MyCarTSB

2018 Kia Soul Engine Problems

102 owner-reported engine complaints from NHTSA data

102
Complaints
7
Fires
Jan 2023Dec 2021
Date Range

Data sourced from NHTSA public database. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified mechanic.

Owner Complaints (102)

criticalENGINE
Filed: Mar 2026

While driving your 2018 Kia Soul, you heard an abnormal knocking sound from under the hood, and the check engine and oil warning lights came on. The dealer diagnosed a blown engine that requires replacement. This issue may be related to a known manufacturer recall (Campaign 20V750000), and it occurred at approximately 95,000 miles.

Parts you may need:

As an Amazon Associate, MyCarTSB earns from qualifying purchases.

NHTSA #: 11724558
criticalENGINE
Filed: Mar 2026

Your engine seized at 165,000 miles after months of excessive oil consumption—losing half to a full quart every 3,000 miles despite regular oil changes. Multiple technicians identified low-pressure piston rings as the likely cause, confirmed by compression tests showing one cylinder at 0 psi while others read 55-58 psi. You heard engine knock while accelerating and the engine shut down completely. Fixing this will require a complete engine replacement.

NHTSA #: 11724268
criticalENGINE
Filed: Mar 2026

Your engine completely shut down while driving on the highway, with the check engine light coming on just before it stopped. This happened only 183 miles after the dealership completed warranty work and inspection, creating a dangerous situation. The repair will likely involve diagnostic testing to identify why the engine stalled and addressing whatever underlying engine issue triggered the check engine light.

NHTSA #: 11722057
criticalENGINE
Filed: Dec 2025

Your check engine light came on while driving on the freeway, and you discovered the oil level was completely empty on the dipstick even though you had checked it just a week before. Your engine is now making a knocking sound due to excessive oil consumption. The issue may require an engine inspection to identify the cause of the oil loss, which could involve anything from an oil leak to internal engine wear.

Parts you may need:

As an Amazon Associate, MyCarTSB earns from qualifying purchases.

NHTSA #: 11705435
criticalENGINE
Filed: Dec 2025

Your engine suddenly stopped accelerating on an exit ramp and seized completely, creating a dangerous driving situation with no warning signs beforehand. The engine failure required replacement with a used engine at a cost of $8,817.91. The issue appears related to known defects in 2018 Kia Soul 2.0 engines involving excessive oil consumption, piston ring problems, and bearing failure that Kia has settled in class action lawsuits.

Parts you may need:

As an Amazon Associate, MyCarTSB earns from qualifying purchases.

NHTSA #: 11703799
criticalENGINE
Filed: Nov 2025

Your 2018 Kia Soul developed a severe shuddering and near-stalling problem at low RPM with a flashing check engine light, exhaust smoke, and an engine control warning. Before this happened, your engine was knocking intermittently, showing oil pressure warnings, and burning excessive oil. Diagnostic codes P0300 and P0303 were found, and the dealer identified a burnt valve and seized starter but refused to perform the bearing clearance test without payment, even though you believe this may be a known defect covered under warranty. The engine failure caused a safety risk when the vehicle nearly stalled in traffic. The repair will likely involve inspecting the engine bearings and potentially replacing internal engine components or the entire engine.

NHTSA #: 11697208
highENGINE
Filed: Dec 2025

Your car is using more oil than normal between oil changes. You may need to top off the oil level more frequently than expected. This could indicate internal engine wear or a leak that needs to be inspected. A mechanic should check for oil leaks, worn piston rings, or valve seal problems.

Parts you may need:

As an Amazon Associate, MyCarTSB earns from qualifying purchases.

NHTSA #: 11706053
highENGINE
Filed: Nov 2025

Your engine oil may have low composition quality, causing problems with engine performance. You might experience issues like poor lubrication or engine wear. Kia appears to be aware of this problem. A solution may involve an engine oil flush and refill with the correct specification oil, or potentially an engine inspection if damage has occurred.

Parts you may need:

As an Amazon Associate, MyCarTSB earns from qualifying purchases.

NHTSA #: 11697523
highENGINE
Filed: Oct 2025

Your engine is leaking oil into cylinder #2, which then burns off and damages your exhaust system. When oil builds up in that cylinder, your engine suddenly loses power and performance drops significantly, which can be dangerous in traffic. The fix will likely involve diagnosing why oil is entering that cylinder (possibly a bad piston ring or valve seal) and replacing the damaged components.

NHTSA #: 11695488
highENGINE
Filed: Oct 2025

Your engine has low compression in cylinders 3 and 4, even though your car only has 40,000 miles on it. This is a significant engine problem that typically requires internal engine work to fix, such as replacing piston rings, valves, or a complete engine overhaul depending on the root cause.

NHTSA #: 11692147
mediumENGINE
Filed: Sep 2025

Out of no where my engine just started knocking. No engine light came on, no oil light came on, no warnings at all. I just got an oil change 12/18/2024, with 2 top offs 04/23/25 and 07/23/25. And August 24 th my engine started knocking. I took it to Midtown kia on 08/25/25 and they told me Kia customer care won't cover the engine recall.

NHTSA #: 11685155
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Filed: Aug 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the piston oil rings, resulting in damage to the engine. The contact was informed that a piston was missing and that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); but the VIN was not included. 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 130,000.

NHTSA #: 11681606
mediumENGINE
Filed: Aug 2025

I have owned this car now, for 3 years and uh, in those 3 years, I have had to add a quart of oil to it every week. There is a problem with oil consumption. It does not burn it and it does not leak it. And uh, apparently, kia says there is no problem. So in my opinion, the 1.6 l Kia engine is garbage. It has blow by if I take the oil cap off. The oil cap will sit there and rattle and blow off. Now it sou ds like it is getting ready to blow the motor, it has a rod knocking.

