2022 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 2022 Kia Soul problems
The 2022 Kia Soul, a subcompact crossover, has faced several common problems based on complaints from its owners. These issues primarily revolve around the engine, transmission, and electrical system.
- Catalytic Converter Overheating: Another common issue reported by Kia Soul owners is the overheating of the catalytic converter, which has caused fires under the car, posing a risk to both the vehicle and its occupants . In some instances, the affected vehicles' engines overheated due to a lack of engine oil, which led to the catalytic converter overheating and melting.
- Transmission Issues: The 2020 Kia Soul, in particular, has experienced transmission problems, with numerous reports of complete transmission failure after traveling a few thousand miles . Some vehicles have experienced transmission failure much sooner, and a few reports indicate that the transmission continues to malfunction even after repair attempts.
- Engine Recall: Kia has even issued a recall for 2020-2021 Souls due to piston oil rings that may not have been properly heat-treated, which could result in engine damage, stalling, and an increased risk of fire.
- Transmission Software Updates: Kia has released Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) to address transmission problems in the Kia Soul, including decreased or delayed acceleration, which can be resolved by updating the transmission software and reprogramming the transmission control module.
These common problems with the 2022 Kia Soul have led to concerns about the car's reliability, particularly for used car lots recommending it to potential buyers. The engine and transmission issues have been significant enough to warrant recalls and TSBs, indicating that Kia is aware of the problems and working to address them. However, the frequency of these issues may still make the Kia Soul a less desirable choice for those seeking a reliable vehicle.
Does the 2022 Kia Soul have transmission problems?
The 2021-2023 Kia Soul is a fuel-efficient and affordable compact car that has become a popular choice among small SUV buyers. Although Kia claims its Soul “exudes confidence and style”, many owners are reporting engine, and transmission problems.
Is the 2022 Kia Soul predicted reliability?
The 2022 Kia Soul has a predicted reliability score of 87 out of 100.
Is Kia Soul really reliable?
The Kia Soul has excellent reliability all around, but it has its fair share of nagging problems that affect several year models. Here are some of them: Engine failure – This issue was quite prevalent with the Kia Soul, especially with the majority of models we highlighted in this guide.
Why are Kia Souls so cheap?
The materials used are lower in quality than other manufacturers, but Kia is quite smart when it comes to production. Some of the cheaper plastics are used sparingly, so many of Kia's interiors look and feel fancy – but they still managed to save on production costs and pass the savings to the customers.
2022 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:
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Electrical system problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2022 Kia Soul vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2022 Kia Soul complaints
The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2022 Kia Soul.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-27
- VIN: KNDJ23AU5N7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission issues. 10/27/23 the engine turned off on Rt93 highway in Massachusetts while in stop-and-go traffic. I put it in park, and restarted the car. It seems to accelerate fine, but is herky-jerky when slowing down. It has a rubber band effect, and threatens to stall at 22mph and 12mph when slowing down. The dealer's first appointment is 2 months out. I'll have to drive it until then. Hopefully they can update the software and change the transmission fluid. Web traffic says that "might" fix it. Super sad, love the car, but constantly stressed out when driving it.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-05
- VIN: KNDJ23AU5N7
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: I received a letter stating that there is a major increase in contacts focus on certain Kia and Hyundai cars, including my car that is registered in New York State. It also is televising me that I can receive advice of tools, available free of charge to help my car from getting stolen.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-15
- VIN: KNDJ23AU9N7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: When applying brakes over bumps the car sounds as if the brakes are locking up. When putting are in reverse and it uses the Automatic Emergency Braking aggressively too early. I have already paid to replace the window motors due to all windows not working when using the button on drivers side buttons, since replacing those motors the vehicle STILL continues to have electrical malfunctions when rolling windows down they won't roll up.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-10
- VIN: KNDJ53AF6N7
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 9000 miles muffler failed, 12000 miles spark plugs cracked and was told it was sparking hot and could catch on fire, 13000 miles fuel injectors clogged with carbon, on going fuel smell in oil and shakes in idle with a/c on
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-30
- VIN: KNDJ23AU1N7
