general problems of the 2020 Kia Motor Telluride - part 2

124 problems related to equipment have been reported for the 2020 Kia Motor Telluride. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2020 Kia Motor Telluride based on all problems reported for the 2020 Telluride.

36 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 12/06/2024

-sunroof wind deflector arm spring broke and when opening sunroof it got stuck and DE-railed the entire passenger side arm making it loose and possible having the sunroof detached on high speeds. Sunroof would no longer close with switch -I was going on a trip and driving on highway, had to make a sudden stop to try close it as it was loose on one side of the arms. -have an appointmnet with dealer, but I am guessing they will not repair as it is out of warranty -no warning lights or messages.

37 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 10/19/2024

October 2024 before the main incident oct 2024, I started noticing slight changes in the way my kia was operating: - delayed response to accelerate when at a light - tire sensors/ crash collision sensors - lane assist pulling my off the road or into on coming traffic (random) - intermittent power loss while driving. - lights not working properly. - high beams failed to operate in sept and was told by burlington wa kia there was not a fix for the recall, while there for service/oil change. - car going into parking brake when not activated. - when stopped in car is in drive, when starting to accelerate the car went in reverse causing me to hit a stump and partially tearing front bumper off. About a week after that incident I was driving home from store and car started randomly pulling car into oncoming lane. Thankfully there was not a vehicle at that time. Car then started having weird fluctuations with speedometer and dash info. Went from 24. 7 miles to gal to 38 and kept jumping, experienced more instances of power loss while in drive. Then all of sudden dashboard went haywire. Whole dash lit up and was switching from different drive modes. I started noticing an electrical burning smell and smoke coming from hood. I pulled over not even a mile from home and started to pull everything important from vehicle. Think the car was on fire under the hood. After several minutes of accessing the situation and smoke dissipated, I decided to try and get car home. As I put car in drive it again went in reverse. I put car in park again and then drive and was able to proceed and limp car home. I parked car and took video of the dash light party and video of putting car in drive and it changing randomly. There still was an electrical burn smell on outside and in cab of vehicle. When my husband arrived home I tried to start vehicle to show him and it wouldn't start. So, he thought maybe the battery fried and took bat in to napa and bought a new battery.

38 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 10/12/2024

The sunroof snapped when opening appears the wind deflector had broken in the corners.

39 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 10/05/2024

Paint peeling off car.

40 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 10/02/2024

Sunroof wouldn’t slide back to open, but the back of the sunroof tilted opened. Now it doesn’t close completely and dealership said can’t close it and it would be $4700 to fix.

41 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 10/01/2024

Paint peeling from 2020 kia Telluride. It seems to be a known issue with many kia Telluride owners experiencing the same paint defects. This is a serious quality issue, I've had many vehicles for 10+ years and never experienced the issues I'm having with this car. The car has under 50000 miles and for it to be peeling like this seems to be a manufacture defect. Kia has refused to fix the issue as they claim its not under warranty.

42 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 09/17/2024

- pressed the moonroof button to open and the panel misaligned and will not open or return to closed position. - with the moonroof ajar I'm am unable to drive in enucleate or raining weather - dealership is backlogged and tells me I would have to leave my car for 3 for a diagnosis and wait addition days for the parts to arrive and repair to be made - no warning messages, sounds or symptoms. First time this has happened and its locked open in misalignment.

43 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 09/15/2024

The center infotainment screen has turned green. Sometimes a hazy green, othertimes almost a solid green which affects the back up camera system when you are trying to back up and not hit anyone or anything. I have brought to the dealership and they stated the head unit is defective and needs replacement. I elevated to kia customer care and they stated that because it is out of the 36,000 mile warranty they would not help. I even stated that as car is not a newer car was not asking for a brand new unit, but asked if they would at least put in a cheaper re-manufactured unit due to the safety issue and they denied that as well. I am on the kia Telluride forum and multiple other people are having this issue. This is a defective part and as it is related to a safety issue needs to be replaced and covered by kia. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

44 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 09/05/2024

The sunroof became stuck while attempting to open. It would not close and further inspection showed that parts of the sunroof had broken. This seems to be a bigger issue.

