2016 Kia Soul

The 2016 Kia Soul is a quirky and practical compact hatchback known for its distinctive boxy design and spacious interior. It offers a comfortable ride and a good amount of features for its price point. The 2016 Kia Soul came with a few engine options. The base model is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque. An available upgrade is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 164 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. For the 2016 model year, the 1.6-liter engine could be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-liter engine was exclusively paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission. People like the Soul for its unique styling, roomy cabin, and user-friendly technology. Some common complaints include mediocre fuel economy (especially with the 2.0L engine), and the base engine’s lack of power for highway driving. Engine

1.6L GDI 4-Cylinder Engine

• Engine Knocking/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of engine knocking, especially during acceleration, followed by engine failure. This may be related to oil starvation or premature wear.
  • Solution: Engine replacement. Proper diagnosis is crucial to determine the root cause.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (engine replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L NU 4-Cylinder Engine

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may stall, especially at lower speeds or when idling.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the root cause is crucial, but replacing the Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) or cleaning the throttle body may be helpful.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption. This may be due to piston ring issues.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or delayed shifts, especially between certain gears. Hesitation upon acceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, software update of the Transmission Control Module (TCM). In severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission rebuild/replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine RPMs increase without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace worn rear sway bar links or bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock, or operating intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected door lock actuator(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights burning out frequently, dimming, or flickering.
  • Solution: Replacing the bulbs, checking the wiring and connectors for corrosion or damage, or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, or unresponsive touchscreen.
  • Solution: Software update or radio unit replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update) - $1,000+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Airbag Light On
  • Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminates on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Requires diagnostic scanning to determine the cause. Common issues include a faulty clock spring or seatbelt pretensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls:
    • Recall Number: 21V232000
      • Description: The front seat belt pretensioners may explode upon deployment during a crash, potentially propelling metal fragments towards vehicle occupants.

Summary:

The 2016 Kia Soul exhibits a range of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with the 1.6L and 2.0L engines (knocking/failure and oil consumption), can be severe and costly. Transmission issues are also relatively common. Other issues like suspension noise and electrical problems are less severe but still require attention. Potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and have any used 2016 Kia Soul thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase.