Kia Telluride 1
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Engine Overview
The Kia Telluride 1 is available with one engine variant at 295 hp.
The Kia 3.8L V6 (Lambda II) (Petrol, 291 PS) has the G6DJ (3.8L V6 (Lambda II)) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.
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Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Panoramic glass roof shatters spontaneously Multiple documented NHTSA complaints for the Telluride describe the panoramic glass roof exploding without external impact while driving at highway speeds, showering glass shards into the cabin. Pattern documented across 2022–2023 model years. Symptoms: Loud explosion followed by glass shards throughout the interior; glass fractures with no visible external impact. from 30,000 km | High | |
| Windshield prone to cracking and chipping A widespread defect on 2020-2022 Tellurides — windshields chip easily and cracks propagate rapidly across the glass, often requiring full replacement within months. A class action lawsuit was filed, and Kia offered goodwill replacements on some early models. Over 100 NHTSA reports for 2020-2021 alone. Symptoms: Small stone chip quickly grows into a long crack spanning the windshield, often from the bottom edge upward. from 20,000 km | Medium | |
| Thin paint — chips easily from road debris The Telluride's paint is notably thin with minimal clear coat layers. Stone chips appear within months of ownership, particularly on the hood and front bumper. PPF (paint protection film) is strongly recommended. Kia does not cover paint chipping under warranty. Symptoms: Visible stone chips on hood and bumper after highway driving, paint flaking at chip edges, primer showing through. from 15,000 km | High |
Top Reported Issues
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Known Problems and Issues
A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Telluride 1 (2020–2025) — 4 engine-related and 13 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Body, Electronics, Interior, Gearbox.
Telluride (G6DJ, 2020–2025) — Be Careful: High oil consumption — piston ring wear, GDI carbon buildup on intake valves, Timing chain rattle at high mileage. Power: 291 PS.
What to watch out for with the Kia Telluride? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee