As you’re considering purchasing a Kia Telluride, you’re likely wondering which years are the most reliable and which ones to avoid. You’ve made a great decision, as the Telluride has established itself as a solid choice in the SUV market.
But, like any vehicle, it’s not immune to problems. The good news is that the 2021 and 2022 models have proven to be the most dependable, earning high marks for reliability. But what about the other years? Let’s take a closer look at the best and worst years of the Kia Telluride.
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Key Takeaways
- The 2021 and 2022 Kia Telluride models are the most reliable, with the 2021 model scoring 85 out of 100 from J.D. Power for reliability.
- Avoid models with high mileage and common problems like collision warning system and headlight malfunctions, transmission issues, and electrical woes.
- The 2020 model year had some reported infotainment system problems, but they were resolved, and it received top safety ratings, making it a reliable option.
- Regular maintenance is crucial to minimize repair costs, which are rated 3.5 out of 5, and can help extend the life of the vehicle.
- Opt for models with low mileage and a clean history to minimize potential headaches and ensure a reliable ownership experience.
Most Reliable Years of the Kia Telluride
When shopping for a reliable Kia Telluride, you’ll want to focus on the 2021 and 2022 models, which have established themselves as the most dependable options in the lineup.
These years have earned high marks for reliability, with the 2021 model scoring 85 out of 100 from J.D. Power, indicating above-average reliability.
With minimal complaints from consumers and the NHTSA, these Kia Telluride models are quality choices for those prioritizing dependability.
Years to Avoid and Common Issues
While the Kia Telluride has generally received positive reviews, there are certain model years that are plagued by issues and should be avoided.
If you’re in the market for a used Telluride, you’ll want to steer clear of models with high mileage and common problems. Specifically, certain Telluride years have been known to experience issues with their collision warning systems and headlight malfunctions.
Avoid these years to guarantee you’re getting a reliable ride. Opt for a model with low mileage and a clean history to minimize potential headaches. By doing so, you’ll increase your chances of owning a reliable Kia Telluride.
Overview of Kia Telluride Problems by Year
You’re likely wondering what specific issues plague each model year of the Kia Telluride.
To give you a better understanding, let’s break down the reliability by year, as well as the transmission issues that have been reported.
Reliability by Year
The Kia Telluride’s reliability varies significantly across model years, with some years standing out as more problematic than others.
You’ll want to be aware of these differences to make an informed purchase decision.
- The 2020 model is the worst year to buy due to numerous complaints about transmission failures, electrical issues, and fading headlights.
- The 2021 and 2022 models are the best years to buy, with high-reliability ratings from J.D. Power (85 out of 100).
Researching reliability ratings, checking vehicle history reports, and test driving can help you avoid problematic models.
Certified pre-owned vehicles can also provide added peace of mind.
Be aware of common issues like transmission problems, electrical issues, and engine woes.
Transmission Issues
When buying a Kia Telluride, it’s vital to know that transmission issues can be a significant concern. You may experience slipping into neutral unexpectedly or delayed gear engagements, which can be a safety concern and affect the overall driving experience.
The 2020 Kia Telluride has the most reported transmission problems, with many owners experiencing issues with faulty headlight bulbs, electrical failures, and delayed gear engagements.
| Year | Transmission Issues | Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Slipping into neutral, delayed gear engagements | $1,000+ |
| 2021 | Transmission problems, electrical failures | $500-$1,000 |
| 2019 | Fewer transmission issues reported | $200-$500 |
| 2022 | Improved transmission performance | $100-$300 |
| 2023 | No major transmission issues reported | $0-$100 |
Kia Telluride Generations and Model Years
Debuting in 2019 for the 2020 model year, Kia’s flagship midsize SUV, the Telluride, has been impressing customers with its three rows of seats and spacious interior.
You’ve got options in terms of trim levels, including LX, S, EX, and SX, each with a generous list of standard equipment.
In regard to the breakdown of the generations and model years:
- 2020-2021: First-generation Telluride with some reported issues, but resolved by 2022
- 2022: Introduction of new technology and Kia emblem, marking a turning point in reliability
- 2023: Refresh with subtle styling modifications and new X-Line and X-Pro versions
- 2021 and 2022: Considered the best years to buy, with high reliability scores from J.D. Power
- Trim levels and technology have evolved over the years, making newer models more desirable
Which Kia Telluride Models Are Good to Buy Used
When shopping for a used Kia Telluride, you’ll want to focus on the 2021 and 2022 models, which have proven to be reliable and worth investing in.
