2017 Kia Soul

The 2017 Kia Soul is a quirky and practical hatchback known for its spacious interior, distinctive styling, and value. Engine options included a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 producing 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 producing 161 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options were a 6-speed manual (1.6L only), a 6-speed automatic (1.6L and 2.0L), and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (1.6L Turbo only). People often praise the Soul’s roomy cabin and user-friendly technology, while some criticize its fuel economy and occasionally firm ride.

Engine

1.6L GDI (Gamma) Inline-4

• Engine Knocking/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of engine knocking, especially during acceleration, potentially leading to engine failure. This seems to be more prevalent in vehicles that have not adhered to strict oil change intervals.
  • Solution: Engine replacement. In some cases, Kia has covered the cost under warranty or provided assistance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L MPI (Nu) Inline-4

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported the engine stalling unexpectedly while driving, particularly at lower speeds or while idling.
  • Solution: The causes may include a faulty throttle position sensor, a clogged fuel filter, or a malfunctioning crankshaft position sensor. Diagnosis and repair is required by a technician.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbo GDI (Gamma) Inline-4 * No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (A6MF1/2) * Harsh Shifting * Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh or jerky shifting, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear or during downshifts. * Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) may improve shift quality. In other instances, a complete transmission replacement may be required. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 for software update, $3,000 - $5,000+ for transmission replacement. * Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Dual Clutch Transmission (D7UF1) * Hesitation/Jerking at Low Speeds * Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported hesitation or jerky movements during initial acceleration from a stop, especially in stop-and-go traffic. * Solution: TCM Software update, Clutch Actuator Replacement. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+ for software, $1,000+ for clutch actuator. * Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure and leaking of rear shock absorbers, leading to a bouncy or unstable ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Flickering/Dimming Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent flickering or dimming of headlights, potentially indicating a problem with the alternator, battery, or wiring harness.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the electrical system, which may involve replacing the alternator, battery, or repairing damaged wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive.
  • Solution: A software update or, in some cases, replacement of the infotainment system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+ for a software update, $500+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The backup camera image may be distorted, black, or the camera may not activate at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the backup camera.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the sunroof, including difficulty opening or closing, excessive noise, or water leaks.
  • Solution: The underlying cause of the malfunction needs to be diagnosed. Common culprits include damaged weatherstripping, faulty sunroof motors, or malfunctioning sunroof switches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2017 Kia Soul presents a mix of potential issues ranging from minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission concerns. The 1.6L engine appears to be susceptible to engine knocking and failure, while the DCT in the 1.6T models can cause issues with hesitation and jerking. Repair costs can vary widely, with engine replacements being the most expensive. While the Soul offers good value and practicality, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history.