Dealer visit checklist

2025 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)

Panoramic sunroof rattles and wind noise reported by multiple owners, especially at highway speeds
Infotainment system occasional freezing or sluggish response, addressed via OTA updates but still noted in early 2025 builds
Blind-spot monitor false alerts in certain lighting or weather conditions
Fuel economy in real-world mixed driving often falls 1-2 MPG below EPA estimates, especially with the standard V6 under load
Mild hesitation during low-speed acceleration from a stop, a known trait of the 8-speed automatic transmission

STRUCTURE:EXTERIOR TRIM: Kia America, Inc.
TIRES:TEMPORARY/EMERGENCY SPARE TIRE: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2025 Telluride and 2026 Sorento vehicles.
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER: Kia America, Inc.

Know the typical price: about $37,500 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