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    Kia Soul

    EPA MPG: 26 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2016 Soul is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

    The 2016 Kia Soul has been recalled 5 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2016 Kia Soul owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Catalytic converter

    "I own two Kia's, as I wrote in your survey, I needed to replace the Catalytiv Converter for both of my KIA's, the millage Ilisted for you for both in the survey I completed."

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)

    "On one Kia, I replaced the Catalytic Converter at about 121,000 miles. On the other Kia, I replaced the Catalytic Converter at about 111,000 miles."

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)

    "less than 3000 miles after the engine blew up and was replaced, the catalytic converter failed. Kia's own service techs said that it was most likely due to the catastrophic engine failure. This time I called Kia USA and they refused to provide any help at all. I am not a fan of the quality and customer service provided by Kia USA- to say the least. I would recommend against anyone buying a Kia, any model, any year."

    Anonymous A., MO (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)

    ""Converter failed at less than 80,000 miles. Replaced a total of 3 times - Kia never did the ECM update to lower exhaust temperatures that they said they did. Continues to burn through converters every few months.""

    Anonymous, OH (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)
    Other/unsure

    ""Nov 2024 - Battery failed load test during inspection and had to be replaced; likely due to reduced car usage (short, very infrequent trips)""

    Anonymous, WA (2016 Kia Soul Plus Unsure)

    "Driver mirror switch"

    Anonymous, FL (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)

    "May experience poor throttle response in very hot weather and transmission not downshifting when it should. All wheel speed sensors had to be replaced at 15000 miles due to defects not covered by warranty."

    Anonymous, FL (2016 Kia Soul Plus 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "Our Soul has been broken into three times"

    Anonymous A., (2016 Kia Soul Plus 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "Break lights switch, transmission"

    Anonymous, FL (2016 Kia Soul Base Electric)

    "It may not be serious to you but it drinks a lot of oil and does not leak. It never stopped doing this to this day."

    Anonymous, CT (2016 Kia Soul Base Unsure)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Engine rebuild or replacement

    "original engine blew up at 30000 miles. Had to replace with new engine and new clutch. Kia offered precisely zero help. Worst auto experience of my entire life."

    Anonymous A., MO (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)

    "Remanufactured engine installed by Kia under extended factory warranty."

    Anonymous, AZ (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)

    "Kia replaced my engine at no charge due to faulty parts."

    Anonymous, AL (2016 Kia Soul Exclaim 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    ""Engine began failing at around 80,000 miles due to loss of compression and oil consumption, dealer refused to correct until the engine died at 143,000.""

    Anonymous, OH (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)

    ""Crankshaft bearing issue that almost all key of this type have, it's a well-known problem by Kia, they extended the warranty because of it, but they did not extend it to the normal place of failure which is somewhere between 150 K and 160 K, which is where mine went out.""

    Anonymous A., CA (2016 Kia Soul Plus 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "Kia dealership 6 blocks away would not accept would not accept for oil consumption testing. west Chester Kia dealership would not accept"

    Anonymous, PA (2016 Kia Soul EV 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    What Owners Say

    Other steering/suspension problem

    ""few years ago the passenger lower control arm was bent, had to replace. now had to replace both sides because the ball joints and bushing were shot""

    Anonymous, QC (2016 Kia Soul EV Electric)
    Shocks or struts

    "Rear struts were leaking and noisy over bumps. The strut mount/bushing had also failed due to the fluid leaking from the struts."

    Anonymous A., WA (2016 Kia Soul EV Electric)

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Squeaks or rattles

    "At almost any speed there is a slight rattling/vibration sound that appears to be coming from the front passenger side dashboard. But I cant narrow it down to exactly what it is. It could be possibly in the foot rest area. Or it could be behind the glove box. Or its even possible that it could be in the defrost ductwork. I cannot narrow it down. Its a very distinct noise. But it is very hard to locate from where it emanates."

    Anonymous, MS (2016 Kia Soul Exclaim 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    "There is annoying rattle coming from somewhere around the steering wheel"

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Kia Soul Unsure 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Engine mounts

    "Bushings replaced for engine and transmission mounts."

    Anonymous, AZ (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)
    Oil leaks

    "If additional oil is not added between oil changes, the oil either leaks out or burns and there is insufficient oil in the vehicle."

    Anonymous A., (2016 Kia Soul Base 1.6-L 4 Cyl)

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Speakers

    "Left-side speakers stopped working, but I dealt with it for a while. It affected radio audio as well as Bluetooth audio. Eventually the right-side speakers stopped working, and I couldn't use hands-free calling because of it, plus no audio from the radio. I took it to a local mechanic who I trust and he was able to replace the speaker system and everything works fine now."

    Anonymous A., FL (2016 Kia Soul Plus 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Steering wheel controls

    "When I attempt to use the steering wheel controls for my audio system, sometimes it doesn't work quite right. For example, if I try to increase the volume of the speakers, sometimes it reacts as if I pressed the Bluetooth command button. Sometimes when I try to move the channel selector up or down, it changes the volume instead. It doesn't happen all the time, but occasionally. Since it isn't vital to the car's operation and not a safety concern, I haven't bothered to get it repaired."

