The Kia Soul spans 2010–2026 with 39 recorded NHTSA recalls and a 4.5/5 ForCar reliability score. The years to approach with caution are 2015, 2014, 2016 (most owner complaints); the cleanest are 2026, 2025, 2024. It delivers up to 114 mpg combined and 5-star NHTSA safety.
How we score: NHTSA crash-test safety (40%), recall frequency across all years (25%) and the share of owner complaints involving a crash, fire or injury (35%). Based on NHTSA & EPA data — not user reviews.
Overview
The Kia Soul is one of the most popular vehicles in its class, produced from 2010 to 2026 across multiple generations.
How to read a Kia Soul VIN — every digit explained
Every Kia Soul carries a unique 17-character VIN stamped at the factory. Each position is a code — together they spell out where, when and how your car was built. Here's exactly what every digit means.
- WMI (1–3) — country & manufacturer. Tells you it's a Kia and the country it was built in (real Kia codes below).
- VDS (4–8) — model, body style, engine, trim & restraints. The 8th digit is the engine code.
- Check digit (9) — a math check that proves the VIN is genuine.
- Model year (10) — the year it was built (e.g. R = 2024, S = 2025).
- Plant (11) — which factory assembled this Soul.
- Serial (12–17) — the unique sequential production number.
- USA5NP · 5XX · 5XY · U5Y
- South KoreaKNA · KND · KNJ
- Mexico3KM · 3KP
Digits 4–17 — the engine code (8th), model-year letter (10th) and plant — follow the universal SAE standard, identical on every car. For the full year-code table (2001–2026), country codes and where the VIN is stamped on your Soul, see the complete guide to reading a VIN.
How many recalls does the Kia Soul have?
The Kia Soul has 39 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2010–2026. Pick a year below to see its recalls — then verify open recalls against your specific VIN.
2023 Kia Soul recalls 4
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:hard Parts Internal/mechanical
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Risk. Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.
Air Bags
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul and 2024 Seltos vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the side curtain air bags may deploy unexpectedly.
Risk. An air bag that deploys unexpectedly can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace both side curtain air bag modules as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 31, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC289.
Power Train:automatic Transmission:fluid/lubricant:pump
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Soul, Sportage, and 2023-2024 Seltos vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump to overheat.
Risk. An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 28, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC275.
Electrical System: Instrument Cluster/panel
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2023 Sportage, Sportage Hybrid, Sportage Plug-in Hybrid, Niro Hybrid, Niro Plug-in Hybrid, Soul, and Telluride vehicles equipped with a digital instrument cluster containing a 4.2" LCD screen. The instrument cluster may fail to display any information when the vehicle is started. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 101, "Control and Displays," and 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems."
Risk. A blank instrument cluster display will not show critical information, such as tire pressure, warning messages, and warning lights, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Dealers will update the instrument cluster software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 26, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC270.
2022 Kia Soul recalls 1
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:hard Parts Internal/mechanical
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Risk. Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.
2021 Kia Soul recalls 2
Engine And Engine Cooling:engine:hard Parts Internal/mechanical
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Risk. Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
Risk. A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall began June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC209.
2020 Kia Soul recalls 1
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
Risk. A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall began June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC209.
2019 Kia Soul recalls 1
Air Bags
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
Risk. Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
2018 Kia Soul recalls 1
Air Bags
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
Risk. Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
2017 Kia Soul recalls 1
Air Bags
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
Risk. Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
2016 Kia Soul recalls 2
Steering
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Soul and Soul EV vehicles. The pinion plug may allow the pinion gear to separate from the steering gear assembly.
Risk. If the pinion gear separates, steering will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and secure the pinion plug or replace the steering gear assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC155. Note: This recall supersedes campaigns 14V-332 and 15V-736. Vehicles previously remedied under those numbers are being recalled again under this campaign.
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
Risk. Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.
2015 Kia Soul recalls 4
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Soul and Soul electric vehicles manufactured July 21, 2013, to January 8, 2015. A section of the accelerator pedal may bend and fracture.
Risk. If the vehicle has a bent or broken accelerator pedal, the driver may have difficulty accelerating the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will add a supporting rubber underneath the pedal stopper, free of charge. The recall began on March 24, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC116.
Steering
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Soul and Soul EV vehicles. The pinion plug may allow the pinion gear to separate from the steering gear assembly.
Risk. If the pinion gear separates, steering will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and secure the pinion plug or replace the steering gear assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC155. Note: This recall supersedes campaigns 14V-332 and 15V-736. Vehicles previously remedied under those numbers are being recalled again under this campaign.