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: 1. Car was getting great gas milage 33 in town and 41 on highway. Suddenly, could barely get 28 - 31 regardless of circumstance; then,.... 2, Car kept shutting off automatically when driving, to include when making a left hand turn that nearly got us broadsided when it stalled. Nearby mechanic adjusted fuel mixture and kind enough to test drive. Stated to expect engine light to turn back on, but wouldn't shut down. Able to get to KIA dealership whom looked at, got engine light off but stated that the light would most likely come back on in the morning when started again. It did. Took it back to the dealership again. Note check engine light twice which should have a code. 3. Happened a third time, KIA stated reached out to manufacturer whom had them tear down certain parts and clean. (Associate stated same happened to their KIA and same repair). Working better. Check engine light again. Tried to tell me no code. Not possible with check engine light on. 4. Happened again. Can feel the car start to chug/sputter. Took to shop. Tried something else before I put on the road for about 1,200 miles. Milage improved to about 36/37 on highway 29 in town. However, when I went to return home it shut off as I was fastening seatbelt and placing purse. Mileage immediately stated 9 to 12 to 14. With the chugging detectable. Took an easy 50-100 miles before chugging settled and milage began to climb but not beyond 29-30 mpg. Next tank, rolled 50 feet to edge of gas station and average miles per gallon suddenly stated 50 mpg. Seemed to state averaging 46/47 mpg highway. In town is now dropping. Makes no sense whatsoever as to the variance in gas milage. These people want to keep my car for 5 days leaving me with no car, to pay for the parts they put into the car as they ATTEMPT to figure out the issue. I have heard gas and fuel somehow mixing, had to tear things apart and fix, fuel mixture automatically adjusts, the issue is with the tripometer device..
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-09
- VIN: KNDJ23AU6N7
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2022 Kia Soul-Consumer is writing in about the battery discharge message display on the dashboard which causes a dead battery, requiring the battery to be jumped anywhere consumers wants to go. Consumers wife took vehicle to dealership where purchased for assistance. Consumer was told by dealership "all Kia's have the same problem & there's nothing that the consumer could do about it." Consumer states there should be a recall or a fix for the issue. Consumer "will send a letter to the state and government" to investigate the issue. Consumer states there should be a fix or pay off for the car, so they can trade it in on a new car that doesn't have this issue. The car is in his wife name, Johniece Lippincott, her contact number it the alternative # listed under Consumer Tab.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
- VIN: KNDJ23AU4N7
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while at a complete stop, the vehicle lost motive power. No warning light was illuminated. The contact shifted to park(P) and turned off the vehicle to correct the failure. The contact related the failure to the STOP/START feature. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, no failure was found. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 4,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-08
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- VIN: KNDJ23AU1N7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission failed on my 2022 Kia soul in June 2022 when my car only had 4,594 miles. I was stuck in the middle of a busy intersection with my daughter and I in the car unable to accelerate almost being hit by multiple vehicles. Transmission failed on my 2022 Kia soul once again when my car had only 10,734 miles on it. Again brought it into Kia dealership whom confirmed the transmission had failed again for a second time. In this incident I was stuck on the side of a highway almost being hit by multiple big rigs again with my daughter in the car. My daughter is currently pregnant and had to be seen at the emergency room for high blood pressure and anxiety attack. We now have hospital bills, car towing of about 800.00, rental car is now being used which I was forced to get because Kia would not assist me with getting it. This is a huge safety hazard as my vehicle went from 65 miles per hour down to 20 in a matter of seconds. I was so close to being hit then stranded in the middle of the desert. I called Kia corporate requesting this car be declared a lemon and me be refunded any money put into the car. I currently have an open case with them. If something happens to me or my child or now grandchild while driving I will fully hold Kia responsible for this.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-03
- VIN: KNDJ23AU8N7
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: I was entering I 24 east toward Nashville on March 3 2024 @5p. As car entered the freeway. The engine stopped. Engine light turned on pulled over on shoulder. Put in park and tried to start but would not turn over. There was still full battery power according to dash board. I had two minor incidents two weeks prior. Entering store parking lots. Engine died a low speed . 5-10 miles an hour. Vehicle did restart at those incidents without problem s at regular speed before March 3 rd incident. KIA mechanic said might be cam gear shaft malfunction.. sensors? Belt?
