Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Kia Motor Soul - part 2

Kia Motor Soul owners have reported 1,996 problems related to engine and engine cooling (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Kia Motor Soul based on all problems reported for the Soul.

36 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/24/2025

Car was purchased used in November 2024. Driven minimally through 2025. July of 2025 engine began stalling at low idle or when pulling into a stop and repeatedly stalling out. Took car to mechanic and replaced crankshaft position sensor, spark plugs, and fuel pump - cost $1,218. Stalling still occurred. Took it to kia dealership and they stated, “cylinder 1 scoring damage, and needed new engine”. This was/is a known problem with various kia models: “engine stalling symptom from defect manufacturing of oil rings in cylinder that causes scoring and engine damage. ” we bought this car for $12,000 in good faith and it didn’t even last a year!!.

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37 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2013 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/19/2025

On [xxx] jim ellis kia of kennesaw performed recall sc284 on my 2013 kia Soul (VIN: [xxx] ), replacing the hecu fuse. The next day, [xxx], the vehicle lost acceleration while driving, produced a muffled engine sound, and became barely able to move forward, creating an unsafe driving condition. At no point did the check engine light illuminate, even though the vehicle was experiencing severe drivability issues. Prior to the recall, kia’s own diagnostic (July 19, 2025) showed no catalytic converter or battery issues. An independent aaa diagnostic performed after the failure (July 21, 2025) ruled out pre-existing converter damage and linked the problem to the recall work. Despite this, the dealership denied responsibility and issued an unsupported estimate of $4,951. 41 for catalytic converter replacement. The absence of a check engine light raises concerns that the recall work may have compromised the vehicle’s obd-ii diagnostic system, preventing detection of a safety defect. Furthermore, the evidence suggests that damage occurred to the catalytic converter while the vehicle was in kia’s possession or as a direct result of the faulty installation of the recall fuse. This incident involves a safety risk, improper recall repair, and potential violation of federal recall law. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate the adequacy of recall sc284 installation procedures and kia’s handling of this case. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

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38 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/17/2025

The contact owns a 2017 kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 22v031000 (air bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated the vehicle was consuming one quart of oil every 2-3 days. The oil warning light was illuminated with an abnormal clacking sound coming from the engine. The dealer was contacted and claimed that the vehicle was repaired. The contact sought confirmation from the manufacturer and was informed that the vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a certified mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure and stated that the spark plug was fractured and was not properly installed. The contact was informed that the engine was only running on 2 cylinders and was running at 1 psi. The contact was also informed that there was fuel leaking from the exhaust pipe, causing failures with the fuel injectors. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

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39 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/14/2025

1- engine it’s been about 3 months that when I depress the gas pedal the car skips or hiccups and I get a check engine light on I have to accelerate slowly this also happening while I am driving it’s worse if I try to pass a car.

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40 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/11/2025

To whom it may concern, I am writing to formally submit a complaint regarding the handling of my vehicle recall and repair process at kia killian road in columbia, south carolina. Vehicle information: - year/make/model: 2020 kia Soul - VIN: kndj23auxl7084518 - registered owner: stephanie nadine hessell timeline of events: - my vehicle was brought to kia killian road for recall repairs related to recalls 21v259, 21v259a, and cs2306 concerning the engine and starter. - the starter was replaced as part of the recall work. Despite this, the vehicle remained at the dealership for over a month and a half without resolution. - I was then informed I would need to pay approximately $1,200 to replace the ignition, even though there had been no issue with the ignition prior to the recall service. - the ignition was replaced at my cost, but I have since been informed that my vehicle is still not repaired due to an alleged electrical issue. - at the time of this complaint, my vehicle has been at the dealership for more than 2. 5 months, and I have been given inconsistent explanations and no resolution. Concerns: - the dealership appears to be tying unrelated repairs to the recall, causing unnecessary costs and delays. - I have been without the use of my vehicle for an extended and unreasonable period of time. - I have not been provided a loaner vehicle or alternative transportation despite the lengthy delay. Requested resolution: - immediate completion of the recall repair work at no additional cost to me. - reimbursement of the $1,200 ignition replacement charge, as the issue arose only after recall work began. - provision of a loaner vehicle or compensation for transportation expenses incurred during the 2. 5 months my vehicle has been out of service. - written clarification from kia corporate as to why this delay has occurred and how kia will ensure resolution. This matter has caused significant hardship, and I am seeking urgent assistance from kia consumer affairs, NHTSA, and.

