deliver content that resonates and builds trust.
