2021 Kia Soul

Above average

Owners filed 240 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 2 times.

Not among the Kia Soul years to avoid. Which Kia Soul years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
65,000 milesMedian miles at failure

65 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2021 Kia Soul problems

176 of the 240 complaints (73%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine130
010
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine45
000
Power Train · transmission15
100
Unknown or Other11
110
Electrical System9
000
Service Brakes · brakes8
602
Steering4
000
Air Bags · airbags4
413
Structure › Body · body and frame3
000
Visibility/Wiper · wipers2
000

2 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Hard Parts Internal/Mechanical25V099000
Filed Feb 17, 2025137,256 vehiclesKia America, Inc.

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

Engine21V259000
Filed Apr 13, 2021147,249 vehiclesKia Motors America

Defect. 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.

Remedy. 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.

All 2 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Oct 28, 2026VA

We have been in dispute with Hart kia and kia corporate over a reoccurring issue directly related to the recall remedy sc336 oil piston rings manufacturer defect that is affecting my vehicle.

Engine
Filed Oct 25, 2026GA

I bought my car brand new. 5 years later, im driving and come to a stop and stall. Crank up, drive and come.to a stop and stall again. I took to dealership twice and another shop for second review. Shop said I should be covered under the oil piston recall, but need to find out. Dealership at first only.told.me I just needed a tune-up. Then when I took it to the shop for second opinion, kia corporate then told.me.to take back to dealership. I did, on trailer, and then they confirmed what shop said and told.me.i had a bad motor. The dealership then told.me they take it as a trade in since I cant afford a.new motor, but when I get there, they tell me they won't take it. Ive paid.on this car 10 months while.trying to get answers. Now im going g to have this on my credit and I STILL DONT HAVE A CAR 10 MONTHS LATER AS A SINGLE MOM

Engine
Filed Oct 15, 2026VA

My kia's soul was part of a major safety recall for oil piston ring. The reason it's not showing on a recall list is because they claim to have fixed the issue. And it was removed. The issue is still persistent, and now the car has suffered catastrophic engine failure due to this recall issue. Kia corporate is refusing to rectify.

Engine
Filed Oct 11, 2026MA

The car was constantly burning through large amounts of oil. One night I was driving and the car started slowing down and lost power completely. This put my safety at Risk because I was on the freeway and came to a complete stop. I brought the vehicle to the dealership and they said it would be 4k to fix and did not fix the recall.

Engine
Filed Oct 6, 2026OH

Burning oil and piston failure in my 2021 Kia soul. But it’s not the 1 percent under recall. More than just the 1 percent

Engine
Filed Oct 3, 2026NC

Was driving engine jumped time and stalled out doing 45. Vehicle only has 63499 miles on it. Had it towed to dealership. The vehicle passed the original piston oil ring recall test in 2025 and 15,000 miles later is needing a new engine due to the ineffectiveness of Kia recall.

Engine
Filed Sep 28, 2026NJ

Consumer protection complaint against Gateway Kia of North Brunswick for wrongful warranty denial, deceptive business practices, and failure to comply with a federally mandated class action settlement.On Friday, September 25, 2026, my 2021 Kia Soul was left at Gateway Kia due to engine distress. The service department performed a physical mechanical bearing test and confirmed that the vehicle has a failed connecting rod bearing (the engine rod is shot).Despite this definitive physical proof of mechanical failure, the dealership's service department and Kia Corporate Consumer Affairs flatly refused to honor the repair or provide a mandated loaner vehicle. They claimed the vehicle is "out of warranty" and "does not match a recall."This vehicle is explicitly covered under the Kia Nu Engine Class Action Settlement, which legally mandates a Lifetime Warranty Extension for connecting rod bearing wear and failures for qualifying vehicles, regardless of original ownership or standard factory warranty expiration. Furthermore, the settlement explicitly dictates that a free loaner or alternative transportation must be provided while a class vehicle is held for a qualifying engine failure.By running a physical test that proved a settlement-covered mechanical failure, yet refusing to honor the court-ordered warranty extension, Gateway Kia is engaging in deceptive trade practices and violating federal class settlement terms. They are holding my inoperable vehicle while I am forced to maint