45 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 08/22/2024

Vehicle began having issues around 60,000 miles. Stutters and slips between 2nd and 3rd gear. When on an incline the issue is much more prevalent. On a steep incline, the vehicle is like lurching it is so prevalent and it feels as though the vehicle is going to give up. Around 45 mph, the vehicle begins vibrating; as speeds increase, the shaking (left to right) becomes increasingly violent. At times, it feels as though the vehicle is going to shake off the road. The issues I primarily when accelerating, and when the gas pedal is released, the shaking slows almost to a stop. Tires, balance, and alignment checked multiple times over the course of the issue and tires are changed seasonally. Took to dealership multiple times to be told there was no issue with the vehicle and it was operating properly. Just over 100k miles, back at the dealership and there is suddenly an issue found. Was told at dealership that passenger side front axle inner race is damaged and needs replaced. Took vehicle to local mechanic since dealership had jerked us around so much over the issues, not repairing, keeping car for extended amounts of time without a loaner vehicle, etc. Local mechanic did a lot of research. This is a common complaint of the Telluride and kia is aware but is not doing anything about it. Mechanics recreated issue immedately said rear driveshaft had movement it shouldn't and replaced. They also serviced the transfer case and transmission. There is a TSB issued on this, but research suggests that it is not resolving the problems and kia dealerships are not acknowledging the issue until out of warranty and TSB doesn't cover the repairs even though it is faulty manufacturing.

46 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 08/11/2024

The wind deflector/bug guard on the sunroof broke and pieces from the broken mechanism proceeded to lodge themselves throughout the track of the sunroof causing the entire track system to break/malfunction. There are several screws that were snapped from the plastic track, which then left the sunroof glass “bouncing” and unsecured on the car. If this was not noticed prior to hitting the highway or driving with any sort of speed I am confident the sunroof would have shattered causing a hazards for myself and children in the vehicle or flown off the car causing a hazard to others on the road. The car is currently at a kia dealership being looked at, to which they suggested this because it’s becoming more and more “common”. Additionally it is not a cheap fix, quoted just under $4000 for parts and labor. Absolutely no warning lights or indicators stating the sunroof was “open” or malfunctioning. Even once it was no longer attached to the track/bracket system it was not triggering the light indicating it was open like it does normally and with all other doors/windows.

47 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 08/06/2024

The paint on my pearl white 2020 Telluride is peeling off in sheets in the roof. The car has less than 100,000 miles and should not be doing this. Multiple people including the ones in a lawsuit with kia have had this problem and it needs to be addressed!.

48 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/19/2024

Vehicle started on fire and burned up while parked. Fire came from the engine compartment. Unknown from exact location in engine compartment.

49 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/19/2024

Unknown- my 2020 Telluride doesn’t even have 60,000 miles on it. I have only used the sunroof a handful of times and realized it won’t open all the way when I tried it. Realized there’s a metal piece that’s connected with plastic that has snapped off. After searching about it, I’ve seen so many people comp about this same issue and how expensive it is to fix. Why hasn’t there been a recall on this if so many are having the same issue?.

50 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/14/2024

While driving the vehicle I opened the sunroof. The sunroof appeared to be stuck with a metal object attached to the wind reflector popped off and came inside the vehicle. Had it been closer to my face it could have caused grave danger, if it had struck my eyes. The piece appears to have attached to the wind reflector and frame of sunroof.

51 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/03/2024

Sunroof went off track and will not close. Took it to the dealership and it will need a totally new sunroof assembly totaling $5,000 because the sunroof got off track on its own.

52 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/01/2024

The back self-leveling shock absorbers have failed. Even the slightest bump has my back passengers in danger of hitting their heads. In reading various forums, this is a problem with the 2020 Tellurides with the tow package.

