2019 Kia Soul

The 2019 Kia Soul is a quirky and practical compact hatchback known for its distinctive boxy design and spacious interior. The base engine is a 2.0-liter inline-4 cylinder engine producing 161 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The top trim, the Exclaim (!), has a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Owners appreciate the Soul’s affordability, generous warranty, user-friendly infotainment system, and cargo capacity. Common complaints include the fuel economy not living up to the promised MPG, some wind noise at higher speeds, and the base engine can feel underpowered.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may stall unexpectedly while driving or at idle, leading to a loss of power steering and braking.
  • Solution: The solution may be to clean the throttle body, replace the mass airflow sensor, or reprogram the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbocharged Inline-4 Cylinder

• Engine Knocking/Pinging
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported hearing knocking or pinging sounds from the engine, especially under acceleration. This can indicate pre-ignition or detonation, which can damage the engine over time.
  • Solution: It is important to use high-octane fuel, check the spark plugs, and inspect the fuel injectors. A software update may also be available to adjust the engine’s timing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (initial diagnostics, fuel change) - $500+ (spark plugs, injectors)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (2.0L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh or jerky shifting, especially between certain gears. There may also be hesitation during acceleration.
  • Solution: May require a transmission fluid flush, or potentially a valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

7-Speed Dual-Clutch (1.6L Turbo Engine)

• Delayed Engagement/Jerky Operation
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners report experiencing delays when accelerating from a stop and during low-speed maneuvers. The transmission can also exhibit jerky or rough behavior, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Solution: A software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) may improve shift quality. In some cases, clutch replacement or transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (software update) / $1500 - $5000+ (clutch/transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the rear suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Often attributed to worn rear shock absorbers or sway bar bushings. Replacement is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, crash, or become unresponsive, requiring a restart.
  • Solution: The infotainment system needs to be updated to the newest software version. Replacing the infotainment system may be necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update, if available) - $500+ (Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially after the car sits for a few days, resulting in the vehicle not starting.
  • Solution: A parasitic draw test can identify the source of the drain, which may be a faulty module, relay, or accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Removing the headlight to dry it and sealing it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (DIY) - $500+ (Headlight Assembly Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the sunroof, including difficulty opening or closing, unusual noises, or leaks.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, checking the sunroof motor, or replacing the sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Kia Soul presents a mixed bag of potential issues. Engine and transmission problems can be the most concerning, particularly with the 1.6L turbo engine and its dual-clutch transmission, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical gremlins with the infotainment system and battery drain are also noteworthy. While not all Souls will experience these problems, being aware of them can help potential buyers make informed decisions and proactively address any developing issues.