NHTSA #: 11679937
mediumENGINE
FireFiled: Jul 2025

Nov 10,2024 my 2018 Kia soul “1.6” (1.6 is important because only the 2018 Kia soul 2.0 got recognized in class action lawsuit for exact reason my 1.6 did engine fire but yet YOU nor KIA will take responsibility for the fire and you guys for not doing a recall on it) biggest problem I have is when I purchased it from kia lot in Carlsbad ca the salesman NEVER mentioned one word they’re known for catching fire nor mentioned someone actually died in car from engine fire to me that’s crappy customer care all the way around and Kia DOES NOT GIVE A CRAP ABOUT THEIR CUSTOMERS WHAT So EVER!! Was driving down fwy going to work and smoke coming from my engine my engine was on fire. Aug 2024 I had oil change and tuneup just months before the engine fire. NHTSA doesn’t care either how many people like myself could’ve burned up in kia death trap. To date they still haven’t made kia responsible for the 1.6 only 2.0 I hope they have a family member experience what I did I betcha they would take care of it then! Kia Corp has denied everything being their faulty piston oil rings that they continue making and using even on their new 2025 cars that are being recalled now! Do I have to die in the car to get recognized and reimbursed for all my out of pocket expenses?? Yep! Kia SUCKS never again!

NHTSA #: 11676911
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jul 2025

Car burned out all oil and stalled

NHTSA #: 11675717
mediumENGINE
FireFiled: Apr 2025

The contact owned a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a loud pop and smoke emanated from the engine compartment, prompting her to pull to the shoulder of the roadway. After a visual inspection, the contact observed flame jutting up from the engine. The contact was able to extinguish the fire herself using a gallon of water she had on hand. No warning lights were illuminated. A fire report was filed. A police report was not filed, and no injuries were reported. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a nondescript failure with the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to an NHTSA Campaign but was unaware of the NHTSA Campaign Number. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 125,000.

NHTSA #: 11653778
mediumENGINE
Filed: Mar 2025

While climbing a hill, the engine began to sputter and lose power immediately, throwing multiple CEL codes. I was barely able to get it off the side of the road and shut the engine off. We were very lucky to be driving at a time when the road was not as busy as usual and experienced no collisions, though we were stranded on the side of a road with no cellular service for 2 hours before we could get towed. A mechanic reviewed the engine and suggested the piston rings blew and there was oil leaking from the exhaust manifold. Smoke was pouring from the rear of the engine, likely from it burning through the exhaust manifold, and the back of the engine was covered in oil and dripping out what oil was left in the engine at a rapid pace on the side of the road. This aligns with known issues for these engines involving oil consumption at unreasonable rates and the class action settlement for rod knock issues. The vehicle is able to be inspected. I am not comfortable starting the car as it continues to make horrible noises. The CEL codes produced were multiple misfires and individual cylinder misfires, P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303. The CEL illuminated after the engine lost power and made the noises, flashing repeatedly along with the oil indicator light. The oil light had not illuminated at all prior to indicate an issue with oil levels or pressure. Oil was present in the vehicle at acceptable levels approximately 95 minutes or 100 miles prior to the failure. Only the mechanic hired has looked at the engine so far.

NHTSA #: 11650213
mediumENGINE
Filed: Mar 2025

The camshaft bolt broke off and destroyed the engine. A second bolt worked itself loose and photos show it at least half way out. Less than 100k on vehicle. The car was on the freeway when it lost acceleration ability. The dealership requested the extended warranty cover the replacement of the engine and they denied coverage. A few months before the codes for camshaft sensor came on. We replace the sensor and the car worked fine until recently.

NHTSA #: 11649351
mediumENGINE
Filed: Mar 2025

My 2018 Kia Soul burns oil creating the engine to misfire, stall, putter, tick. Ive had my oil changed on a Friday, and by Tuesday, there is no oil left in my engine. The local Kia dealership is currently doing an "oil consumption" test, however was alerted by Kia Corporate to not go any further unless I get them 7 years of my oil change records. My car is still under warranty. I have provided the oil change records. The local KIA dealership advised I drive my car if I need to, knowing there is a faulty engine, and that could cause harm or death! KIA does NOT stand by their warranty and tries to nickel and dime their good, loyal customers. They manufacture faulty engines, putting peoples lives at risk! My car is sitting at the dealership, waiting on approval from KIA while I am left with no car. Also, the dealer does not have any loaners available.

NHTSA #: 11648444
mediumENGINE
Filed: Mar 2025

While driving on the interstate @70mph with the cruise control activated and set the engine started without any warning to slow down. at this time the engine was sputtering, and the check engine light came on and we were unable to keep the car at speed. 12The vehicle was then driven about a mile to a KIA dealership. We were then told the engine had a multiple engine misfire and they would want the car for about 3 weeks to determine what happened. We then had the car towed to another mechanic who in a couple of days told us that there was no compression in cylinder #4 and the engine was blown.

NHTSA #: 11645754
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Filed: Jan 2025

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the engine was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact had to add one quart of oil per week. The battery was replaced on three occasions. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to exceed 57 MPH while driving. There was an abnormal creaking sound coming from the vehicle. The contact also stated that there was no oil in the oil pan, but there was no indication of a leak. The oil light was illuminated. The contact stated that the engine was limp, and the starter was becoming inoperable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine was becoming inoperable, and an engine replacement was recommended. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to another local dealer, Kia of Naples (3325 Westview Dr, Naples, FL 34104) for an oil consumption and rod bearing test. The manufacturer was contacted and extended the warranty to 150,000 and declined to replace the engine due to missing maintenance records. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.

NHTSA #: 11636517
mediumENGINE
Filed: Dec 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving at an undisclosed speed and approaching a stop sign, the vehicle almost stalled. The contact stated that her daughter was able to safely park the vehicle in a parking lot and the had the vehicle towed to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed. The contact was informed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 116,000.

