NHTSA Complaint #11653925 — 2021 KIA SELTOS

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine system appears to be malfunctioning. Specifically, there are signs of a potential head gasket failure, valve cover gasket leak, or internal engine damage due to oil leakage and excessive white smoke from the exhaust. The vehicle is available for inspection upon request. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The white smoke obstructs rear visibility, which poses a danger to other drivers. The unpredictable engine revving in idle or park also raises concern for unintended acceleration or engine failure, which could cause a crash, especially in congested or residential areas. In addition, the oil leak poses a fire risk and environmental hazard. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes, the symptoms have been observed and documented consistently. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? The vehicle has not been formally inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives at this time, but I am open to having it evaluated by any relevant party as needed. Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? There were no warning lights initially. The symptoms began with mild engine revving at idle and a burning oil smell. The white smoke and oil leakage became noticeable shortly after. The issues have progressively worsened over time and now the check engine light is on.