2012 Kia Soul problems
The Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Kia since 2008. Often described and marketed as a crossover since its introduction, the Soul is a hatchback with a box proportion and tall roof, which are designed to maximize its interior space. Despite its SUV-like styling, the Soul was never available with all-wheel drive, instead it is exclusively a front-wheel drive vehicle.
The Soul first appeared in 2006 in the form of a concept model displayed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The production model made its debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2008. During its introduction, Kia stated that the Soul is aimed at the North American market, and targeted towards buyers in the 18 to 35-year old range.
The second-generation model was introduced in 2013 for the 2014 model year, which featured a larger exterior and interior dimensions along with a reworked chassis, while keeping its boxy styling. The Soul is currently in its third generation, which was introduced in 2018 for the 2019 model year. Since 2014, Kia has also marketed a battery electric variant as the Soul EV.
The name "Soul" comes from the homophone of Seoul, the city that hosts Kia's headquarters.
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Common 2012 Kia Soul problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Kia Soul 2012, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Failure: The 2012 Kia Soul has faced engine failure issues, with complaints about banging noises coming from the engine and excessive oil consumption. This problem typically arises around 85,000+ miles and can lead to costly repairs or even engine replacement.
- Unlatched Hood While Driving: Some owners have experienced the hood becoming unlatched while driving, which is a notable safety issue. Although uncommon, this poses a risk, especially at high speeds on highways.
- Defective Catalytic Converter: Complaints have surfaced about defective catalytic converters in the 2012 Kia Soul, particularly affecting models from 2014 to 2015. Symptoms include erratic idling, engine stalls, O2 sensor issues, and poor emission results. A faulty catalytic converter can also pose a fire hazard, emphasizing the importance of addressing this issue promptly.
- Body Integrity Issues: Loud rattling noises while driving on roads or encountering minor bumps have been reported by owners. This body integrity issue, coupled with the lack of a recall, has been a cause of concern among Kia Soul 2012 owners.
- Steering Rack Problems: Some Kia Soul 2012 models have experienced issues with the steering rack, leading to a loss of directional control and odd noises. Kia initiated a recall to address this problem, emphasizing its significance for the safety of the vehicle.
These common problems reported by owners of the Kia Soul 2012 highlight various safety and reliability concerns that potential buyers should be aware of when considering this particular model year.
What year did Kia Soul have engine problems?
Users have raised engine problems across the Kia Soul model for years. However, model years 2010 to 2016 were prone to engine complaints. Additionally, the 2020-21 model was recalled for severe engine issues.
Is there a recall on 2012 Kia Soul engine?
Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176. Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines.
How many miles can a 2012 Kia Soul last?
How Long Will the 2012 Kia Soul Last? A properly maintained 2012 Soul should be able to last about 200,000 miles, which is 100,000 miles shorter than top-rated competitors including the RAV4. Maintenance costs are affordable according to Repair Pal, at $471 per year.
What problems does the 2012 Kia Soul 2.0 have?
A: The 2012 Kia Soul had significant body integrity issues, with common complaints about clunking noises while turning and loud rattling noises when driving uneven roads. Additionally, there were reports of the hood unlatching while driving, which is a huge safety risk.
2012 Kia Soul car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Kia Soul problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Kia Soul vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Kia Soul
The NHTSA has received 478 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Kia Soul. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Kia Soul vehicles.
2024-09-19
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-12
- VIN: KNDJT2A54C7
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard an abnormal chain rattling sound. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that the failure was due to the unrepaired recall of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V120000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated that the recall notification was never received. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.