41 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/10/2025

The contact owns a 2021 kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 21v259000 (engine). The contact stated that the check engine warning light was flashing. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair. The dealer cleared the check engine warning light code and deployed the piston ring noise sensing system (pnss) software. The dealer advised the contact to bring the vehicle back if the failure recurred. The dealer marked the recall as completed. The contact stated that the failure recurred, and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where dtc: p1327 (piston ring noise sensing system (pnss) was retrieved, and the dealer diagnosed the vehicle with piston vibration. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the dealer informed the contact that the failure was not related to the recall. The vehicle was not repaired, but the dealer cleared the diagnostic trouble code. Additionally, the vehicle was taken to autozone, where dtc: p1327 (piston ring noise sensing system (pnss) was retrieved, and the contact was informed that there was a vibration in cylinder #3. The contact stated that the failure recurred, and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where dtc: p1327 (piston ring noise sensing system (pnss) was retrieved; however, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle passed the sc336 recall inspection test. The contact stated that the dealer performed the test in 20 minutes. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the engine was previously replaced at 67,000 miles. The dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that once the district manager became available a determination would be made if the engine should be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 128,495.

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42 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/09/2025

When the car was originally going out, the check engine light came on and the engine was making a funny sound, then after we filled up on gas like 10-15 miles later, the engine shut off and stopped accelerating but all of the electronics were still coming on, the battery and oil pressure light came on as well, we pulled it over and when trying to start, it was cranking but not coming on, but the electronics and everything was still working just fine, radio worked and my phone was charging, eventually when we tried cranking again, the engine started rattling and grinding . Towed it to kia. Kia said they did every test possible on the car and are about 90% sure that the car needs a new ecu, but that kia doesn't manufacture that part anymore and that if they made it, it could take 2 weeks to 4 months, they're saying that it's not apart of the warranty so it would be expensive. They said that the best bet would be to trade in the car. Then they asked for all receipts for oil changes. Then they said it's the camshaft. "wanted to reach out to let you know we need to replace the cam shaft, the camshaft phaser and valve cover gasket before we can do the test for the recall this will cost about $1530". He said this after already saying they tested it. They are refusing to repair the recall. This is the kia dealership in gettysburg PA.

43 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/08/2025

My 2017 kia Soul (VIN: [xxx] ) is experiencing piston ring failure, which has led to excessive oil consumption and the failure of my catalytic converter. The engine is a 2. 0l nu mpi—the same engine type covered under kia recalls sc176 and sc200—but my VIN is currently excluded. This is a known manufacturing defect that causes oil to enter the combustion chamber, damaging the catalytic converter and violating emissions standards. The repair costs are unaffordable for my family, and kia refuses to cover them despite California’s extended emissions warranty and identical symptoms to covered vehicles. Many other owners of 2017 kia Souls with the same engine are also reporting these issues. I am requesting that NHTSA expand the recall to include my VIN and investigate kia’s exclusion of affected vehicles with the same engine. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

44 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/08/2025

4 29 23 at 101091 miles the catalytic converter was replaced. The car sucks up oil before even the 3000 . Mark. . Kia performed. Then on7/8/25 wg baker replaced catalytic converter again. Also coding of abs brakes now and why would catalytic converter need replacing? because car is eating off oil. Yes my car stopped on the interstate and I had to pull over. I've already done two tune ups.

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45 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/07/2025

The contact called on behalf of her neighbor who owns a 2017 kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. A mobile independent mechanic replaced the starter. The contact stated while the neighbor was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The driver was unable to pull over to the side of the road. The driver was able to push the vehicle to the side of the road with the assistance of bystanders. The vehicle was pushed to a business place parking lot, where the mobile mechanic diagnosed that the engine had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.

