general problems of the 2015 Kia Motor Soul - part 2

I was making a left turn onto a street and the check engine light started flashing and the car immediately went into limp mode. Code is showing p1326.

The component that malfunctioned is the catalytic converter, which became clogged due to excessive oil consumption from the engine. The oil consumption likely resulted in oil entering the exhaust system and contaminating the catalyst, causing it to lose its efficiency. The dealer replaced the engine but failed to inspect and replace the catalytic converter, which was clogged due to oil consumption from the engine. Yes, the catalytic converter is available for inspection and can be physically examined by a mechanic or technician to confirm the issue. The clogging of the catalytic converter resulted in poor engine performance, to include reduced acceleration, high rough idling and risk of fire. This lead to dangerous driving conditions, the vehicle stalled and had trouble accelerating. The issue of a clogged catalytic converter due to oil consumption has been confirmed by dealer. They performed diagnostic tests and read the vehicle's diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) that indicated problems with the catalytic converter. No, the dealer relayed that they did not inspect the catalytic converter. Yes, I noticed symptoms prior to the catalytic converter clogging. Check engine light coming on. Reduced engine performance, sluggish acceleration. These symptoms occurred the day the vehicle became incapacitated. Rough idling was happening over time, during winter months.

My daughter was driving my car on [xxx] when suddenly there was a pop and the car stopped working. Honestly she could have been killed but by the grace of god nobody was behind or aside her and she was able to coast over to the breakdown lane. This could have been a very different story. An independent mechanic notated engine failure codes, a worn crank shaft which triggered a sensor to seize the engine or go into “limp mode” then heavy metal in the engine oil. Maintenance was performed and aaa unaccompanied towed the vehicle to wagner kia in shrewsbury MA the next day after a storm passed. Wagner kia then refused to service the vehicle or acknowledge any responsibility. I contacted kia America and opened a claim and again they denied any responsibility closing out the claim within 48 hours although the company has had class action lawsuits against this make/model and year of car. This is truly a nightmare where the little man wallet takes a hit while being bullied by a large corrupt corporation. I then accepted an offer on the car for what it is worth in its current condition and took a loss of over $4,000. 00 on an auto loan that I had to pay off the balance of and hundreds of dollars of repairs over the past few months. This vehicle also suddenly had an evaporation leak prior to the event which cost myself even more money. I do believe when you engine suddenly shuts off with no warning on a highway and could have killed everyone in the car that it should be reported and taken seriously by the manufacturer and dealership. Thank you for hearing our family’s story- information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The contact owns a 2015 kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated the vehicle failed to accelerate above 20 mph. The vehicle lost motive power and stalled. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was shaking abnormally. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Description of incident: the engine has experienced a failure that causes oil to blow back from the engine, covering components both under and outside of the engine cover. This has resulted in oil accumulating on the exhaust and other hot components, creating a significant fire hazard. Safety risks: this malfunction poses a serious risk to my safety and the safety of others, as the oil leakage could lead to a fire while driving. Additionally, the vehicle stalls at various speeds, which increases the risk of accidents or harm to other drivers and pedestrians. There is also a strong smell of oil inside the car, potentially indicating harmful fumes entering the cabin. Inspection availability: the component/system causing the issue is available for inspection upon request. Reproduction and confirmation of the problem: the issue has been reproduced and confirmed by two sae-certified mechanics. Inspection by others: the vehicle has been inspected by two sae-certified mechanics but not yet by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. Warning signs prior to failure: warning signs included consistently losing oil even after a fresh oil change, smoke from under the hood, a strong oil smell inside the cabin, and the car stalling during operation. These symptoms have been ongoing and progressively worsening, with the vehicle now stalling more frequently.

The engine system in my 2025 kia Soul malfunctioned, as indicated by the activation of the p1326 warning light. This diagnostic code typically signals serious engine issues, such as potential rod-bearing damage. Despite this warning, the authorized dealership, jim bone kia of santa rosa, only replaced the knock sensor after I asked to conduct a bearing clearance test (bct), which they claimed passed. However, prior inspections had revealed metal debris in the oil, which strongly suggests internal engine damage. The failure to conduct a thorough investigation into the potential engine damage poses a significant safety risk, as the vehicle could experience a catastrophic engine failure while in operation. Such an event could endanger my safety and the safety of others on the road. The dealership has not reproduced or confirmed additional issues related to the p1326 code, claiming they require further symptoms (e. G. , audible engine noise or a repeat warning) to proceed with deeper diagnostics. This approach delays necessary repairs and leaves unresolved safety concerns. Additionally, the vehicle’s catalytic converter was initially denied warranty coverage, despite being included under an extended recall. This created confusion and delayed essential repairs. The p1326 warning light appeared before service, and the knock sensor was replaced, but no further proactive measures were taken to address the root cause. The vehicle remains at risk of more severe engine damage and safety hazards.

