Kia Soul Complaints

5,626 consumer complaints on file.

#11722193March 5, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2011 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while her husband was at a stop sign, the vehicle suddenly shut off. The vehicle was successfully jump-started; however, after driving approximately one mile, the vehicle began jerking and lost power again and was pushed to a residence. The contact referenced NHTSA ID Number: 23V652000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC); as a possible cause for the failure; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 154,655.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11722329March 5, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The contact owned a 2015 Kia Soul. While driving at 55 MPH, the contact heard a loud "pop" sound followed immediately by visible flames originating from under the hood. No warning lights or indicators were illuminated before the fire. The vehicle was occupied by 2 occupants; the occupants were able to safely exit. The contact noticed black smoke coming from underneath the hood. The fire started in the engine bay and spread to the rest of the vehicle. The fire was extinguished by the fire dept, police report was filed. The vehicle was deemed destroyed. No injuries were reported. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 215,035.
Crash:
No
Fire:
Yes
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11722032March 4, 2026
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ENGINE
The contact owns a 2016 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle shut off while driving on a ramp, and the vehicle coasted to the side of the road. The vehicle lost automotive power and stalled in a high-traffic area, creating a safety risk. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and the vehicle was associated with NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V120000 (Engine, Engine and Engine Cooling). The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was repaired but the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 120,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11722057March 4, 2026
ENGINE
ENGINE SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING IT DOWN THE HIGHWAY Purchased 8/5 from reseller, who had driver it over 200 miles with no issues. Had it inspected that day and no issues found. Scheduled appt w/ Clay Cooley Kia to drop off 8/12 to have warranty recalls addressed. Clay Cooley inspected and found no issues, verified in good shape; work completed 8/14. On 8/18, after driving it less than 183 miles, the vehicle COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN on the highway. The check engine light came on immediately before the car shut down, but that was all. It was incredibly dangerous. Searched online and discovered that this has been a know issue with Kia Souls. Discovered online that this was a known issue, and had previously been the focus of a class action lawsuit. Contacted Kia corporate who mandated I take it back to Clay Cooley Kia. Clay Cooley Kia refused to repair it, and Kia Corporate refused to handle further.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11722002March 4, 2026
ENGINE
My 2021 Kia Soul is having the same piston issues leading to engine failure as other previously recalled Kia Soul vehicles but for some reason my VIN is not part of any recall. Now it has been determined there is heavy scoring in my engine and I will need a new engine. My car is only 5 years old and there should be no reason for such major engine damage. My car has stalled on me while driving and other very similar issues as described on previous recalls. How does NHTSA determine when a certain model/year of car needs to be part of a national recall?
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11721691March 3, 2026
ENGINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 Kia Soul. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, indicating a failure with the catalytic converter. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and the mechanic associated the failure with NHTSA ID Number: 19V120000 (Engine, Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was then taken to the dealer for the recall repair. Approximately 20,000 miles later, the failure reoccurred, and the vehicle was returned to the independent mechanic. The mechanic stated that the failure had reoccurred and informed the contact that the parts were possibly not repaired or replaced during the recall repair. The failure reoccurred three times. The dealer was notified of the failure, but the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 200,900.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11721795March 3, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Vehicle paint(white) is peeling off 2016 Kia Soul
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11720859February 27, 2026
ENGINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:CRANK/CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled while driving at undisclosed speeds. The check engine warning light was illuminated. There was an abnormal, fluttery sound detected before the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that the failure was due to the crankshaft and camshaft. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there was no warranty coverage for the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 135,864.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11720870February 27, 2026
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact’s wife owns a 2014 Kia Soul. The contact stated that on several occasions after refueling the vehicle, there was an abnormally strong gasoline odor inside the cabin of the vehicle and outside around the vehicle. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked on several occasions, there was condensation under the gas tank. The vehicle was inspected, and there was corrosion underneath the vehicle on the gas tank, and the rear of the gas tank was separating. The replacement gas tank was purchased but the refurbished gas tank had the same corrosion on the gas tank. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11720705February 26, 2026
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
This issue is a significant safety concern. The vehicle intermittently loses propulsion, causing a sudden forward lurch, and then abruptly regains power, pushing me back into the seat. This unexpected deceleration and surge can create a dangerous situation in traffic and may lead to an accident if it occurs while merging, crossing intersections, or driving at highway speeds. In addition, I am experiencing significant engine oil loss between regular oil changes. This week, just before my scheduled service, I found the engine to be approximately two quarts low. There were no warning lights indicating low oil or pressure. I only became aware of the issue after hearing noticeable engine ticking, at which point I immediately parked the vehicle and have not driven it since. I added two quarts of oil due to concern over potential engine damage caused by operating at a low oil level. I have contacted my dealership to report the oil loss and the engine noise, and I am currently waiting for a return call as I had to leave a message. This level of oil consumption is abnormal and concerning, especially combined with the lack of warning indicators. I believe this condition may pose a safety risk and could potentially lead to engine failure while driving. I have recorded video showing the amount of oil needed, the dipstick readings before and after adding oil, and the process of topping up the engine. I also have receipts for the oil I purchased. I can provide all documentation upon request. Based on my research, this appears to be a documented issue reported by multiple vehicle owners, and it is known to require corrective repair. I checked my VIN on the manufacturer’s recall website and confirmed that there are currently no open recalls associated with my vehicle. However, despite the absence of an official recall, the issues I am experiencing are safety‑related and require investigation and correction.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11720757February 26, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, ENGINE