NHTSA #: 11629056
mediumENGINE
Filed: Oct 2024

Oil plug fell out while driving, engine needed to be replaced.

NHTSA #: 11621529
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Filed: Oct 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact stated that the oil level was low after a routine oil change. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the gasket and catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.

NHTSA #: 11618118
mediumENGINE
Filed: Aug 2024

While driving the vehicle, with no warning, the engine failed. The second cylinder lost all pressure, with the remaining 3 cylinders at the lowest passable pressure. This was on the highway, and the car began jerking and shaking, not allowing to follow flow of traffic. There is supposedly a recall for this issue, however Kia is refusing to cover the car, as it has 120,000 miles and is past the power train warranty. Kia dealership told me it was covered, while Kia is stating it is not. So now I have a 6 year old, $30,000 lawn ornament.

NHTSA #: 11609671
mediumENGINE
Filed: Aug 2024

I have a 2018 Kia Soul Base Model with a 1.6 L engine. At the moment, the engine is making a loud knocking noise when the car is running. Also, upon checking the vvt solenoid there were metal shavings as well, which is a common symptom of engine failure. The safety of mine as well as other drivers are at risk as the engine can stop automatically while driving without any warning. The problem has not yet been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer and has not been inspected by others. There are no warning lamps or messages besides the loud knocking noise and metal shavings found.

NHTSA #: 11608848
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
Filed: Aug 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the engine compartment, after which the vehicle stalled and was unable to be restarted. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V120000 (Engine, Engine and Engine Cooling); but the VIN was not included. 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 111,000.

NHTSA #: 11606815
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jul 2024

Engine knocking noise .

NHTSA #: 11601762
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jun 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing excessive oil consumption. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an oil consumption test was performed, and the mechanic determined that the test was positive for excessive oil consumption. Additionally, the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the oil valve was replaced under an unknown Manufacturer Recall Campaign Number; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 65,000.

NHTSA #: 11594776
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jun 2024

I am the owner of a 2018 Kia Soul. On May 19, 2024 I broke down on a highway in a dangerous construction zone. Just prior to this my oil light came on, so i put some in to be safe until I got home to let engine cool. No other warning lights or messages came on. Got a little further down the road and the light came back on with the engine now making noise. I managed to find an emergency pull off and as soon as I pulled off the car died. I had it initially towed to my mechanic but when they looked at it they said had to go to dealership it was the Engine and possibly under recall. Had towed to dealership on May 21, 2024. They were backed up and unable to look at it until after the holiday. They finally got to look at it on June 3, 2024. It does meet the requirements for the Kia Engine Recall. Here is where the plot thickens, Kia, not dealership, denied the recall work because the update was never done. I just received the update notice the end of March 2024. Due to me being disabled and I had some doctor appoints to keep I just cleared my schedule to make the appointment and was planning to do that when broke down with no warning. I called Kia customer service and they said because I did not have the update done it has to fall under the Class Action Settlement and they will not cover it. Now under the Class Action Settlement, you need to pay out of pocket and then seek reimbursement. However, the work has yet to be done and I am disabled and on a fixed income. It is now June 10,2024 and the Kia dealership still is not getting a straight answer from the warranty company on whether they will accept the claim and cover it or not. Meanwhile, I am putting a friend out to help me. What is a person to do?

NHTSA #: 11593562
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jun 2024

Update to case 11587168: Ian (Service Writer) at HW Kia told me 3 weeks ago Kia was approving engine replacement, he was ordering the engine & to provide all service records so they have them on file. I provided receipts for 2 oil changes I had done by a non-Kia dealership auto service. All other service records are accessable via KIA & CarFax as Napleton Kia St. Peters & Plaza Tire Service had done all other oil changes/ maintainence on the vehicle. The Thursday before Memorial Day I get an email from Ian that now Kia is denying the engine replacement. I am now waiting to get a contact from the RPSM (Regional Parts & Service Manager) as to why since I provided proof the vehicle was properly maintained. This is a wrongful denial in my opinion.

NHTSA #: 11591928
mediumENGINE
Filed: May 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving on several occasions in one day at various speeds, the battery and check engine warning light flashed on for five seconds. Additionally, the contact observed a light knocking sound coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was stopped in a parking lot and turned off. The vehicle was restarted and the battery and check engine warning lights illuminated. The failure persisted. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that cylinder #3 needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,750.

NHTSA #: 11590348
mediumENGINE
Filed: May 2024

My granddaughter was traveling to Florida from Texas for a short vacation on [XXX] 2024. Car just lost power and slowed in the middle of the interstate traffic, no lights, warnings or anything. Thank God she was able to get to the side of the highway without getting hit. It was knocking and clattering in the engine. Killed it and let it rest a bit and checked the oil and it was [very low, added some oil and started it back up, but it still was knocking and not running. Had it towed to an independent garage in Crestview Fl. The mechanic diagnosed the engine with a possible bent valve and loose timing chain. The car has 104000 miles on it. We had the oil changed at 102000 and have had oil changed regularly at 5000 miles or less since we bought it in March 2022. We still owe a loan on this car. Mechanic said the engine would have to be replaced and quoted 7000.00. We cannot afford this. We are the 3rd owner and was not informed of any safety recalls or software updates until the Mechanic told us about the Class Action Lawsuit and the issues with the engines in Kia and Hyundai. Kia is not forthcoming with this information and does not notify but only the 1st owner. This is ridiculous and not right to do the consumers this way. We bought the car from a Nissan dealership in Mckinney Tx and was not told anything about this. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA #: 11589782
mediumENGINE
Filed: May 2024

