Severity
Category
Description
Crash
Filed
Safety
The car started knocking at 65 mph while excelling to 70 the engine then had a loud bang and the engine block broke apart and spilled oil on to manifold almost starting a fire I have been informed that the engine is recalled for piston rings. This is an extremely dangerous situation. LUCKILY I managed to exit highway and not engulfed in flames. So far Kia has been unwilling to assist me and I also purchased an extended warranty with Automotive Protective Corporation in Atlanta Ga. and no body is helping me. Source: NHTSA ODI #11428148 · tap to collapse
No
Aug 6
Safety
Aug 6
The car started knocking at 65 mph while excelling to 70 the engine then had a loud bang and the engine block broke apart and spilled oil on to manifold almost starting a fire I have been informed that the engine is recalled for piston rings. This is an extremely dangerous situation. LUCKILY I managed to exit highway and not engulfed in flames. So far Kia has been unwilling to assist me and I also purchased an extended warranty with Automotive Protective Corporation in Atlanta Ga. and no body is helping me. Source: NHTSA ODI #11428148 · tap to collapse
Safety
GAS PEDAL GOT STUCK WE RAN THROUGH THE END OF THE HOUSE. THIS HAPPEN WHILE TURNING IN OUR DRIVEWAY Source: NHTSA ODI #11306573 · tap to collapse
Yes
Feb 1
Safety
Feb 1
GAS PEDAL GOT STUCK WE RAN THROUGH THE END OF THE HOUSE. THIS HAPPEN WHILE TURNING IN OUR DRIVEWAY Source: NHTSA ODI #11306573 · tap to collapse
Crash involved
Safety
This issue is a significant safety concern. The vehicle intermittently loses propulsion, causing a sudden forward lurch, and then abruptly regains power, pushing me back into the seat. This unexpected deceleration and surge can create a dangerous situation in traffic and may lead to an accident if it occurs while merging, crossing intersections, or driving at highway speeds. In addition, I am experiencing significant engine oil loss between regular oil changes. This week, just before my scheduled service, I found the engine to be approximately two quarts low. There were no warning lights indicating low oil or pressure. I only became aware of the issue after hearing noticeable engine ticking, at which point I immediately parked the vehicle and have not driven it since. I added two quarts of oil due to concern over potential engine damage caused by operating at a low oil level. I have contacted my dealership to report the oil loss and the engine noise, and I am currently waiting for a return call as I had to leave a message. This level of oil consumption is abnormal and concerning, especially combined with the lack of warning indicators. I believe this condition may pose a safety risk and could potentially lead to engine failure while driving. I have recorded video showing the amount of oil needed, the dipstick readings before and after adding oil, and the process of topping up the engine. I also have receipts for the oil I purchased. I can provide all documentation upon request. Based on my research, this appears to be a documented issue reported by multiple vehicle owners, and it is known to require corrective repair. I checked my VIN on the manufacturerâs recall website and confirmed that there are currently no open recalls associated with my vehicle. However, despite the absence of an official recall, the issues I am experiencing are safetyârelated and require investigation and correction. Source: NHTSA ODI #11720705 · tap to collapse
No
Feb 25
Safety
Feb 25
This issue is a significant safety concern. The vehicle intermittently loses propulsion, causing a sudden forward lurch, and then abruptly regains power, pushing me back into the seat. This unexpected deceleration and surge can create a dangerous situation in traffic and may lead to an accident if it occurs while merging, crossing intersections, or driving at highway speeds. In addition, I am experiencing significant engine oil loss between regular oil changes. This week, just before my scheduled service, I found the engine to be approximately two quarts low. There were no warning lights indicating low oil or pressure. I only became aware of the issue after hearing noticeable engine ticking, at which point I immediately parked the vehicle and have not driven it since. I added two quarts of oil due to concern over potential engine damage caused by operating at a low oil level. I have contacted my dealership to report the oil loss and the engine noise, and I am currently waiting for a return call as I had to leave a message. This level of oil consumption is abnormal and concerning, especially combined with the lack of warning indicators. I believe this condition may pose a safety risk and could potentially lead to engine failure while driving. I have recorded video showing the amount of oil needed, the dipstick readings before and after adding oil, and the process of topping up the engine. I also have receipts for the oil I purchased. I can provide all documentation upon request. Based on my research, this appears to be a documented issue reported by multiple vehicle owners, and it is known to require corrective repair. I checked my VIN on the manufacturerâs recall website and confirmed that there are currently no open recalls associated with my vehicle. However, despite the absence of an official recall, the issues I am experiencing are safetyârelated and require investigation and correction. Source: NHTSA ODI #11720705 · tap to collapse
Safety
Immediately after purchase, the Passenger Airbag warning light illuminated. An authorized Kia dealer confirmed that the airbag system is defective and requires repair under warranty. Despite this confirmation, more than five (5) months have passed without repair, citing parts unavailability. I am operating a vehicle with a known airbag malfunction. This defect involves a federally regulated safety system and poses a safety risk. Source: NHTSA ODI #11713543 · tap to collapse
No
Jan 26
Safety
Jan 26
Immediately after purchase, the Passenger Airbag warning light illuminated. An authorized Kia dealer confirmed that the airbag system is defective and requires repair under warranty. Despite this confirmation, more than five (5) months have passed without repair, citing parts unavailability. I am operating a vehicle with a known airbag malfunction. This defect involves a federally regulated safety system and poses a safety risk. Source: NHTSA ODI #11713543 · tap to collapse
Safety
My 2020 Kia Soul is suffering catastrophic engine failure from a known safety recall defect involving the piston oil rings. I received a safety recall notice from Kia on July 5, 2021 warning that defective piston oil rings could cause engine damage and engine fires. I brought the vehicle to a Kia dealer for recall service on July 5, 2021 and again on February 1, 2022 for the same safety recall. Kia did not replace the engine and did not explain what repairs were performed. Now, despite having complied with both recall repairs, my engine is knocking, burning oil, losing power, and the check engine light is blinking. The vehicle has stalled in traffic, creating a serious safety risk. I am afraid to drive it due to the risk of engine failure and fire. The Kia dealer is now telling me the engine needs to be replaced at a cost of $5,000 or more, or I must replace the vehicle. They claim the recall was already performed and the vehicle is no longer under warranty, even though the same recalled defect has now caused engine failure. This appears to be a defective and ineffective recall remedy that did not correct the safety defect and has resulted in dangerous engine failure. Source: NHTSA ODI #11712729 · tap to collapse
No
Jan 21
Safety
