Dealer visit checklist
2020 Kia Telluride checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
This is a year to avoid
- • 2.2x more owner complaints than nearby model years
Inspect the car
- Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
- Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
- Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
- Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
- Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
- Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
- Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
- Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)
Known 2020 Kia Telluride problems to check
- Panoramic sunroof rattles and occasional seal leaks reported on higher-trim models
- Infotainment system can freeze or reboot, often resolved by software update at the dealer
- Blind-spot collision avoidance system occasionally gives false alerts at highway speeds
- Theta II or Smartstream engine oil consumption worth monitoring — check levels between changes
- Some owners report premature brake wear, especially on heavier AWD trims doing city driving
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020 Telluride vehicles.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020 Telluride vehicles equipped with Smart Cruise Control (SCC).
- TRAILER HITCHES: Kia America, Inc.
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS: Kia America, Inc.
- POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT: Kia America, Inc.
- SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST: Kia America, Inc.
- SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST: Kia America, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $27,500 for this model year
- Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
- Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
- Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
- Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
- Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
- Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away