2024 Kia Soul

The 2024 Kia Soul is a subcompact SUV known for its funky styling, spacious interior, and value-oriented pricing. The sole engine option is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-4 producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Many owners appreciate its practicality, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some common complaints revolve around the engine’s lack of power, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill, and the CVT’s sometimes sluggish response.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Engine Hesitation/Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing engine hesitation or stalling, particularly during initial acceleration or when the engine is cold. This may be related to fuel delivery, sensor issues, or software glitches.
  • Solution: Diagnosis typically involves checking the fuel injectors, mass airflow sensor, oxygen sensors, and throttle position sensor. A software update might also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted that their 2.0L engines consume an unusual amount of oil between oil changes. This can be caused by worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Solution: Diagnosis usually involves a compression test, leak-down test, and potentially an engine tear-down to inspect internal components. The repair typically involves replacing worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• Jerky Acceleration/Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing jerky acceleration, delayed response, or unusual “shifting” behavior from the CVT. This is a common issue with CVTs in general, as their operation differs significantly from traditional automatic transmissions.
  • Solution: A CVT fluid change may help, or a software update may be available to improve transmission control. In some cases, a complete CVT replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported complete transmission failure, resulting in the inability to drive the vehicle. This can be caused by internal component failure or damage to the CVT belt.
  • Solution: A complete CVT replacement is typically required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system can occasionally freeze, crash, or become unresponsive. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: A software update is often the solution. If the issue persists, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1000+ (unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing excessive battery drain, especially if the vehicle sits for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the engine or a completely dead battery.
  • Solution: Diagnosis involves checking for parasitic draws, such as lights left on or faulty electrical components. A new battery may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Poor Quality Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Complaints about the headlights not being bright enough or having poor distribution.
  • Solution: Replace the headlights with aftermarket LED or HID bulbs that have better quality, or replace the entire headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Rattling/Buzzing Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rattling or buzzing noises from various interior components, such as the dashboard, door panels, or rear hatch.
  • Solution: Locating the source of the noise and securing the loose components. This may involve adding foam padding, tightening screws, or replacing worn clips.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2024 Kia Soul is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of common issues. Engine and transmission concerns, particularly those related to the CVT, seem to be the most significant, with potential repair costs ranging from moderate to substantial. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and battery drain are also reported, although these are typically less expensive to resolve. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and perform a thorough inspection and test drive before purchasing.