Dealer visit checklist
2023 Kia Telluride checklist
Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.
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 2023 Kia Telluride problems to check
- Panoramic sunroof rattles and wind noise reported by multiple owners, particularly at highway speeds
- Some owners report vibration or shudder from the 8-speed automatic transmission during low-speed acceleration, especially in colder weather
- Infotainment system (10.25-inch) can freeze or require reboots; a known software issue Kia has issued OTA and dealer updates for
- Rear HVAC vents and third-row climate control can be inconsistent, with some units delivering weak airflow to the third row
- Potential for paint chips and door ding vulnerability due to softer clearcoat — a minor but recurring complaint among owners
Ask: have these recalls been fixed?
- AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW: Kia America, Inc.
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL: Kia America, Inc.
- POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT: Kia America, Inc.
- SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST: Kia America, Inc.
- STRUCTURE:EXTERIOR TRIM: Kia America, Inc.
- SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST: Kia America, Inc.
Negotiate the price
- Know the typical price: about $33,000 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