We bought kia Soul in July of '23 from a dealership. We had no knowledge of a recall on this vehicle from the dealer. Although it was sold to us, and assumed it was in good working order. In December of 2023, the engine/electrical system had an issue. The car was smoking, the battery was changed and it seemed to be mostly solved, although here was smoke coming from the oil area. At no point were we told that there was a recall on this vehicle or sent communications saying so. This was fixed at an independent garage - not kia, and again we had no idea that there was a recall on this vehicles engine. We received a "important safety recall" notification around Nov. 1st, 2024 about a problem that needed attention. Using the qr at the bottom to try to schedule the recall, there was not availability at our local dealership until late January to have this remedied. On Nov. 28, 2024, the car started having issues again. The oil light flickered on late on Nov. 27th and then by the 28th the car was unusable/undrivable and we had to have the car towed to the dealership. It was then we realized this may have to do with the recall notification that we received. We told the dealership this so they could see if this issue is part of the recall. The dealership and kia customer service then told us that the engine issues are not covered under the "extended warranty" because the recall work had not been preformed. I have to stress again a) no availability to do the recall, and b) we're the second owners of this car and were just made aware of the issues. The dealership we bought it from did not make us aware of a recall, nor did the places we've had it serviced for problems last year and when getting oil changes. This is unacceptable. The repair cost is not covered, and we were told that the engine will cost $8000 to replace. The recall notice specifically says "kia will inspect, test, and if necessary repair or replace the engine. " kia should be responsible for this.

The contact owns a 2015 kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled with no warning light illuminated. The contact noticed a knocking sound coming from the engine. The vehicle was able to restart however the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the catalytic overheating protection engine control unit failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and a case was opened. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 19v120000 (engine and engine cooling). The approximate failure mileage was 96,643.

I was driving about 50mph when my car suddenly stopped accelerating. I rolled down the hill a little before I hit the brake and put the car in park right in the middle of the street in traffic.

The contact owns a 2015 kia Soul. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated intermittently. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 19v120000 (engine, engine and engine cooling); and the catalytic overheating protection engine control unit logic was updated to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. After the recall repair was completed, the failure persisted. The contact took the vehicle to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that the catalytic converter needed to be cleaned. The vehicle was not repaired. The check engine warning light remained constantly illuminated. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 115,000.

Purchased vehicle on 10/12/2024 was driving it home the car started knocking, and loosing acceleration on freeway. The car was smelling of very volatile gas fumes. I put some gas in car for the trip home . Drove about 15-18 miles had to pullover into the v shape of the merging section of a on ramp,. Could not make it to the emergency lane on the freeway. Used family members road side assistance to get car home, took it to the kia dealer (car pros moreno valley) towed to them because they said had to get a appt,. Which they set up for today 10/25/2024. The intake person was letting us know it was just a update as if the fuel leak and oil leak was not a part of the recall and it would cost us 9000-13,000 to fix the engine plus the diagnosis of 240. 00 getting the run around already for a dangerous situation. The car has caught fire for other owners, of the same year and make. The customer care person stated to me it is just a oil pan leak, as if the car is safe and anything else is our problem. The car reeks of fumes and could not be safe to drive. They were questioning us about the recall as to why it was not done? we told him we were not the owners we dont know if they got the notices? no, unknown only owned the car 0n 10/12/24 for 30 minutes before this started warning lights appeared on dash after knocking and acceleration went out. Car was towed and left at kia dealer today. He was talking to us as if it was our fault the car was dangerous and could blow up while driving!!!.

Incredibly high oil consumption. Spending so much money on keeping oil in it.