These years boast high reliability ratings, a rear collision avoidance system, and an impressive 10-year warranty.
Reliable Model Years
If you’re in the market for a used Kia Telluride, you’ll want to focus on the reliable model years that have proven themselves to be trustworthy and dependable.
The 2021 and 2022 models stand out for their reliability, with J.D. Power scores of 85 out of 100. These models boast high marks in reliability and impressive safety ratings.
Consider the following when searching for a reliable used Kia Telluride:
- Look for 2021 and 2022 models with high reliability ratings
- Check the vehicle history report to verify a clean record
- Take a test drive to get a feel for the vehicle’s performance
- Research the model year’s reliability ratings and reviews
- Take advantage of the 10-year warranty and 100,000 miles of powertrain protection
Top Rated Trim Levels
You’ve narrowed down your search to reliable model years, now it’s time to focus on the top-rated trim levels that make a used Kia Telluride a good investment. The EX and SX trims stand out for their luxury features, such as simulated wood interior trim and artificial leather on parts of the interior.
They also come with advanced safety features, including a self-leveling rear suspension system, which improves the towing experience.
| Trim Level | Key Features |
|---|---|
| EX | Luxury interior trim, advanced safety features |
| SX | Self-leveling rear suspension system, premium interior materials |
| Both | Simulated wood interior trim, artificial leather on parts of the interior |
Warranty and Maintenance
Kia’s commitment to quality and reliability is further reinforced by its impressive warranty and maintenance offerings.
When buying a used Kia Telluride, you can have peace of mind knowing that you’re protected by a 10-year warranty and 100,000 miles of powertrain protection.
- High reliability ratings for 2021 and 2022 models, with J.D. Power scores of 85 out of 100
- Research model year reliability ratings and check the vehicle history report to guarantee a reliable purchase
- Certified pre-owned vehicles offer added assurance with a comprehensive warranty and inspection process
- Average repair costs are relatively affordable compared to other SUVs in its class
- Thoroughly inspect and test drive the car to identify potential issues before making a purchase
Are Kia Tellurides Generally Reliable
How reliable are Kia Tellurides? You’re probably wondering if this vehicle is a trustworthy companion for your daily drives.
The answer is yes. Kia Tellurides have consistently ranked high in reliability surveys, with many models earning top marks from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports.
Across various years, available models have demonstrated a low incidence of mechanical issues, making them a reliable choice for used and new vehicle buyers.
As one of the best SUVs in its class, the Kia Telluride’s reliability record is a significant selling point, giving you confidence in your purchase decision.
The Most Reliable Year Model of the Kia Telluride
The 2020 Kia Telluride stands out as the most reliable year model, boasting an impressive perfect 5.0 reliability rating from J.D. Power.
As you research newer SUVs, you’ll find the 2020 Telluride consistently tops best car listings. If you’re browsing Used Telluride for sale, this model year is a great choice.
- 2020 saw significant improvements in engine and transmission performance, resulting in fewer mechanical issues.
- Telluride years prior to 2020 had some reported problems with the infotainment system, which were resolved in the 2020 model.
- The CoPilot car shopping app and other review platforms praise the 2020 Kia Telluride for its reliability.
- This model year also received top safety ratings, making it a great option for families.
- With proper maintenance, a 2020 Kia Telluride can last well over 200,000 miles without major issues.
Kia Telluride Reliability, Maintenance, and Repair Costs
As you venture into the world of Kia Telluride ownership, understanding the reliability, maintenance, and repair costs of your SUV is crucial to making an informed purchase decision and minimizing expenses down the road.
With an average reliability rating and a score of 100 in dependability, the Kia Telluride is a quality choice.
The 2021 and 2022 models stand out with high marks in reliability, making them the best years to weigh.
While common issues like transmission problems can arise, researching reliability ratings, checking vehicle history, and inspecting the car can help you make an informed decision and keep repair costs, rated 3.5 out of 5, in check.
When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Kia Forte, Kia Optima, Kia Rio and Kia Sedona. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.
