2023 Kia Soul

The 2023 Kia Soul is a quirky and practical subcompact SUV known for its distinctive boxy design and value proposition. The sole engine option is a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). People often praise the Soul for its spacious interior, user-friendly technology, and affordable price. Common complaints include the engine feeling underpowered, especially when fully loaded, and the CVT transmission sometimes exhibiting sluggish responsiveness.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4 Cylinder

• Engine Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption may occur, requiring frequent top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Owners may notice a burning oil smell or visible exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Oil consumption tests to measure the rate of oil usage are performed by the dealer. Depending on the results, possible fixes range from replacing valve seals to piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Hesitation/Jerking During Acceleration
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report hesitation or jerking sensations, particularly during initial acceleration or when attempting to pass at highway speeds.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can improve shift quality. In more severe cases, CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ (software update), $3,000 - $5,000+ (CVT replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and other features.
  • Solution: Restarting the system might temporarily fix the problem. A software update from the dealer is the most common long term solution. In rare cases, the head unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update), $500 - $1,500+ (head unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera display may intermittently fail or display a distorted image.
  • Solution: Check the camera connections. A software update or replacement of the backup camera may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Buzzing Noises from Dashboard/Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or buzzing sounds emanating from the dashboard or interior trim pieces, particularly on rough roads.
  • Solution: Locating and securing the loose trim pieces or components is needed. Foam padding may be used to dampen vibrations.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may fail to open or close properly. May make grinding noises or get stuck.
  • Solution: Inspect sunroof tracks and motor. Clean tracks and lubricate. Sunroof motor may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: AEB system engages unnecessarily, causing abrupt braking, or fails to engage when needed, increasing the risk of a collision. Warning lights on the dashboard indicate a problem.
  • Solution: Diagnostic check to identify the faulty sensor or system component. Calibration or replacement of the AEB radar sensor may be necessary. Software updates may also address some AEB system issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2023 Kia Soul experiences a range of issues, from minor interior rattles to potentially more significant problems with the transmission and AEB. Engine oil consumption is also a concern. The cost to address these issues can range from relatively inexpensive software updates to more substantial expenses such as CVT or AEB system replacements. While some issues are relatively common across vehicles in this class, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for these problems and factor them into their purchase decision.