The car has consistently burned oil, and I’ve had several engine-related repairs: 09/2022: camshaft replaced. The check engine light came on again, but I was told the camshaft was fine and that the car just needed an oil change. 04/2023: check engine light came on, autozone diagnostic code p0011. 06/2023: check engine light on again, autozone diagnostic code p0011. 09/2023: check engine light on again autozone diagnostic code p0011. 06/2024: check engine light came on autozone diagnostic code p0014. 07/2024: check engine light on-taken to firestone auto for an oil change 07/2024: check engine light on- car to christian brothers automotive, where the camshaft and timing chain belt were replaced. Documented a knocking sound in the vehicle. 09/30/2024: vehicle shook violently on the highway, sputtering as if the engine would fail. Check engine light came on after car began to shake. 10/2024: we care auto diagnosed the car. I was told the engine needs replacement due to misfires, low compression, and no oil in cylinders 2 and 3. Safford kia brown of manassas recommended replacing the ignition coil, spark plugs, and conducting a fuel induction service, diagnostic, and synthetic oil change. Given the car’s engine history, I don’t believe this will resolve the root problem, and it’s likely the car will need more repairs soon. Driving under these conditions compromises my safety and the safety of others, increasing the likelihood of a life-threatening situation. Per motor and wheel and fast company, the December 2020 recall addressed engine issues and fire risks in kia Souls from 2014-2016. Owners reported hearing knocking noises before their engines failed or caught fire while driving. Some saw smoke before safely stopping, highlighting the dangers of unnoticed warnings. Carmax's warranty acknowledges the issue and is willing to authorize repairs, so I would like to know why kia will not honor this as well. I ask kia to reconsider and investigate further.

P0420 code indicated during emissions test. Vehicle shut off after stopping and acceleration after stopping. Hesitates when trying to restart vehicle. Contact kia manufacturer about engine and p0420 code, however no help was given.

See attached document for complaint.

I am experiencing multiple safety and performance issues with my 2015 kia Soul: 1. Vibration at idle: significant vibration when the vehicle is idling at a red light. Possible causes include worn engine mounts, faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, issues with the idle control valve or throttle body, or vacuum leaks. 2. Electrical issues: • codes: b111216 (ignition voltage low), b17672f (OCS algorithm cut off), b251100 (head lamp high lh scg), b251300 (head lamp low lh scg) • symptoms include low battery voltage warnings and short circuits in the headlamp circuits. Possible causes might be a failing battery or alternator, or damaged electrical wiring. 3. Emission system problems: • codes: p0455 (evaporative emission system leak detected), p0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold) • symptoms: check engine light related to emission control systems. Potential causes include a loose or damaged gas cap, cracked evap hoses, faulty purge or vent valves, and failing catalytic converter or oxygen sensors. 4. Airbag system issues: • codes: b151100 (buckle switch driver open or short to battery), b110200 (battery voltage low), b149000 (OCS defect) • symptoms: warning lights related to the airbag system. Possible causes include faulty seat belt buckle switches, low battery voltage, or issues within the occupant classification system. 5. Tpms issues: • codes: c1314 (sensor 3 radio frequency channel failure), c1662 (auto learning failure) • symptoms: tpms warnings and inability to correctly monitor tire pressure. Possible causes are sensor failures or calibration issues. Despite regular maintenance, these issues persist and affect the safety and drivability of my vehicle. I request an investigation into these problems to determine if they are common in this model and if there are any recalls or service bulletins that address them. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

It started in September 2022 when my kia Soul started spuddering and slowing down quickly while driving on the interstate. Drove it on limp to the closest mechanic shop. They recommended a complete engine replacement, which would cost more than the vehicle was worth. Had it towed to a kia dealership for their diagnosis. They came back and said it was a clogged catalytic converter. Replacing it fixed the car. Now to June 2024 and car slowed down drastically while on the highway, with my wife and newborn child in the car. I had it towed to kia again and they diagnosed it as a total engine failure with a clogged catalytic converter again (catalytic converter only lasted 1. 5 years!). Again, the replacement cost is more than the value of the car. I think they knew of the issue in 2022 or failed to diagnose the actual problem and put my family at risk.

The contact owns a 2015 kia Soul. The contact stated while driving 55 mph, the vehicle inadvertently went into limp mode. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle was able to be restarted. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the catalytic converter. The vehicle was repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 19v120000 (engine, engine and engine cooling) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 104,000.

Having acceleration problems with the kia and catalytic converter. I had contacted the kia dealer but can't be seen till August but I need vehicle to go to work plus have dr appointments and can't drive the car feel like it's gonna die on me how can I get this problem recall done sooner as I need my car.

