Engine Valve Springs Could Break In Certain 2024 Kia Telluride Vehicles

Kia will be contacting the owners of certain 2024 Kia Telluride vehicles due to a critical issue that poses a significant risk to drivers. Manufactured between October 1, 2023, and December 6, 2023, these vehicles are susceptible to a severe malfunction involving broken engine valve springs, which could have hazardous repercussions for vehicle operation.

The problem first came to light in November 2023 following a customer complaint. The customer reported hearing a "pop" noise while driving, which was immediately followed by smoke emanating from the engine compartment. Subsequent inspection of the vehicle unveiled severe internal engine damage, including a hole in the front side of the engine block and localized melting on the engine underbody shield. This alarming incident prompted Kia to initiate a thorough investigation into the matter.

As the investigation unfolded, Kia began to observe a troubling pattern: an increasing number of engine replacements were being performed on 2024 Telluride vehicles, all of which had low mileage. This trend led to the collection and analysis of affected engines. The Kia NA Safety Office undertook a preliminary field data analysis, identifying 47 techline cases involving engine replacements under similar circumstances. The situation escalated as further investigation revealed 83 unique Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) potentially affected by this condition, sourced from warranty claims, techline cases, and customer complaints.

The problem was traced back to the engine valve springs, which, due to manufacturing damages, were prone to fatigue cracking. This defect could lead to the springs breaking while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in a loss of drive power. In more severe cases, a broken valve could enter the combustion chamber, creating a hole in the engine block, which significantly compounds the risk and severity of the malfunction.

In response to these findings, Kia has initiated a recall specifically targeting the affected 2024 Telluride models. The recall aims to address this critical safety issue by replacing the engine sub-assembly in the affected vehicles. Vehicle owners are urged to return their vehicles to Kia dealers for the necessary repairs, which will be conducted free of charge. This recall is registered under Kia's number SC296 and has been officially documented in the NHTSA campaign number 24V-077. Owners of the potentially impacted 2024 Kia Telluride models are strongly advised to take immediate action to ensure their safety and the proper functioning of their vehicles.