Kia Seltos Buying Guide

1 Known Issue to Check

We track 1 known issues for the Kia Seltos in the Australian market. 1 of these are high severity and could result in significant repair costs. Check the details below before buying.

Known Issues

7-speed dry DCT judder, hesitation or clutch wear at low speed

HIGH

Affected Years

2019–2023

Typical Repair Cost

$2,000–$5,000

Ask the Seller

"Any judder or hesitation from a standstill or at low speed? Has the DCT clutch pack or software been updated by the dealer?"

DCT (Dual Clutch)

Transmission Notes

The Kia Seltos uses different automatic transmission types depending on the model year:

2019–2023 DCT (Dual Clutch)

Questions to Ask the Seller

Use these questions when inspecting a Kia Seltos:

1 Any judder or hesitation from a standstill or at low speed? Has the DCT clutch pack or software been updated by the dealer?

Is the Kia Seltos a Good Used Car in Australia?

The used Kia Seltos is a solid choice for Australian buyers, offering good fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride. However, be wary of the 7-speed dry DCT transmission, which can exhibit judder and clutch wear, particularly in city driving. Overall, the Seltos delivers decent reliability, but thorough checks are essential when buying a Seltos in Australia, especially given our harsh climate and long highway distances.

What to Check When Buying a Used Kia Seltos

Inspect for 7-speed dry DCT transmission judder — this can lead to costly repairs between $2,000 and $5,000.
Test for low-speed hesitation or clutch wear, common issues that affect drivability in urban settings.
Check the service history for regular maintenance, especially regarding transmission fluid changes and software updates.
Look for signs of sun damage on the interior and exterior, as harsh Australian conditions can lead to deterioration.

Used Kia Seltos — Frequently Asked Questions

How many kilometres is too many for a used Seltos in Australia?

For a used Seltos, aim for under 100,000 kilometres. The drivetrain is generally durable, but higher mileage can indicate more wear, especially in urban driving conditions.

Which Seltos years should I avoid?

Avoid the 2019 and early 2020 models, as they are known for transmission issues, particularly with the 7-speed DCT. Look for updated models from mid-2020 onwards.

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