Engine
Filed Sep 24, 2026MI

My 2021 Kia Soul was included in Recall SC336 involving defective piston oil rings that may cause increased oil consumption, engine damage, and stalling. The recall remedy was done in June 2025. Kia digitally inspected the engine and said it passed so no engine replacement was performed. Eight months later the car began having symptoms mirroring those of the recall. On February 13, 2026, an independent repair facility documented a check engine light, poor acceleration, timing-related engine fault codes, no oil on the dipstick, less than two quarts of oil recovered from the engine, and no visible external oil leaks. On May 21, 2026, a Kia dealership documented that the vehicle arrived three quarts low. Engine timing and performance issues later required warranty repairs. On Sept. 19 2026, the vehicle stalled while turning onto a busy roadway with four occupants inside. Following the stall event, the vehicle was again found to be extremely low on oil despite documented regular maintenance and oil changes throughout ownership. I’m worried that the recall inspection didn’t identify an affected engine and that the car then developed the symptoms in Recall SC336 - excessive oil consumption, engine-related faults, poor performance, and dangerous stalling. The car is now being evaluated by Kia. I am complaining because I believe NHTSA should know a vehicle that passed the SC336 recall inspection within months developed symptoms resembling the condition that recall was intended to add

Engine
Filed Sep 9, 2026CA

Recall 25V099/SC336 was not performed on my vehicle when it was in the dealership. My vehicle is now disabled at Capitol Kia San Jose with complete engine failure. They are denying any responsibility and refusing repair coverage. I have written a formal letter to Kia Corporation requesting an immediate review of my vehicle. With this being an NHTSA recall I am hoping to get some intervention somewhere regarding this situation.

Engine
Filed Sep 8, 2026OH

The check engine light came on in the car and within a few minutes while looking for a safe place the pull over there was a foul smell coming from the engine, followed by many error lights on the dash and the car losing the ability to accelerate and drive. The car had to be towed to a local repair shop who inspected the car and found that the engine a thrown a rod through the engine block.

Engine
Filed Sep 4, 2026VA

My kia soul has high oil consumption. When informed of the recall for the piston rings, I had First Team Kia look at it. They informed me that they didn't see anything wrong so they cleared the recall. They NEVER performed the oil consumption test. Within 3 weeks, I traveled over 800 miles, round trip, and upon my return home I had to put 4 qrts of oil back in my car. I took my car to Southern Auto. They performed the oil consumption test that revealed the car has high oil consumption, burning 3.5 qrts of oil within 1000 miles. This engine could freeze up at any given moment putting my life and many other lives at risk as I drive this car daily on the interstate for work. The dealer confirmed there is a high oil consumption. No one has inspected this vehicle because First Team cleared the recall without properly testing my vehicle for the said issue. No lights are on the dashboard but I an constantly topping off my oil atleast 1-2 times a week.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Sep 4, 2026188,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving 5 MPH, the vehicle stalled and failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); and the recall repair was previously performed on the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to the dealer but was not yet diagnosed due to the cost. The manufacturer was contacted by phone and was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 188,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 18, 2026215,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact stated that the high oil consumption might cause a fire in the engine bay due to a failure with the piston rings. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); as the possible cause for the failure. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and the dealer declined to perform the recall repair because the vehicle did not experience a specific failure, even though all the other issues the vehicle had experienced were listed in the recall notice. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 215,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 14, 2026109,000 milesGA

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was restarted but continued to stall each time the vehicle was stopped. There was an unknown warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone for an unknown diagnostic test and then towed to the dealer. The dealer determined that a tune-up was needed. The vehicle was also towed to an independent mechanic and associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact was advised to take the vehicle back to the dealer. The vehicle was towed back to the dealer, and it was determined that there was sludge inside the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.

Engine
Filed Aug 11, 2026FL

My 2021 KIA Soul has a recall order for P1327 code which is the knocking noise from the piston ring. The KIA dealership in Idaho Falls is denying the recall order, claiming that it has to be from the upper chamber, not the lower chamber. Which is not stated in the recall letter. They have done everything to avoid this recall. I have evidence that they know the engine have all the symptoms of the piston ring, but trying to avoid everything to replace the engine. They even deny giving the part name that is causing the knocking noise and not giving me the diagnostic report. Even charging $6,000 for the engine replacement.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 10, 202665,000 milesOK

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The check engine and engine oil warning lights were illuminated. The contact added engine oil to the engine and restarted the vehicle, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who was unable to repair the vehicle. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.