46 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/07/2025

The contact owns a 2020 kia Soul. The contact stated that while her son was driving at approximately 35 mph and going up a slight hill, the vehicle stalled. The contact's son said multiple unknown warnings illuminated. The son depressed the brake pedal and felt that it was very hard to depress. The son was able to restart the vehicle and continued on to his destination. The contact stated that the engine stalling failure had occurred once, however the failure of the brakes had occurred several times. The contact's son stated that when he was slowing the vehicle, as he was in reverse (r) backing out of a parking spot, he was unable to stop the vehicle using the brake pedal and had to use the emergency brake to stop. The son stated that another brake failure occurred as he was slowing for traffic. The son stated that he depressed the brake pedal and it was stiff and the vehicle was not stopping. The front end of his vehicle crashed into the rear end of the vehicle in front. The son said that when the brake failure occurred the check engine, oil check and the battery warning illuminated. The son stated that he used the emergency brake to stop. The police were called and wrote a report, both of the vehicles were drivable and there were no injuries. The son stated that there were minor dents and scratches on the front bumper and grill of his vehicle and dents and scratches on the rear bumper and trunk of the other vehicle. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer where it was determined that there was no mechanical issue with the brakes or the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 12,000. The contact stated that in 2021 the vehicle had an engine failure and the engine had been replaced.

47 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/05/2025

The contact owns a 2020 kia Soul. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 mph, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled. The contact stated that the check engine, low oil, and battery warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was making an abnormal rattling sound before the vehicle stalled. The contact coasted to a stop but was unable to restart the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that an engine rod had failed, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that vehicle was no longer under warranty. The failure mileage was 93,307.

48 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/04/2025

Check engine light came on 6months ago the code was p0420 I took it to a kia dealership they said my catalytic converter was worn out and it would be $1500 to replace it I brought up how there was a recall he told me the vehicle already had the recall taken care of from the previous owner of the vehicle and would not fix it again I have no proof they fixed the recall and if they did it obviously didn’t work now that car don’t drive at all the catalytic converter is clogged I’m still making payments on the car this hell for me having hard time getting to work now with no transportation I need some guidance it’s not fair they can just tell me the previous owner got it fixed and even if they did it didn’t work or they didn’t do it right is there anything I can do?.

49 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/02/2025

Car burned out all oil and stalled.

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50 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 07/01/2025

Engine is running very rough. At a low idle, the engine turns off. Today the car turned off 11 times. A diagnostic reading shows all four cylinders misfiring.

51 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2022 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/30/2025

The contact owns a 2022 kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 25v099000 (engine and engine cooling). The contact stated that there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the engine while driving at various speeds and while the engine was idling. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be repaired under the recall. The dealer informed the contact that the failure appeared to be related to the oil pressure throughout the engine. Additionally, the dealer informed the contact that the recall test could not be performed because the vehicle had failed to start; however, the contact stated that the vehicle was operable at the time it was taken to the dealer. The dealer informed the contact that the engine needed to be replaced out the out-of-pocket. The contact related the engine replacement to the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 77,800.

See all problems of the 2022 Kia Motor Soul 🔎.

52 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/30/2025

Ive tried to get my recalls fixed since I bought the car 2 years ago, jeff wyler kia eastgate ohio has given me the run around, at least 5 attempts of no call backs or prolonged appointment dates not having me on record, my car breaks down I pay for diagnostic blown engine, I pay to have it towed to jeff wyler kia eastgate ohio, it's been there for 5 weeks and they still have not done a diagnostic on it. They are saying they never received my driver's license, then it was proof of ownership, they won't call me back or email. I'm just so frustrated because kia the main company actually has sent me many letters to get it fixed I call them and they told me their wasn't even a diagnostic done, they tried reaching out to them. Should I tow my car to a different dealer? I'm not sure what to do anymore, I'm almost afraid now they'll say they can't cover it for same reason, my trust is gone at this point with the dealership. I recently had a full knee replacement and getting in and out of my daughter's car has been very hard on me, I asked for a loaner and they said they don't provide them there and I have to pay. I've already put in so much money on this car at this point I feel cheated or targeted for some reason. They treat me like I'm trying to get something for free, they aren't paying out of their pocket. My car is still sitting there soon to be 6 weeks and don't know what to do, the treatment of this dealership is beyond horrible and I don't trust them. It's not my fault this happened I'm sorry for everyone involved especially kia , it must be a lot, thank you for listening to me , I hope you have a great day [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

