2017 Kia Soul problems

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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.

2017 Kia Soul

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Common 2017 Kia Soul problems

The Kia Soul, a popular subcompact crossover SUV, has been known for its reliability and unique design. However, some model years have had their fair share of problems, including the 2017 Kia Soul. This article will delve into the common problems reported by owners of the 2017 Kia Soul, based on search results.

Engine Failures

One of the most common problems reported for the 2017 Kia Soul is engine failures. This issue is not as prevalent as in older models, but it is still a concern for 2017 Kia Soul owners.

Brake System Issues

Another issue that 2017 Kia Soul owners have reported is brake system problems, leading to the ABS light turning on.

Failures to Start

Some 2017 Kia Soul owners have experienced failures to start, which can be caused by computer or sensor problems.

Minor Recall

The 2017 Kia Soul has one minor recall for the airbag control module, which is a common issue in compact SUVs. Kia will replace the control module for free on affected models.

In summary, the 2017 Kia Soul has had its share of problems, including engine failures, brake system issues, and failures to start. While these issues can be expensive to fix, the 2017 Kia Soul has also been praised for its practical roomy interior, attractive cabin, and user-friendly controls. As with any vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and consider them when making their purchasing decision.

2017 Kia Soul engine

Is there a recall on 2017 Kia Soul engine?

Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit.

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.

How many miles can a 2017 Kia Soul get?

383 miles

2017 Kia Soul

VehicleEPA Fuel EconomyMSRP
383 miles Total Range$16,100 – $22,800
2017 Kia Soul 2.0 L, 4 cyl, Automatic (S6), Regular Gasoline
27 MPG 25 30 combined city/hwy city hwy 3.7 gal/100 mi$16,100 – $22,800
383 miles Total Range

Is the Kia Soul high maintenance?

The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Kia Soul is $437, compared to an average of $466 for subcompact SUVs and $652 for all vehicle models.

2017 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
  • Unknown or other problems
  • Fuel/propulsion system problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2017 Kia Soul vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2017 Kia Soul

The NHTSA has received 221 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2017 Kia Soul. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2017 Kia Soul vehicles.

2024-10-14

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-26
  • VIN: KNDJP3A59H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Hi Nikki - This vehicle has an engine issue as of [XXX] when my car broken down on the road. The engine sputtered and the car was inoperable. I was told to call the Wynn’s Extended Warranty, however it was late and there was no one available to answer the call. So then my car was taken by AAA to their repair facility where they diagnosed the vehicle with needing a new engine. At that point, they called in to make sure the engine was covered by Wynn’s and they were told to have it towed to Kia as the car is below 100,000 miles and should be covered by them. Kia the performed a diagnosis and told me the engine needed to be replaced today on 10/7. They informed me the car would not be covered due to the car’s two engine recalls that were not performed on the vehicle prior to my possession of the vehicle. Wynn’s also stated the car would not be covered by them as this is a manfacturer’s issue and they should cover it. Kia cannot cover it due to the open engine recalls. I was not informed of these recalls when I bought the car three months ago and the car currently sits close to 87000 miles with a total of four open recalls according to Kia. There have been over 20 calls made to both Kia and Wynn’s and Wynn’s will not allow us to talk to their Claims department as we are not a repair facility. There is a current $13,000 bill for a new engine at Kia and they are saying it is my responsibility. I have a voice recording between the Kia service advisor and the wynns warranty rep. Please advise who & when this is covered as this has played a huge part of stress, lack of transportation, and overall my life without a vehicle. I’m very inconvenienced as a result of this. Please see all paperwork attached (contract and Kia paperwork) INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-10-05

