Kia Telluride Seat Recall: 462,000 SUV Owners Told to Park Outside

A concerning seat issue returns for the Kia Telluride

Kia has recalled over 460,000 Telluride crossovers for a fire risk related to overheated power seat motors. The high number of vehicles recalled applies to most of the first-generation model years but does not include the all-new Telluride, which arrived for the 2027 model year. The fire risk is serious enough for Kia to have advised affected Telluride owners to park outside. Here’s everything we know about a significant recall impacting one of America’s favorite three-row crossovers.

Kia Telluride Recall Detailed

Kia previously recalled certain Tellurides for the same issue (recall number 24V407) but has determined that repair to be insufficient. The new recall applies to 462,869 Telluride spanning the 2020 to 2024 model years. 

According to information published on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) site, the front power seat motor in these vehicles may overheat due to a power seat slide knob that becomes stuck. An external impact to the seat cover can also cause the power seat switch to become dislodged or misaligned, causing the seat motor to operate continuously. This can lead to a fire risk, which is especially dangerous if the vehicle is parked indoors.

An improper repair related to the older recall can also cause the same problem.

Kia will repair the seat by inspecting the motor and fitting an electronic fuse assembly to prevent continuous operation of the motor. This will be done at no charge.

Related: 2027 Kia Telluride Faces Another Recall As Driver’s Seat Belt Can Lock Up

What Owners Should Do Now

An official advisory is in place for affected Telluride models, which should be parked outside until they can be inspected and repaired. If the problem exists, drivers and passengers may notice a sticking seat sliding knob, a burning/melting smell, or smoke coming from under the seat.

Since the issue only pertains to models with power-adjustable front seats, lower trims with manual seats won’t be affected.

Kia will send out owner notification letters on August 13, 2026. From July 17, owners of relevant Tellurides will be able to use the NHTSA’s search tool to confirm if their vehicle is affected. This will require inputting the Vehicle Identification Number.

Kia’s customer care is available at 1-800-333-4542 for more information. The number for this recall is SC374, and it replaces recall 24V407.

The recall report doesn’t state that any injuries or incidents have occurred, but the Park Outside advisory is not to be taken lightly, as such advisories are only put in place when absolutely necessary.

Related: Kia Telluride Recall Linked to Same Defect as Fatal Hyundai Palisade Incident