On [XXX], 2024 had a complete break down while driving on the highway on the way home from work. No warning light prior to the incident. Towed via ERS on my auto insurance policy to Plaza Tire Service, [XXX] . They replaced spark plugs and coils. Still sputtering and code on cylinder 3. Then taken to HW Kia of [XXX] in Ballwin, Mo (this was the closest dealership that said they could get to it right away). Has been there ever since (going on 2 months now). What I have been told has be done by Ian, Service Manager: Compression test done, no compression in cylinder 3. Warranty company (JMNA) sent out inspector. 2 weeks later warranty company asked dealership to do a full breakdown of the engine. On [XXX] got call from Ian that warranty company denied fix under warranty because the damage is to piston rings. (Month and a half just to get this determination from the warranty company) Ian told me that this is a known issue by Kia so he is requested engine replacement directly from Kia Corp. As of today ([XXX], 2024) I am still waiting to hear back if this replacement has been approved. Previously told by Ian (when I initially dropped off the vehicle) that once/if approved it will take approximately 10 days to get a new engine ordered and into the dealership. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA #: 11587168
mediumENGINE
Filed: Apr 2024

While driving vehicle, engine reduced power and went into a limp mode, pulled off Highway and stop. Check engine light came on and blinking. Later found motor had lost over three quarts of oil. Now engine knock and have been advised by mechanic that engine is about to throw a rod thru the the side. Vehicle has had oil changes at 5000 miles intervals thru out its 124,000 miles on the road also oil checks often too. Now we are without a vehicle with a damage engine. I understand thru research that this is a common problem for this type vehicle and motor.

NHTSA #: 11586226
mediumENGINE
Filed: Apr 2024

Second time in last six months car went into “limp mode” with the knock sensor. First time it was “just” a faulty knock sensor and under warranty. Happens again now it’s the all too well known the oil is burning too fast on this engine. Kia/hyundai will not take this under warranty as it is not a rod bearing issue while numerous owners have the exact same issue. This cars engine can probably fail at any time with this oil issue continually happening. The cars oil has been maintained per manual and was not expecting an oil change yet the level is way too low already (3000ish which is way before the 5000 mile mark per owners manual and Kia)

NHTSA #: 11581095
mediumENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Filed: Mar 2024

2018 Kia Soul with excessive oil consumption. 1.6 Liter GDI engine. Base model. Oil is being overly consumed in between oil changes, needing double the quarts in between Kia's manufacturing guidelines.

NHTSA #: 11575227
mediumENGINE
Filed: Feb 2024

The engine is burning a TON of oil and I have to put 5 quarts in every 2-3 months. I also found oil when I pulled the 2nd and 3rd spark plugs (from left to right). I checked the engine again and it’s bone dry.

NHTSA #: 11571322
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Filed: Feb 2024

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the oil warning light appeared on the instrument panel. The contact stated that the light had appeared prior to the next scheduled oil change. A few days later while driving 60 MPH, an abnormal knocking sound was coming from the engine with an oil burning odor entering the cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle then stalled and came to a complete stop in middle of the highway. A fellow motorist assisted the contact in pushing the vehicle off to the shoulder of the highway. The vehicle was later towed to an independent mechanic. The dealer was notified of the failure however, the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA #: 11570284
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Filed: Dec 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that while accelerating, there was black smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe. The vehicle was taken to AutoZone, where it was diagnosed that the catalytic converter had failed. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing abnormal oil consumption. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.

NHTSA #: 11561948
mediumENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Filed: Dec 2023

Engine failure at 121733 due to faulty engine management system. Was able to limp the car to the dealership. Engine had to be replaced due to broken rings in two of the pistons. Car was serviced regularly prior to the insidence.

NHTSA #: 11559479
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
Filed: Oct 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The service engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for an oil consumption test and oil change. The contact stated that the engine needed to be rebuilt. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 89,400.

NHTSA #: 11551991
mediumENGINE
Filed: Sep 2023

I took my 2018 Kia soul into the Kia dealer for a couple recalls, one of them was that KSDS (knock sensor detection system) shortly after that, my engine light started going on. I took it back to the Kia dealer and they change the oil And charged me for it. My engine is burning oil and it's having to be replaced by a quart every couple weeks. I pulled into Valvoline the other day and explained what happened and the young man called his supervisor and came back to me and said they cannot change the oil because , my car engine is at fault and could start a fire or blow a rod. I've been in touch with my Kia dealer and they tell me that my extended warranty is not valid however, when I look at the proposed class settlement soon for engine issues, such as engine, fires, or engine failure… it tells me once that KSDS has been updated. I automatically qualify for extended warranty. I've been instructed not to drive my car and to park it in a safe open place. I need a rental car and my local Kia dealer is unable or unwilling to assist me. They also told me that they have no one to work on that issue for two weeks. They also told me unless my engine blows a rod or catches on fire. There's nothing they can do to assist me and covering the cost. My kia soul will not go faster than 60 miles an hour on an open highway for more than 20 miles an hour going up a local residential hill. Obviously something is drastically wrong with my engine but I can't seem to get any Kia person to assist me.

NHTSA #: 11547248
mediumENGINE
Filed: Sep 2023

Car Insurence informed us that the Car is Missing the engine anti-theft interlock system and no Dealership is not responding, I have COPD and can not have the car missing for a TicToK steal this car challenge by Hyundai/KIA.

NHTSA #: 11544178
mediumENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Filed: Jun 2023

My 2018 Kia Soul is guzzling oil even after an oil consumption test and a head gasket and valve cover gasket replacement. We are using a quart of synthetic blend oil every 500 miles. We cannot be the only people with this complaint!! Vehicle has less than 95,000 miles on it. The Kia Dealership in Clarksville, TN has been the only place to work on our vehicle since buying it a little over one year ago. Said vehicle has been guzzling oil since day one of our purchase.