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-10-10
  • VIN: KNDJP3A53H7
  • Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: I have wasted too much time and my own $ for my local KIA to dismiss their on going re-appointments and months of different service technicians to not have them reacting to an engine light to never retry something not done right. Now, they have my 2017 KiA Soul+ wrongly listed as no recalls remaining. I am trying to be as proactive and not lose my Kia or several more months of covering the Killeen, Tx Dennis Eakin KIA’s rear to quietly avoid redoing more recall call backs they need to finish. So now your national government database shows my Kia doesn’t have the P0420 catalyst and O2 sensor listed. —-I did my part for Killeen KiA and paid my $ to prove to them the check light kept coming back on after they turned it off in early 2022. The gas mileage is horrible. I’m a handicap driver on fixed income, but no stranger auto warns. After a couple recall, full engine replacement attempts. Since my local KIA services, have re-called their own and also factory mechanical repairs. Both myself and Kia have basically had custody of my 2017 KIA. The last attempt they took back my now 2nd reshaped/fresh block from the first ever KIA recall that blew the piston the first few months I invested into this KIA. Every attempt to fix the next following recalls or unfinished work, I was told about late 2021 locally “if I can bring KIA a code of the engine light”(they temporarily hid) Then maybe they would go back and fix it or recall what needs to be fixed. I paid a mechanic after 3 attempts since 2021 of barely getting to drive my KIA. The code is P0420 I already have enough basic vehicle knowledge, to understand it was exhaust system stalling me (and the suspension) ( hack hydraulic also stopped functioning) I do love my KIA and do not want to start ideas of revamping my interest to Dodge or Chevy yet. I just want the recall for the catalyst/O2 and thermostat issue done or redone if my local KIA attempted to check off the P0420 recall before my engine fails again.
2024-10-01

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
  • VIN: KNDJN2A25H7
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
  • Summary: Multiple stations failed emission inspection in texas for fuel not completed and evap not completed. Tried multiple things to fix. Took it to shop that kept for days and diagnosed with logic lock with the ecm/ecu. Basically bad ecm which is common problem with kia soul and there are recall for models older than 2016. Moritz kia kept for 17 days and said they could not figure out issue but ordered new ecm. I contacted DPS and got steps to get waiver because it could take weeks to get part. Asked kia to inspect again since two failed inspections required for waiver. Some how it passed inspection with the same two not completed emissions. In texas vehicles newer than 2001 are allowed only one not ready. Kia said they would not replace ecm since it passed inspection. Appears they are trying to not fix known issue. Concern is if a real issue with car happens the ecm will not update with error since it has logic lock. There are lots of reports of issues with the ecm and kia not honoring warranty. The ecm is covered for 8 years 80k and the car has 7 years 70k now. It appears they are just trying to delay fixing issue. If battery is pulled, obd code reset, or ecm pulled out none of the codes reset like they should.
2024-09-23

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
  • VIN: KNDJN2A25H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Engine burns oil. Losing over 1 quart per 500 miles. Kia says it is normal.
2024-09-06

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
  • VIN: KNDJP3A50H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Vehicle is consuming oil far before service is due. Easily a quart or more before 1000mi. Read about a CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT regarding engine failure due to this.
2024-08-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-25
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: KNDJN2A20H7
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Kia Soul. While the contact was asleep, they were awoken by an abnormal burning smell. Upon investigation, the contact discovered that the rear end of the vehicle had caught fire. A neighbor called the authorities and the fire department extinguished the fire. The fire department informed the contact that the fire was caused by an electrical wiring failure in the rear taillights. No injuries were reported. A police report was filed. The vehicle remained in the contact's possession. The vehicle had yet to be inspected or diagnosed for the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.
2024-08-26

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
  • VIN: KNDJN2A2XH7
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the camshaft position sensor, resulting in damages to the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 92,000.
2024-08-07

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at approximately 70 MPH, the vehicle failed to respond while the accelerator pedal was depressed. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated the vehicle shut off on an exit and blocked traffic. The vehicle was pushed out of the roadway by bystanders. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer and diagnosed with engine failure. The contact was informed that the failure was linked to an unknown recall campaign; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000. The VIN was not available.
2024-07-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
  • VIN: KNDJN2A2XH7
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
  • Summary: UNKNOWN
2024-07-26

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-09-01
  • VIN: KNDJN2A29H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the mechanic discovered metal shards in the oil pan. The mechanic recommended that the vehicle be taken to a dealer. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and a diagnostic test was performed, and the contact was informed that an engine flush needed to be performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.
2024-07-16