Car burning oil every 1,000 miles or less causing catalytic converter to over heat, which could cause fire. Wiring harness on driver side shorting lights out which could cause a fire. Vehicle can be ready for inspection at anytime. Have been calling dealer about it since 2019 said recall was fixed but wasn’t done properly. Electrical issues started around 01/15/2024.

The vehicle would not accelerate. I was doing about 40 on the highway when I got off. The vehicle at no time was hot or had any leaks; it was checked by me as well as a man at the gas station. I proceed home as I approach my place; about 3 minutes in, I parked, then the vehicle started knocking, the engine light came on, and all the engine oil spilled. I took a picture of the oil leak on that day on or about 6/2. Kia's engines for Souls 2015-2016 have had engine recalls. My safety was at risk. Kia had the vehicle in April, and an inspection by their mechanics failed to note engine issues.

My vehicle is burning oil, not leaking but burning oil. I’m having to put oil in it every 3-4 days. Also ever since they did a recall on the catalytic converter my check engine light has been on. When I’ve taken it to see the code it comes back my catalytic converter. I’m unable to drive my car.

Unknown . Engine or fuel mishap car caught on fire as I was driving down the hwy with my 3 kids.

Nhtsa recall:19v120 the esc light went on during high winds and stayed on. The car stuttered going up hill @40+ mph, so I looked for any outstanding recalls and decided to take it into lutherkia bloomington. There were other recalls I was unaware of that I checked boxes to fix. They examined my vehicle and told me that my catalytic converter was plugged/melted and needed to be replaced. That isn't related to esc as far as I'm aware, also I asked -why- it plugged and they were unwilling/able to determine. Other mechanics online told me that it is crucial to determine the root cause of why it plugged/melted and fix it. I looked closer at the recalls and pointed out that the various outstanding recalls called for engine tests, none of which they did. I then noticed that recall #19v120 directly mentioned catalytic converter damage. Lutherkia refused to check the engine, even though the other recalls stated they would. I called 5-23 and luther refuse to do anything except update computer codes since kia will not pay for it. The kia's catalytic converter is damaged and very possibly engine damage as well, but they refuse to check since they said kia wont cover labor costs.

The contact owns a 2015 kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal knocking and ticking sound coming from the engine. The contact stated that while slowing down to come to a stop, the engine sounded very weak, as if the vehicle was going to shut off. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil, and that the catalytic convertor, knock sensor, and the exhaust gasket were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 101,725.

The contact owns a 2015 kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 25 mph, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle made an abnormal clicking sound. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a catalytic converter failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 19v120000 (engine, engine and engine cooling); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 126,965.

On April 11, 2024, customer's check engine light came on on his 2015 kia Soul. It was clear, dry, and fair temperature day. Owner was returning home from a routine trip from work on an outer road to a highway. The next day the vehicle was taken to firestone auto service which ran a diagnostic report and found that the catalytic convertor was the issue (see firestone upload). Firestone recommended vehicle be taken back to original dealer to address the issue since there was a recall. Records show that the dealership addressed the February 2019 catalytic recall on 5/2/2019 (see kia doc upload). Kia customer service told owner that kia is not liable to address the catalytic converter problem under warranty (free) because they had already closed out the recall on this particular vehicle on 5/2/2019. Customer complaint: kia should be liable to fix the catalytic converter problem at no charge to the owner because the recall service done has failed to prevent the overheating of the catalytic converter. The kia Soul had only 75,822 miles on it when this issue was discovered.

The contact owns a 2015 kia Soul. The contact was notified of NHTSA campaign number: 19v120000 (engine, engine and engine cooling) however, the vehicle experienced the failure related to the recall. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with catalytic converter failure and recommended that the vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,822.

The contact owns a 2015 kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 20v750000 (engine). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and after parking the vehicle, the contact detected an abnormally strong burning odor. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who inspected the engine compartment for fuel and engine oil leaks and performed an engine test according to the recall remedy. The contact was informed that the vehicle had passed inspection and no repairs, including the engine replacement, were necessary. Additionally, the contact was informed that the strong burning odor would subside on its own. The failure recurred. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.