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
Risk. Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
Risk. An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software, free of charge. The recall began January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
2014 Kia Soul recalls 5
Air Bags:frontal
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2014 Soul vehicles. The front air bags may not deploy during a crash if the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) loses communication with the front impact sensors.
Risk. Front air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix. Dealers will update the ACU software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC229.
Vehicle Speed Control:accelerator Pedal
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Soul and Soul electric vehicles manufactured July 21, 2013, to January 8, 2015. A section of the accelerator pedal may bend and fracture.
Risk. If the vehicle has a bent or broken accelerator pedal, the driver may have difficulty accelerating the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will add a supporting rubber underneath the pedal stopper, free of charge. The recall began on March 24, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC116.
Steering
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Soul and Soul EV vehicles. The pinion plug may allow the pinion gear to separate from the steering gear assembly.
Risk. If the pinion gear separates, steering will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and secure the pinion plug or replace the steering gear assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC155. Note: This recall supersedes campaigns 14V-332 and 15V-736. Vehicles previously remedied under those numbers are being recalled again under this campaign.
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
Risk. Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.
Risk. An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia dealers will update the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software, free of charge. The recall began January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.
2013 Kia Soul recalls 3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Risk. An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Kia Soul vehicles manufactured January 8, 2009, to October 2, 2013, equipped with a sun roof. A headliner plate may detach during deployment of the curtain air bag.
Risk. A detached headliner plate may increase the risk of injury to the occupant during a vehicle crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will install industrial adhesive strips to secure the headliner plates, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 2, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC112.
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
Risk. Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.
2012 Kia Soul recalls 3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Risk. An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Kia Soul vehicles manufactured January 8, 2009, to October 2, 2013, equipped with a sun roof. A headliner plate may detach during deployment of the curtain air bag.
Risk. A detached headliner plate may increase the risk of injury to the occupant during a vehicle crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will install industrial adhesive strips to secure the headliner plates, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 2, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC112.
Engine
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
Risk. Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.
2011 Kia Soul recalls 3
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/traction Control/electronic Limited Slip:control Unit/module
What's wrong. Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
Risk. An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
Fix. Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
What's wrong. Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
Risk. Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Kia Soul vehicles manufactured January 8, 2009, to October 2, 2013, equipped with a sun roof. A headliner plate may detach during deployment of the curtain air bag.
Risk. A detached headliner plate may increase the risk of injury to the occupant during a vehicle crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will install industrial adhesive strips to secure the headliner plates, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 2, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC112.
2010 Kia Soul recalls 3
Electrical System:wiring
What's wrong. KIA IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2010 SOUL AND MODEL YEAR 2011 SORENTO VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM SEPTEMBER 7, 2009 THROUGH JULY 30, 2010. A LIMITED NUMBER OF WIRING HARNESSES SUPPLIED BY JCI AND USED FOR THE LIGHTING IN THE KIA SOUL VEHICLE'S ADVANCED LIGHTING SPEAKERS, LOCATED IN THE FRONT DOOR TRIM PANELS, AND THE KIA SORENTO VEHICLE'S INTERIOR ACCENT ILLUMINATION, LOCATED IN THE FRONT AND REAR DOOR TRIM PANELS, MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY SOLDERED.
Risk. WHEN THE LIGHTS ARE ILLUMINATED UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, AN ELECTRICAL SHORT MAY OCCUR THAT CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
Fix. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIRING HARNESSES FOR THE LIGHTS IN THE KIA SOUL VEHICLE'S ADVANCED LIGHTING SPEAKERS, AND THE WIRING HARNESS FOR THE KIA SORENTO VEHICLE'S INTERIOR ACCENT ILLUMINATION. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 13, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KIA CONSUMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-333-4542.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
What's wrong. Kia Motors Corporation (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Rondo, model year 2007-2011 Sedona, Sorento and Sportage, model year 2010-2011 Soul, model year 2008-2011 Optima, model year 2010 Forte, model year 2007-2009 Amanti, and model year 2009 Borrego vehicles. Originally, in April 2013, Kia recalled 623,658 model year 2007-2010 Rondo and Sportage, model year 2007-2011 Sorento, model year 2007 Sedona, model year 2010-2011 Soul, and model year 2011 Optima vehicles. In September 2013, Kia informed the agency that it was adding an additional 356,719 vehicles to this campaign. The total number of vehicles being recalled is now 980,377. In the affected vehicles, the stop lamp switch may malfunction. A malfunctioning stop lamp switch may cause the brake lights to not illuminate when the brake pedal is depressed or may cause an inability to deactivate the cruise control by depressing the brake pedal. Additionally, a malfunctioning stop lamp switch may also result in intermittent operation of the push-button start feature, affect the operation of the brake-transmission shift interlock feature preventing the shifter from being moved out of the PARK position and cause the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) malfunction light to illuminate.