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-13
  • VIN: KNDJN2A21H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Burning oil and engine failure! According to Kia this is "a common issue" unbeknownst to consumers. This is VERY dangerous. The vehicle has been been sitting at a repair shop waiting for warranty approval.
2024-07-03

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-07-02
  • VIN: KNDJP3A53H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: I was driving down a freeway after changing my oil when my car began backfiring, which was strange so I pulled over and checked my engine but I saw nothing wrong, so I went back to driving so I could get home, but as I was driving home, the engine made a loud clang and then the engine completely died. I had come to find out later after paying to have my car towed home that it had infact overheated, and blown a piston straight through the engine block.
2024-06-26

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-06-26
  • VIN: KNDJN2A25H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Just had an oil change done a couple months ago, the two previous oil changes I had, the merchanics advised me that the engine had less oil than it should for how little miles had been put on it. took it in today since it started making a "ticking" noise, and was informed that there was hardly any oil in the engine, and that was the cause. it had only been driven 2000 miles since the last change. they informed me of a TSB that was out for the 2017 souls that have a 1.6L engine (reference number PS739) that basically says that a defect is causing an engine oil leak due to a dowel pin. contacted a dealership per their advice and they told me that it is not covered by Kia even though it is a known issue by them, looking at several of the other complaints against this vehicle it seems to be a very common issue and should be addressed by the manufacturer, and not have to be paid out of pocket by the consumer. This should be recalled immediately to prevent people's engines from being burnt up due to the engine over consuming oil
2024-06-12

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2022-12-29
  • VIN: KNDJN2A2XH7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The engine failed and the car just stopped running. The safety of me and my family was put at risk. I barely could get the car off the road as I'm disabled. I had to call for help.
2024-05-31

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-04-09
  • VIN: KNDJN2A27H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The engine failed on an Arizona highway, at night, while my daughter was driving from Arizona to California. My daughter's safety, and that of her friend who was also in the car, was put at risk due to the near inability to move the vehicle off of the highway and onto the shoulder. This route [XXX] ) is a major highway used by truckers and regular vehicles. Her hazards lasted just long enough for the tow truck to arrive. Her hazard lights were dying just as the tow truck driver pulled up. I can't imagine what could have happened if she was sitting on the side of the road, in a black car at night, with no functioning hazard lights. We were able to get the vehicle towed back to San Tan Valley, Arizona. I called several Kia service departments and was told that there was an engine recall up to the 2016 models, but the 2017 models were not included. No inspection has been done on the vehicle up to this point. The check engine light did come on and was flashing at the time of the failure. We have since pulled the plugs in the vehicle and are seeing metal shaving on one of the plugs. Codes checked on the vehicle indicate multiple misfires. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-05-25

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-05-18
  • VIN: KNDJP3A56H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: 05/18/2024 (Saturday) I was driving home from my parents house. After approximately 7 miles from leaving their home the check engine light came on. The car became sluggish and seamed to not have a lot of power. I drove the car approximately another 7 miles straight to the dealership for it is be examined. On Monday 05/20/2024 they called to tell me that I needed a new engine because the car had metal shaving in the engine. I asked the service rep how this was possible they she replied she did not know. I explained to her that I could not pay $7,800 + tax for a new engine. She asked me to wait and see what she could do. She called me back the next day 05/21/2024 to inform that she spoke with the manager and that they would be able to complete the work for $5,100 + tax. On 05/22/2024 I explained that I be picking up the car and having it towed to my house, I paid Kia Palmdale $220.00 for the diagnostic. My concern is that how can my car have no oil, never did any warning light come on. If the error code listed on their paperwork, they list p1326. There are many Kia cars with this problem listed as a faulty engine. Listed this the past 2 oil changes: 12/12/2023 Jiffy Lube 156,293 miles 03/28/2024 Jiffy Lube 160,692 miles 05/18/2024 car breaks down at 163,498 miles with no oil. this makes no sense. I would also like to add that ever since the car was purchased at Kia Palmdale every single maintenance was done at their location, even to the point of paying $1,059.69 for their 120,000 miles check-up on 01/31/2022. Kia Palmdale has all these records for again, there should be no reason the car not to give a warning and go to engine failure.
2024-05-07