NHTSA #: 11528294
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jun 2023

My engine failed on the I-74 due to excessive oil usage that the original owner reported to Cronin Kia at 38,911 miles.The engine was never repaired and instead 6 miles later with me unaware of it having engine problems I was buying this car for my daughter to which after multiple complaints about it using oil and opening up claims it finally blew up.Now they say it is out of warranty. How does a car company get away with this?

NHTSA #: 11527858
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jun 2023

Oil consumption issues that Kia knows about will not fix. Will not even make it 3000 miles before needing oil. It’s ridiculous that Kia knows about issues and will not fix the problem

NHTSA #: 11526143
mediumENGINE
Filed: May 2023

I bought my kia soul with about 86000 miles on it. It used to be a rental before. It was well maintained, oil changes when needed, new tires, etc. I was driving back from my family's going about 70 up and down mountains when the engine made a ticking sound and it started to slow. We were still about 2 hours from home. We did make it back due to using the manual drive. We were planning on taking the car in the following weekend for an oil changed. When Tuesday came around my partner had the car and he was driving 70 on the freeway when it started to slow again and he made it to an off ramp where it shuddered, shot smoke out the back and died. We got a tow to pep boys and they let us know that it ran out of oil (althought we checked before me left my family's) and the engine no longer works and to replace the engine was going to be $15,000. There were no warnings at all to this.

NHTSA #: 11523866
mediumENGINE
FireFiled: May 2023

While driving on the highway… engine ceased and went on fire. Safety was at risk I could have died…. The vehicle has been inspected. I know it is from an engine defect, but believe they are dragging their feet. There was no warning

NHTSA #: 11520473
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Filed: Apr 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was unsure what part was replaced on the vehicle; however, the check engine warning light became illuminated again. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the dealer stated that the ECU was updated. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 63,000.

NHTSA #: 11517494
mediumENGINE
Filed: Apr 2023

I was driving down the interstate at 72mph on my way to a funeral when I suddenly lost power. Cars began to swerve around me while I tried to make my way to the emergency lane. Once the car died, it would not restart. It had to be towed to a dealer where it has sat for over 5 weeks. They are claiming the engine has completely failed in spite of the fact it has been regularly maintenance and was, in fact, running low on oil and was having to have oil replaced every 1000 miles and had the oil changed just days before the failure.

NHTSA #: 11516947
mediumENGINE
Filed: Mar 2023

Engine is consuming excessive amounts of oil. The oil light will come on before the next scheduled oil change. Took to dealer and did a engine oil consumption test. The engine consumed 3/4 of a quart after 985 miles. The dealer said this is normal and within limits allowed. This issue started to occur at 40000 miles.

NHTSA #: 11514026
mediumENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
Filed: Feb 2023

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that after the vehicle received an oil change by an independent mechanic, his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, and the vehicle lost motive power with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that a connecting rod had gone through the engine block and fallen out underneath the vehicle. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the residence. The vehicle was then towed to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V120000 (Engine, Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle remained with the independent mechanic awaiting the repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 150,000.

NHTSA #: 11507013
mediumENGINE
Filed: Feb 2023

The contact’s fiancé owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while the vehicle was idling at a stop light, the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact’s fiancé then depressed the accelerator pedal and the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that he pushed the vehicle to a nearby parking lot where it was towed to an independent mechanic. The contact was informed that the vehicle was included in an unknown engine recall and that the engine rod bearings needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the customer was responsible for keeping contact information up to date, but no further assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.

NHTSA #: 11506691
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2023

I have a 2018 Kia Soul that I bought from a car rental place. When I bought it, it had 30,000 miles on it. It has always burned oil and each year I had my oil changed at least twice a year. I had my oil changed about two months ago and last week my oil light started flicking. I topped off the oil and brought it to my mechanice who told me that the engine is about to fail. He did another oil change and told me to call the Kia dearlership to see if they will do an oil consumption test. They stated that I would have to pay for it. I should note that I did have the Knock Sensor Software Update done and that extends my engine warranty for 150,000 miles. The dealership said that they cannot help me as I have to wait for the engine to fail before they could do anything. I do not feel safe driving a car that is definitely going to have an engine fail soon.

NHTSA #: 11503974
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2023

While driving down the highway, the engine began misfiring and making a grinding noise. The car started to die in the center of the highway and was losing engine power. This was incredibly dangerous as it was in the middle of the highway during a busy commute. The Kia dealership inspected it and said it was a defect with the engine, but they couldn't do it under a recall because they didn't update the firmware on the engine first. There were no warning signs, the car just died out of no where. The car had great engine upkeep before then.

NHTSA #: 11503520
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2023

While driving down the highway, the engine began misfiring and making a grinding noise. The car started to die in the center of the highway and was losing engine power. This was incredibly dangerous as it was in the middle of the highway during a busy commute. The Kia dealership inspected it and said it was a defect with the engine, but they couldn't do it under a recall because they didn't update the firmware on the engine first. There were no warning signs, the car just died out of no where. The car had great engine upkeep before then.

NHTSA #: 11503521
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2023

We were driving the car along the highway at 70 MPH when the engine started making an odd sound and this went on for about 3 minutes before we found the nearest exit and pulled into a rest stop and as soon as we pulled onto the rest stop exit ramp the engine seized and the car shut down. The rod bearing failed. It is available for inspection upon request as it is currently sitting in a dealership repair shop waiting for repairs. Yes, my safety and the safety of others was put at risk. There was absolutely no warning that the engine was about to seize (no safety lights) and if we hadn't pulled over then the engine could have seized while we were going 70 MPH and we could have gotten hit by a truck and caused a horrible accident. The vehicle has only been inspected by the dealership service shop. No, there were NO warning lamps, messages, or ANY symptoms before the engine completely seized.