Engine
Filed Aug 10, 2026FL

My 2021 Kia Soul has stalled unexpectedly while being driven on multiple occasions. When the vehicle stalls, the engine shuts off and the vehicle loses propulsion, creating a risk of a collision, particularly if it occurs in moving traffic. There have been no warning lights or messages before the vehicle stalls or when the stalling occurs. The vehicle has severe engine oil consumption. After approximately 3,000 miles, the oil level can become so low that no oil is visible on the dipstick. I do not know whether the excessive oil consumption is causing the stalling, but I believe that to be the reason. I previously brought the vehicle to an authorized Kia dealership while it was under warranty because of the oil-consumption problem. The dealership told me that the vehicle was probably leaking oil, that a part needed to be ordered, and that they would contact me when the part arrived. They never contacted me, and the problem was not resolved. I have since reported the repeated stalling and excessive oil consumption to Kia corporate. Kia instructed me to return the vehicle to the dealership for additional testing. I told Kia that I do not feel safe driving the vehicle approximately 40 minutes to the dealership because it has repeatedly stalled while being driven. I asked whether Kia would tow the vehicle, but Kia would not commit to providing a tow. I also asked Kia to put in writing its instruction that I should drive the vehicle to the dealership despite the reported stalling,

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Aug 5, 2026102,261 milesNM

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that on several occasions while the vehicle was stopped, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was restarted after each failure. The contact stated that during one of the failures, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that a quart of oil needed to be added to the engine after driving every 30 miles. Additionally, on one occasion while the vehicle was stopped, the vehicle stalled and failed to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 102,261.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 20, 2026PA

Took my vehicle in a year ago for the oil piston recall to the Kia dealer in North Huntington, Pa. I was told they corrected the recall during other servicing. My vehicle just broke down and is unable to be driven due to this unresolved issue.

Suspension
Filed Jul 16, 2026OH

Noise while driving and over bumps and steering

Engine
Filed Jul 3, 2026TX

Vehicle: 2021 Kia Soul LX, 2.0L Engine Subject: Loss of Motive Power and Stall While Driving Under Recall SC336 Description of Incident: On 07/02 @ roughly 6:15PM, while driving on the highway I-35E at approximately 60 MPH, my vehicle's engine experienced a sudden and complete loss of engine power, stalling while in motion. I was able to safely navigate to the shoulder, activate my hazard lights, and restart the vehicle after pulling over. This stall occurred despite the vehicle being covered by Recall SC336 for defective piston oil rings . The recall condition explicitly warns that engine seizure can result in "loss of motive power," creating a significant risk of crash or injury. Ongoing Symptoms (Documented): · Excessive oil consumption: Over 2.5 quarts low after approximately 1,000 miles since the last oil change. This aligns with the recall's "increased oil consumption" warning. · Audible engine knocking when shutting off and ticking during acceleration. This matches the "abnormal noise from the engine" described in the recall. · Active Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) stored: P0017, P0014, P000B, P0172, P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304. These indicate timing issues, misfires on all four cylinders, and oil pressure-related failures. Vehicle had similar codes when visited for recall February of this year. Was told everything looked fine. · The vehicle shows signs of instability when accessories (A/C, headlights) are engaged, suggesting the engine is struggling to maintain

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jul 1, 202672,000 milesMA

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power while the accelerator pedal was depressed. No warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road, where the vehicle was later towed to the residence. The vehicle was towed to a local independent dealer, where it was determined that the engine oil level was low. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The local dealer was contacted and submitted a claim along with service records. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a claim was not filed. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 30, 2026OH

The vehicle burns oil. The first incident occurred when the car stopped running. Fortunately I was in a residential area and was able to pull into a parking lot. My mechanic confirmed it was lack of oil in the engine. I have taken it to the dealership and had it tested, but they said it was not enough, and then with the recall, they again said it was not the problem. It continues to burn oil and I have to check it at every gas refill to check the level.