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-10
  • VIN: KNDJN2A28H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Last year check engine light came on & It was time to get my oil change, So you know when they connect the car to that reader well it came back It was my catalytic converter And so I was like that's really expensive ,check engine light ended up going off then on. Now mind you I always keep up the maintenance on this vehicle. So let's fast forward A little bit My next oil change comes around This establishment put my car on the reader again catalytic converter comes up again. I get the oil change And then 1 month later my car gives me a notice telling me I need oil I take it back to my establishment And there was no oil in there Had to get another oil change to put new oil instead of stuff and then they told me that Issues which is causing the catalytic converter to fail which is sucking up oil causing oil issues the Gentlemen informed me I can Replace my catalytic converter but This issue is still gonna happen because my motor is going bad So in other words I can replace my catalytic converter And later on down the line I'm gonna have to replace it again because of the motor now this does pose risk to my family because I put myself my grandchildren my children in this vehicle We could be driving back from vacation or what have you and stall in the middle of nowhere because the motor quit on us or the oil runs low causing Engine trouble Which is not acceptable. So wondering Why isn't there a recall Or 1 that I'm aware of Then I looked this stuff up and there's a lot of people with the same issue as myself
2024-04-30

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-22
  • VIN: KNDJN2A29H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: On 3/22/24, my 2017 Kia Soul started making a backfiring noises while I was on the interstate. Then I heard a loud noise and the car starting losing speed and finally just quit after about a 1/4 of a mile. I had to have car towed to repair shop. I called for roadside assistance from AAA. (They couldn’t, of course, get the car started). Mechanic said motor seized and now has to be replaced. I’ve always kept up with oil changes on time. The car had never used or leaked oil since I’ve owned since August 2017. There were no warning lamps on before the car died. I was at high risk during this incident in heavy interstate traffic, barely able to get off the interstate to the median before it shut down. Never had issues or repairs before this. Car has 106,000 miles. Motors should last way beyond this. Mechanic stated that he’s worked on several Kia souls where motor seized up like this. I have tow receipt from this date. I had to purchase a short block motor and cylinder head from Kia. Took the new motor to the owner/mechanic at repair shop. I’m still waiting on this motor change out to be completed. I’ve had to get rental vehicles and ask for rides for over 5 weeks now. This has been a monumental hardship on me, my family and friends. Vehicle rentals run about $100 per day. I’ve had to spend $1,000 on car rentals when I wasn’t able to borrow a car or get a ride.
2024-04-12

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-09
  • VIN: KNDJN2A28H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The Kia has been using oil sind 78000 miles I've been going to dealership now going on 2 years for issues with the engine. Feb 2024 they put a catalytic converter on. On [XXX] I called told them check engine light was flashing and was rattling and running rough Nick Sheets told me to bring it back on Saturday the [XXX] at 10:00 am. On way to bring it in on the highway [XXX] bypass the car quit and there was a tractor trailer behind me blowing his horn and throwing his hands up air but I couldn't do anything. I turned my emergency flashes on and tried to motion for people to go around me. My friend came and helped me get car off road until wrecker came to tow it to the dealership. Upon arrival they did a combustion test or whatever and said engine was blown. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
2024-03-26

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-22
  • VIN: KNDJP3A55H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Engine failed - active codes P0300 and P0303 Cylinder 3 spark plug coated in oil. Only had 10PSI of cylinder PSI. Russ Darrow Waukesha Kia - Wisconsin concluded that a new engine is needed, quoted $9,000. Kia declined to cover the cost, the codes above aren't covered by engine warranty. Before the engine failure, I reported an unusual oil consumption for the vehicle. I researched and found many other 2017 Kia Soul owners who experienced the same incident (engine failure). I believe Kia needs to be held accountable for this engine scam. It's not isolated incidents.
2024-03-18

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-03-17
  • VIN: KNDJN2A28H7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: Car has been giving me problems using oil going on 3 years. The Kia dealership keeps having me do different test and repair different stuff. Finally on Saturday March 16,2023 the car broke down right off exit of highway at the light. I was so scared and frustrated people were blowing horn. A man helped me after about 30 minutes get car off road onto shoulder. Had to have it towed to Kia. The did test yet again told me engine is shot. Now waiting approval for a new engine from Kia. This whole time I always check for recalls and stuff on this car but nothing ever shows up. But clearly there is a problem. I bought this car brand new. I have tried all this time with the dealership to make it right I even reported to y'all once before and started a case with Kia corporate. I am at my wits end.
2024-02-28

