2010 Kia Soul

2010 Kia Soul

The 2010 Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV known for its boxy design, spacious interior, and affordable price. It comes standard with a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 115 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. An optional 2.0L 4-cylinder engine is available, producing 142 horsepower and 137 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Drivers appreciate the Soul’s fuel efficiency, versatility, and tech features. However, some have reported issues with its engine, transmission, and other components.

Engine

1.6L Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption: Oil burning in the engine, resulting in low oil levels and potential engine damage. Description/Symptoms: Burning smell, blue smoke from exhaust, low oil levels on dipstick. Solution: Replacing piston rings, valve stem seals, or engine rebuild. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: A faulty chain tensioner can lead to the timing chain slipping or breaking, causing engine damage. Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, unstable idle, reduced power, Check Engine light. Solution: Replacing the timing chain and tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+

2.0L Engine

• No Known Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shifting Difficulty: Hard to shift gears or grinding noises when shifting. Description/Symptoms: Difficulty or resistance when shifting, grinding or popping noises. Solution: Replacing worn or broken synchronizers or transmission rebuild. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Clutch Malfunction: Slipping clutch or difficulty engaging gears. Description/Symptoms: RPMs rising without acceleration, grinding noises, difficulty shifting. Solution: Replacing the clutch assembly. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+

6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• No Known Issues Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure: Worn or damaged strut mount bearing causing noise and vibration. Description/Symptoms: Clunking or grinding noises when turning or hitting bumps, vibration felt through the steering wheel. Solution: Replacing the strut mount assembly. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Battery Issues: Premature battery failure or draining issues. Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, dim headlights, electronic malfunctions. Solution: Replacing the battery or diagnosing other electrical issues. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Plastic Trim Discoloring: Black exterior plastic trim fading or turning white. Description/Symptoms: White or faded appearance of plastic trim, especially around windows and lights. Solution: Replacing the affected trim pieces or using restoration products. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Interior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure: Door locks not working or making clicking noises. Description/Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors, clicking noises from door panels. Solution: Replacing the door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Cracked Dashboard: Dashboard developing cracks or warping. Description/Symptoms: Visible cracks or distortion on the dashboard. Solution: Replacing the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Summary

While the 2010 Kia Soul offers many desirable features, it has some reliability concerns that potential buyers should be aware of. Engine oil consumption, timing chain issues, and transmission problems can be costly to fix. Other issues like suspension noise, electrical issues, and interior components can also add up over time. It’s important to consider these potential issues and maintenance costs before purchasing a 2010 Kia Soul.