53 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 07/01/2024

2020 kia Telluride snow white pearl paint chipping on top of windshield exposing primer. Known issue regarding kia and white paint colors.

54 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 06/28/2024

There is no incident but there has been an interim recall notice on my car since February. This is the recall number 24v148. I rent this car out as part of my business and this recall is blocking me from being able to rent it out since February (6 months). Please get this resolved.

55 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/31/2024

Sunroof original from kia. Track has broken and it had no out of ordinary use. I can understand seals, but the track of the sunroof should exceed any other issue.

56 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/23/2024

The a/c system failed due to either corrosion or leaking at a fitting(dealer has told us two different things). This is a 2020 car with a little over 100k miles, there is no reason for a failure due to corrosion or due to a leaking fitting. This is poor assembly, faulty factory parts, or faulty design. The coolant used (1234yf) is flammable and could pose a safety hazard when it leaks. Photo attached that dealer provided for leak location.

57 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/22/2024

The window on the driver side and CO-pilot behind the driver side have gotten stuck. Last time I was at a car wash and the rear CO-pilot window did not go up and the inside of my car got wet.

58 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/14/2024

On Tuesday, may 14th, the sunroof on my 2020 kia Telluride broke and is now stuck in the open position. Despite forums indicating that this is a common issue with this vehicle, kia refuses to cover the repair. This is the first time I've purchased a new vehicle and faced a major repair before paying it off. The sunroof problem is clearly an issue with kia, yet they are not offering any assistance for this $3,500 repair on a car that is less than five years old with minimal sunroof use. I believe a recall is warranted, and customers should not have to bear the cost of this failure. It's disappointing that kia is living up to a negative reputation that I thought they were trying to move away from. If I have to pay for this major repair, which is due to a flaw and not my usage, this will be my first and last kia purchase.

59 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 05/04/2024

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? power train, oil consumption, camshaft position , circuit sensors a x 4, headlamps high beams do not function. Check engine light fails. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? I dont feel safe driving after sunset if I cant see road when needed my high beams did not function I was told it was fixed but there were no parts. Still an issue. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? yes about 4 times. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? no before the 4th week of having vehicle after 3 weeks of purchase with no oil. I reported it to y seller was told to pay to fix at service but I did not expect to buy a faulty vehicle after the struggle was to obtain such vehice for my business.

60 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 03/04/2024

There have been several times over the last couple of months when my car brakes on its own. I have not had any "extra" features on such as cruise control or lane assist. I have been driving 70 mph on the highway, my car suddenly brakes, and then I am unable to accelerate. It is absolutely terrifying. We called our nearest kia dealership after the second time and they told us to get a car wash and since it hasn't been consistently happening, they wouldn't be able to re-create it or fix it. We have been going out of our way to keep the front sensor, and it still happens. I worry that I will be driving on the highway (again) when this happens, and the semi truck behind me won't have time to adjust to my sudden, and unwanted, deceleration.

61 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 03/01/2024

Windshield replacement 2 times in three years and about to have it replaced again six months after replacing it. It seems little thing that hit the windshield will crack it. I asked kia if they had complaints about windshields problems and was told no. I getting expensive replacing it every six months or ever year. I believe it cheaply made and the won’t admit it.

62 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/30/2024

Our sunroof which hasn’t been used much at all malfunctioned due to the tracking so they say and no it will not properly work or close all the way. This wasn’t covered under the extended warranty I purchased and we were under the 60k warranty when we reported the incident and then only over by 74 miles to which they wouldn’t cover the repair and said it would cost around $4,000.