Jan 21
My 2020 Kia Soul is suffering catastrophic engine failure from a known safety recall defect involving the piston oil rings. I received a safety recall notice from Kia on July 5, 2021 warning that defective piston oil rings could cause engine damage and engine fires. I brought the vehicle to a Kia dealer for recall service on July 5, 2021 and again on February 1, 2022 for the same safety recall. Kia did not replace the engine and did not explain what repairs were performed. Now, despite having complied with both recall repairs, my engine is knocking, burning oil, losing power, and the check engine light is blinking. The vehicle has stalled in traffic, creating a serious safety risk. I am afraid to drive it due to the risk of engine failure and fire. The Kia dealer is now telling me the engine needs to be replaced at a cost of $5,000 or more, or I must replace the vehicle. They claim the recall was already performed and the vehicle is no longer under warranty, even though the same recalled defect has now caused engine failure. This appears to be a defective and ineffective recall remedy that did not correct the safety defect and has resulted in dangerous engine failure. Source: NHTSA ODI #11712729 · tap to collapse
Safety
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. Source: NHTSA ODI #11684758 · tap to collapse
Yes
Sep 2
Safety
Sep 2
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. Source: NHTSA ODI #11684758 · tap to collapse
Crash involved
Safety
Complaint Regarding Mechanical Failure and $315 Service Charge on Recent Vehicle Purchase Iâm 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 2âs spark plug was loose and meltedâan issue that clearly could have caused the breakdown. This is not typical wear and tear. Itâs 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 havenât even made my second car payment, and Iâm already dealing with a major mechanical failure. I feel I was sold a vehicle that was not properly inspected and that now Iâm 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. Source: NHTSA ODI #11668826 · tap to collapse
No
Jun 23
Safety
Jun 23
Complaint Regarding Mechanical Failure and $315 Service Charge on Recent Vehicle Purchase Iâm 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 2âs spark plug was loose and meltedâan issue that clearly could have caused the breakdown. This is not typical wear and tear. Itâs 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 havenât even made my second car payment, and Iâm already dealing with a major mechanical failure. I feel I was sold a vehicle that was not properly inspected and that now Iâm 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. Source: NHTSA ODI #11668826 · tap to collapse
Safety
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driverâs side tire was making a metal scraping sound. In addition, the contact stated there was an abnormal chemical odor entering into the cabin of the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road, and had the vehicle towed to a local dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed with a stuck valve inside the ABS module, causing the passengerâs side front brake caliper piston to not function as intended, and a brake fluid leak. The hydraulic unit, brake fluid, Pad Kit Front Disk B, and Disk Front wheel Brake parts were replaced and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11665690 · tap to collapse
No
Jun 8
Safety
Jun 8
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driverâs side tire was making a metal scraping sound. In addition, the contact stated there was an abnormal chemical odor entering into the cabin of the vehicle. No warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road, and had the vehicle towed to a local dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed with a stuck valve inside the ABS module, causing the passengerâs side front brake caliper piston to not function as intended, and a brake fluid leak. The hydraulic unit, brake fluid, Pad Kit Front Disk B, and Disk Front wheel Brake parts were replaced and the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11665690 · tap to collapse
Safety
The contactâs wife owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and turning the steering wheel, the steering wheel failed to return to center. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the steering rack, and pinion plugs were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 232,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11656289 · tap to collapse
No
Apr 22
Safety
Apr 22
The contactâs wife owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and turning the steering wheel, the steering wheel failed to return to center. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the steering rack, and pinion plugs were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 232,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11656289 · tap to collapse
Safety
The contact called on behalf of his wife who owns a 2020 Kia SOUL LX. The contact stated that they had began to notice that while driving at various speeds and turning the steering wheel the steering would remain turned and would not return to its original position, no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was advised that the steering rack and pinion plugs were faulty and would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 232,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11656290 · tap to collapse
No
Apr 22
Safety
Apr 22
The contact called on behalf of his wife who owns a 2020 Kia SOUL LX. The contact stated that they had began to notice that while driving at various speeds and turning the steering wheel the steering would remain turned and would not return to its original position, no warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was advised that the steering rack and pinion plugs were faulty and would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 232,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11656290 · tap to collapse
Safety
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving approximately 35-40 MPH, the vehicle stalled with several unknown warning lights illuminated. After several attempts, the vehicle was restarted, and the contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. After waiting for a while the contact was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving slowly; however, the failure recurred. The contact had to turn off and restart the vehicle several times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the throttle had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11639429 · tap to collapse
No
Jan 28
Safety
Jan 28
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving approximately 35-40 MPH, the vehicle stalled with several unknown warning lights illuminated. After several attempts, the vehicle was restarted, and the contact was able to pull over to the side of the road. After waiting for a while the contact was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving slowly; however, the failure recurred. The contact had to turn off and restart the vehicle several times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the throttle had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11639429 · tap to collapse
Safety
When I would come to a complete stop at a stop sign it would stall battery light and oil light would come on. I would need to put it in park then turn it off and turn it back on. It also would suck up oil like crazy I would need to replace the oil every few days otherwise it wouldn't start. I took it to the shop and 2 of the 4 pistons blew and all the timing stuff stopped working. Source: NHTSA ODI #11632582 · tap to collapse