Engine
Filed Jun 29, 2026FL

I am filing this complaint regarding my 2021 Kia Soul due to repeated engine and powertrain failures and concerns about the quality and safety of the repairs. While my vehicle was under Kia's 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, I repeatedly brought it to the dealership for excessive oil consumption and transmission problems. Despite multiple visits, the dealership performed minor repairs or claimed they could not identify the transmission issue. I also contacted Kia Consumer Affairs but received no assistance. Shortly after my warranty expired, Kia determined both the engine and transmission required replacement. The repairs were completed as a "good faith" repair rather than a warranty or recall repair, using remanufactured components. Since then, I have continued experiencing problems. The replacement engine appears to have been installed improperly, including stripped motor mount bolts/pins and a missing bracket. Within months, I also developed radiator and coolant reservoir problems, raising additional safety concerns. I understand Kia has issued recalls and service campaigns involving similar engine and powertrain defects. When I previously checked my VIN, I recall it showing an engine-related recall. However, a recent search showed no open recalls. Regardless, my vehicle experienced the same failures and required replacement of both the engine and transmission after I repeatedly sought repairs while still under warranty. I believe these repeated failures and the apparent

Exterior Lighting
Filed Jun 24, 2026VT

Nothing happened - YET. I'm reporting a manufacturing error. Refer to my upload. I wouldn't be suprised that this defect has been the root cause of some accidents though.

Engine
Filed Jun 16, 2026MA

The first incident occurred on November 2, 2025. I was driving down a state road. I missed my turn so I pulled into a parking lot to turn around. Once I was able to pull out, I put my foot on the accelerator and felt no resistance. The car rolled out of the parking lot onto the road. I kept pressing the accelerator hoping the gas would return but my car rolled along without picking up speed. I was able to turn into a gas station to get my car off the road. I turned the engine off. When I turned it back on, all of the lights on the dashboard came on, before the only one that remained lit was the check engine light. I had the car towed to my local mechanic who after diagnosing, told me my car over consumed oil which resulted in the engine shut down. I was due for a change in a 400 miles. He said it was a known problem with Kia Souls and advised me to take it to a Kia dealership for inspection, which I did. I've taken it to Kia Danvers. Since 11/2/25, the issue has persisted. On 3/27/26, my car shut down 4 times while driving. Each time I would hear a loud noise coming from the engine, and I could feel the power draining from the steering wheel and pedals before the engine would shut off. After a minute or two, the car would restart. The problems continued on 3/29/26 where it happened 8 times. I was able to get it to Kia Danvers on 4/1/26 for a diagnostic exam and an oil change. They suggested an oil consumption test which I did on 5/4/26. They said my oil reduction was normal.

Engine
Filed Jun 16, 2026TX

My vehicle has been in the shop 7 times for misfire in all cylinders over a 2 1/2 year span Kia dealer refused to replace the engine, 8 months after I threatened to sue the dealership for saying they fixed the misfire in all cylinders issue and 8 months later I’m getting misfire in 4th cylinder. As the engine light came on again and I have a high end car diagnostic tool attached to the car which is giving me that code and previous codes of misfire in all cylinders. First misfire in all cylinders started at 16,000 miles bought car brand new and it continued all the way to 37,067 miles . The Kia dealership keep saying it’s this or that and it’s been fixed but the lights come on the previous 7 times after a week or less after taking it home from the dealer and then saying it’s fixed last time I wanted a new engine a Kia representative said it doesn’t need a new engine. I talked to a technician there about reading about this issue in alot of same vehicles he said I was right but Kia doesn’t want to pay for a new engine so they give excuses or just reset or clear the codes which doesn’t resolve the problem , Kia has changed the fuel tank, changed the spark plug wires, the spark plug cables the assembly,ecm which never resolved the problem

Engine
Filed Jun 15, 2026CA

I took my 2021 Kia Soul to the dealership for a piston ring recall; they ran their standard test and said it passed, but my car is still showing a misfire fault. I replaced the ignition coil, spark plug, and fuel injector, yet the problem persists. I’ve taken it back to the Kia dealership twice, but they refuse to inspect it because it already passed their test.