2024-09-13
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- VIN: KNDJT2A61C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
2024-08-22
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-28
- VIN: KNDJT2A51C7
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: To Whom It May Concern, I need a Recall Letter send to me to get my 2012 Kia Soul repaired. My Catalytic Converter needs to be replace, and my engine is leaking oil and that will need to be replace, and the Pillars on the front of my car, on the right & left side, needs to be replace, they flew off my car while I was driving on [XXX]. I looked up the information on the computer, that the vehicle emission warranty extends beyond the manufacturer's. along with others emission control devices, Federal Law requires to replace a defective Catalytic Converter & Engine for up to 15 years or 150,000 miles, the miles on my car is 128, 684. I took my vehicle to get check by Brake World , on [XXX] they said I needed a CRankshaft Position Sensor & a new Catalytic Converter. I have the printed out receipt from Brake World. I did get my Crankshaft Position Sensor replace with a shop call ECONOMICAL AUTO CARE LLC. Do I get a refund for that, the price was 182.73, I got it done on [XXX}, I do have my receipt for that. I did take my vehicle to Kia Auto on 735 South Military Trial #C, West Palm Beach, Fl 33415, on [XXX]. I had a Recall Letter for the HECU, and the Dealer Al told me I needed my Catalytic Converter replace, but he did not put it on the receipt when I pick my car up & he did not let me know it was a recall on it, until I looked it up. My car was making a loud knocking noise & would cut off when I stopped at a red light and I had to keep on starting my car up every time and my vehicle would jerked and shake and the Engine Light comes on. So when I got the Catalytic Converter Sensor on it, the loud knocking noise stop, but the Engine Light stills comes on. But I still needs the Catalytic Converter replace on my car. So Please send me the Recall Letters for I can get my vehicle completed. Thank you & God Bless. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-08-01
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-30
- VIN: KNDJT2A65C7
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: a few months after buying the car (the car was bought used), the "check engine" icon appeared on the instrument panel, I immediately went to the car workshop, the employee said after checking that he did not see any problems. the icon disappeared from the dashboard. after a while the icon reappeared on the instrument panel. after that, I received a recall letter from the car manufacturer Kia, which stated that the car had a defect that could cause the car to catch fire. after that I contacted the dealer with this letter, the dealer informed me on the day of the application that there were no spare parts, they needed to be ordered, I asked them to order spare parts for me and agreed to wait a month. after a month on the appointed day - I contacted the dealer, but they did not solve my problem, informing me that the Kia manufacturer did not send spare parts. After some time, I wrote a letter to the car manufacturer Kia, and received a reply. I was asked to describe the problem (I described the problem during the application, clearly indicated all the details, the time when I applied, the location of the dealership, the problems with which I applied). it has been more than three weeks since I sent the follow-up letter and I have not been contacted by any Kia representative. Currently, I do not have the opportunity to operate another car. Every time I use this car, I put myself and my passengers, as well as those around me, and other cars at risk. I believe that the car manufacturing company significantly exposes me to danger, it is under threat. please help to solve this problem with an unscrupulous car manufacturer.
2024-07-25
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-25
- VIN: KNDJT2A63C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving approximately 60 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that her daughter was able to pull over, restart the vehicle, and drove back to her residence. The contact stated that the vehicle was no longer able to be started. The contact called a dealer who requested that the vehicle be towed to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The vehicle was not diagnosed and was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 135,000.
2024-07-22
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-01
- VIN: KNDJT2A67C7
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Steering wheel clunks and has "PLAY" when turning left and right. I consider this to be a problem if it gets worse, possible loss of steering completely. Have looked on internet and found this problem is talked about. There are no warning lights or lamps displayed.
2024-07-18
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
- VIN: KNDJT2A65C7
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I got the recall SC284AM - HECU FUSE REPLACEMENT Done. As soon as I started the engine at the Kia dealer thick smoke started coming out of the exhaust pipe. When I showed it to the dealer they said it has nothing to do with the fuse replacement. The car was perfectly fine before the fuse was replaced. To check out the reason for this the dealer is asking $300. It’s definitely the result of the fuse replacement. Need help.
2024-07-03
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- VIN: KNDJT2A65C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted, and the contact was informed that an appointment could not be scheduled until September 2024. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact called the manufacturer, but the call was forwarded to an automated system. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
2024-06-28
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-28
- VIN: KNDJT2A61C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owned a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list because she no longer owns the vehicle. The dealer and the manufacturer were not contacted.