NHTSA #: 11502189
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2023

In early October of 2022, the engine failed in our 2018 Soul. We deposited the vehicle at the dealership service center and we’re told the engine failure was due to a recall issue. They placed an order to replace our engine and to this day, the engine has still not arrived, nor can the dealership inform us on when the engine is due to arrive. We have been passed around from department to department with Kia Consumer Affairs, and we cannot get any assistance. We cannot afford a rental and we are still financially responsible for our Soul.

NHTSA #: 11501058
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2023

In august on 2022 I noticed my oil light started to flicker while breaking. I took my car to Jiffy Lube as I always have and they said it was very little oil. So I got an oil change even though it was not time to get one. Sept of 2022 Samething happened again. I took my car in again and they stayed again that it had very little oil. The did a top off for free because it was under 3k miles. This has happened every month since August. On December 2, 2022 I got an oil change and by December 19 I had to get a top off ( 2 quarts) because the light came on again. On 12/31/2022 the light came on again so I had to buy 2 quarts of oil and put in car. I check dealer recall with my vin number and there are no recalls list for my car.

NHTSA #: 11499923
mediumENGINE
Filed: Dec 2022

Yellow check engine light came on. Next day was not on. Next day on again. Brought to local repair shop for diagnostic. They reported engine was completely empty of oil and a knocking sound was a chain. Said engine needed to be replaced. This is at 74k miles. No oil light was ever on. Safety inspection was completed three months prior when the car was purchased used from a dealership. Then took it to a Kia dealership after putting some oil in the engine. While driving there it stalled at every red light. Kia service inspected. Reported engine needs to be replaced and not covered under Powertrain warranty.

NHTSA #: 11496329
mediumENGINE
Filed: Nov 2022

car began knocking noise on highway, heard a loud boom, and coasted to the shoulder. the repair facility determined there was a hole in my engine that was caused by the knocking.

NHTSA #: 11494710
mediumENGINE
Filed: Nov 2022

Driving down Interstate 5 @60mph, w/out the engine light coming on, my Kia Soul starts to shake, turns off, and luckily as I was able to glide it safely to the right shoulder as I was in the slow lane. I restart the car, engine light now comes on and the car itself shakes. I managed to get it to work and after having a co-worker look at it, the oil was low/dry. It didn't make sense because the oil was topped off 2 weeks earlier. Granted I have 132k miles on it, oil changed it consistently, for the most part, a great commuter, but it doesn't account for the fact that the engine light didn't come on and where did all the oil go. After taking it to Kia, I was told there was a burnt valve on piston #1 and there was no way of me knowing it was burnt. I wasn't given a response as to why the engine light didn't turn on other than, "check the service that was provided on date xxxx as that may have caused it and the excessive oil may have been played a part in it" I was quoted for a new engine, 6750.00. My power train warranty had expired and I was told the Kia Lifetime Warranty on the engine was not covered because it was not a low bearing.

NHTSA #: 11494425
mediumENGINE
Filed: Nov 2022

Vehicle is using a large amount of oil, have to continually add about 2 quarts per 1000 miles. I have maintained the vehicle and have diligently changed the oil and filter. This started at about 100,000 miles and continues to get worse. I have seen class action is being brought against Kia for this issue. This could lead to engine failure, fire and serious injury. I feel a recall is in order for the safety of the road.

NHTSA #: 11493582
mediumENGINE
Filed: Nov 2022

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, the engine made abnormal ticking sounds. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact veered to the side of the road. The contact stated that he turned off and restarted the vehicle however, the failure persisted. The contact stated he was able to drive the vehicle, however, the engine was making abnormal loud knocking sounds. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring more increasingly. The dealer and the manufacturer were notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle could not be repaired under TSB Number: PI2107 as the original owner of the vehicle failed to complete an unknown software update on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.

NHTSA #: 11493471
mediumENGINE
Filed: Nov 2022

Engine started to die while on the highway after a loud knocking started. While braking , engine completely stalled in driving lanes. Defect seemed to be a duplicate of the sequence of events reported from a recall for 2014-2016 of the same engine.

NHTSA #: 11491893
mediumENGINE
FireFiled: Oct 2022

On 10/6/22, my 2018 KIA Soul's engine seized. The oil was shiny orange and the engine itself was incredibly hot and engulfed in smoke. I had my car towed to a KIA dealership, where the service manager determined that my engine had metal shavings and there was a connecting rod bearing failure. I was told that there was a recall to my airbags and update to the engine that they also performed. I knew about the airbag recall, but knew nothing about an engine update. I was told by the service manager that there was an update to KIA engines in regard to the connecting rod bearing and that if I had brought my car in for the update prior to the engine failure, that this would have been covered by extended warranty from KIA. Therefore, due to my financial situation I am forced to sell the car for a near measly amount due to a non-functioning engine and take on monthly car payments from the purchase of a new car. I was one of the 3.7 million involved in the “product improvement campaign” to enhance safety features, where I would have been warned if my engine would catch fire. A warning prior to engine failure, and fire? How is this a safety performance measure preventing crash, injury, and death? My entire engine was smoking and possibly on fire when I was driving through a busy city and could have been seriously injured or involved in a multi-vehicle crash. NHTSA reported that the automaker had provided inaccurate information about the problems, and there were owner complaints of more than 3,100 fires, 103 injuries, and one death. In September 2021, KIA sent out a letter urging 485,000 owners to park their vehicles outside because fires could start even after vehicles were turned off. With the knowledge that non-crash fires are affecting 3 million KIA vehicles, why wasn’t a recall done on every KIA model with a GDI engine and instead only a “product improvement campaign”, where one letter was sent out and not one ounce of information can be found on KIA website.