No
Dec 26
Safety
Dec 26
When I would come to a complete stop at a stop sign it would stall battery light and oil light would come on. I would need to put it in park then turn it off and turn it back on. It also would suck up oil like crazy I would need to replace the oil every few days otherwise it wouldn't start. I took it to the shop and 2 of the 4 pistons blew and all the timing stuff stopped working. Source: NHTSA ODI #11632582 · tap to collapse
Safety
Seat belt extenders are not made available at Kia Dealership. Source: NHTSA ODI #11583016 · tap to collapse
No
Apr 14
Safety
Apr 14
Seat belt extenders are not made available at Kia Dealership. Source: NHTSA ODI #11583016 · tap to collapse
Satisfaction
My vehicle was stolen. . They broke out window. The problem of kiaâs being stolen has increased to the point local officials have filed a lawsuit against kia. The problem of these cars being easily stolen has been all over the news recently. People are getting killed because of reckless driving by the persons stealing the vehicles. I had no idea my car was vulnerable to this and was told when my engine was replaced, all updates had been made. I am not rich, i have no car and even though i have insurance doesn't mean they will pay off my vehicle. Stolen vehicle report has been made to the police. I have tried to file a clain on the kia claims website but it says theres no recall for my vehicle. It is a 2020 kia soul and has been a nightmare since i bought it. Source: NHTSA ODI #11550051 · tap to collapse
No
Oct 14
Satisfaction
Oct 14
My vehicle was stolen. . They broke out window. The problem of kiaâs being stolen has increased to the point local officials have filed a lawsuit against kia. The problem of these cars being easily stolen has been all over the news recently. People are getting killed because of reckless driving by the persons stealing the vehicles. I had no idea my car was vulnerable to this and was told when my engine was replaced, all updates had been made. I am not rich, i have no car and even though i have insurance doesn't mean they will pay off my vehicle. Stolen vehicle report has been made to the police. I have tried to file a clain on the kia claims website but it says theres no recall for my vehicle. It is a 2020 kia soul and has been a nightmare since i bought it. Source: NHTSA ODI #11550051 · tap to collapse
Satisfaction
My vehicle was stolen this morning from my home. I was not notified of a defect causing it to be stolen easily. Glass left in parking spot where car had been parked. Source: NHTSA ODI #11549909 · tap to collapse
No
Oct 13
Satisfaction
Oct 13
My vehicle was stolen this morning from my home. I was not notified of a defect causing it to be stolen easily. Glass left in parking spot where car had been parked. Source: NHTSA ODI #11549909 · tap to collapse
Safety
See attached document from complainant Source: NHTSA ODI #11548398 · tap to collapse
No
Oct 4
Safety
Oct 4
See attached document from complainant Source: NHTSA ODI #11548398 · tap to collapse
Software
The auto start-stop function sometimes will not restart. This time it happened in the middle of traffic at an intersection, and I had to put the car in park and restart it before I could move. This could cause a collision in busy traffic times or if people are not paying attention. The problem has not been confirmed by a dealer at this time. During the time it shut off, the battery light and oil light came on, but I just had the car serviced three weeks ago and was told it passed their inspection (I only go to my manufacturer's dealership for service). The oil light and battery light shut off and did not reappear again after restarting the car. The vehicle can be available for inspection depending on time and date. This happened once before about a year ago, but the dealership said nothing was wrong with the vehicle. Source: NHTSA ODI #11525208 · tap to collapse
No
Jun 2
Software
Jun 2
The auto start-stop function sometimes will not restart. This time it happened in the middle of traffic at an intersection, and I had to put the car in park and restart it before I could move. This could cause a collision in busy traffic times or if people are not paying attention. The problem has not been confirmed by a dealer at this time. During the time it shut off, the battery light and oil light came on, but I just had the car serviced three weeks ago and was told it passed their inspection (I only go to my manufacturer's dealership for service). The oil light and battery light shut off and did not reappear again after restarting the car. The vehicle can be available for inspection depending on time and date. This happened once before about a year ago, but the dealership said nothing was wrong with the vehicle. Source: NHTSA ODI #11525208 · tap to collapse
Safety
While driving on the highway at 60 mph, the vehicle Started To feel like it was trying to go forward (thrusting) on its own. It then accelerated on its own to over 80 mph. I slammed on the brakes and pulled over and put it in park.the engine was revving in park. After Kia roads on assistance couldn't send a tow truck,I thought I would be okay driving on the emergency lane The 2 miles home from the highway. As I put the car in drive, the engine was revving at 6 On the gauge but the vehicle Wouldn't go over 20 miles an hour. It is at the dealership today. There were no warnings or lights or sounds.It all started with the slight thrusting of the entire car. I could have easily slammed into the back of another vehicle if it had been in front of me. Source: NHTSA ODI #11513944 · tap to collapse
No
Mar 26
Safety
Mar 26
While driving on the highway at 60 mph, the vehicle Started To feel like it was trying to go forward (thrusting) on its own. It then accelerated on its own to over 80 mph. I slammed on the brakes and pulled over and put it in park.the engine was revving in park. After Kia roads on assistance couldn't send a tow truck,I thought I would be okay driving on the emergency lane The 2 miles home from the highway. As I put the car in drive, the engine was revving at 6 On the gauge but the vehicle Wouldn't go over 20 miles an hour. It is at the dealership today. There were no warnings or lights or sounds.It all started with the slight thrusting of the entire car. I could have easily slammed into the back of another vehicle if it had been in front of me. Source: NHTSA ODI #11513944 · tap to collapse
Safety
My car will not turn on Source: NHTSA ODI #11511427 · tap to collapse
No
Mar 11
Safety
Mar 11
My car will not turn on Source: NHTSA ODI #11511427 · tap to collapse
Safety
Motor driven power steering failed, dealer (Hyman Bros Kia Midlothian VA) replaced the flexible coupling in the power steering assembly. Source: NHTSA ODI #11508475 · tap to collapse
No
Feb 21
Safety
Feb 21
Motor driven power steering failed, dealer (Hyman Bros Kia Midlothian VA) replaced the flexible coupling in the power steering assembly. Source: NHTSA ODI #11508475 · tap to collapse
Safety
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while reversing the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal to stop the vehicle, the brake pedal was rigid and failed to stop the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact turned off the vehicle to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the brake pedal operated as needed. The contact stated while the vehicle was in park(P), the message to shift to park(P) was displayed. Additionally, the oil pressure and charging warning lights were intermittently illuminated. The contact stated that the front windshield wipers failed to work intermittently. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer; however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The failure persisted. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. Source: NHTSA ODI #11501020 · tap to collapse