Risk. Failure to illuminate the stop lamps during braking or inability to disengage the cruise control could increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, when the ignition is in the 'ON' position, the transmission shifter may be able to be moved out of PARK without first applying the brake. This may lead to unintentional movement of the car which may increase the risk of a crash.
Fix. Kia will send an interim notification to owners in May 2013. When parts are available, owners will receive a second notification and dealers will replace the stop lamp switch, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's recall campaign number is SC098.
Structure:body:roof And Pillars
What's wrong. Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Kia Soul vehicles manufactured January 8, 2009, to October 2, 2013, equipped with a sun roof. A headliner plate may detach during deployment of the curtain air bag.
Risk. A detached headliner plate may increase the risk of injury to the occupant during a vehicle crash.
Fix. Kia will notify owners, and dealers will install industrial adhesive strips to secure the headliner plates, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 2, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC112.
Best and worst years for the Kia Soul
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint volume across 17 tracked years, the worst years are 2015, 2014, 2016 and the best (fewest complaints) are 2026, 2025, 2024.
ForCar aggregate — our own analysis of complaint volume, not published by NHTSA.
| Year | Owner complaints | Top issue | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 Soul | Electrical System | Average | |
| 2011 Soul | Service Brakes | Average | |
| 2012 Soul | Engine | Average | |
| 2013 Soul | Engine | Average | |
| 2014 Soul | Engine | Avoid | |
| 2015 Soul | Engine | Avoid | |
| 2016 Soul | Engine | Avoid | |
| 2017 Soul | Engine | Average | |
| 2018 Soul | Engine | Average | |
| 2019 Soul | Engine | Average | |
| 2020 Soul | Engine | Average | |
| 2021 Soul | Engine | Average | |
| 2022 Soul | Engine | Average | |
| 2023 Soul | Electrical System | Average | |
| 2024 Soul | Electrical System | Best | |
| 2025 Soul | Exterior Lighting | Best | |
| 2026 Soul | — | Best |
What are the most common Kia Soul problems?
The most-reported Kia Soul problems are Air (3 reports), Seats (17 reports) and Tires (28 reports) — out of 5,442 owner complaints NHTSA holds for the model. Here's how they break down:
Most-reported components — tap a category to read what owners actually experienced:
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, all model years. Bar = share of total complaints. Full reports searchable on NHTSA.gov.
Kia Soul specifications & dimensions
The 2020–2023 Kia Soul measures 165″ long on a 102″ wheelbase, with a curb weight near 2,844 lb. Full dimensions below — engine, horsepower and trim decode from your VIN. For the original factory build — MSRP, trim and standard equipment — rebuild the Kia Soul window sticker.
| Years | Length | Width | Height | Wheelbase | Curb weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020–2023 | 165″ | 71″ | 64″ | 102″ | 2,844 lb |
| 2014–2017 | 163″ | 71″ | 63″ | 101″ | 2,970 lb |
| 2010–2011 | 162″ | 70″ | 63″ | 100″ | 2,623 lb |
Source: NHTSA vPIC / Transport Canada vehicle specifications. Metric values converted to imperial; generation ranges approximate.
Kia Soul cargo space, seating & interior room
How much the Soul holds — passengers and cargo. EPA measures its interior at 102 cu ft of passenger volume and 24 cu ft of cargo. Seating capacity and legroom vary by trim.
Exact seating capacity, third-row availability, legroom and headroom decode from your VIN or vary by trim — the original factory equipment & options list shows what each trim included.
Passenger & cargo volume from EPA fueleconomy.gov (largest configuration). Seats, legroom and headroom from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
Kia Soul tire size, oil type & owner specs
The fitment owners look up most — tires, wheels, oil and batteries. Exact wheel and tire sizes decode from your VIN or the driver's door-jamb placard; the universal items are listed below.
Exact tire, wheel, oil grade, capacity and battery group are added per trim and model year — decode your VIN above for the factory fitment. Universal items shown as-is.
What MPG does the Kia Soul get?
