2010 Kia Soul
The 2010 Kia Soul is a quirky and boxy compact car known for its distinctive styling, spacious interior, and affordable price point. The 2010 Soul offered two engine options: a 1.6-liter inline-4 producing 122 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter inline-4 producing 142 horsepower and 137 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Soul’s unique design, practicality, and fuel efficiency. However, some common complaints include a somewhat rough ride, limited sound insulation, and less-than-stellar performance from the base 1.6L engine.
Engine
1.6L Inline-4 Engine
- Engine Stalling/Rough Idling
- Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall unexpectedly, particularly at low speeds or when idling. Rough idling, hesitation upon acceleration, and decreased fuel economy may also be present.
- Solution: Replacing the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve or cleaning the throttle body can sometimes resolve the issue. In some cases, a software update from the dealer may be necessary. Inspecting and replacing spark plugs, wires, and ignition coils can also help if they are worn.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
2.0L Inline-4 Engine
- Engine Knocking/Pinging
- Description/Symptoms: A knocking or pinging sound from the engine, especially under acceleration. This can be caused by pre-ignition or detonation due to carbon buildup, low-octane fuel, or other issues.
- Solution: Using higher-octane fuel, cleaning the fuel injectors and intake valves, or having the engine’s computer reprogrammed can sometimes alleviate the problem. In more severe cases, the engine may require internal repairs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifting between gears, or a feeling of the transmission slipping during acceleration. This can be accompanied by unusual noises.
- Solution: A transmission fluid flush and filter replacement can sometimes improve shifting. However, if the issue persists, it may indicate worn clutch packs, valve body issues, or other internal damage requiring a transmission rebuild or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Rear Torsion Beam Noise/Clunking
- Description/Symptoms: A clunking or rattling noise emanating from the rear suspension, particularly when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. This can be caused by worn-out bushings or loose components in the rear torsion beam suspension.
- Solution: Replacing the rear shock absorbers and/or the torsion beam bushings can often resolve the noise. Inspecting and tightening any loose suspension components is also recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Power Window Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of one or more power windows to operate properly. The window may move slowly, stop halfway, or not respond at all.
- Solution: Inspect the window switch and motor. The window motor may need replacing, or the window switch may need to be replaced
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
- Blower Motor Resistor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may only operate on one or two fan speeds, or not at all. This is commonly caused by a faulty blower motor resistor, which controls the fan speed.
- Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rear Hatch Latch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The rear hatch may become difficult to open or close, or the latch may fail to engage properly. This can be caused by a worn-out or damaged latch mechanism.
- Solution: Replacing the rear hatch latch assembly will be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Leakage
- Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin through the sunroof, especially during heavy rain or car washes. This can be caused by clogged drain tubes or a damaged sunroof seal.
- Solution: Clearing the sunroof drain tubes with compressed air or a flexible wire can often resolve the issue. Replacing the sunroof seal may be necessary in some cases.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight. This is a common issue in older vehicles with plastic dashboards.
- Solution: There is no permanent fix for dashboard cracking, but some owners use dashboard covers or protectants to minimize further damage. Replacing the dashboard can be very expensive.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $30 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2010 Kia Soul, while generally a reliable and practical vehicle, does have some common issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine-related problems, such as stalling, knocking, and rough idling, can occur on both engine options. Transmission problems, particularly harsh shifting and slipping, can happen with the automatic transmission. Other common issues include rear suspension noises, electrical malfunctions (power windows and blower motor), and interior problems like sunroof leaks and dashboard cracking. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, ranging from minor repairs to more expensive engine or transmission work. Addressing these potential issues early can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.