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-14
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Kia Soul. The contact stated while attempting to fasten the driver’s side seat belt, the buckle failed to latch as needed. The contact made several attempts before buckling the seat belt securely. While attempting to unlatch the seat belt, the buckle failed to unlatch. The contact pressed the latch button several times and the buckle released. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 50,000. The VIN was not available.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-13
- VIN: KNDJ23AU1N7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Kia Soul. The contact stated while parking the vehicle, the message displayed on the instrument panel to "Shift to park(P) or neutral(N) Before Starting engine". Additionally, there was a battery discharged message displayed. The vehicle was taken to be diagnosed; however, the mechanic found no cause of the failure. The contact stated that an unknown sensor was reset however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was not available.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-03-16
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNDJ23AU0N7
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Put my car in park in garage and got out of the car to place something on shelf in garage. Car rolled forward right in to some steel shelves.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-30
- VIN: KNDJ63AU2N7
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I purchased a brand new 2022 Kia Soul GT line on 9/01/2022. At 4300 miles, the IVT transmission imploded while on the freeway. Same issues as all the others reported here - fluctuating rpms, followed by a complete loss of power while the tach is redlined. Had it towed to the Kia dealership, and they determined that I needed a new transmission. The only thing they could tell me was that there were metal shavings in the transmission fluid. Also, I didn't get a new transmission in my new car - they installed a refurbished trans, which I questioned, but I was assured that all would be well. Of course, the "new" transmission failed after only 1300 miles, same issue, and my car is still in the shop two weeks later. No warning lights came on, no notification of trouble through the app, either. Now I'm getting half-answers from my dealership about my next steps. I know what that will be - an attorney. KIA HAS KNOWN ABOUT THESE IVT TRANSMISSION FAILURES FOR OVER TWO YEARS AND THEY HAVE DONE NOTHING. I will never buy another Kia again. Ever. If you're reading this, please DON'T BUY A KIA.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-18
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: KNDJ23AUXN7
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2022 Kia Soul X-Line. The contact stated while at a stop, the vehicle was rear-ended and the seat belts did not retract nor did none of the airbags deploy. The contact sustained shoulder bruises and a hip bruise. The contact's friend was sitting in the passenger side front seat and sustained a head injury that required stitches. A police report was filed and the vehicle was towed to an insurance lot. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-10-10
- VIN: KNDJ23AU4N7
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: As explained to me by the phone lady at Parsons KIA in Winchester Va. It is a built in feature that supposedly kills the engine at a stop light to save gas. however occasionally if you let go of the brake and hit the gas at the right time the car lunges out into the intersection then dies. I almost got side swiped once. Then when I reported this to the car dealer the answer is they ask their customers to remember to turn off the feature before driving the car. This "WILL" cause an accident some where out there and needs to be recalled immediately before people are killed because of it.
Negative 2022 Kia Soul car reviews
Positive 2022 Kia Soul car reviews
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Fun, comfortable, solid and well-equipped.
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You'll love how comfortable the ride is and how easy it is to handle!
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I made a confident decision to purchase a Kia Soul in March 2021 due to its great value and features, despite it being a smaller vehicle than I would have preferred. My 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander was starting to blow a head gasket and I had a long road trip planned in a week. Being aware of the chip shortage, I acted quickly when I found a great deal on a Kia Soul that had been sitting on the lot.
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It sounds like you made a great choice! Your new vehicle is not only beautiful, but also loaded with features. I'm glad to hear that you felt at ease and comfortable driving it right after leaving the dealership.
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I owned a Kia Soul and when I was ready for a new car, I went with another Soul. I absolutely love driving this car, it's always so much fun. I'm especially thrilled with the new bells and whistles that my older version didn't have.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2022 Kia Soul problems:
Considering buying 2022 Soul have they addressed engine and ...
Aug 14, 2021 ... Kia Consumer Affairs at 1-800-333-4KIA (4542) Monday through Friday, 5 AM to 6 PM PST. Save Share. Like.
I was thinking about a Kia Soul, but reading these posts, it seems ...
Mar 7, 2023 ... Reading these posts makes it seem like the engines blow; they eat oil and have all sorts of other problems. Are the 2022 and 2023 models any ...