The entire car is dead from the engine to the key function completely dead. The car broke down 3 time in the middle of the street which could've caused a serious crash putting my safety and others at risk. The problem has been addressed to two different dealers and Kia corporate without resolution. I did make a police report about the mold infestation inside the car. I did now see any warnings prior to the complete reck. The cars been dead from the past 3 months. Both dealers are refusing and/or delaying any type of resolution in fact they gave me even more pressure. Causing me more anxiety than tranquility. Elevating my emotional health.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11720416February 25, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. Additionally, the engine was leaking oil. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine); however, the failure recurred. The contact's friend diagnosed the vehicle with a code reader and retrieved DTC: P0017, P0301, P0302, P0303, and P0304. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11720424February 25, 2026
ENGINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2015 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle started losing motive power. The check engine warning light was illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was restarted, but was sputtering and making abnormal sounds. The contact stated that the floorboard became very hot. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V120000 (Engine, Engine and Engine Cooling); prior to the most recent failure with the catalytic converter. The contact stated that the catalytic converter was replaced three times. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11719585February 21, 2026
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, ENGINE
My car was not accelerating all the time I was pressing the pedal. a mechanic said it was the engine.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11719469February 20, 2026
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the engine seized. The contact stated that nearby drivers assisted with pushing the vehicle to the shoulder of the roadway. The failure had occurred while driving on a busy highway. While attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle started; however, it was unsafe to drive the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Prior to the engine seizing, the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact stated that 3 to 4 quarts of oil needed to be added between oil changes. In addition, the contact stated that in 2021, the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine). The contact stated that after the recall repair was performed, the excessive oil consumption started. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 88,200.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11719055February 19, 2026
ENGINE
My 2015 Kia Soul (VIN: [XXX] ) experienced sudden catastrophic engine failure: loud pop, knocking, and immediate loss of power. The engine has a hole in piston #2 and a hole in valve #3. This is a known safety defect included in the Hyundai/Kia Theta II engine settlement. My vehicle has KSDS update installed, but Kia and the dealership are denying warranty repair unless a specific code (P1326) or rod-bearing damage is found. The engine failure occurred without warning and placed me in danger. Kia's refusal to cover a known safety defect leaves an unsafe vehicle unrepaired. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718966February 18, 2026
STRUCTURE:BODY
Kia Soul 2016 white color. The factory paint is peeling off completely.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718798February 18, 2026
STEERING
When car is turning a right, the car turns off. When car is parked & stearing isnt straight car wont turn on.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718935February 18, 2026
SERVICE BRAKES, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS, FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Description of Incident: On February 13, 2026, at approximately 3:00 PM, I was driving my 2021 Kia Soul (VIN: [XXX] ) on Calvine Road in Elk Grove, CA. A vehicle suddenly merged into my path. I immediately attempted to apply the brakes, but the pedal failed to depress or engage normally. Despite the imminent collision, the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) failed to provide any alert, and the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system did not activate. To avoid a high-speed rear-end collision, I was forced to perform an emergency steering maneuver toward the curb and into roadside bushes to stop the vehicle. This maneuver resulted in severe mechanical failure, including a broken driver-side axle, damaged rims, and broken brake pads. The dealership (Elk Grove Kia) has provided an estimate of $9,461.67 for these repairs but has failed to explain why the primary safety systems and service brakes failed to function as designed during this emergency. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Crash:
Yes
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0
#11718401February 17, 2026
POWER TRAIN, ENGINE, UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SUBJECT: Engine → Stall → Loss of power while driving: While driving normally, the vehicle began losing power and could not accelerate properly. The engine warning light illuminated and the vehicle repeatedly entered a reduced-power condition where it could barely maintain speed. The vehicle would stall while driving and then restart after sitting. This occurred multiple times over a period of time and progressively worsened. The engine also began consuming large amounts of oil between oil changes. Eventually the engine suffered catastrophic failure and would no longer run. A dealership later stated internal engine damage was present, including a failed valve and spark plug damage. The vehicle is currently at a dealership and available for inspection. The loss of power and stalling created a safety hazard because the vehicle could not maintain normal traffic speed and could have been struck by other vehicles. The problem was confirmed by a dealership service department. Warning lights were present prior to final failure and appeared during the loss of power events.
Crash:
No
Fire:
No
Injuries:
0
Deaths:
0

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