See all problems of the 2014 Kia Motor Soul 🔎.

53 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/30/2025

While driving on June 30, 2025, the engine gave a loud clunking noise, shuttered and shut down. I was able to pull over to the side of the road safely and not impede traffic, however this happened on a public roadway and had the potential of causing different results. I had no warning lights on the dash, no check engine lights came on, no low oil light and/or no other warning signals appeared. I was able to restart the vehicle and it shuttered but was able to drive it at a low reduced speed to get it into a more safer place. The vehicle was towed to the dealership the following morning. The dealership was able to inspect the vehicle and confirmed it was a total engine failure. The dealership has done all the service maintenance since the date of purchase as a new car, with the exception of 3 oil changes throughout the past 8 years. The documentation show all maintenance was done in an approved licensed facility and in the prefered time frames requested by the manufacture. The vehicle has a 150,000 mi warranty and at the time of the incident the mileage was 74,000. Kia is denying the claim and is refusing to replace the engine. I am uncertain of the next steps to take at this point, referring to the attorney general in my state for advise for product liability claim to hold the manufacture responsible for it's defective engine which has been an issue for this make and model.

54 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/30/2025

The contact owns a 2020 kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 21v259000 (engine). The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from under the hood. The contact turned off and attempted to restart the vehicle after arriving at work; however, the vehicle failed to restart. The contact stated that prior to the failure, while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The check oil and engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that prior to the failure, an oil and filter change was performed on the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and the failure was deemed recall related; however, due to a lack of oil records the vehicle was deemed unrepairable by the dealer and manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by the local dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

55 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2022 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/28/2025

Took my 2022 Soul in for the ring recall. The kia dealership in myrtle beach denied warranty due to sludge. That my complaint. I thought if ring leaks it creates sludge.

56 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/27/2025

While driving, the vehicle began running rough and stalled shortly after. It would not restart. The vehicle was towed to a dealership, where they diagnosed “excessive cylinder wall scoring” and no engine compression. This matches the symptoms described in recall sc336, which affects piston oil rings and can lead to engine failure, stalling, or fire. The dealer confirmed the engine won’t turn over and compression is lost, but they refused to perform the required piston ring inspection under the recall. They stated I would need to pay for an engine tear-down first. However, according to the recall remedy, the inspection and engine replacement should be performed free of charge if symptoms are present. The issue occurred without warning, leaving me without transportation and unable to safely pick up my child. I have opened a case with the manufacturer and am awaiting their review.

57 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/27/2025

Saw that there was a recall for faulty oil piston rings on my kia 2021 Soul received the letter from kia in mid to late April made the appointment with coughlin kia of newark for may 5. Coughlin kia canceled it on may 4 June 24 had to have my kia towed to coughlin kia of newark June 20 27. They said oil was going through my piston rings. There was vertical scoring on the cylinder walls, but they said that it was not because of the recall and I would have to pay $7000 to fix it even though I hid made the appointment and they canceled it. I had talked to kia manufacturing in late February and had them record my call and ask them what do I do in the meantime because my kia is burning a lot of oiland their response was we don’t know now I have engine failure and they’re claiming that they won’t fix it, even though it is under the recall.

58 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/25/2025

Unusual engine oil consumption. Engine using 1 quart of engine oil every 1000 miles. Not normal.