So many issues 2022 | Kia Soul Forums :: Kia Soul Owners
Nov 15, 2023 ... My 2022 Soul has just 9000 kms. Despite my disappointment with the direction(s) of the various vents, my biggest peev is the lack of heat. It's ...
2021-2023 Kia Soul Problems - Top Engine & Transmission ...
Sep 17, 2023 ... excessive oil consumption; engine knocking; cruise control surge; engine failure. Kia Soul engine problems account for most of the complaints ...
2022 Kia Soul Problems, Issues and Top Complaints | Lemberg Law
Nov 28, 2023 ... The 2022 Kia Soul has a unique appearance and offers plenty of fun. The automaker claims it offers “next-level versatility,” but customers are ...
Other years of Kia Soul
Are you having problems with your 2022 Kia Soul?
Cletus Hilpert 2024-11-04
I purchased the car in November 2021 with only 10km on the odometer. Unfortunately, within the first two weeks, a small stone from the road caused a crack in the windshield. Despite the windshield being designed to withstand small hits, it was unable to withstand this one. Additionally, during the first few frozen nights with temperatures as low as -35C, the engine experienced some issues with starting and would sometimes die. To keep it running, I had to accelerate the pedal to maintain 2500rpm. This was likely due to a recall that was later issued to replace the oil cup, which mentioned 5W-20 instead of the car manual's prescribed 0W-20. Someone at the Korean factory must have put in the wrong oil. Furthermore, during cold starts below -15C, the engine makes a grinding metallic noise. Unfortunately, the dealers in my area only seem interested in selling cars and don't provide much support after the sale. They told me that as long as the car is still running, everything is okay. The start-stop function is also quite bothersome, and I find myself turning it off every time I drive. Despite these issues, the interior space is good, and the comfort is excellent. I really like the car, but I worry that the engine won't last very long. This, combined with the lack of support from the dealers, makes me hesitant to keep the car for too long. In summary, I would not recommend this car to anyone who plans to sell it after only six months of ownership.
Kenyon Howell 2024-07-19
I am confident that the issue with my car is related to the transmission. I will confirm this on Monday. Although a loaner car has not been provided by the Kia dealership yet, I am taking necessary precautions while driving on the highway. I urge caution to those who have already purchased a 2021 Soul.
Monserrat Weimann 2024-07-06
The gas mileage of my new Soul GT line is not meeting the advertised standards. However, I am confident in my decision to purchase it over the Hyundai Kona. Despite my previous car having better gas mileage, I am enjoying the features of my new car. While the Konas I drove at work had better gas mileage, I am still satisfied with my purchase.
Salvatore Beahan 2024-06-09
On the first day of bringing the car home, it failed to start and had to be towed to the shop. The battery was replaced. On the second day, it still wouldn't start and had to be towed to the shop again. This time, the starter was replaced. A week later, it failed to start once more and had to be towed to the shop again. The remotes and car starter were reprogrammed. Unfortunately, an oil leak was discovered before even leaving the dealership, and the car had to be taken back to the shop for repairs. This week, the factory wiper blades had to be replaced due to scratching the window. It is important to note that the blades were not damaged due to abuse.
Izaiah Schroeder 2024-04-25
As the second owner of a 2020 Kia Soul, I experienced a sudden transmission failure while driving at the posted speed in an intersection. Despite having to tow the vehicle to the KIA dealership in Dothan, AL, I was informed that I would need a complete new transmission after reviewing the codes given by the computer. It was disappointing to hear from both KIA service advisors that the 'new CVT' is cheaply made and that they have replaced three in 2020 models in just the last week. However, it is important to note that there are over 160 complaints on the KIA SOUL for various problems, but 67 were for transmission failures without warning while the car was moving on the highway. I encourage others to do their homework and file a complaint on the NHTSA website. While there are law firms actively soliciting info from owners and inviting them to join a class action law suit, it is important to remain calm and patient. Let us hope that NHSTA will take action before any fatalities occur. As for KIA and Jack Ingram Motors in Montgomery, they have not offered any assistance or help. It is important for buyers to be aware of the potential major mechanical issues that may arise while in traffic.