The Kia Soul returns up to 114 combined MPG (EPA), which works out to roughly $650/yr in fuel. Pick an engine to see MPG, annual running cost and CO₂ by year:
The 2025 Kia Soul (2L 4-cyl) gets 31 mpg combined and costs about $2,000/yr to fuel, emitting 287 g/mi CO₂ (GHG 6/10, smog 6/10) — that's about $1,000 saved over 5 years versus the average new vehicle.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Soul | 29 | 35 | $2,000 | 287 | 6/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2024 Soul | 29 | 35 | $2,000 | 287 | 7/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2023 Soul | 29 | 35 | $2,000 | 287 | 7/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2022 Soul | 29 | 35 | $2,000 | 287 | 7/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2021 Soul | 29 | 35 | $2,000 | 287 | 7/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2020 Soul | 29 | 35 | $2,000 | 287 | 7/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2019 Soul | 26 | 31 | $2,200 | 320 | 3/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 2018 Soul | 26 | 31 | $2,200 | 320 | 3/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 2017 Soul | 26 | 31 | $2,200 | 320 | 6/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 2016 Soul | 24 | 31 | $2,300 | 337 | 6/10 | 2L 4-cyl | |
| 2015 Soul | 24 | 30 | $2,400 | 335 | 6/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 2014 Soul | 24 | 30 | $2,400 | 335 | 6/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 2013 Soul | 26 | 31 | $2,200 | 322 | 6/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 2012 Soul | 26 | 31 | $2,200 | 317 | 6/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 2011 Soul | 26 | 31 | $2,200 | 317 | 6/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl | |
| 2010 Soul | 26 | 31 | $2,200 | 317 | 6/10 | 1.6L 4-cyl |
The 2020 Kia Soul gets 114 MPGe and costs about $650/yr to fuel — that's about $7,750 saved over 5 years versus the average new vehicle.
| Year | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Smog | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Soul | 127 | 101 | $650 | — | 10/10 | Electric | |
| 2019 Soul | 124 | 93 | $700 | — | 10/10 | Electric | |
| 2018 Soul | 124 | 93 | $700 | — | 10/10 | Electric | |
| 2017 Soul | 120 | 92 | $700 | — | 10/10 | Electric | |
| 2016 Soul | 120 | 92 | $700 | — | 10/10 | Electric | |
| 2015 Soul | 120 | 92 | $700 | — | 10/10 | Electric |
Source: EPA fuel-economy database (ForCar-hosted, 1986–2027) — best combined rating per engine & year, with EPA annual fuel cost and tailpipe CO₂. Trim & drivetrain vary slightly; decode your VIN for the exact figure.
See how the Soul stacks up against the most fuel-efficient wagons, or calculate this Soul's real yearly fuel cost.
What engines does the Kia Soul have? Power & range
The Kia Soul is offered with 2 powertrains — 2L 4-cyl, Electric. Here's the lineup by engine, transmission and drivetrain.
| Engine | Displacement | Transmission | Drive | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4-cyl | 2.0L · 4-cyl | CVT | FWD | Regular |
| Electric | Electric motor | Single-speed | FWD | Electricity |
Horsepower, torque and fuel-tank size decode from your VIN — exact figures vary by engine and trim.
Source: EPA fueleconomy.gov (engines, drivetrain, range, charge time). Horsepower & torque from NHTSA vPIC on VIN decode.
How much does a Kia Soul cost to own?
A used Kia Soul sells for a median of about $18,698 for a 2025 — most listed between $16,999 and $22,000, from 1,106 real US listings we track. That real market price is what depreciation eats into, so it's the true anchor of the cost to own:
| Year | Typical price | Market range | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Soul | $16,999–$22,000 | 16 | |
| 2024 Soul | $15,991–$19,995 | 15 | |
| 2023 Soul | $10,900–$18,981 | 20 | |
| 2022 Soul | $8,800–$16,995 | 29 | |
| 2021 Soul | $8,995–$14,999 | 46 | |
| 2020 Soul | $6,490–$24,900 | 62 |
For every model year mileage-adjusted, trade-in vs private-party vs dealer pricing and a good-deal check, see what a Soul is worth today, or browse used-market prices for electric cars.
A Kia Soul depreciates at about an average rate. A typical example keeps roughly 46% of its value after five years — losing about 54% to depreciation. Fuel, maintenance and insurance add to the total cost to own.
| Age | Value retained | Est. resale value | Lost to depreciation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | 80% | $24,000 | −$6,000 |
| Year 2 | 70% | $21,000 | −$9,000 |
| Year 3 | 61% | $18,300 | −$11,700 |
| Year 4 | 53% | $15,900 | −$14,100 |
| Year 5 | 46% | $13,800 | −$16,200 |
What goes into the five-year cost to own:
- Depreciation — the biggest cost: this Soul loses about 54% of its value over five years. See the full depreciation curve by age.