59 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/25/2025

Component/system failed: engine and power train. Available for inspection: yes, the vehicle is currently at the dealership. After a loud ticking/knocking noise from the engine began, the car lost power while driving. It matches symptoms associated with kia’s known connecting rod bearing failure issue (covered under recall sc176 and campaign pi2002a). There were no warning lamps at first, but later the oil pressure warning light began to flash intermittently. A kia dealership confirmed the issue and completed the pi2002a ecu update. However, they denied the extended engine warranty coverage under the campaign, saying that the vehicle was purchased at an auction, even though this issue stems from a known manufacturing defect and recall that should apply to the vehicle, regardless of ownership history. This creates a serious safety concern, as the engine could seize while driving. This issue has been reproduced and confirmed by the dealership and documented under kia case #25414628 and #25331856. This denial contradicts the campaign terms and puts drivers and others at risk.

60 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/24/2025

My 2016 kia Soul plus (VIN: [xxx] ) showed a blinking check engine light and entered limp mode while driving. I had the code read and received p1326, which is a known issue in kia vehicles related to the knock sensor detection system (ksds). This code indicates possible engine bearing wear or impending engine failure, which could result in engine stall or fire, creating a serious safety risk while driving. My car has under 115,000 miles, but I purchased it used from a non-kia dealer and was told by kia that it's not covered under warranty or recall. However, many vehicles with this issue received engine replacements or software updates under TSB pi2002 and other campaigns. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate this issue for the 2016 kia Soul, as it appears to be part of the larger engine defect trend affecting many kia models. This vehicle should be included in any safety recall or extended warranty coverage related to this defect. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

61 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2014 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/23/2025

** component/system that failed: the engine and catalytic converter. An independent mechanic confirmed the catalytic converter is clogged due to engine oil burning and entering the exhaust system. The component is still in the vehicle and available for inspection upon request. ** safety risk: the car struggles to accelerate, especially from a stop or uphill, and cannot reliably reach or maintain highway speeds. It revs at 3,500–4,000 rpm at just 20–60 mph. This creates a serious safety hazard, especially when merging, changing lanes, or avoiding traffic, putting myself and others at risk. ** problem confirmed: yes. A trusted independent shop diagnosed and confirmed the engine is burning oil, contaminating the catalytic converter, and advised against replacing the converter until the root cause is fixed, or it will fail again. The kia dealership dismissed the issue without testing, claiming it’s acceptable to burn 1 quart of oil every 1,000 miles. However, my vehicle consumes about 1 quart every 500 miles despite routine 2,500-mile oil changes with 5w-20 high-mileage oil. This excessive consumption is abnormal and being overlooked without proper evaluation. ** inspection by manufacturer or others: yes. A kia dealership inspected the vehicle but refused to perform an oil consumption test, claiming the vehicle was “too unstable to drive,” despite me driving it 20 miles there. They blamed the converter failure on “normal wear and tear,” and denied the presence of an oil leak. ** warning symptoms prior to failure: yes. The symptoms began months ago and progressed over time, including: loss of power, high rpms under low speed, poor fuel economy (range dropped from 350 to 310 miles), and difficulty accelerating. No warning lights have appeared. ** additional note: this issue closely mirrors NHTSA recall 19v120, but my Soul has a 2. 0l engine, not a 1. 6l. Many 2. 0l owners report the same problem. I believe this defect should be investigated for recall expansion.

62 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/22/2025

Vehicle: 2020 kia Soul VIN: [xxx] component: engine what happened: my 2020 kia Soul experienced sudden engine failure at around 130k miles. I was driving when the oil light turned on, and within seconds the engine seized and locked up. The check engine light came on afterward. There were no prior warning signs, no check engine light, and the oil level was not dangerously low. This is the second kia Soul I’ve owned that experienced this exact failure pattern—my previous 2014 kia Soul also seized without warning. Kia is refusing to assist or escalate, despite the fact this issue closely mirrors recall sc209 related to the 2. 0l nu mpi engine. I believe this is a serious safety issue and mechanical defect that deserves further investigation and may justify expanding existing recalls. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

63 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/22/2025

The contact owns a 2016 kia Soul. The contact stated while driving in a parking lot at approximately 10 mph, the engine seized. The contact was able to coast to a nearby parking space, where the vehicle lost power and shut off. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle and the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was unable to start the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The vehicle was inspected by a certified mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with engine failure. The mechanic suggested that the engine be replaced. The contact became aware of a software update program with an extension for an engine replacement. The vehicle was towed to the dealer and confirmed the diagnostic result. The dealer informed the contact that the engine would not be covered by kia because the software update program update was not being completed. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed the decision made by the dealer. The manufacturer stated that the NHTSA was responsible for issuing and informing vehicle owners of a recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 144,000.

