2020 Kia Soul

Introduction

The 2020 Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV available with various engine and transmission options, offering a blend of practicality, style, and affordability. It comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard, while a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is offered as an upgrade. The Soul has received praise for its spacious interior, versatile cargo space, and peppy powertrain but has also drawn criticism for its firm ride and lack of some advanced safety features.

Engine

2.0L Four-Cylinder Engine

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Engine inspection and potential piston ring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket, causing a burning smell and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Valve cover gasket replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300

1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Turbocharger failure, resulting in reduced engine power, loss of boost pressure, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Gears slipping or refusing to engage, causing erratic transmission behavior and potential drivability issues.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and potential transmission rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission

• Clutch Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch pack failure within the transmission, resulting in loss of power, shuddering, and difficulty in shifting gears.
  • Solution: Clutch pack replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn strut mount bearings, causing clunking or popping noises when turning or going over bumps.
  • Solution: Strut mount bearing replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain, leading to battery depletion and difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Battery replacement and potential parasitic drain diagnosis.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Electrical Component Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of various electrical components, such as window motors, switches, or sensors, causing operational issues.
  • Solution: Component replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the component

Exterior

• Panel Misalignment
  • Description/Symptoms: Misaligned body panels, resulting in uneven gaps and potential water intrusion.
  • Solution: Panel adjustment or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Corrosion on Undercarriage
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the underside of the vehicle, affecting components such as exhaust system and suspension.
  • Solution: Corrosion removal and potential replacement of affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• Center Console Trim Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken center console trim pieces, causing rattling or visual imperfections.
  • Solution: Trim piece replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
• Dashboard Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: Dashboard panels that rattle or make noise while driving.
  • Solution: Dashboard panel tightening or foam padding.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300

Summary

While the 2020 Kia Soul offers many positive attributes, it is not without its issues. Some engine and transmission problems can be costly to repair, while suspension and electrical issues can impact ride quality and reliability. Exterior and interior issues, though not as severe, can affect aesthetics and comfort. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.