63 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/29/2024

The torque converter is malfunctioning to where I have been unable to use my vehicle for almost 2 months. It is available for inspection, but is currently at a repair shop pending inspection to get an estimate on costs to fix the issue (if it is something that can be fixed). My safety along with my family's safety were put at risk due to the inability for the vehicle to pick up speed while driving on major highways (I-95/florida turnpike). During this time the check engine light came on for the 1st time, the vehicle would not properly pick up speed, continuously makes a whining noise when vehicle is on whether it's being driven or not and it shakes at various speeds. A diagnostic was completed and the code listed was for the torque converter. Since that time (1st week of February), I have not been able to drive the vehicle. This is the only vehicle in my household. I am still having to make payments on it and cannot use it. Kia has had a recall in the past issued in June 2020 for a specific timeframe of vehicles produced between may 18, 2020 - may 20, 2020 for the "automatic transmission/torque converter assembly replacement". With this recall, kia only listed 19 VIN's to associate this major issue with. The recall also stated to complete this action prior to the sale of the vehicle to prevent customer complaints. My car was manufactured in June 2019 and I purchased it mid year 2020. If kia has sold thousands of Tellurides since that time, how can only 19 be affected? I have attached a copy of the previous recall. Once I receive an estimate, I can also forward it. I also have copies of every/all maintenance completed since getting this vehicle to show everything has been completed on time & by a kia dealership in my area (it doesn't let me upload this file).

64 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/13/2024

Oil leaking from the oil filter housing suddenly. Most of the leaking happens after a cold start. As engine warms the leaking is less noticable. Mechanic found the back of the housing covered in oil but not the drain plug or the oil pan. No prior leaks until 1/13/2023. Finding that the part is on backorder with no date.

65 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/13/2024

Headlights: have deplorable visibility, particularly around corners making it nearly impossible to see at night. It is grossly dangerous, and unacceptable to equip a vehicle with such low quality headlights. However, on January 13th 2024 the hi beams ceased to function at all, which has left me unable to drive at night. As a single mother this is a huge hinderance for my young sons and their activities especially this time of year getting dark at 4:30pm. Driver seatbelt malfunction: the seatbelt has all but completely failed to retract upon removal, leaving the entire thing loose causing to twist and get caught in the door. It will not retract upon collision which also is a priority safety concern. Driver side mirror: gets stuck in the folded position, and more times than not, I then have to manually unfold it. This causes the saved position for my optimal rear visibility to get comprised and I then have to adjust while driving which is also dangerous. The dealer has addressed this and said the wiring was loose to the mirror inside the driver door and assured me they fixed it, however is still getting stuck 90 percent of the time.

66 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/08/2024

I have a fairly brand new 2020 kia Telluride with only about 50,000 miles on it and one day out of no where the car won't start and now I'm getting a check esc message. Since it's fairly new I had it jump started and the car quickly turned on and ran fine for the rest of the day. The following day the car hesitated when turning on but it started. I was driving and when I got to a light and when the light turned green and went to take off the car wouldn't go. It turned off again and would start back up. I went into the kia forum and noticed that a lot of kia Telluride owners are experiencing this same issue but all seem to have different resolutions from needing a new battery, or a new starter or that the ibu system is blown. This is very frustrating because I don't necessarily know where I need to begin and I don't want to have waste my money with trying to figure out exactly what is going on with my car.

67 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 01/03/2024

The driver side and passenger side view mirrors are retractable. Both side view mirrors will get stuck in the closed position which affects the ability to see vehicles on the left or right.

68 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 12/01/2023

The high beam on my headlights are not working. As I switch back and forth you can't see a brightness. There is no notification of false beam or anything. Have not used the high beam often. Just notice this issue.

69 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 11/30/2023

My vehicle is 3 years old and the frame of my sunroof snapped. The warranty only covers the motor and the frame is what is damaged. When I called the warranty, they said this is a very common problem among kia Tellurides. Why is this not a recall? it would cost me $4,000 to repair. This is not right.

70 Equipment problem

Failure Date: 11/30/2023

The wind deflector broke on one side. My sunroof won’t close. It is causing water damage and the amount to fix it over 1k. After research this problem has been reported numerous times but no recall yet. Please recall this safety feature in the Telluride.


Other Equipment related problems of the 2020 Kia Motor Telluride


Safety Ratings of Telluride Cars
Fuel Economy of Telluride Vehicles
Telluride Service Bulletins
Telluride Defect Investigations