Engine
Filed Jun 8, 2026FL

On XXX My car was stopped at a light, the vehicle shot down, and would not restart. I had the car towed to Galeana Kia, [XXX]. Upon isnpection at Kia it was found that the engine oil was three quarts low. I was shocked. There had been no warning lights on the dashboard. I had a synthetic oil change 9,000 miles previously. Galeana Kia charged me $315.96. There was a subsequent recall 25V099. "The piston oil ring(s) in your vehicle may have been manufactured incorrectly...This may lead to increased oil consumption..." On April 16, 2025, subject to the recall, Galeana Kia replaced the engine block. I requested a refund of the $315.96 for the work done on November 25, 2024. Galeana Kia refused. Because the repair work done in November 25, 2025 obviously relates to the subsequent recall, I request that you have Kia reimburse me. See Kia case XXX INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Jun 8, 2026NC

States having problems with oil lost, but only inside the motor as if the rings are faulty

Engine
Filed Jun 8, 202682,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while checking the engine oil level, the contact noticed that the vehicle was consuming excessive oil. Upon inspecting underneath the vehicle, the contact's husband did not find any leaks. No warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the piston oil rings needed to be replaced, and the engine was consuming excessive oil. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (ENGINE); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall due to the vehicle mileage. The approximate failure mileage was 82,000.

Engine
Filed Jun 3, 2026VA

Initial Breakdown: July 2024, my 2021 Kia Soul (under 40,000 miles) idled roughly and stalled while in motion. It restarted, but as a precaution, I towed it to Kia Greenbrier Chesapeake while it was operable. After diagnostics, the vehicle would no longer start. Warranty Denial: The dealer blamed engine sludge from two missed oil changes in 2022 and quoted $10,000 for a new engine. In August 2024, I appealed the decision but was denied (Exhibit A & B). There were no recalls active for the 2021 model at this time, but there were recalls for the 2018-2020 models for identical symptoms. Third-Party Repair: I paid $3,017 out of pocket to an independent shop for a new timing assembly to make the vehicle safe and drivable again (Exhibit C). Because my daughter is disabled and requires transportation, getting repairs was imperative. A new valve kit, fresh synthetic oil, and filter service were completed by the third-party repair shop. I also returned to Kia Virginia Beach for several subsequent oil changes (Exhibit D). In April 2025, Kia Corporate issued an official safety recall for my exact vehicle (Exhibit E). Before that, in March 2025, I attempted to have the newly issued recall (25V-099) performed, but the dealer turned my vehicle away, claiming a lack of parts. Final Failure: In May 2025, the night before a rescheduled recall appointment, the car became permanently inoperable (at only 47,500 miles). Due to extreme financial hardship and health concerns, I am without my vehicl

Engine
Filed Jun 2, 2026MI

Was issued a recall from kia for an oil piston ring that wasn't heat treated properly, kia told me the problem was fixed and the recall shouldn't affect me, my car was in an out of the shop for months after that, they replaced my timing belt and transmission under warranty, said i sould be fine between oil changes my car started knocking, i checked the oil and it was completely dry, no warning lights which is part of the recall fix is early detection warning light. I add oil to my car seems to run better for the day, the next morning on my way to an oil change the engine starts knocking the warning light comes on and then im on the side of the road with all my oil on the ground

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jun 1, 202682,000 milesAZ

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated while at a light the vehicle stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was determined that the valve train needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, who informed the contact that the engine light was illuminated. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.

Engine
Filed May 28, 2026CA

2021 Kia Soul | VIN: [XXX] | Recall SC336 (NHTSA 25V099) | Kia America Case No. XXX DEALER: Team Kia of El Cajon, 541 N. Johnson Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020 SYMPTOMS: Rapid oil consumption, abnormal engine noise, overheating, vehicle stalling at complete stops, difficulty restarting. All symptoms are explicitly documented in SC336 TSB (Rev 6, 10/21/2025) as consequences of defective piston oil rings. DEALER CONDUCT ISSUES: 1. CHARGED $280 DIAGNOSTIC FEE TO PERFORM A RECALL. Owner confirmed open recall on VIN before arrival. Dealer required $280 diagnostic payment as condition of recall service, in violation of 49 U.S.C. 30120. 2. 24-HOUR TSB PROTOCOL VIOLATION. SC336 TSB requires engine vibration inspection no sooner than 24 hours after R/O open date. R/O opened May 16 at 7:38 AM. Inspection report also dated May 16 with no timestamp. If test ran same day, PASS result is invalid under Kia's own guidelines. 3. FAILED TO OPEN REQUIRED TECHLINE CASE. SC336 TSB Page 2 states: if engine noise is present and inspection results in PASS, dealer must open a Techline case. Owner continues to experience engine noise. Dealer has not provided a Techline case number despite two written requests. 4. DEMANDING $2,500 FOR RECALL-RELATED SYMPTOMS. Dealer is attributing stalling and oil consumption to a separate camshaft issue and demanding $2,500 more. SC336 TSB documents that piston ring damage causes cascading engine damage including timing components. 5. OWNER IS [XXX] , drives for Uber. Vehicl

