NHTSA Complaint #11698338 — 2024 KIA TELLURIDE

Vehicle was part of the NHTSA 24V077 recall for faulty valve springs and took into dealership in April 2024 and engine was not replaced as it was listed as ok. Subsequently took for other recalls and maintenance, each time the vehicle was released back. Took vehicle in for oil change in Apr 2025 and stated evidence of noise in rear end, repair records indicate spare tire loose so tightened and given back. Noise was still evident so I tightened and in mid August, noise got worse and could feel while driving. Took in 29 Aug 2025 for oil change and mentioned noise. At this point after 6 or more visits, Kia flagged the vehicle under 24V077 and directed engine change saying unsafe to drive. So they allowed me to drive 30K miles and finally replaced engine which was performing satisfactory. The rear end noise was determined to be rear differential which was replaced, noise remained, techline case opened, shocks changed, noise remained, Field engineer visit scheduled 6 weeks out then canceled with direction to change rear cross member which was changed, noise still there. Now existing case re-opened with request for another engineer to visit. More money spent in rear end repairs which noise started in April 2025, then the cost of engine replacement which has only 65 miles all by dealership. Vehicle at dealership since 29 August 2025. Not confident engine replacement is satisfactory as fuel pump also required replacement and the inability to fix rear end is keeping from checking engine replacement is fixed. Wife no longer feels safe ever driving this vehicle again. Furthermore, Kia put us at risk by failing to direct dealership to change engine in April 2024 and all subsequent visits before finally flagging. My guess is lack of new engines available and did not want me to wait so allowed us to continue to drive extra miles and addl time took out of state Lemon Law timeframe likely. All repair records avail on request. Demanding buyback from Kia of America