If you’re hearing about the Kia oil consumption recall and getting worried about what it means for your ride and your wallet, you’re not alone. Thousands of Kia owners in the U.S. are actively searching for answers about unusual oil loss, engine trouble, and whether their vehicle is part of a recall.
Some Kia vehicles, particularly those from recent years, are experiencing engine problems due to excessive oil consumption. Kia has officially issued a recall for certain engines due to faulty piston oil rings.
In this blog, we’ll break down exactly what’s really going on with Kia’s oil consumption problems, if your vehicle is part of the recall, and how to protect your car, your wallet, and your peace of mind.
Let’s dive in.
What Is the Kia Oil Consumption Recall About?
The Kia oil consumption recall addresses a serious engine defect where certain Kia engines burn oil at an abnormal rate, often without any warning light or visible leak. This problem occurs due to faulty piston oil rings that allow oil to slip into the combustion chamber, where it burns off instead of circulating through the engine as it should.
So if you’ve been thinking things like, Why is my Kia burning oil so fast, you’re not alone. Many drivers have reported having to top off their oil every 1,000 miles or less, which isn’t normal for a healthy engine.
What makes this issue worse is that some engines fail without warning. And when they do, drivers are stuck with blown engines, stalled vehicles, or worse, fire risks. That’s why, in early 2025, Kia officially recalled over 137,000 vehicles in the U.S., particularly models using the 2.0L Nu MPI engine, which was found to be especially vulnerable to this oil ring defect.
However, not all oil-burning issues fall under this official recall. Some are being handled through a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB). It means Kia will only fix the problem if certain criteria are met, like failing an oil consumption test. If you are not aware, then let me tell you, an official recall is quite different from a TSB. A recall is mandatory, but a TSB is more like a repair guideline for dealerships, which most of the time leaves many owners confused and frustrated.
A lot of this came to light thanks to growing complaints from owners of vehicles like the Kia Optima, Kia Sportage, and Kia Soul. While not every model has an active recall, there’s a pattern that Kia and regulators like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are now taking seriously.
So if your Kia has started guzzling oil, stalling out, or smelling like something’s burning, it’s time to pay attention. The issue might be bigger than just a leaky gasket.
Which Kia Models Are Affected by Excessive Oil Consumption?
The Kia models most affected by the oil consumption issues include a range of vehicles equipped with 2.0L or 2.4L engines, mainly those manufactured between 2012 and 2023. These engines are prone to burning oil faster than normal, sometimes without visible leaks or dashboard warnings.
According to official documents and ongoing complaints, the models under investigation for oil-related problems include:
- 2021–2023 Kia Seltos (2.0L Nu MPI engine): Part of an official recall
- 2020–2021 Kia Soul: Covered under recall due to faulty piston oil rings
- 2016–2018 Kia Optima: Multiple owner complaints about excessive oil use
- 2017 Kia Sportage: Known reports of abnormal oil loss and engine knock
- 2016–2017 Kia Sorento: Documented oil-burning issues tied to engine defects
Thus, if you’re searching queries like is my 2016 Kia Optima burning oil too fast or does Kia cover oil consumption repairs, you will find that the above-mentioned models are often at the center of Kia oil consumption recall conversations.
Class-action lawsuits and technical service bulletins have all pointed to the same root cause: poorly designed or manufactured piston rings and related engine components.
Please understand that not all model years are officially recalled. But many still qualify for inspection, warranty coverage, or extended repairs, especially if there’s a pattern of oil consumption.
If your model isn’t on the recall list but you’re topping off engine oil more often than usual, you should still:
- Check for any TSBs(Technical Service Bulletins).
- Get your engine inspected at a certified Kia dealership.
- Start keeping a log of oil usage and receipts.
Doing this early can help you qualify for assistance later. And if the problem worsens, you can become eligible for free engine replacement under warranty or extended coverage.
What Symptoms Should You Watch For in Kia vehicles?