2024-06-25
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
- VIN: KNDJT2A6XC7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle first started to have issue with the blower motor relay, unknowingly at the time, that was the issue I had brought it to numerous mechanics, told it’s my blower motor itself, then took it to Kia and was told it’s not and they put my old one back in and didn’t solve any issue, on my way home my check engine light came on, driving on the HWY at 70mph. I get off on my exit slow down to the speed of 40Mph stop at the red light and then my vehicle starts to stall, refused to go faster then 40mph and was fighting it, at 7rpms. Local shop said it was some sort of sensor, had another mechanic look at it and found that KIA hadn’t put my Cars Computer back on my vehicle, so it was just flapping around, once he reconnected it the issue disappeared. Following this I have had a ticking engine for 2/3 years. Local mechanic said it was my Engine lifters, so we replaced all 18. The noise never stopped. I brought it back and was told I need a replacement engine the long block specifically, I couldn’t afford to replace it, years later it’s still making this noise at start up, in idel and when driving and becomes louder when I accelerate. I have had a hard time getting my vehicle to accelerate to HWY speeds at an efficient and safe level, having to use hazard lights. My car has had a gas fuel leak, repaired. I had to get a rental car. The blower motor relay has to be replaced every 3/4 months since it failed the first time years ago in order for my AC/heat to work, I’m a single mother, who is disabled with a special needs child, and a very low fixed income, this is a major safety concern on top of the HECU recall, I have asked for a buy back or a refund or replacement vehicle and have been denied, or at least reimbursement for the costs associated. Kia is negligent and obviously doesn’t seem to care whatsoever about their customers or their safety. If I could afford it I would sue them. Fire hazard, engine fire, stalling, ect.
2024-06-11
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-12
- VIN: KNDJT2A64C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact stated while at a complete stop, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while slowing down with the brake pedal depressed. The contact was able to restart the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing unintended downshifts. Additionally, the vehicle hesitated to respond and was sluggish while driving and depressing the accelerator pedal. The local dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact a diagnostic test needed to be performed and the repairs would be out-of-pocket. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The check engine, the electronic parking brake warning light, and several unknown warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the contact became aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 122,746. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-06-07
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-07
- VIN: KNDJT2A67C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-05-13
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- VIN: KNDJT2A61C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled with an audible alarm. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The contact stated that the failure recurred intermittently, and the interior lights were independently turning on. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service s Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-05-08
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-08
- VIN: KNDJT2A69C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-05-06
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-25
- VIN: KNDJT2A64C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated there was a burning odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact stated that the battery had become completely drained from not driving the vehicle due to the recall. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was 150,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-04-29
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-25
- VIN: KNDJT2A61C7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving approximately 40 MPH, the contact attempted to accelerate; however, the vehicle failed to exceed 40 MPH before inadvertently decelerating to 20 MPH. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer but was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 106,000.
2024-04-24
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-24
- VIN: KNDJT2A69C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V65200 (Services Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-04-22
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- VIN: KNDJT2A68C7
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: No warning but the steering is shaking a going out on turns. It almost didn't turn properly in oncoming traffic with children in the car. Kia refused to fix the "star flexible coupling" from their recall: WTY013 or CHAO74Revision2 or the MDPS flex coupling replacement was not done by by Kia as the allowed owners get a free repair. We didn't get notice and now the Kia dealers refuse to fix this. Kia refuse to fix it or help. For the steering going out because the steering is shakey and is not stable, its unsafe, risky and my children are in the car. The repair notice was not received at the previous owner and we bought car and moved to FL. I want to complain that Kia will not honour its recall and fix this. I want to use Kia of Ft. Walton Beach, FL for the repair. Kia company has my case number [XXX] on [XXX]. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-04-13
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-13
- VIN: KNDJT2A51C7
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was driving and my check engine code went on , I got it checked by autozone and it was for the catalytic converter. My car has since ran horribly, there feels like a lag in acceleration and it makes a hissing/air noise that comes from the catalytic converter it gets overheated and causes my car to go in limp mode and when I asked a mechanic friend they said it’s very clogged which has caused me to park my car and not drive it because I was recommended to not drive it being in this condition then I was send a recall in email. It has one owner and we have kept up with maintenance very well.