NHTSA #: 11490714
mediumENGINE
Filed: Sep 2022

We bought this car from Carmax this year back in January for my daughters birthday. It had 63000 miles on it. Thought it was covered up to 100,000. We were driving down the interstate when the engine started knocking and loss of power. Pulled over and checked the oil, it was good but you could see a lot of shiney small metal shavings in the oil. Plenty of oil though and oil was changed a couple weeks before. There were no lights on the dash panel to warn you even as it sits there and knocks. Just got told by several mechanics the engine needs replaced but the warranty is out because I’m the second owner and it has over 60,000 miles on it so therefore it’s not covered under warranty. This seems to be a constant issue as I’m reading the same problem happening. Hoping Kia will work with me since I have 2- 2018 Kia Souls.

NHTSA #: 11486241
mediumENGINE
Filed: Sep 2022

My catalytic converter is going out on my car and i bought it last year in march

NHTSA #: 11485242
mediumENGINE
Filed: Aug 2022

My car had regular maintenance done consistently but the motor still blew… I scheduled my oil change that morning since it was due but then as I’m driving I heard what I thought was a knocking sound but I didn’t think much of it since it was just now time to get the oil change done and the oil light hadn’t come on or anything… just assumed it was something in the road I had ran over so I drove the remaining 5 minutes home and as I pull in my driveway the check engine light comes on and “ENGINE CONTROL SYSTEM: possible engine condition. Schedule service” displayed on the screen… so I then a few days later I had it towed to the Kia dealership nearest me, only for them to tell me that if I cannot produce copies of EVERY single maintenance record for the last 4 years (since I bought the car) they won’t honor my warranty that I paid extra for and it would be $7,600 to replace it… I then called all the local mechanic shops around me and received quotes of: $7,522.00 $8,200.00 $6,400.00 The worst part is, Kia knows about the excessive oil consumption of their engines (a lawsuit was filed against Kia/Hyundai for it and for the damage to the engine due to low oil levels caused by excessive oil consumption but unfortunately, it was dismissed by a judge due to lack of evidence)!!!!!! The car is available to be checked, I’ve had a mechanic shop and then the Kia dealership both tell me the engine is blown. No indicator lights came on before the check engine light did.

NHTSA #: 11481315
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jul 2022

Engine keeps burning oil Crazy that Kia wants me to pay $415 for an oil consumption test to prove to them my car burns oil. They should fix the issues with their Kia souls and any other automobile they make. They know it’s an issue but we have to pay out of pocket to get them to consider to fix it. Wish I had never bought a kia, life lesson learned.

NHTSA #: 11473701
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jul 2022

My name is [XXX], I own Kia Soul 2018 and I took my vehicle for an airbag recall and an ECU Update as part of a product improvement on May 7th of 2022. When I took the car out of the dealership store and I was on the freeway, the engine light turned on and the car wasn’t speeding more than 40mi/h. This happened two times, I was driving under the average speed of a freeway with no means to surpass other vehicles and get the freeway exits safety. On the third time this happened, the dealership said they would need to inspect the car and probably ask for an engine replacement. The product improvement activated the P1326 code, this happens when the Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) detects vibrations indicating the onset of excessive connecting rod bearing wear. If vibrations caused by bearing wear start to occur, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) will blink continuously, and the vehicle will be placed in Limp Home Mode. This was exactly what happened with my car. I sent all the invoices and bank statements to Kia to prove that I was regularly changing the car oil and giving the proper maintenance. Kia sent a letter for costumers that own Kia Soul where they guarantee that vehicles who passed through this product improvement and had the KSDS activate would have the warranty extended for 150,000 miles. However, even though the own dealership said that the noise sounds like a rod bearing Kia denied extending my warranty. It has been two months since I don’t have a car to go to work and neither Kia nor the dealership gave me any assistance on this. Every time that I call Kia, I spend an average of 40 minutes just waiting for someone to help me. My vehicle is 2018 and has 90.000 miles and it is already needing an engine replacement that Kia denies covering under the warranty even though the car shows all the signs that it has a rod bearing failure. What was supposed to be an improvement turned out in a huge injury for me. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

NHTSA #: 11472625
mediumENGINE
FireFiled: Jun 2022

I was driving on Interstate 64.im Norfolk when the car started to smoke, I just made to the side of the road and my car turned off. My dad told me that I he had the same thing happen to him on his 2011 optima his car turned off on the road. Kia had a recall on Kia optima engines. I spoke to another person that has a sol the same thing happened to them and there car only had 70,000 miles. Kia has put bad dangerous engines in there cars.

NHTSA #: 11471866
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jun 2022

The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and coast to the side of the road in neutral before the vehicle stalled again. The vehicle was not drivable. The vehicle was towed to the residence; the following day the vehicle was towed to the dealer. The contact was informed of three open recalls before the vehicle could be diagnosed. The recalls were completed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was 139,354.

NHTSA #: 11467361
mediumENGINE
Filed: May 2022

Engine Failure. Car began knocking. Checked oil, it was very low and slugged. No sign of oil leakage. 8k cost to repair. Kia isn’t cooperating with warranty coverage. We are challenging them. About a week earlier car had done spontaneous system check and showed no adverse results. No warnings.

NHTSA #: 11464350
mediumENGINE
Filed: Mar 2022

I bought my 2018 Kia Soul from Fredy Kia Dealership in Houston, TX and after 3 years and 124K miles the engine failed. It started with the check light for 'engine knock sensor' code 1326. I had the sensor replaced but the mechanics mentioned that my oil was extremally low and needed oil. I just had my oil replaced by Archer Kia dealership 2 month prior how could that be? So they replace the oil and the sensor. I drove it for 4 hours and the check engine light came on again this time there is a knocking sound. The mechanics say its a blown piston and now the engine has to be replaced. This is incredibly sad and frustrating to know that these cars' engine fail after 100K and have to replace the engine. After researching on on this site and https://www.aboutautomobile.com/, this engine problem has been going on since 2012. How can this be? Why isn't Kia doing something to cover and fix this issue?