No
Jan 9
Safety
Jan 9
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while reversing the vehicle and depressing the brake pedal to stop the vehicle, the brake pedal was rigid and failed to stop the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact turned off the vehicle to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the brake pedal operated as needed. The contact stated while the vehicle was in park(P), the message to shift to park(P) was displayed. Additionally, the oil pressure and charging warning lights were intermittently illuminated. The contact stated that the front windshield wipers failed to work intermittently. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer; however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The failure persisted. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. Source: NHTSA ODI #11501020 · tap to collapse
Safety
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while starting the vehicle in a parking lot, the steering wheel locked, and the contact was unable to turn the steering wheel. The contact shifted the vehicle into park(P) and turned off and restarted the vehicle and the power steering functionality returned. The contact stated a symbol of a steering wheel in a circle with a line through the steering wheel was illuminated. The contact stated she drove the vehicle to her residence and turned off and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering column needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11496572 · tap to collapse
No
Dec 7
Safety
Dec 7
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while starting the vehicle in a parking lot, the steering wheel locked, and the contact was unable to turn the steering wheel. The contact shifted the vehicle into park(P) and turned off and restarted the vehicle and the power steering functionality returned. The contact stated a symbol of a steering wheel in a circle with a line through the steering wheel was illuminated. The contact stated she drove the vehicle to her residence and turned off and restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering column needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 14,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11496572 · tap to collapse
Safety
Electrical power steering system froze and would not turn left nor right while car was running in both Reverse and Drive as I was trying to leave my home to run errands. My Kia Access application on my phone showed an issue with Electrical Power Steering and the dash of my car had the red steering wheel with exclamation point warning light in red on. When tow truck came 4 hours later and turned vehicle on to get it into tow truck the steer issue disappeared. However, he did tell me that the night of 8.17.20222 he towed another Kia Soul that the steering locked up in mid turn of another vehicle on a driver her in Phoenix, AZ. This is a huge concern and very scary to think of what could happen if I was in traffic. My car is currently at the dealership for diagnostics, and if they can't find an issue I have to pay a minimum $170 just for them to look at it. This is not a good situation as a whole!!! This vehicle needs to have an electrical power steering issue recall. Source: NHTSA ODI #11480109 · tap to collapse
No
Aug 18
Safety
Aug 18
Electrical power steering system froze and would not turn left nor right while car was running in both Reverse and Drive as I was trying to leave my home to run errands. My Kia Access application on my phone showed an issue with Electrical Power Steering and the dash of my car had the red steering wheel with exclamation point warning light in red on. When tow truck came 4 hours later and turned vehicle on to get it into tow truck the steer issue disappeared. However, he did tell me that the night of 8.17.20222 he towed another Kia Soul that the steering locked up in mid turn of another vehicle on a driver her in Phoenix, AZ. This is a huge concern and very scary to think of what could happen if I was in traffic. My car is currently at the dealership for diagnostics, and if they can't find an issue I have to pay a minimum $170 just for them to look at it. This is not a good situation as a whole!!! This vehicle needs to have an electrical power steering issue recall. Source: NHTSA ODI #11480109 · tap to collapse
Safety
Car hit guardrail at highway speed. There is significant damage to the front end. The drivers and passengers airbags failed to deploy. The driver side air bag did deploy. Source: NHTSA ODI #11440772 · tap to collapse
Yes
Nov 16
Safety
Nov 16
Car hit guardrail at highway speed. There is significant damage to the front end. The drivers and passengers airbags failed to deploy. The driver side air bag did deploy. Source: NHTSA ODI #11440772 · tap to collapse
Crash involved
Safety
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving the vehicle was slow to move and stalled. The oil level warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the oil was dirty, the oil level was low, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The Vin was included in NHTSA Campaign number: 21V259000 (Engine). The manufacturer was notified of the failure however, declined to offer any assistance for the repairs. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11423945 · tap to collapse
No
Jul 7
Safety
Jul 7
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving the vehicle was slow to move and stalled. The oil level warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the oil was dirty, the oil level was low, and the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The Vin was included in NHTSA Campaign number: 21V259000 (Engine). The manufacturer was notified of the failure however, declined to offer any assistance for the repairs. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11423945 · tap to collapse
Software
When pulling out into traffic the car started to go, RPMs spiked all the way and the car just died⦠I shut it off, and all was fineâ¦. Then I stopped to get gas, and when the auto stop/start kicked in, the car didnât restart⦠the oil pressure light turned on, battery light, and check engine light all at the same time. Would not let me shift into park. I had to push the shift release to let me put it into park. I was then able to shut off the car properly and start it just fine, and no lights active. This all happened around 19,000 miles. The last 2 times Iâve been in for an oil change, there has been 2 recalls completed , and now this new recall related to the oil piston. Source: NHTSA ODI #11420702 · tap to collapse
No
Jun 11
Software
Jun 11
When pulling out into traffic the car started to go, RPMs spiked all the way and the car just died⦠I shut it off, and all was fineâ¦. Then I stopped to get gas, and when the auto stop/start kicked in, the car didnât restart⦠the oil pressure light turned on, battery light, and check engine light all at the same time. Would not let me shift into park. I had to push the shift release to let me put it into park. I was then able to shut off the car properly and start it just fine, and no lights active. This all happened around 19,000 miles. The last 2 times Iâve been in for an oil change, there has been 2 recalls completed , and now this new recall related to the oil piston. Source: NHTSA ODI #11420702 · tap to collapse
Safety
THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND I WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE ENGINE KEY AROUND. I WAS UNABLE TO START THE CAR AS THE STEERING WHEEL WAS JAMMED. IT TOOK ME OVER 1 HRS TO FINALLY UNNAMED THE STEERING WHEEL. THIS HAS HAPPENED TWICE. Source: NHTSA ODI #11415772 · tap to collapse
No
May 9
Safety
May 9
THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED AND I WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE ENGINE KEY AROUND. I WAS UNABLE TO START THE CAR AS THE STEERING WHEEL WAS JAMMED. IT TOOK ME OVER 1 HRS TO FINALLY UNNAMED THE STEERING WHEEL. THIS HAS HAPPENED TWICE. Source: NHTSA ODI #11415772 · tap to collapse
Safety
THE STEERING WHEEL OF MY KIA SOUL 2020 HAMMER. I WAS UNABLE TO START THE CAR AS THE STEERING WHEN BECAME STUCK..JAMMED. CALLED A TOWN TRUCK TO TOWED INTO THE KIA DEALER FOR REPAIRS. Source: NHTSA ODI #11405777 · tap to collapse
No
Mar 30
Safety
Mar 30
THE STEERING WHEEL OF MY KIA SOUL 2020 HAMMER. I WAS UNABLE TO START THE CAR AS THE STEERING WHEN BECAME STUCK..JAMMED. CALLED A TOWN TRUCK TO TOWED INTO THE KIA DEALER FOR REPAIRS. Source: NHTSA ODI #11405777 · tap to collapse
Safety
AT 8960 MILES STEERING INDICATOR DASH LIGHT CAME ON. DEALERSHIP DETERMINED IT WAS A BAD STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY. DUE TO THE CORONA VIRUS PART TOOK 2 1/2 WEEKS TO GET TO THE DEALERSHIP. Source: NHTSA ODI #11397988 · tap to collapse
No
Feb 24
Safety
Feb 24
AT 8960 MILES STEERING INDICATOR DASH LIGHT CAME ON. DEALERSHIP DETERMINED IT WAS A BAD STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY. DUE TO THE CORONA VIRUS PART TOOK 2 1/2 WEEKS TO GET TO THE DEALERSHIP. Source: NHTSA ODI #11397988 · tap to collapse
Safety
I WAS IN A FRONT END COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I IMPACTED THE SECOND VEHICLE IN THEIR SIDE PASSENGER DOOR AT ABOUT 45-50 MPH. THIS HAPPENED ON US HWY 27 N IN CLERMONT, FLORIDA. BOTH MY HUSBAND AND MYSELF WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE ER. I WAS DRIVING A 2020 KIA SOUL. Source: NHTSA ODI #11394554 · tap to collapse
Yes
Feb 2
Safety
Feb 2
I WAS IN A FRONT END COLLISION WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. I IMPACTED THE SECOND VEHICLE IN THEIR SIDE PASSENGER DOOR AT ABOUT 45-50 MPH. THIS HAPPENED ON US HWY 27 N IN CLERMONT, FLORIDA. BOTH MY HUSBAND AND MYSELF WERE TRANSPORTED TO THE ER. I WAS DRIVING A 2020 KIA SOUL. Source: NHTSA ODI #11394554 · tap to collapse
Crash involved
Safety
OUR KIA SOUL 2020 HAS SOME FAILURE RELATED TO THE AUTO STOP FEATURE (ISG). STARTING AT ABOUT 3000 MILES, THE CAR GROANS AS IT COMES OUT OF AUTO STOP, WITH THE NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT LEFT. KIA CORPORATE DOES NOT ACKNOWLEDGE THIS AS A REPEATED ISSUE, THOUGH THERE ARE MANY FORUMS ONLINE RECORDING THIS EXACT PROBLEM AROUND THIS MILEAGE. THERE SEEMS TO BE NO CONSENSUS ON THE REPAIR, AND NO CONSENSUS ON WHETHER IT IS SAFE TO DRIVE. IF THE AUTO STOP (ISG) FEATURE IS DISABLED, THE NOISE DOES NOT HAPPEN. MORE ACCOUNTS CAN BE FOUND HERE: HTTPS://WWW.KIASOULFORUMS.COM/THREADS/ENGINE-GRINDS-WHEN-COMING-OUT-OF-THE-AUTO-START-STOP.116042/ A VIDEO WITH THE SAME NOISE CAN BE FOUND HERE: HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/1TA6BH6ZPU8 THIS UNNERVING NOISE OCCURS AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING (NO NOISE PRIOR TO THAT). Source: NHTSA ODI #11382945 · tap to collapse
No
Dec 9
Safety
Dec 9
OUR KIA SOUL 2020 HAS SOME FAILURE RELATED TO THE AUTO STOP FEATURE (ISG). STARTING AT ABOUT 3000 MILES, THE CAR GROANS AS IT COMES OUT OF AUTO STOP, WITH THE NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT LEFT. KIA CORPORATE DOES NOT ACKNOWLEDGE THIS AS A REPEATED ISSUE, THOUGH THERE ARE MANY FORUMS ONLINE RECORDING THIS EXACT PROBLEM AROUND THIS MILEAGE. THERE SEEMS TO BE NO CONSENSUS ON THE REPAIR, AND NO CONSENSUS ON WHETHER IT IS SAFE TO DRIVE. IF THE AUTO STOP (ISG) FEATURE IS DISABLED, THE NOISE DOES NOT HAPPEN. MORE ACCOUNTS CAN BE FOUND HERE: HTTPS://WWW.KIASOULFORUMS.COM/THREADS/ENGINE-GRINDS-WHEN-COMING-OUT-OF-THE-AUTO-START-STOP.116042/ A VIDEO WITH THE SAME NOISE CAN BE FOUND HERE: HTTPS://YOUTU.BE/1TA6BH6ZPU8 THIS UNNERVING NOISE OCCURS AFTER ABOUT 10 MINUTES OF DRIVING (NO NOISE PRIOR TO THAT). Source: NHTSA ODI #11382945 · tap to collapse
Safety
WHEN PARKED (BUT WITH THE POWER SET TO "RUN" OR THE ENGINE FULLY ON), IF YOU TURN THE STEERING WHEEL IN EITHER DIRECTION, TYPICALLY TO ITS FULLEST EXTENT, THERE IS A LOUD "CLUNK" OR "CLANK" NOISE COMING FROM THE BASE OF THE STEERING COLUMN. AFTER TAKING THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP, THEY ONLY TOLD ME THE STEERING WAS "BROKE" AND THEY HAD TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE STEERING SYSTEM UNDER WARRANTY. THE ISSUE STARTED AROUND 2300 MILES. I HAVE TAKEN SEVERAL VIDEOS SINCE THE ISSUE BEGAN. THE CAR HAS TO BE STATIONARY OR IN MOTION (FORWARD OR REVERSE) BUT UNDER 5MPH (ROUGHLY). AFTER WATCHING A FEW YOUTUBE VIDEOS AND DOING SOME FURTHER INVESTIGATION, IT APPEARS AS THOUGH PART OF THE PROBLEM IS A DEFECTIVE/DAMAGED "COUPLING GEAR" BETWEEN THE POWER/ELECTRIC ASSIST STEERING MOTORE AND THE STEERING COLUMN ITSELF. REGARDLESS, IT IS A SEVERE STEERING ISSUE THAT HAS LEAD TO A PREVIOUS RECALL IN OLDER KIAS AND SEVERAL ACCIDENTS. Source: NHTSA ODI #11360097 · tap to collapse
No
Sep 19
Safety
Sep 19
WHEN PARKED (BUT WITH THE POWER SET TO "RUN" OR THE ENGINE FULLY ON), IF YOU TURN THE STEERING WHEEL IN EITHER DIRECTION, TYPICALLY TO ITS FULLEST EXTENT, THERE IS A LOUD "CLUNK" OR "CLANK" NOISE COMING FROM THE BASE OF THE STEERING COLUMN. AFTER TAKING THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP, THEY ONLY TOLD ME THE STEERING WAS "BROKE" AND THEY HAD TO REPLACE THE ENTIRE STEERING SYSTEM UNDER WARRANTY. THE ISSUE STARTED AROUND 2300 MILES. I HAVE TAKEN SEVERAL VIDEOS SINCE THE ISSUE BEGAN. THE CAR HAS TO BE STATIONARY OR IN MOTION (FORWARD OR REVERSE) BUT UNDER 5MPH (ROUGHLY). AFTER WATCHING A FEW YOUTUBE VIDEOS AND DOING SOME FURTHER INVESTIGATION, IT APPEARS AS THOUGH PART OF THE PROBLEM IS A DEFECTIVE/DAMAGED "COUPLING GEAR" BETWEEN THE POWER/ELECTRIC ASSIST STEERING MOTORE AND THE STEERING COLUMN ITSELF. REGARDLESS, IT IS A SEVERE STEERING ISSUE THAT HAS LEAD TO A PREVIOUS RECALL IN OLDER KIAS AND SEVERAL ACCIDENTS. Source: NHTSA ODI #11360097 · tap to collapse
Safety
WHILE PULLING INTO DRIVEWAY AND COMING TO A STOP AND THE ENGINE TURNED OFF . I LET MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE AND THE CAR TOOK OFF LIKE A ROCKET AND HIT A PARKED CAR IN OUR DRIVEWAY . IT PUSHED THE PARKED VEHICLE FORWARD ABOUT 2 FEET UNTIL THE CAR STOPPED . THIS IS A DIRT DRIVEWAY. I GUESS WHAT HAPPENED IS THIS CARS START AND STOP FEATURE WHICH TURNS THE MOTOR OFF WHEN YOU COME TO A STOP AND STARTS BACK UP WHEN YOU LET YOUR FOOT OFF THE BRAKE . SOME KIA FEATURE THAT WENT HAYWIRE AND CAUSED THE ACCIDENT . YOU CAN DISENGAGE THIS FEATURE BUT IT MUST BE DONE EVERY TIME YOU STOP AND TURN OFF HE VEHICLE . THE DEALER DID NOT EVEN WANT TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE AND SUGGESTED TAKING IT TO A MECHANIC TO MAKE SURE THE RADIATOR WAS NOT DAMAGED . Source: NHTSA ODI #11355620 · tap to collapse
Yes
Sep 16
Safety
Sep 16
WHILE PULLING INTO DRIVEWAY AND COMING TO A STOP AND THE ENGINE TURNED OFF . I LET MY FOOT OFF THE BRAKE AND THE CAR TOOK OFF LIKE A ROCKET AND HIT A PARKED CAR IN OUR DRIVEWAY . IT PUSHED THE PARKED VEHICLE FORWARD ABOUT 2 FEET UNTIL THE CAR STOPPED . THIS IS A DIRT DRIVEWAY. I GUESS WHAT HAPPENED IS THIS CARS START AND STOP FEATURE WHICH TURNS THE MOTOR OFF WHEN YOU COME TO A STOP AND STARTS BACK UP WHEN YOU LET YOUR FOOT OFF THE BRAKE . SOME KIA FEATURE THAT WENT HAYWIRE AND CAUSED THE ACCIDENT . YOU CAN DISENGAGE THIS FEATURE BUT IT MUST BE DONE EVERY TIME YOU STOP AND TURN OFF HE VEHICLE . THE DEALER DID NOT EVEN WANT TO LOOK AT THE VEHICLE AND SUGGESTED TAKING IT TO A MECHANIC TO MAKE SURE THE RADIATOR WAS NOT DAMAGED . Source: NHTSA ODI #11355620 · tap to collapse