2024-04-12
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-02
- VIN: KNDJT2A54C7
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: So I purchased a 2012 Kia Soul A few months ago and since I got it the car has been having issues with accelerating the car delays to respond and I have had many closed calls specifically when entering a freeway the car losses power and I have to really press on the pedal for the vehicle to respond then the check engine light started to come on showing Code P0420 Catalyst operating below minimum threshold. I looked up online and all Kia souls starting from 2012 have a recall regarding the Catalyst converter and because of the issue my vehicle is having a weird rattling or knocking sound on the engine I looked up online and this is what I found Kia Motors America (Kia) is voluntarily recalling 2012–2016 Kia Soul vehicles with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines due to high exhaust gas temperatures that may damage the catalytic converter. This could cause abnormal engine combustion, damage to pistons, and possibly failed piston connecting rod. Recall consequence Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire. So at this point I’m not felling safe driving this vehicle anymore and I need my vehicle because I need it for work and to move my family around and the worst thing is that all this is cutting back on my income because I purchased this car for Uber & Lyft rides but I can’t do it I wouldn’t want to put other peoples life in danger knowing that the vehicle isn’t responding like it’s supposed to so please I need assistance or guidance on what to do to get this situation resolved as soon as possible because I wasted all muy funds purchasing this vehicle and at this point I can’t afford to pay someone to make any repairs my own vehicle pls don’t disregard my situation I’m out of options at this point thank you and have a great day Date 04-11-24 Sincerely [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-04-10
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-10
- VIN: KNDJT2A51C7
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: My Kia Soul started having play in the steering and sounding clunky when driving. I took it in today to Jeff Eyler Kia on Mitchell Ave Cincinnati Ohio to do recalls and to check this out. They said I should replace the whole steering wheel. Online there are many complaints about this steering problem yet you have not made Kia to recall. It seems that it is a plastic part coupler yet the Kia dealer service is trying to get me to replace the whole column. What is being done about all these complaints. I see on the complaint website there has been 6 accidents and 2 deaths. Please do something.
2024-04-05
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- VIN: KNDJT2A67C7
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
2024-04-03
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-03
- VIN: KNDJT2A6XC7
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Despite being assured for years by KIA that my vehicle was not affected by this recall, I received a recall notice in DECEMBER 2023 for the HECU. Now it is April, and my vehicle still is not repaired because KIA STILL has not supplied the part required to fix this safety issue. Because of the high theft issue of my vehicle, I cannot park it outside and KIA is now telling me I cannot park the vehicle inside because of fire hazard. I have had to pay a higher insurance premium just to keep my car insured and have even been denied insurance by Farmers and Progressive. I am afraid to drive my car and how am I supposed to afford another car? Some dealers will not even consider the car as a trade in.
2024-03-31
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-31
- VIN: KNDJT2A67C7
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Steering clicking, vibrations,
2024-03-25
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-25
- VIN: KNDJT2A62C7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Unknown
2012 Kia Soul recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2012 Kia Soul.
2023-09-25
- Manufacturer: Kia America, Inc.
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2010-2019 Borrego, 2014-2016 Cadenza, 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup, Sportage, 2015-2018 K900, 2011-2015 Optima, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, Soul, 2012-2017 Rio, 2011-2014 Sorento, and 2010-2011 Rondo vehicles. The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) may experience an electrical short, which can result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving.
- Consequence: An engine compartment fire while parked or driving can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will replace the HECU fuse, free of charge. Interim notification letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed November 14, 2023. Owner notification letters were mailed March 29, 2024 through June 18, 2024. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC284.
2019-02-22
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
- Consequence: Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.
2014-12-29
- Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
- Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Kia Soul vehicles manufactured January 8, 2009, to October 2, 2013, equipped with a sun roof. A headliner plate may detach during deployment of the curtain air bag.
- Consequence: A detached headliner plate may increase the risk of injury to the occupant during a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will install industrial adhesive strips to secure the headliner plates, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 2, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC112.
Negative 2012 Kia Soul car reviews
Positive 2012 Kia Soul car reviews
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I purchased my 2012 Kia Soul Exclaim two weeks ago and have driven it over 800 miles without any issues. The Exclaim is fully loaded and for the price, which is approximately $23,000, it is unbeatable. I test drove the Scion XD, XB, Nissan Cube, and the Honda Element, but there was no comparison. The Kia Soul beat all of them hands down. My family gave me a hard time about buying a Kia, stating that the quality would be horrible. While this might have been true several years ago, Kia has since brought in German engineering and the car is fabulous for the money. It's also a blast to drive. I love it! Additionally, the sunroof and leather seats are totally worth the extra money if you are used to having a nicer vehicle. I give it two thumbs up!
