2021 Kia Soul EV
The 2021 Kia Soul EV is a popular all-electric subcompact SUV known for its funky styling, spacious interior, and impressive range for its class. It comes equipped with a single electric motor producing 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque, powered by a 64 kWh battery pack. Owners appreciate the Soul EV’s nimble handling, quick acceleration, and long list of standard features. However, some common complaints include longer charging times compared to some newer EVs and limited availability of the vehicle in certain regions.
Electric Motor
- Electric Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported complete failure of the electric motor, resulting in the vehicle becoming inoperable. Symptoms can include a sudden loss of power, warning lights on the dashboard, and the inability to start the vehicle.
- Solution: The electric motor needs to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Battery
- Battery Degradation/Reduced Range
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noticed a significant decrease in the battery’s capacity over time, resulting in a shorter driving range. This degradation can be accelerated by frequent fast charging or extreme temperatures.
- Solution: While some degradation is normal, excessive degradation may warrant a battery replacement under warranty.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $15,000 - $20,000+ (if not covered under warranty)
- Recalls: None Found
- Charging Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced problems with charging the vehicle, including the inability to charge at certain charging stations or slow charging speeds. This can be due to issues with the vehicle’s charging system or compatibility issues with the charging station.
- Solution: Diagnosis of the charging system by a qualified technician. Replacement of faulty components such as the onboard charger.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can experience various glitches, including freezing, crashing, and connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
- Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacing the head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (head unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Warning Lights/Error Codes
- Description/Symptoms: Various warning lights may illuminate on the dashboard for seemingly no reason or due to minor issues. These can include the check engine light, ABS light, or traction control light.
- Solution: Diagnosis with an OBD-II scanner to identify the fault code and address the underlying issue.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the issue)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Issues
- Description/Symptoms: False activation of the AEB system, causing the vehicle to brake unexpectedly. This can be triggered by radar or sensor malfunctions.
- Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the AEB sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Seat Heater Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may fail to function or overheat.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2021 Kia Soul EV presents a mix of potential issues. Electric motor and battery problems, while not extremely common, can be very expensive to fix if they occur outside of the warranty period. Electrical and infotainment glitches are more frequent, though generally less severe in terms of cost. The AEB system and seat heater malfunctions add to the list of potential concerns. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and ensure the vehicle is thoroughly inspected, paying close attention to the battery health and charging system. As with any used car purchase, checking for recalls and service history is highly recommended.