2017 Kia Soul EV
2017 Kia Soul EV
Overview
The 2017 Kia Soul EV is a compact electric vehicle known for its distinctive styling and practical urban utility. As an electric vehicle, its powertrain differs significantly from traditional internal combustion engine cars, focusing on battery and electric motor performance. Reliability data for the 2017 model year generally indicates a solid performance, with owners reporting fewer mechanical issues compared to many gasoline-powered counterparts. The primary focus for electric vehicles is often on battery longevity and charging system integrity, areas where the Soul EV has shown commendable durability. However, like any vehicle, specific components can experience issues, though widespread problems are not commonly cited for this model year.
Engine
Electric Motor
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
Single-Speed Automatic
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Battery Pack
Reduced Range Over Time
- Symptoms: Noticeable decrease in driving range compared to original specifications, especially in extreme temperatures.
- Solution: Battery degradation is a natural process. Replacement is the ultimate solution, but often covered under warranty for a significant period.
- Cost: $5,000 - $15,000+
On-Board Charger
Charging Faults
- Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure to charge the vehicle, error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of the charging unit.
- Cost: $500 - $1,500
Infotainment System
Software Glitches
- Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsiveness, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Solution: Software updates or a system reset. In rare cases, replacement of the unit.
- Cost: $100 - $1,000
Exterior
Body Panels
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Lighting
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Upholstery
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
HVAC System
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Summary Verdict
The 2017 Kia Soul EV demonstrates good overall reliability, particularly in its electric powertrain components. While battery degradation is an expected long-term factor for any EV, specific issues with the motor and transmission are rare. The most common electrical concerns tend to be related to the charging system or infotainment software glitches, which are generally manageable. Exterior and interior components have shown robust performance with no significant widespread complaints. For prospective buyers, understanding the battery’s health and warranty status is crucial, but the 2017 Soul EV is generally considered a dependable choice in the used electric vehicle market.