Power Train
Filed May 26, 2026FL

Cv joint and axle causing car to stall when turunning

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 19, 2026126,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the oil pressure sensor light was illuminated. The vehicle was making an abnormal knocking sound. The contact had to add additional oil. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed the vehicle was related to the recall. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the camshaft and timing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken previously to the local dealer for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The manufacturer was contacted, who confirmed there was no warranty coverage. The failure mileage was approximately 126,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 15, 2026109,000 milesUT

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that one cylinder had low pressure while the other three cylinders had pressures higher than 100%. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, who performed the recall repair under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine And Engine Cooling); however, the engine was not replaced. The piston ring was tested and passed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 14, 202686,100 milesTX

The contact noticed the oil drained quickly and RPMs increased rapidly upon starting the vehicle. The approximate failure mileage was 86,100. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the ECU was replaced twice, the piston rings were not replaced; the issue persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 86,100

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed May 6, 202675,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle stalled. All of the warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the alternator needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Power Train
Filed Apr 27, 2026MI

Took to kia of jackson for recall sc209a they said they would not do recall because i was a dealer ,called customer service and they said do to the fact that i was a dealer it would not be covered kia of jackson [XXX] kia customer service case [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Engine
Filed Apr 24, 2026MA

On [XXX], the check engine light illuminated. No other warning indicators activated — no low oil pressure warning, no low oil level warning, no driver alert of any kind regarding engine condition. On [XXX], at approximately 53,845 miles, the vehicle began running rough. I checked the engine oil and found the dipstick registered empty — no measurable oil in the engine. No low oil level or low oil pressure warning had been provided by the vehicle at any point prior to this discovery. I added two quarts of oil. The vehicle stalled while being driven to obtain the oil, and stalled again after the oil was added. I drove the vehicle to Jiffy Lube and had a full oil change performed. Mileage at the oil change was 53,852. I then scheduled an appointment with Gervais Kia in Lowell, Massachusetts, the nearest Kia dealer, less than one mile from my home. The earliest available appointment was approximately one week later. Because the vehicle stalled repeatedly at idle, I drove it to the dealer using both feet — keeping engine revs elevated with the accelerator while braking — to prevent stalling at stops. The vehicle is currently at Gervais Kia for diagnostic inspection. The symptoms match the failure mode documented in NHTSA recall campaign 25V-099 (Kia recall for 2021-2023 Soul and Seltos with 2.0L Nu MPI engines, piston oil ring manufacturing defect). My vehicle has the 2.0L Nu MPI engine and was manufactured at the Kia Autoland Hwaseong plant identified in the recall filing. However

Engine
Filed Apr 23, 2026CA

My 2021 Kia Soul experienced repeated overheating despite replacement of major cooling system components including the thermostat and water pump. The vehicle continued to overheat and was later diagnosed by a Kia dealership with engine damage requiring full engine replacement. This failure occurred around 105,000 miles. The symptoms and failure pattern are consistent with known issues affecting similar Kia engines, yet my VIN is not included in any recall. I am concerned this represents a broader defect that may not be fully captured in current recalls.

