Kia recalls Soul and Seltos vehicles

Kia Motors America is recalling 147,249 model year 2020-2021 Soul, and model year 2021 Seltos vehicles with 2.0L Nu MPI engines.

The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.

A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, posing the risk of a fire.

What to do

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and -- if necessary -- replace the engine free of charge.

In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software.

The recall is expected to begin June 11, 2021.

Owners may contact Kia customer service at (800) 333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC209.