    Anonymous A., FL (2016 Kia Soul Plus 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    What Owners Say

    12V battery

    "The cable end was loose long enough the 12v battery had to be replaced."

    Anonymous, OR (2016 Kia Soul EV Electric)
    Exterior lights (other than headlights)

    ""It started with the front right turn signal not illuminating / flashing. In troubleshooting, I swapped it over to the left side. The problem went away. However, now it frequently showed up on the left side. So I swapped it back over to the right side and now it shows up on the right side. So I know the problem is in the tightness of the bulb mating with its Socket. Because the bulb still works, and the socket still works most of the time, but every time I remove the bulb from the socket and re-insert it everything starts working again for a few weeks. And then it will stop working again. I have now swapped them back-and-forth about five times within the past year. My solution is going to be. I will use NO-OX-ID electrical lubrication to give the bulb a more secure grip in the socket. (having spent 40 years of my career working in the electrical/electronics industry. I am reasonably certain this solution will work. If not, I will end up buying a new socket and lightbulb.)""

    Anonymous, MS (2016 Kia Soul Exclaim 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    What Owners Say

    Emission control devices (includes EGR)

    "On more than one occasion, I had the "CHECK ENGINE" light come on, which was covered by the used car warranty."

    Anonymous, AZ (2016 Kia Soul Exclaim 2.0-L 4 Cyl)
    Sensors (includes O2 or oxygen sensor)

    "I included both of the likely culprits under the "CHECK ENGINE" light. I'm not sure which system was involved because it was covered under my used car warranty."

    Anonymous, AZ (2016 Kia Soul Exclaim 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    Refrigerant leaks

    "few years ago the AC stopped working had to refill. Never followed up to locate the leak cos of covid. Empty again had to refill and added dye to hopefully locate"

    Anonymous, QC (2016 Kia Soul EV Electric)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Rotors

    "Noticed shuddering while braking especially from a high speed. Took it to my local KIA dealer and they said everything was fine they inspected brake pads, etc. But recommended brake fluid remove and replace. Took it back a month later since the shuddering was still present. Ha d the brake fluid r/r and they complained again about shuddering. They had a lead mechanic drive it and he found that the front rotors were warped and needed refinishing. After that the brakes work great and all is well."

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Kia Soul Plus 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    What Owners Say

    Ignition switch

    "Have had a problem with start button working intermittently since I bought the car battery has been relaxed and still tests fine per mechanic. Still not resolved."

    Anonymous, PA (2016 Kia Soul EV 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Paint (fading, chalking, cracking, or peeling)

    "Terrible paint job on this vehicle and catalytic converter went out as well...."

    Anonymous, CA (2016 Kia Soul Base 2.0-L 4 Cyl)

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    2016 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    Kia vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
    * Redesign year
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    NA
    Engine Major
    NA
    Engine Minor
    NA
    Engine Cooling
    NA
    Engine Electrical
    NA
    Transmission Major
    NA
    Transmission Minor
    NA
    Drive System
    NA
    Fuel System/Emissions
    NA
    Exhaust
    NA
    Suspension/Steering
    NA
    Brakes
    NA
    Climate System
    NA
    Build Quality
    NA
    Electrical Accessories
    NA
    Body Hardware
    NA
    Paint/Trim
    NA
    Noises/Leaks
    NA
    In-car Electronics
    NA
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
    Oct 26, 2023
    Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Kia America, Inc. (KIA) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Soul EV vehicles. The parking mechanism may be damaged, which can result in unintended vehicle movement when the gear shift lever is in the Park 'P' position and the parking brake is not applied while the vehicle is powered on.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will update the electronic control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC287. This recall expands and replaces recall number 20V-389. Vehicles previously repaired under 20V-389 will need to have the new remedy completed.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V724000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 6262
    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
    Mar 29, 2023
    A battery electrical short-circuit increases the risk of a fire.
    Summary:
    Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Soul EV vehicles equipped with an E400 battery. The high-voltage battery pack may experience an electrical short-circuit while driving.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will update and/or replace the battery management system and software, as necessary, free of charge. The new software will illuminate the EV warning light, limit charging capacity, and reduce vehicle power if abnormal voltage is detected. If this occurs, the battery will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 18, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC267.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 23V218000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 2689
    ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, POWER TRAIN
    Jul 02, 2020
    Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Kia Soul Electric Vehicle (EV) vehicles. The parking mechanism may become damaged if the driver moves the gear shift lever into Park 'P' before the vehicle comes to a complete stop. If the parking mechanism is damaged, unintended vehicle movement may occur when the gear shift lever is in the Park 'P' position and the parking brake is not applied.
    What should you do:
    Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the electronic control unit software, free of charge. The recall began August 7, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC191.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 20V389000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 3714
    ENGINE, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
    Feb 22, 2019
    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.
    Summary:
    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.
    What should you do:
    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.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V120000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 378967
    STEERING
    Sep 29, 2017
    If the pinion gear separates, steering will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    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.
    What should you do:
    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.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 17V608000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 342381
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