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-01-20
  • VIN: KNDJN2A22H7
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
  • Summary: I am reporting the problem with the starters used in the Kia Soul. My starter went out with no warning. My vehicle had less than 25,000 mi. This occurrence happened 1 yr ago. January of 2023. The temp outside was a blistering 13°below 0. I was stumped by this occurrence. After searching the web for answers- I found myself viewing Utube videos for the problem I was experiencing. I found several about the symptoms, sounds and the behavior of the dash lights that verified the fact That my STARTER has gone out. Upon arrival at Dealership garage, I was told "the manufacturer is aware of the problems with these specific starters but are not willing to do anything about it because of cost" I feel this is a true safety issue. Being January in MN winter, the temperature can be very devastating. I contacted Roadside assistance (their headquarters being in Florida) Stated I needed to stay with my Vehicle for assistance. Finally after 2 days- a tow truck showed up and towed it the Whole 2 miles to the nearest Dealership garage. I can't imagine what could have occurred if I had been further from home with my vulnerable mother or very young Grandkids. This did take place last year, but with further a due I was encouraged to file a complaint about this experience. Hoping enough complaints will inspire an investigation, so others will not have to experience this problem or have this unsafe occurance happen to them or their loved ones.
2024-02-22

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-19
  • VIN: KNDJN2A23H7
  • Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
  • Summary: Burning oil in 1,000 miles blowing blue smoke out exhaust
2024-02-12

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2023-12-09
  • VIN: KNDJN2A25H7
  • Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
  • Summary: Had oil changed and noticed car was stalling. Went to get car checked out and there was no oil. Replaced oil and car still had the same issue. Was notified that there was an issue with these cars and burning oil. Engine was replaced but car still has issues.
2024-02-06

ENGINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-01-02
  • VIN: KNDJP3A5XH7
  • Components: ENGINE
  • Summary: The car gave no warning, no lights or anything to tell me that there was something wrong with the engine. The engine started to knock very loud while I was driving on the freeway and completely failed. The car could have caught on fire or blew up while I was driving it or I could have gotten into a very bad accident. As soon as I had heard the knocking I immediately pulled over on the freeway dangerously while cars were speeding by me. There was no warning and the car was driving completely fine. I also saw that there was a recall for other years for the kia soul that had the same engine failures that mine had except that my car did not have a recall.

2017 Kia Soul recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2017 Kia Soul.

2022-01-25
  • Manufacturer: Kia Motors America
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
  • Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
  • Remedy: Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.

Negative 2017 Kia Soul car reviews

  1. Rylan Ullrich 2024-11-04

    I had a 2017 Soul which unfortunately had a persistent bad smell that the service department was unable to remedy. Despite their attempts to deodorize the car, the smell would return shortly after. Although they had theories, such as the possibility of a dead rat inside, they were unable to dedicate the time needed to solve the issue. As a result, I made the decision to part ways with the vehicle after only a few months of ownership. This occurred in Santa Rosa, CA.

  2. Jess Towne 2024-10-27

    It's been five years since I purchased my 2017 Kia Soul+ from a rental car agency with 30k miles, and it has now clocked almost 95k miles. Unfortunately, the engine consumes about a quart of oil every 1000 miles, which Kia considers normal for anything under one quart per 1000 miles. While this is unacceptable, I am considering keeping an eye on the oil and driving the car until it breaks down. Although I wouldn't purchase another Kia, as their engines are not at the same level of build and quality as Honda or Toyota.

  3. Mavis Purdy 2024-10-17

    The car is good for 5 years. However, in the event of a major breakdown, spare parts may not be immediately available and you may have to resort to secondhand parts. We understand your frustration with this situation and would like to help resolve any issues you may have. Please contact us at KIA-BAHRAIN for further assistance.