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Very roomy inside. Handles great. Good gas mileage
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I'm so happy with my new Kia Soul! It's the perfect vehicle for my small family to drive around town and in the country. The gas mileage is fantastic for long drives and I can easily park in small spots in the city. I haven't loved a car this much in a long time. The cargo space in the back is ample, and I absolutely adore the satellite radio! The combination of great features and excellent gas mileage makes road trips enjoyable instead of frustrating. We're thrilled with our purchase of this car!
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Hey there! When it comes to buying a car, it's always important to do your homework and make sure you're getting the best deal possible. Don't worry though, you don't have to break the bank to get a great car! This one is an excellent choice, just make sure to avoid overpaying for the base model.
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I had very few problems with my car, and I was amazed by its reliability. However, I did experience some trouble starting it from time to time due to a corroded wire at the starter motor connection. Despite changing batteries and jumping them a few times, the issue persisted until a young mechanic spotted the bad connection and solved the problem. I hope that Kia engineers will consider changing the wire to a material that is less prone to corrosion in the future.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2012 Kia Soul problems:
Common Soul Issues 2012 - 2013 | Kia Soul Forums :: Kia Soul ...
https://www.kiasoulforums.com/threads/common-soul-issues-2012-2013.74642/
Jan 31, 2016 ... Common Soul Issues 2012 - 2013 · Paint isn't holding up as good as I hoped. I've acquired a number of small pock marks on the hood I assume from ...
2012 Kia Soul Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life Expectancy ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/kia/soul/2012
Apr 1, 2022 ... The 2012 Soul lasts around 200,000 miles, but there are steering and engine problems. At $7,082 – 9,210, it's not worth the money when there are ...
Engine problems as bad as they sound? | Kia Soul Forums :: Kia ...
https://www.kiasoulforums.com/threads/engine-problems-as-bad-as-they-sound.120467/
Mar 18, 2022 ... The converter recall was for the 12-16 1.6L. If the 2012 you're looking at is a 2.0L and has a good maintenance history and in good shape, and ...
I was thinking about a Kia Soul, but reading these posts, it seems ...
https://www.reddit.com/r/KiaSoulClub/comments/11kkrdl/i_was_thinking_about_a_kia_soul_but_reading_these/
Mar 7, 2023 ... I love my 2018. Just avoid the few years with known engine issues and they are pretty rock solid cars.
Here Are The Kia Soul Years To Avoid - CoPilot
https://www.copilotsearch.com/posts/kia-soul-years-to-avoid/
Mar 11, 2024 ... A: The 2012 Kia Soul had significant body integrity issues, with common complaints about clunking noises while turning and loud rattling noises ...
Other years of Kia Soul
Are you having problems with your 2012 Kia Soul?
Royce Yost 2024-11-26
I have noticed that some dealerships sell KIAs as a secondary model, which may result in a lack of attention to customer satisfaction and service quality. Unfortunately, my experience with a KIA dealership was disappointing due to poor treatment from their service department and a lack of follow-up from their sales department. In contrast, I have had outstanding service from dealerships of other brands such as Scions, Mini Coopers, and Jetta TDIs. While the mileage did not meet my expectations, I still believe that KIA cars have the potential to be great. However, it is important to note that the level of service and follow-up after the sale may not be up to par.
Van VonRueden 2024-02-02
I was really excited for the 2012 model because of its supposed improved fuel economy. I used to have a Honda Element AWD which was much bigger and heavier than the Soul, but only averaged about 25mpg. With this little car, I'm actually averaging about 27 or 28mpg with the same type of driving. Although I thought I would save about $700 a year on gas, it turns out to be closer to $150. Looking back, I do miss my Honda, but I'm still happy with my Soul!
Bernard Gusikowski 2024-01-22
I would give it a rating of 3 3/4. It is an econobox, but it has the most HP (164) for its class. The clutch is a bit mushy and there is little road feel, but the hatchback is very roomy and great for transporting home improvement materials and appliances. Additionally, there is lots of leg room in the back for passengers. Although I am a bit worried about engine failure, the 2.0L Nu MPI seems to be holding up well so far.