2022 Kia Soul

Introduction:

The 2022 Kia Soul is a compact crossover SUV available with a choice of two engine options: a 2.0L inline-four with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, or a 1.6L turbocharged inline-four with 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Soul has received praise for its unique styling, spacious interior, and affordable price. However, there have been some reported issues with the vehicle.

Engine

2.0L Inline-Four

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Oil leakage from the valve cover gasket is a common issue.
  • Symptoms: Oil stains on the engine or under the vehicle, low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Piston Ring Failure: Premature wear of the piston rings can lead to excessive oil consumption and reduced engine performance.
  • Symptoms: Blue smoke from the exhaust, high oil consumption.
  • Solution: Replace the piston rings or the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.6L Turbocharged Inline-Four

• Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger can fail prematurely, resulting in reduced engine power and increased emissions.
  • Symptoms: Loss of power, check engine light, turbocharger whine or noise.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure: The fuel injectors may become clogged or malfunction, causing engine misfires and decreased fuel efficiency.
  • Symptoms: Engine sputtering or hesitation, rough idle, check engine light.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• CVT Belt Failure: The CVT belt can break or slip, causing transmission problems.
  • Symptoms: Loss of power, shuddering or hesitation during acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the CVT belt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• CVT Control Unit Failure: The CVT control unit may malfunction, affecting the transmission’s operation.
  • Symptoms: Transmission shifting problems, erratic transmission behavior, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the CVT control unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure: The front struts may fail prematurely, causing noise and reduced ride quality.
  • Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the front struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Coil Spring Breakage: The rear coil springs may break, causing the vehicle to sag and handle poorly.
  • Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven tire wear, reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the rear coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge: The battery may discharge prematurely, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
  • Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dim headlights, check battery light.
  • Solution: Diagnose and fix the cause of the battery discharge, such as a parasitic draw or alternator failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure: The power windows may malfunction, either failing to operate or becoming stuck.
  • Symptoms: Non-functional power windows, windows becoming stuck in the up or down position.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the power window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Panel Leak: The sunroof panel may leak water into the vehicle’s interior during rain or car washes.
  • Symptoms: Water leaking into the cabin, wet headliner.
  • Solution: Adjust or replace the sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Alignment Issues: The doors may not align properly, causing gaps or uneven door operation.
  • Symptoms: Misaligned doors, wind noise, difficulty opening or closing doors.
  • Solution: Adjust the door hinges or hardware.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Steering Wheel Squeak: The steering wheel may develop a squeaking noise when turned.
  • Symptoms: Squeaking noise from the steering wheel.
  • Solution: Lubricate the steering column.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Rattles: The dashboard may develop rattles or vibrations.
  • Symptoms: Rattles or buzzing noises coming from the dashboard area.
  • Solution: Inspect and tighten loose panels or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2022 Kia Soul has several reported issues, including engine problems, transmission issues, suspension issues, electrical issues, and interior issues. Some of the issues, such as piston ring failure or CVT belt failure, can be severe and expensive to fix. Other issues, like steering wheel squeaks or dashboard rattles, are relatively minor. Overall, the severity of the issues and the cost to fix them should be considered before purchasing or owning a 2022 Kia Soul.