  4. Sydney Emmerich 2024-10-06

    The engine of the 2017 Kia Soul with 65,000 miles needs to be replaced. Despite being only 4 years old and well-maintained, the engine stalled without warning while I was on the freeway. After conducting research, it appears that this is a common issue and no recall has been issued. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase a new engine. This information is accurate as of 10/26/2021.

  5. General Luettgen 2024-08-20

    The dealership failed to repair minor issues despite multiple visits. On one occasion, I made an appointment only to find out upon arrival that they did not have the necessary parts to complete the repairs. Despite driving 34 miles each way, I did not receive an apology for the inconvenience caused.

Positive 2017 Kia Soul car reviews

  1. Roscoe Frami 2025-01-07

    I'm so glad I decided to trade in my 2004 Dodge Ram for the 2017 Kia Soul! This little hatchback SUV has everything I need, including a panoramic sunroof, heated seats and steering wheel, navigation, a backup camera, and an awesome Harmon Kardon sound system. Despite its small size, it's surprisingly spacious and comfortable - even for someone as tall as me (I'm 6'2''). And the turbo engine gives it some serious power! Plus, it's great on fuel, which is a huge plus. Overall, I find the Kia Soul to be a fun, exciting, and cool car. Kia has really outdone themselves with this one! And the best part? I can still haul my motorcycles with a hitch and light trailer when I need to. This tiny car has some serious soul power!

  2. Eugene Dach 2024-11-13

    Perfect size for a senior citizen!

  3. Abelardo Grimes 2024-11-08

    You have a really nice looking car with a smooth ride. I especially love the front seats and dashboard areas, they remind me of a command module!

  4. Gabe Bergnaum 2024-10-11

    You'll get the best value for your money.

  5. Odell Waelchi 2024-05-15

    Awesome! The Kia Soul is a joy to drive, with quick pickup when needed. It's the best automobile I've ever owned, with a unique style and a great paint job. I bought a new Kia Soul last December and I absolutely love it! 💘

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2017 Kia Soul problems:

The 80K engine failure - why weren't Souls included in the lawsuits ...
The 80K engine failure - why weren't Souls included in the lawsuits ...
https://www.kia-forums.com/threads/the-80k-engine-failure-why-werent-souls-included-in-the-lawsuits-and-recalls.357818/

Jul 7, 2022 ... The most common problem with the 2017 model year is engine failure, courtesy of knocking. Some owners reported that their engines made loud ...

2017 Kia Soul Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life Expectancy ...
2017 Kia Soul Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life Expectancy ...
https://www.vehiclehistory.com/report/kia/soul/2017

Nov 17, 2022 ... Reliability 7/10 – There are fewer problems reported with the 2017 Kia Soul than earlier years, making it more reliable. Avoid models from 2012– ...

Thoughts on a 2017 Kia Soul +? : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
Thoughts on a 2017 Kia Soul +? : r/whatcarshouldIbuy
https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/14em440/thoughts_on_a_2017_kia_soul/

Jun 20, 2023 ... I have recently done a lot of research and found out about the commonly occurring, known issues with the 1.6L GDI engines in these cars. Carbon ...

2017 Kia Soul Problems | Kelley Blue Book
2017 Kia Soul Problems | Kelley Blue Book
https://www.kbb.com/kia/soul/2017/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2017 Kia Soul? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

2017 Kia Soul - Electrical glitches - Maintenance/Repairs - Car Talk ...
2017 Kia Soul - Electrical glitches - Maintenance/Repairs - Car Talk ...
https://community.cartalk.com/t/2017-kia-soul-electrical-glitches/175563

Mar 7, 2021 ... My wife's 2017 Soul has some of the same issues as the 2017 from Hillsboro. Dash lites brightens after driving a bit.

Other years of Kia Soul

kia soul 2018 photo
Soul 2018
Kia

159

1

17

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia soul 2019 photo
Soul 2019
Kia

67

1

20

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia soul 2020 photo
Soul 2020
Kia

238

1

30

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia soul 2021 photo
Soul 2021
Kia

69

1

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia soul 2022 photo
Soul 2022
Kia

15

0

29

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
kia soul 2023 photo
Soul 2023
Kia

30

3

16

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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