I recieved a recall notice for my 2015 kia Soul via mail earlier this year and made an appointment to have the recall maintenance addressed at the local dealership as directed. After a month and a half the maintenance was completed including a successful pass engine test. Shortly after departing the car had issues accelerating and the check engine light began flashing. I immediately took it back to them. After approx two hours of them working on it more sent me on my way. Again the acceleration issues (limp home mode) and flashing check engine light. To complicate things I had an iid from an owi two years ago so at this point they require me to be there with the car as they cannot work on it without me. After having to repeatedly take time off work to be there for 6 or 7 "videos" I have the thing removed as I've already lost my 2nd job at this point and cant afford to lose the main one while this is slowly playing out. It has now been over three weeks since kia has messed up this vehicle and there is no resolution in site. They have yet to really define what is now wrong with the many tests and videos they have sent into coporate or own the issue and have yet to provide any timeframe for resolution. Meanwhile I cant take it to anyone else until they decide if they are fixing it as they should be as I did not stretegically plan for my engine to fail the day they did the recall maintenance after waiting 1. 5 months to even get in. The vehicle should have been towed to their lot and not driven repeatedly on a check engine light blinking as they were having me do however I would be up to thousands of dollars in tows with no guarantee of reimbursement up to 90 days of the "resolution" which we have yet to have any timeframe for. I have called corporate and now it seems the line puts you on silent hold for 12-15 min and disconnects you without ever talking to a human. I have brought this up with the bbb and local attorney general office as well.

The kia Soul 2015 model has been under scrutiny due to safety concerns, particularly regarding engine failures that could potentially lead to accidents. This report aims to address a recent incident involving a kia Soul 2015 experiencing engine failure, putting a family at risk. Incident description: on [03/15/24], a kia Soul 2015 experienced a sudden engine failure while being driven with my family onboard, including the my wife and two children. The incident occurred shortly after maintenance was performed by lokey kia clearwater. The sudden engine failure resulted in the vehicle coming to a stop in the middle of the road, posing a significant safety risk to the occupants and other road users. Engine shutdowns while in motion can lead to loss of control over the vehicle, potentially causing accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. In this case, the driver, my wife, and two children were exposed to the danger of being stranded on a busy road, increasing the risk of a deadly accident. The investigation into the engine failure revealed several potential causes, including mechanical failure: the engine may have experienced a critical mechanical failure, possibly due to poor maintenance or manufacturing defects. Electrical malfunction: electrical issues within the engine control system could have triggered an automatic shutdown, leading to the engine failure. Previous maintenance: the maintenance performed by lokey kia clearwater could have been inadequate or incorrectly executed, leading to unforeseen complications with the engine.

I have had 5 oem and dealership installed catalytic converters fail within 3 years now. The car has had engine failure resulting in the engine being replaced for connecting rod failure (2021).

The kia experienced acceleration issues and would randomly turn off while driving. A mechanic inspected and recalibrate the knock sensor. Almost immediately the car began to use excessive amounts of oil, a quart a week average, had a knock and started having acceleration issues. The kia dealership stated that severe engine scoring had occurred likely caused by the catalytic converter. The problems began and lead to engine failure within several weeks. From March to end of may.

Car just started jerking and turning off while driving showing the engine light and oil light.

My problems started October of 2023 on an out of state trip for a memorial for my deceased cousin. I, along with my son and 3 grandchild were on our way to west virginia when my car wouldn’t accelerate on the freeway. We got off the freeway and found the nearest kia dealership. They provided me with a rental and told me I needed a catalytic converter that was clogged due to heavy oil consumption and my oil was low, even thought it was 3000 miles from the next scheduled change. I paid for the services and picked my car up approximately 6 days later. I’m December my cars engine light came on and I started having acceleration issues again. I took it to my local dealership and was told by the service advisor that it was covered under the recall to 150,000 miles for knocking and seizing and to continue driving it. They changed the oil and I went on my way. February 6 my engine light came on again and I called and scheduled an appointment. I dropped it off on February 9. After 2 1/2 weeks of calling daily with no return phone calls and paying out of pocket for a rental the dealership called and said it was the camshaft. I work part time for a auto wholesales parts company and the director, who has 40 years automotive experience told me the camshaft would have nothing to do with the oil consumption. After researching on internet and finding numerous videos stating the same, I told them change the oil and I would pick it up. The next day I went to pick it up and the battery was dead. The battery was just replaced in November. They jumped it twice, I expressed my uneasiness leaving with it but was told service is closed and the have no loaners. On the way out of the parking lot, a man that stated he was the sales manager was waving and yelling “bye, don’t come back, get out of my lot”. Needless to say I was appalled. Less than 15 minutes to home, the oil light came on and my engine started marking a horrible sound. I parked in my drive and the car would not restart.