Used Kia Seltos Common Problems, Pros, Cons, and Prices (2019-2022)

The Kia Seltos is a compact SUV that has received strong design reviews and remains popular in the Korean used-car market. It offers strong acceleration from the 1.6 turbo engine and 7-speed DCT, plus useful space and equipment.

This guide covers common problems, owner-reported pros and cons, buying tips, and Korean used prices for 2019-2022 Seltos models.

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Kia Seltos Common Problems and Defects

The original article was based on Seltos owner communities and Korean recall-center information.

Fuel-filter issue: vehicles produced from June 2018 to August 2021 were noted in the original article. A design problem could let glass fiber from the filter media enter the high-pressure pump, potentially damaging parts and causing poor fuel injection or stalling. If a problem is found, the fuel-filter cartridge and related parts are replaced.
Vacuum-pump issue: vehicles produced from July 2019 to October 2020 were noted. A mesh-filter design issue could restrict oil supply to the vacuum pump. If vacuum pressure is not formed properly, braking distance can increase. The fix involves removing the mesh filter or replacing the vacuum pump.
Steering-wheel noise: some owners complain of squeaking or scraping noises from the steering wheel. Lubrication may help, but inspection at a Kia Auto Q service center is recommended if symptoms remain.

Kia Seltos Pros

The original article referenced an interview with an owner who had driven about 50,000 km.

Good fuel economy: the 1.6 gasoline turbo model is rated around 11.8-12.8 km/L in the original Korean context, with owner-reported city fuel economy around 9 km/L and highway fuel economy around 17 km/L.
Attractive design: the bold front end, grille designs, cubical LED headlights, LED turn signals, and LED taillamps were highlighted.
Roomy for a compact SUV: it has generous length and wheelbase for its class, deep door pockets, useful cupholders, and enough second-row space for family or friends.

Kia Seltos Cons

The 7-speed DCT can jerk badly on hills. The original article notes that facelifted 2023 models changed to an 8-speed automatic.
Interior rattles can occur, including squeaking when the heater is used.
The cabin uses a lot of plastic, and black high-gloss trim shows fingerprints easily.

Used Seltos Buying Tips

For 2019-2022 Seltos models, the original article separates the 1.6 turbo gasoline and 1.6 diesel choices. If you drive mostly on highways, the diesel can reduce fuel cost significantly. If you mix city and highway driving and drive less than 20,000 km per year, the gasoline model is recommended.

For the 1.6 turbo gasoline model, two-wheel drive is recommended unless you often drive near the coast or live in a snowy area.

Trim ranking in the original article is Gravity, Signature for 2021, Noblesse for 2020, Prestige, and Trendy. For value, it recommends a 2020 Noblesse with under 60,000 km over a 2021 Signature.