The most common signs of excessive oil consumption in Kia vehicles are fast oil loss, engine knocking, and a burning smell, even when there’s no visible leak or warning light. If you have ever asked why is my oil disappearing between oil changes or is it normal to add oil every 1,000 miles, the answer is no. It is not normal, and it is a clear sign of a bigger underlying engine issue.
Here are the symptoms or signs you should keep an eye (and ear) out for:
You’re adding oil constantly
If you’re topping off the oil more than once between oil changes, especially with no leaks, your engine may be burning oil internally. Some Kia owners report losing a quart every 800–1,200 miles, which is way above normal.
One Kia Optima owner shared on Reddit that their 2019 Optima was “burning a quart of oil consistently every 1k miles for about 25k miles until the engine finally failed at 118k miles.” That’s not something you want to find out the hard way.
You smell burning oil
If you get that sharp, smoky smell inside or around your car, it is often a sign that your engine oil is getting into the combustion chamber and burning where it shouldn’t. If not checked and fixed, this can damage the pistons and catalytic converter over time.
Engine warning lights come and go
There are times when the engine oil light flickers or stays on briefly on your dashboard. Don’t ignore this, as it could mean your oil level is critically low, and driving like that can destroy your engine.
Knocking or ticking noises from the engine
Low oil levels can cause metal-on-metal contact inside the engine. That ticking or knocking sound is not just annoying. It’s often the sound of your engine components wearing out.
Sudden stalling or power loss
In some cases, your engine might shut off suddenly while driving, which can be dangerous. If this happens, have your car inspected immediately.
All these symptoms are common in several Kia models affected by excessive oil consumption, including Optima, Sportage, Sorento, and Soul. Even if your vehicle hasn’t been officially recalled, seeing these signs early could provide you with engine repairs that are covered by the automaker. And if you ignore them, you are looking at a $6,000 engine replacement down the road.
Suggestion: Find Out if Your GM Vehicle Is Included in This Major Recall
Kia and Regulators Response to the Oil Issue
Kia has acknowledged oil consumption problems in several engines. But the official response of the company varies depending on the model, engine type, and severity of the issue. In some cases, Kia issued a recall. In others, they provided a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) instead of taking full responsibility through mandatory repairs.
In February 2025, Kia issued a recall for more than 137,000 vehicles due to improperly manufactured piston oil rings in certain 2021–2023 Seltos and Soul models. The issue was that these engines could burn oil excessively, leading to overheating, engine seizure, or even fire risk. As part of the fix, Kia is inspecting engines and installing new software that detects piston-ring noise to identify problems early, called the Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS).
For other vehicles, like the Optima, Sorento, and Sportage, Kia issued Technical Service Bulletin ENG222. This bulletin outlines steps for diagnosing and managing excessive oil use, including:
- Combustion chamber cleaning.
- Oil consumption testing over 1,000 miles.
- Possible engine replacement if the vehicle fails the test.
Unlike recalls, TSBs are not mandatory. That means dealerships may decline repairs unless your vehicle meets very specific criteria. One Kia owner shared that, “If you are unable to provide maintenance records, Kia will not replace your engine even if the dealership finds the oil consumption excessive.” This has frustrated many owners who feel stuck with failing engines and denied coverage.
What Is NHTSA Doing About Kia’s Oil-Burning Problem?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has received hundreds of complaints from Kia owners about sudden engine failures, unexpected stalling, and dangerously low oil levels, often with no warning lights.
These complaints come from owners of vehicles like the 2016–2019 Kia Optima, 2017 Sorento, and 2017 Sportage, even when those models weren’t part of the initial recall. If you’ve noticed the same issues in your own vehicle, you’re not alone. These models often share the same engine platforms as the recalled ones, and that raises real safety concerns.
In response, NHTSA is continuing to monitor the issue and track additional reports that may lead to future recalls.
Things To Do If Your Kia Has Oil Consumption Issues
If your Kia is burning through oil too quickly, don’t wait for your engine to fail. There are several steps you can take right now to protect your vehicle and potentially save yourself thousands of dollars in repairs.