Crash involved
Safety
MY AUTO START IS DEFECTIVE. IT COMES ON WHEN IT WANTS TO AND IT TURNS OFF WHEN IT WANTS TO. THE MANUAL CLEARLY STATES THIS IS DEFECTIVE BUT KIA SENT ME HOME SAYING THEY COULD NOT REPLICATE THE PROBLEM. ALTHOUGH WHEN I LEFT THEIR SERVICE AREA, WITHIN 1 MILE IT WAS DOING IT AGAIN. THIS ALSO CAUSES A DELAY ON THE RESTART. THE ENGINE IS HESITANT TO START WHEN IT DOES WORK. THIS ALL STARTED OCCURRING AT 21,632 MILES AFTER MY TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. THE BREAKS ALSO NOW GRIND OR SOMETHING GRINDS NEAR THE WHEELS WHICH KIA WAS NOT ABLE TO REPLICATE EITHER. IT IS GOING BACK IN THIS WEEK AT 25,502 MILES. Source: NHTSA ODI #11320237 · tap to collapse
No
Apr 4
Safety
Apr 4
MY AUTO START IS DEFECTIVE. IT COMES ON WHEN IT WANTS TO AND IT TURNS OFF WHEN IT WANTS TO. THE MANUAL CLEARLY STATES THIS IS DEFECTIVE BUT KIA SENT ME HOME SAYING THEY COULD NOT REPLICATE THE PROBLEM. ALTHOUGH WHEN I LEFT THEIR SERVICE AREA, WITHIN 1 MILE IT WAS DOING IT AGAIN. THIS ALSO CAUSES A DELAY ON THE RESTART. THE ENGINE IS HESITANT TO START WHEN IT DOES WORK. THIS ALL STARTED OCCURRING AT 21,632 MILES AFTER MY TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED. THE BREAKS ALSO NOW GRIND OR SOMETHING GRINDS NEAR THE WHEELS WHICH KIA WAS NOT ABLE TO REPLICATE EITHER. IT IS GOING BACK IN THIS WEEK AT 25,502 MILES. Source: NHTSA ODI #11320237 · tap to collapse
Build Quality
DRIVING ON HIGHWAY I HEARD A LOUD BANG. I THOUGHT SOMETHING HAD HIT THE ROOF OF MY CAR. I OPENED THE SUNROOF COVER AND DISCOVERED MY SUNROOF WAS SHATTERED BUT STILL INTACT. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION THERE WAS NO SIGN OF DEBRIS HITTING THE SUNROOF OR ANY PART OF THE ROOF. THE SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY SHATTERED, WHICH I NEVER KNEW IT COULD DO, BUT READING FURTHER ON THE INTERNET IT CAN AND DOES HAPPEN. Source: NHTSA ODI #11300409 · tap to collapse
No
Jan 19
Build Quality
Jan 19
DRIVING ON HIGHWAY I HEARD A LOUD BANG. I THOUGHT SOMETHING HAD HIT THE ROOF OF MY CAR. I OPENED THE SUNROOF COVER AND DISCOVERED MY SUNROOF WAS SHATTERED BUT STILL INTACT. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION THERE WAS NO SIGN OF DEBRIS HITTING THE SUNROOF OR ANY PART OF THE ROOF. THE SUNROOF SPONTANEOUSLY SHATTERED, WHICH I NEVER KNEW IT COULD DO, BUT READING FURTHER ON THE INTERNET IT CAN AND DOES HAPPEN. Source: NHTSA ODI #11300409 · tap to collapse
Safety
STARTED CAR "PUSH BUTTON" ONE EVENING AND FOUND THE STEERING WAS INOPERATIVE. SHUT DOWN AND RESTARTED AND ALL WAS FINE. IT ONLY DID THIS ONE TIME. Source: NHTSA ODI #11279498 · tap to collapse
No
Nov 11
Safety
Nov 11
STARTED CAR "PUSH BUTTON" ONE EVENING AND FOUND THE STEERING WAS INOPERATIVE. SHUT DOWN AND RESTARTED AND ALL WAS FINE. IT ONLY DID THIS ONE TIME. Source: NHTSA ODI #11279498 · tap to collapse
Safety
VEHICLE PULLS SHARPLY AND ABRUPTLY TO THE RIGHT AT SPEEDS ABOVE 45-50. WHEN I TEST DROVE THE VEHICLE, I MENTIONED TO THE SALESMAN THAT I THOUGHT IT WAS PULLING TO THE RIGHT, OF COURSE HE DIDN'T FEEL IT, BUT WOULD HAVE IT CHECKED. AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE IN APRIL, AND OWNING IT ABOUT 7 MONTHS, THIS PROBLEM IS WORSE. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE PURCHASED, AND WAS TOLD THIS WAS NORMAL DUE TO THE LANE KEEPING ASSIST FUNCTION. IF THIS IS THE CASE THIS IS DANGEROUS DUE TO THE FACT THAT IT IS A VERY SHARP AND ABRUPT PULL TO THE RIGHT, WITH NO WARNING. Source: NHTSA ODI #11278635 · tap to collapse
No
Nov 6
Safety
Nov 6
VEHICLE PULLS SHARPLY AND ABRUPTLY TO THE RIGHT AT SPEEDS ABOVE 45-50. WHEN I TEST DROVE THE VEHICLE, I MENTIONED TO THE SALESMAN THAT I THOUGHT IT WAS PULLING TO THE RIGHT, OF COURSE HE DIDN'T FEEL IT, BUT WOULD HAVE IT CHECKED. AFTER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE IN APRIL, AND OWNING IT ABOUT 7 MONTHS, THIS PROBLEM IS WORSE. I TOOK IT BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP WHERE PURCHASED, AND WAS TOLD THIS WAS NORMAL DUE TO THE LANE KEEPING ASSIST FUNCTION. IF THIS IS THE CASE THIS IS DANGEROUS DUE TO THE FACT THAT IT IS A VERY SHARP AND ABRUPT PULL TO THE RIGHT, WITH NO WARNING. Source: NHTSA ODI #11278635 · tap to collapse
Safety
I LEARNED THE CAR HORN ON MY 2020 KIA SOUL DID NOT WORK WHILE ON A HIGHWAY AND CLOSE TO BEING IN AN ACCIDENT. I TRIED TO USE HORN TO ALERT THE OTHER DRIVER AND IT FAILED. I CONTACTED DEALER SERVICE DEPT FOR ASSISTANCE AND HAD TO SCHEDULE A SERVICE APPOINTMENT AND THEY ADVISED ME THE HORN SYSTEM FAILED AND SENT ME HOME WITH MY CAR AND NO HORN. I COMPLAINED TO THE SERVICE MGR AND THEY GAVE A LOANER AND TOOK MY CAR BACK TO THEIR SERVICE AREA UNTIL THE PARTS COME IN. THEY ADVISED ME THAT THE PART WILL TAKE 4 WEEKS TO COME IN, THEY CAN'T TAKE THE PART FROM THE OTHER 2020 SOUL ON THE LOT AS THEY ALL HAVE THE SAME FAILED HORN SYSTEM. Source: NHTSA ODI #11221396 · tap to collapse
No
Jun 19
Safety
Jun 19
I LEARNED THE CAR HORN ON MY 2020 KIA SOUL DID NOT WORK WHILE ON A HIGHWAY AND CLOSE TO BEING IN AN ACCIDENT. I TRIED TO USE HORN TO ALERT THE OTHER DRIVER AND IT FAILED. I CONTACTED DEALER SERVICE DEPT FOR ASSISTANCE AND HAD TO SCHEDULE A SERVICE APPOINTMENT AND THEY ADVISED ME THE HORN SYSTEM FAILED AND SENT ME HOME WITH MY CAR AND NO HORN. I COMPLAINED TO THE SERVICE MGR AND THEY GAVE A LOANER AND TOOK MY CAR BACK TO THEIR SERVICE AREA UNTIL THE PARTS COME IN. THEY ADVISED ME THAT THE PART WILL TAKE 4 WEEKS TO COME IN, THEY CAN'T TAKE THE PART FROM THE OTHER 2020 SOUL ON THE LOT AS THEY ALL HAVE THE SAME FAILED HORN SYSTEM. Source: NHTSA ODI #11221396 · tap to collapse
Battery
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH, the engine started knocking on the passenger side of the vehicle underneath the hood. The contact accelerated to 45 MPH and continued driving. After refueling, while continuing to drive at 45 MPH, the vehicle suddenly lost engine power, and the vehicle started coasting. The vehicle was stopped, restarted, and the contact continued driving. A short while after restarting the vehicle, the failure reoccurred. The contact stopped the vehicle, waited, then restarted the vehicle a second time. The vehicle was driven to the destination. An image of an engine was displayed on the instrument panel, and the vehicle continued to make a knocking sound. The vehicle was towed to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that the engine was failing and needed to be replaced. The certified mechanic informed the contact about NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine); and associated the vehicle with the recall; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who confirmed the diagnosis; however, the dealer had not repaired the vehicle. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The manufacturer declined to provide the engine replacement under recall or warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11729854 · tap to collapse
No
Apr 7
Battery
Apr 7