64 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/22/2025

Excessive oil consumption noted at around 40,000 miles. No visible smoke coming from tail pipe but burnt oil smell coming from underneath car in region of catalytic converter. Had engine visually inspected and had pressure test done by repair shop; no engine seal compromise present. Took vehicle to dealer to report and was told that warranty did not apply to this issue. Car eventually burning 2-3 quarts of oil every 800 miles. Traded car in at just over 99,000 miles due to oil consumption and concern about failure. Private party mechanic and oil change facilities very familiar with this issue on kia Souls. Noted that class action lawsuit against kia for this very issue was initiated in California but was abruptly dropped. First vehicle I've ever owned that had to have oil added between changes. Noted that kia owners manual stated that up to 3 quarts of oil consumption between 7500 mile oil changes is normal. I had oil change service done predominantly every 3000 miles.

65 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/22/2025

Complaint regarding mechanical failure and $315 service charge on recent vehicle purchase I’m writing to formally express my concern and disappointment regarding the recent service experience involving my vehicle purchased on April 12, 2025. A few weeks after purchase, I returned to the dealership with concerns over a check engine light. I was reassured by your service department that nothing was wrong with the vehicle. However, the car recently died while I was driving on the highway, putting me in an unsafe situation and requiring a tow. Now I am being told that spark plugs need to be replaced before further diagnosis can occur, and that I am responsible for a $315 charge. The technician noted that cylinder 2’s spark plug was loose and melted—an issue that clearly could have caused the breakdown. This is not typical wear and tear. It’s something that either pre-existed at the time of purchase or should have been caught during the initial inspection when I brought the car in with concerns. I haven’t even made my second car payment, and I’m already dealing with a major mechanical failure. I feel I was sold a vehicle that was not properly inspected and that now I’m being asked to cover the cost of repairs that should fall under the responsibility as the seller. I respectfully request that the $315 service fee be waived and that the vehicle be fully inspected and repaired at no cost to me. I purchased this vehicle in good faith, and I expect the dealership to stand by its product.

66 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/21/2025

There was a knocking sound, so I pulled over and smoke started coming from underneath the hood of the vehicle. There was a fire and the car was later deemed a total loss.

67 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2022 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/20/2025

The contact owns a 2022 kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at 30 mph, the vehicle inadvertently lost power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where he observed smoke emanating from the engine compartment, after which the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who determined that the engine had seized but were unable to diagnosed the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 25v099000 (engine and engine cooling), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 70,000.

68 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2022 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/19/2025

Car is burning oil and check engine light came on. It shakes and stalls when coming to a stop.

69 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/18/2025

The vehicle when coming to a stop to park I press the engine off button and a car with a key symbol stays on and won’t go off and there is a beeping with screen not turning off. Have to turn car on and off numerous times to get it to turn off.

70 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Kia Motor Soul

Failure Date: 06/18/2025

I took my 2021 kia Soul to kia of leesburg here in florida, and dropped it off yesterday June 17th, per service department request and was told that they were going try to repair the multiple recalls on this vehicle. They told me that it was going to be 24-48 hours before I was going to be able to get it back when I called, regarding my safety critical recall. So, I dropped it off last night as instructed, the kia of leesburg service department called me today stating that due to sludge in the engine, they're refusing to fix the recalls, and stated that I owe them $200 before I am able to pick up my vehicle.



Safety Ratings of Soul Cars
Fuel Economy of Soul Vehicles
Soul Defect Investigations