Here’s exactly what to do if you suspect your car is affected by the Kia oil consumption recall or related engine issues:
Check for Recalls Using Your VIN
The first thing you should do is check your vehicle’s recall status. You can do this by entering your 17-digit VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on either the official Kia Recall Lookup Tool or the NHTSA recall site. If your vehicle is part of the 2025 recall (or any other), you’ll see instructions for contacting a Kia dealer for free repairs or inspection.
Schedule an Inspection
Even if there’s no open recall, you can still ask for an oil consumption test at a certified Kia dealership, especially if your car is under warranty. Kia’s Technical Service Bulletin (TSB ENG222) outlines the diagnostic process. Just remember that the TSB repairs aren’t automatic. So you’ll need to advocate for yourself and follow the steps closely.
Keep Maintenance Records and Oil Receipts
Kia (and most dealers) require proof that you’ve maintained the car properly before approving major repairs under warranty. That means you should:
- Save all oil change receipts.
- Keep a written log of when you check or top off oil.
- Ask for digital records from your service shop if needed.
As one Reddit user pointed out, “If you are unable to provide maintenance records, Kia will not replace your engine”, even if your engine is burning oil.
Call Kia Customer Care or File a Complaint
If your dealership brushes you off or refuses to test, call Kia Consumer Affairs directly at 1-800-333-4542 and open a case. You can also file a complaint with NHTSA or consider talking to a lemon law attorney if your warranty claim is denied.
Join Kia Owner Forums or Support Groups
As a Kia car owner you need to know that you’re not alone in this oil draining situation. Many Kia drivers have successfully pushed for repairs or engine replacements by gathering evidence and sharing their experiences. Explore popular online automotive forums, and you will easily find fellow Kia drivers. Hearing from others can help you stay informed and give you leverage when dealing with dealerships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Get a Free Engine Replacement If My Kia Burns Oil?
Yes, but only if your vehicle qualifies. Kia may cover engine repairs or replacements if your model is part of a recall, warranty extension, or class-action settlement. You’ll usually need to:
- Pass a 1,000-mile oil consumption test.
- Show maintenance records.
- Have an eligible engine (like Theta II, Nu, or Gamma).
Owners of recalled models like the Seltos and Soul get full coverage. Others, like the Optima or Sorento, may still qualify through extended warranties or legal settlements. Check your eligibility for Kia engine settlement and always document everything in case you need to escalate your claim.
What should I do if my Kia is not part of the recall but still burning oil?
You can start by requesting an oil consumption test at a Kia dealership. If your car fails the test, Kia may approve a repair or engine replacement. Keep all oil change receipts and document your oil usage. You can also file a complaint with NHTSA or contact Kia Consumer Affairs for help.
Can I join a class-action lawsuit if my Kia has oil issues?
Possibly. If your Kia has a Theta II, Nu, or Gamma engine, you might qualify for benefits from a class-action settlement, even without a recall. These often include free repairs, extended warranties, or reimbursements.
Is the Kia oil consumption issue covered under a recall?
Some models like certain 2021–2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles, which were recalled in 2025 due to faulty piston rings, are covered. Other models, like the Optima, Sorento, and Sportage, may not have an official recall but could still be eligible for TSB repairs or warranty extensions.
Final Thoughts
The Kia oil consumption recall is more than just a technical issue. It’s a real concern for thousands of drivers dealing with unexplained oil loss, expensive repairs, and engine failures. While Kia has recalled some models and issued technical bulletins for others, many owners are still left in the dark about what to do next.
If you’re noticing symptoms like fast oil loss, knocking sounds, or burning smells, don’t ignore them. Check your VIN for recalls, get your engine tested, and keep your service records in order. Knowing your rights as a consumer and acting early can make all the difference.
Do not worry. Other Kia owners have successfully gotten their engines replaced or reimbursed by speaking up, pushing back, and documenting everything.