- Fuel — ≈ $3,250 over five years at roughly 15,000 miles a year.
- Maintenance & repairs — routine service, tires and wear items as the Soul ages.
- Insurance — varies by driver, state and trim; get a quote for your exact figure.
Resale & depreciation are ForCar estimates from typical segment value-retention curves — not a live market quote. Fuel from EPA fueleconomy.gov at ~15k mi/yr.
How much is a Kia Soul to insure?
A Kia Soul costs about $1,602 a year to insure for a typical driver on full coverage — roughly 11% above the average car. That's from its real HLDI insurance-loss index (111, where 100 = average car); your own rate moves with state, age, record and coverage.
Estimate = US-average premium × the Soul's HLDI loss index. See Kia insurance cost by model, cost by state, or compare any car.
Is the Kia Soul safe?
The Kia Soul earns up to 5-star NHTSA overall safety — real government crash-test data. Ratings by year:
| Year | Overall | Frontal | Side | Rollover |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2024 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2023 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2022 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2021 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2020 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2019 Soul | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2018 Soul | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2017 Soul | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2016 Soul | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2015 Soul | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2014 Soul | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2013 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2012 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| 2011 Soul | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings (NCAP), tested model years.
Want the safest pick? Compare crash-test scores across the safest cars.
Tired of ads? Go Pro.
- Zero ads — clean, fast pages
- Exact mileage-adjusted car values
- Full research reports + PDF
- Market charts & price-drop alerts
- …and much more
How many miles does a Kia Soul last?
A well-maintained Kia Soul typically lasts 250,000–300,000+ miles. It's exceptionally durable — with routine maintenance many owners report 250k+ on the original powertrain. Its ForCar Reliability Score is 4.5/5.
Check your Kia Soul’s VIN — history, recalls & specs
Title records, open recalls, build details and paint code — straight from the VIN. Free.
Check this Soul’s VIN free →All Kia Soul model years
A year-by-year snapshot of the Kia Soul — recalls, best EPA fuel economy and NHTSA safety. Tap a year for full details.
| Year | Recalls | Best MPG | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Soul | 0 | — | |
| 2025 Soul | 1 recall | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2024 Soul | 1 recall | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2023 Soul | 4 recalls | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2022 Soul | 1 recall | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2021 Soul | 2 recalls | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2020 Soul | 1 recall | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2019 Soul | 2 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2018 Soul | 2 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2017 Soul | 2 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2016 Soul | 2 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2015 Soul | 4 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2014 Soul | 5 recalls | ★★★★★ | |
| 2013 Soul | 3 recalls | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2012 Soul | 3 recalls | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2011 Soul | 3 recalls | ★★★★☆ | |
| 2010 Soul | 3 recalls | — |
Recalls = NHTSA campaigns that year · MPG = best EPA combined · Safety = NHTSA overall stars (tested years).
Frequently asked questions
What are the worst years for the Soul?
By owner-complaint volume, 2015, 2014, 2016 drew the most reports. 2026, 2025, 2024 have the cleanest records.
How many recalls does the Soul have?
39 recorded NHTSA recalls across 2010–2026. Always check open recalls by your VIN. See all Kia recalls and reliability across every model.
What MPG does the Soul get?
Up to 114 combined MPG (EPA), depending on engine — from the base 4-cylinder to the hybrid.
Is the Soul safe?
The Soul earns up to 5-star NHTSA overall crash-test safety; ratings vary by model year.
How many miles does a Soul last?
A well-maintained Soul typically reaches 200,000–300,000 miles with regular maintenance.
Is the Soul reliable?
Our ForCar Reliability Score for the Soul is 4.5/5, based on NHTSA safety, recall history and complaint severity.
What's the Kia Soul warranty?
New Kia models carry a 5 years / 60,000 miles basic (bumper-to-bumper) warranty and a 10 years / 100,000 miles powertrain warranty. Coverage can vary by model year and market — confirm with a Kia dealer.
Where is the Kia Soul made?
The assembly plant is encoded in the VIN — the 11th character. Decode your Soul's VIN above to see exactly where it was built; Kia may build it at more than one plant depending on the year.
How much ground clearance does the Soul have?
Ground clearance varies by trim and drivetrain — AWD/4WD versions often sit higher. Decode your VIN or check the specific trim for the exact figure.