Engine
Filed Apr 20, 2026CA

What component or system failed or malfunctioned? The engine (piston rings) and catalytic converter failed. The catalytic converter is available for inspection upon request. How was safety put at risk? The engine ran low on oil without any external leak, causing warning lights and engine rattling. Low oil pressure can lead to sudden engine seizure or fire. The failed catalytic converter can clog, causing loss of power on highways and increasing the risk of a crash. Has the problem been confirmed by a dealer or independent shop? Yes. A Kia dealer found the engine 2 quarts low, with no external leak, and recommended replacing the catalytic converter at a cost of over $6,000. An independent mechanic confirmed code P0420, which indicates catalytic converter failure. Has the vehicle been inspected by the manufacturer? The vehicle was inspected by an authorized Kia dealer, but they did not complete the required inspection for Recall SC336 (defective piston oil rings). They did add the software. Were there warning lamps or other symptoms? Yes. The oil pressure warning light and other dashboard lights came on. The engine made a rattling noise. The vehicle later felt sluggish on acceleration, fuel economy dropped, and the exhaust developed a smell. The check engine light came on and later turned off, but code P0420 was stored in the system.

Power Train
Filed Apr 18, 2026AZ

The car rpm fluctuated from 1000 to 5000 rpm while in cruise control going 65 mph. At a stop, thr transmission took 30 seconds to engage to low speed. The car was stuttering and bucking at 10mph to 45mph

Engine
Filed Apr 16, 2026MO

The engine is consuming a quart of oil per thousand miles.

Engine
Filed Apr 15, 2026CA

I am filing a complaint regarding a safety recall (NHTSA Recall 25V099) on my 2021 Kia Soul that was marked as completed, but the defect was not properly repaired. On 3/17/26, I took my vehicle to a Kia dealership to have the recall addressed. The dealership performed only a software update and diagnostic testing and marked the recall as complete. No engine repair or replacement was performed. Within approximately one week of this recall service, my engine suffered a catastrophic failure while driving, resulting in a hole in the engine block and total engine failure. This created a serious safety risk due to sudden loss of power and fire hazard. I then had the vehicle inspected by a second Kia dealership. They informed me that the engine failure was consistent with the defect described in recall 25V099 (piston oil ring failure) and that the prior recall repair did not correct the underlying issue. This indicates that the recall remedy performed on my vehicle was incomplete or ineffective, and that the vehicle was returned to me in an unsafe condition. I am concerned that other vehicles may be receiving only software updates without proper inspection or repair, which could lead to similar dangerous failures. I am requesting that this situation be investigated as a failed recall remedy and a continued safety risk. Timeline: 3/17/26: Recall repair performed (software update only) 3/29/26: Engine failed catastrophically 4/2/26: Second dealership confirmed failure related to recal

Engine
Filed Apr 15, 2026MI

Hi my vehicle was stolen and the police found the vehicle. The car was damaged part of the damages was a broken ignition. I am unable to fix the damages until I get paid from the kia classaction lawsuit. The car still starts and stays running. I have the key for the car but I have been starting the car was butter knife bc it's easier then the key. I made an appointment to have the oil piston ring looked at. When I brought it I. They refused to look at it bc it has a broken ignition. I don't think the safety recall has anything to do w the ignition. The car is easy to turn on and shut off. I wouldn't care if my car wasn't stalling at traffic lights. My car is going thru a lot of oil. I am not working currently. This car was purchased for me by my dad. He paid cash for it. He bought it bc I had just been diagnosed w a rare autoimmune disease. He bought it so I would have something safe and reliable to drive in. We have had nothing g but problems since day 1. All I wanted was for them to look at it so im not going to be in harms way. Idk what to do the dealership said they cant look at it until I fixed the ignition. But like I said I won't have money to do that until I get the class action lawsuit.

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Apr 12, 2026OK

Manufacturer defect: Massive paint delamination/adhesion failure on the roof. Large sheets of paint are flaking off while the vehicle is in motion, creating a debris hazard for following drivers and distracting the operator. The failure has exposed the bare metal structure, which may lead to premature rusting.

Engine
Filed Apr 8, 202641,000 milesOK

The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving approximately 80 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that while driving uphill, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and case was opened. The approximate failure mileage was 41,000. The VIN was not available.

Complaints 1-50 of 240, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2014
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202512000Routine
202431010Routine
202354411Fatalities reported
202295113Fatalities reported
2021 — this page240230Above average
2020388168Fatalities reported
2019139180Routine
20182201141Fatalities reported
20172721140Above average
20168182350High concern
20159024841Fatalities reported
20149035691Fatalities reported
20136683460High concern
20125163232Fatalities reported
2011194351Fatalities reported
20101353150Routine

Compare every Soul year →

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Feb 17, 2025. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.