2017 Kia Soul

The 2017 Kia Soul is a compact crossover SUV that offers a spacious interior, high ride height, and a variety of engine and transmission options. It is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 130 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 161 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a six-speed manual, six-speed automatic, or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Soul is available in four trim levels: Base, Plus, Exclaim, and GT.

The 2017 Kia Soul is praised for its roomy interior, comfortable ride, and affordable price. However, it has also been criticized for its lack of power, poor fuel economy, and cheap interior materials.

Engine

1.6-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine

• Knocking Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: A knocking sound coming from the engine, especially when accelerating.
  • Solution: Replace the piston rings and connecting rod bearings. The manufacturer issued a TSB for this issue (TSB number 17-08-018) and will repair the engine free of charge if the vehicle is within the 10-year/100,000-mile warranty period.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if under warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding Noise When Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: A grinding noise when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replace the synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips out of gear while driving.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Electrical System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The electrical system fails, causing the vehicle to lose power.
  • Solution: Replace the battery and/or alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Moisture in Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture builds up inside the headlights.
  • Solution: Replace the headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Loose Door Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: The door panels rattle or come loose.
  • Solution: Tighten the door panel screws.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Kia Soul is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has some known issues that can be expensive to repair. The most severe issues are the engine knocking noise and transmission slipping gears. These issues can both lead to major engine or transmission damage if not repaired promptly. The other issues are less severe and can be fixed for a lower cost.