2021 Kia Soul

The piston oil control rings on the 2.0L Nu engine may have been manufactured incorrectly, causing excessive oil consumption that can result in engine seizure, stalling, or fire. Some Soul owners report the engine failing catastrophically at very low mileage. Vehicles built after April 19, 2022 use rings from a different supplier.

Kia issued a recall for 2021-2023 Soul models with the 2.0L engine built before April 19, 2022. Dealers will perform an engine inspection and oil consumption test. Engines with excessive consumption will receive a short block replacement free of charge.

The Intelligent Variable Transmission (Kia's CVT) can fail catastrophically, with owners reporting RPM fluctuations followed by complete loss of power on the highway. Some owners have experienced multiple IVT replacements. One owner reported the replacement transmission failing after just 1,300 miles.

Kia released TSB SC199 addressing decreased or delayed acceleration in the IVT. In severe cases, the entire IVT assembly needs replacement. The IVT is covered under the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Soul with traditional key ignition lacks an engine immobilizer, making it one of the most frequently stolen vehicles using the USB cable bypass technique. The Soul was one of the original models targeted in the viral social media theft trend.

Kia provides a free anti-theft software update and a complimentary steering wheel lock. The software extends alarm duration and adds ignition security. Visit owners.kia.com/us/en/recalls.html or call 1-800-333-4542.

Some 2022 Soul owners report serious brake issues including soft or spongy brake pedal feel, extended stopping distances, and in rare cases near-complete brake failure. One documented case involved a Soul spending 112 days in the shop for recurring brake problems.

Have the dealer inspect the brake system including the master cylinder, brake booster, brake lines, and ABS module. Document all brake complaints and dealer visits. If the issue persists after multiple repair attempts, consult a lemon law attorney.

Some owners report the airbag warning light illuminating on the dashboard, indicating a potential malfunction in the airbag system. In extreme cases, this could mean airbags may not deploy properly in a collision.

Have the dealer scan for airbag system diagnostic trouble codes. The most common cause is a faulty clock spring in the steering column or a seat-mounted occupant sensor. Repairs are covered under the supplemental restraint system warranty.

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.

Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.

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.

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.

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.

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.