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH, the engine started knocking on the passenger side of the vehicle underneath the hood. The contact accelerated to 45 MPH and continued driving. After refueling, while continuing to drive at 45 MPH, the vehicle suddenly lost engine power, and the vehicle started coasting. The vehicle was stopped, restarted, and the contact continued driving. A short while after restarting the vehicle, the failure reoccurred. The contact stopped the vehicle, waited, then restarted the vehicle a second time. The vehicle was driven to the destination. An image of an engine was displayed on the instrument panel, and the vehicle continued to make a knocking sound. The vehicle was towed to a certified mechanic, who diagnosed that the engine was failing and needed to be replaced. The certified mechanic informed the contact about NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine); and associated the vehicle with the recall; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who confirmed the diagnosis; however, the dealer had not repaired the vehicle. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The manufacturer declined to provide the engine replacement under recall or warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 79,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11729854 · tap to collapse
Battery
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the vehicle was driving sluggishly, and the vehicle unexpectedly decelerated before stalling. The vehicle was towed to the local Service Center and was diagnosed with piston rings failure. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer to be diagnosed, and metal shavings were found inside the engine oil, and the camshaft and the timing were not operating properly. The cause of the failure was not yet determined by the dealer. The contact was informed that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (ENGINE). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 85,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11729440 · tap to collapse
No
Apr 5
Battery
Apr 5
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the vehicle was driving sluggishly, and the vehicle unexpectedly decelerated before stalling. The vehicle was towed to the local Service Center and was diagnosed with piston rings failure. The vehicle was later towed to the local dealer to be diagnosed, and metal shavings were found inside the engine oil, and the camshaft and the timing were not operating properly. The cause of the failure was not yet determined by the dealer. The contact was informed that the VIN was included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (ENGINE). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 85,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11729440 · tap to collapse
Battery
The engine burnt through all the oil in it, many miles before an oil change was needed for it.I have taken it to the dealership and the dealership submitted an extended warranty claim for it and despite the fact that the issue is mechanical and covered by the extented owarranty, the claim is being denied. Source: NHTSA ODI #11726782 · tap to collapse
No
Mar 23
Battery
Mar 23
The engine burnt through all the oil in it, many miles before an oil change was needed for it.I have taken it to the dealership and the dealership submitted an extended warranty claim for it and despite the fact that the issue is mechanical and covered by the extented owarranty, the claim is being denied. Source: NHTSA ODI #11726782 · tap to collapse
Battery
The engine seems to be stalling, more than likely being caused by the piston rings being defective. With the piston rings being defective, this can cause oil to be lost, and then in turn causing damage to the vehicle. This can put others at risk as this will stall the vehicle, and in any form of traffic, can cause an accident. The problem has been confirmed by a dealer, but they claim it is another issue. The vehicle has been inspected by the manufacturer. The engine light turned on shortly before this happened. Source: NHTSA ODI #11725401 · tap to collapse
No
Mar 17
Battery
Mar 17
The engine seems to be stalling, more than likely being caused by the piston rings being defective. With the piston rings being defective, this can cause oil to be lost, and then in turn causing damage to the vehicle. This can put others at risk as this will stall the vehicle, and in any form of traffic, can cause an accident. The problem has been confirmed by a dealer, but they claim it is another issue. The vehicle has been inspected by the manufacturer. The engine light turned on shortly before this happened. Source: NHTSA ODI #11725401 · tap to collapse
Battery
Owner of 2020 Kia soul experiencing engine failure symptoms including stalling and oil consumption vehicl is associated with engine fire risk safety recall vehicle is currently disabled at mechanic and unsafe to drive I requested kia arrange a tow to authorized dealership for recall diagnosis but kia customer service refused to cover tow bc this involves potential engine fire hazard I believe manufacturers should arrange safe transport for inspection under the recall Source: NHTSA ODI #11724192 · tap to collapse
No
Mar 12
Battery
Mar 12
Owner of 2020 Kia soul experiencing engine failure symptoms including stalling and oil consumption vehicl is associated with engine fire risk safety recall vehicle is currently disabled at mechanic and unsafe to drive I requested kia arrange a tow to authorized dealership for recall diagnosis but kia customer service refused to cover tow bc this involves potential engine fire hazard I believe manufacturers should arrange safe transport for inspection under the recall Source: NHTSA ODI #11724192 · tap to collapse
Battery
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The automatic start warning light illuminated, and the engine seized. Additionally, the error message indicated that the automatic start feature was disabled; however, the contact stated that the automatic start feature was enabled. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. After several attempts, the vehicle started. The contact disabled the automatic start feature. The contact stated that while the vehicle was decelerating, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, a diagnostic test was not performed. The contact stated that the diagnostic test was incomplete. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,924. Source: NHTSA ODI #11722581 · tap to collapse
No
Mar 5
Battery
Mar 5
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The automatic start warning light illuminated, and the engine seized. Additionally, the error message indicated that the automatic start feature was disabled; however, the contact stated that the automatic start feature was enabled. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. After several attempts, the vehicle started. The contact disabled the automatic start feature. The contact stated that while the vehicle was decelerating, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, a diagnostic test was not performed. The contact stated that the diagnostic test was incomplete. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,924. Source: NHTSA ODI #11722581 · tap to collapse
Battery
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled while driving at undisclosed speeds. The check engine warning light was illuminated. There was an abnormal, fluttery sound detected before the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that the failure was due to the crankshaft and camshaft. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there was no warranty coverage for the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 135,864. Source: NHTSA ODI #11720859 · tap to collapse
No
Feb 26
Battery
Feb 26
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled while driving at undisclosed speeds. The check engine warning light was illuminated. There was an abnormal, fluttery sound detected before the vehicle lost motive power. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that the failure was due to the crankshaft and camshaft. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there was no warranty coverage for the repair. The failure mileage was approximately 135,864. Source: NHTSA ODI #11720859 · tap to collapse
Battery
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. Additionally, the engine was leaking oil. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine); however, the failure recurred. The contact's friend diagnosed the vehicle with a code reader and retrieved DTC: P0017, P0301, P0302, P0303, and P0304. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11720416 · tap to collapse
No
Feb 24
Battery
Feb 24
The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. Additionally, the engine was leaking oil. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine); however, the failure recurred. The contact's friend diagnosed the vehicle with a code reader and retrieved DTC: P0017, P0301, P0302, P0303, and P0304. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000. Source: NHTSA ODI #11720416 · tap to collapse
Battery
I believe my car has been burning oil. The oil was empty at our last oil change only about 60,000 miles on car and we have had to keep adding oil to the car since then. I got extra concerned also when I saw alot of kia souls same year have gotten recalled for oil consumption, yet my vin number wasnt included... I have dropped a document in the comments with what the dealership said about it as well. Source: NHTSA ODI #11718557 · tap to collapse
No
Feb 16
Battery
Feb 16
I believe my car has been burning oil. The oil was empty at our last oil change only about 60,000 miles on car and we have had to keep adding oil to the car since then. I got extra concerned also when I saw alot of kia souls same year have gotten recalled for oil consumption, yet my vin number wasnt included... I have dropped a document in the comments with what the dealership said about it as well. Source: NHTSA ODI #11718557 · tap to collapse
Battery
My car suddenly cut off while I'm driving putting me and others at risk in traffic and then my mechanic confirmed that its due to a defect in the engine with the piston. When I looked it up there is a recall for this on my type of car but not for my specific car VIN Source: NHTSA ODI #11718252 · tap to collapse
No
Feb 15
Battery
Feb 15
My car suddenly cut off while I'm driving putting me and others at risk in traffic and then my mechanic confirmed that its due to a defect in the engine with the piston. When I looked it up there is a recall for this on my type of car but not for my specific car VIN Source: NHTSA ODI #11718252 · tap to collapse
Battery
My car is burning oil and showing signs of blow-by. I suspect it is due to the faulty piston rings that prompted your engine recall SC209. I brought the vehicle into the dealership in 2020 at 2,100 miles for the recall and they said it "passed." I recently became aware that this vehicle is burning oil at a significant rate, which is the date I reference below as "date this incident occurred." I opened a case with Kia Customer Care on 1/31/26. On 2/3/26 I began an oil consumption test at the local Kia dealership and I will return at or near the 1,000-mile mark to determine how much oil was burned and to see if the oil has turned black, signifying the blow-by. Attached is the Letter of Fact that I provided to the dealership when I took the vehicle in to initiate the oil consumption test, so they have that on record, as does Kia Customer Care. I may be in touch with you if I believe my vehicle has burned more than a quart of oil during the consumption test and they decline a next-step for addressing the defective pistons. Source: NHTSA ODI #11716026 · tap to collapse
No
Feb 4
Battery
Feb 4
My car is burning oil and showing signs of blow-by. I suspect it is due to the faulty piston rings that prompted your engine recall SC209. I brought the vehicle into the dealership in 2020 at 2,100 miles for the recall and they said it "passed." I recently became aware that this vehicle is burning oil at a significant rate, which is the date I reference below as "date this incident occurred." I opened a case with Kia Customer Care on 1/31/26. On 2/3/26 I began an oil consumption test at the local Kia dealership and I will return at or near the 1,000-mile mark to determine how much oil was burned and to see if the oil has turned black, signifying the blow-by. Attached is the Letter of Fact that I provided to the dealership when I took the vehicle in to initiate the oil consumption test, so they have that on record, as does Kia Customer Care. I may be in touch with you if I believe my vehicle has burned more than a quart of oil during the consumption test and they decline a next-step for addressing the defective pistons. Source: NHTSA ODI #11716026 · tap to collapse
Battery
I purchased my 2020 Kia Soul GT-Line brand new in October 2019. The vehicle was later subject to a Kia oil piston ring recall, which was performed by an authorized Kia dealership in July 2021. Rick Case Kia - Duluth, Georgia Despite the recall being marked as completed, the engine has now suffered catastrophic failure. An authorized Kia dealership (Nalley Kia, Lithonia, GA) performed an inspection and documented the following diagnosis: âEngine has loss of compression in 3 of 4 cylinders due to piston ring failure.â  This confirms that the engine failed due to piston ring failure, the same defect addressed by the recall. The vehicle is currently inoperable and unsafe to drive due to engine failure and loss of power. Despite identifying the cause of failure, the servicing dealer and warranty administrator are refusing to process warranty coverage unless I personally pay $1,949.56 for a complete engine teardown. The cause of failure has already been documented by the dealership, making the teardown demand unnecessary and unreasonable. I do not consent to teardown at my expense. This appears to be a case of failed or ineffective recall remediation, resulting in engine failure and creating a serious safety risk due to loss of engine power. I am requesting NHTSA investigation into the effectiveness of Kiaâs oil piston ring recall remedy and post-recall engine failures. Source: NHTSA ODI #11714287 · tap to collapse
No
Jan 28
Battery
Jan 28
I purchased my 2020 Kia Soul GT-Line brand new in October 2019. The vehicle was later subject to a Kia oil piston ring recall, which was performed by an authorized Kia dealership in July 2021. Rick Case Kia - Duluth, Georgia Despite the recall being marked as completed, the engine has now suffered catastrophic failure. An authorized Kia dealership (Nalley Kia, Lithonia, GA) performed an inspection and documented the following diagnosis: âEngine has loss of compression in 3 of 4 cylinders due to piston ring failure.â  This confirms that the engine failed due to piston ring failure, the same defect addressed by the recall. The vehicle is currently inoperable and unsafe to drive due to engine failure and loss of power. Despite identifying the cause of failure, the servicing dealer and warranty administrator are refusing to process warranty coverage unless I personally pay $1,949.56 for a complete engine teardown. The cause of failure has already been documented by the dealership, making the teardown demand unnecessary and unreasonable. I do not consent to teardown at my expense. This appears to be a case of failed or ineffective recall remediation, resulting in engine failure and creating a serious safety risk due to loss of engine power. I am requesting NHTSA investigation into the effectiveness of Kiaâs oil piston ring recall remedy and post-recall engine failures. Source: NHTSA ODI #11714287 · tap to collapse
Showing top 50 of 339 complaints (sorted by severity, most recent first).
Full dataset available via NHTSA ODI search.