NHTSA #: 11458696
mediumENGINE
Filed: Mar 2022

MY ENGINE STARTED TO KNOCK OUT OF NO WHERE AND IT BLEW A ROD. I HAD A MECHANIC LOOK AT THE CAR AND HE SAID THE ENGINE WAS GONE. HE SAID YOUR CAR SHOULD NOT BE HAVING ENGINE PROBLEM AT ALL FOR THE YEAR OF THE CAR. I HAD ONLY HAD MY CAR NOT EVEN A YEAR. I GOT MY CAR IN 2020. MY CAR HAS BEEN SITTING IN MY YARD WITH A BLOWN ENGINE AND I AM MAKING MONTHLY PAYMENTS ON A CAR I CAN NOT DRIVE. I AM FURIOUS. I GOT MY CAR FROM HERTZ. I AM SO PISS. I NOTICE THEY RECALLED OTHER YEARS EXCEPT 2018. I NOTICE ALOT OF PEOPLE HAS REPORT THIS PROBLEM.

NHTSA #: 11458170
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2022

The contact's daughter-in-law owns a 2018 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power. The oil warning light illuminated, and the contact's husband poured oil into the oil reservoir. The vehicle was towed to the contact's daughter-in-law's residence. An unknown dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was diagnosed by two independent mechanics with engine damage and connecting rod failure, which punctured the engine block. The engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that they had issued a Product Improvement Campaign for the engine in November 2020; however, they did not have the contact's daughter-in-law's address. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

NHTSA #: 11447464
mediumENGINE
Filed: Dec 2021

Engine Failure, Started burning oil, within a month of that started knocking, after 4 weeks the connecting rod went through the block. I was driving on a public roadway. Vehicle is in for repair now for a new short block, catalytic converter (oil damage) with the dealership and being repaired by the manufacturer under warranty. Only warning lamp the car has had was about a month prior for an inefficient catalytic converter. No warnings for low oil or engine trouble prior to developing the knock. Vehicle is at Celebration Kia in Delaware Ohio for repairs. The incident date is approximate.

NHTSA #: 11445253
mediumENGINE
Filed: Dec 2021

At 94,000 miles without warning I have a rod knock. I have maintained oil changes regularly and topped my oil off before this drive. No warning lights no indicators. Just a blown engine.

NHTSA #: 11442652
mediumENGINE
Filed: Nov 2021

I have my oil changed regularly. At about 49,000 miles, upon braking, the oil light came on. When accelerating the oil light would go off. I checked the oil and it didn't even register. I added 2 quarts of oil to bring it to the mid line of dipstick. Took the car in, and had oil changed. 3 weeks later, at 50,000 miles, the oil is now a 1/2 quart low. Took car in to the dealer. They told me that the oil consumption of 1 quart every 1,000 miles is within normal range. This is ridiculous. I should not need to add oil to a 3 year old car between oil changes.

NHTSA #: 11440153
mediumENGINE
Filed: Nov 2021

I went and got my oil changed yesterday. The man at the Kia dealership showed me a water bottle that was about 8 oz full with black oil. He told me that that’s all the oil I had in my car and I probably have engine damage. There were no warning lamps or anything else. And I routinely get my oil and tires maintenance. I am now having sounds coming from my vehicle but still no warning lamps.

NHTSA #: 11439996
mediumENGINE
Filed: Oct 2021

Engine started to knock, then it got louder and finally the engine stopped running. If it would have shut down on the busy interstate, it could have been a disaster. The problem has not been inspected by Manufacture. Trying to report to KIA. Engine has less than 84000. The oil light came on right before it died.

NHTSA #: 11436700
mediumENGINE
Filed: Sep 2021

My engine failed and gasket blew with no signs of over heated and no issues prior to failure car had no issues at all.

NHTSA #: 11432892
mediumENGINE
Filed: Aug 2021

The car started making a squeaky noise checked to see if it was the brakes or anything else, nothing everything appears fine. Hera the noise again have it checked out turns out car has no oil what do ever. I have my car serviced every 3 m as it should be even before the miles I know and have read and other articles about the oil just disappearing, my car only has 53, 000 miles on it.

NHTSA #: 11428832
mediumENGINE
Filed: Aug 2021

Around 65000 miles, While driving the engine just lost power and started knocking. There are a lot of forums with the same model with the same compliant and issue. even the Kia dealship says there is a problem with these engines. They are recommending a new engine I am afraid to have my family in this car.

NHTSA #: 11428600
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jun 2021

I have been a 3 car Kia customer for almost 10 years. In the last 10 months I have had more than a dozen service visits. Starting in August 2020 my engine was losing oil. After first visit, my SA Edwin agreed this is a problem, do the oil consumption test and we’ll be on our way for a repair. Test Done, with a "sorry" we have to do the test again but we replaced the ignition coil. (2nd Coil since I’ve owned car) And again we test. With more "Sorry" it didn't burn enough oil, or you have to come in EXACTLY at 1,000 miles. (This is NOT true; math can be converted at any mileage over the 1,000.) Even when I told them it starts burning at the 2,000 mark after oil change. Over and over again, I miss work to sit in the dealership, or WALK home, as the dealership insisted on these appointments but wouldn't give me a loaner (I have full coverage insurance) Finally in March 2021 they decide they will clean the combustion chamber. Need to leave car: they make me RENT a car saying it will be paid for with my warranty. ADDITIONAL days needed as more problems occurred while in for repair. (Oil switch). Keep the rental they told me, it’s covered. Return the rental and the dealership won’t PAY THE RENTAL. I have now missed over 30 hours of work, repeated oil change costs for the process, Rental Fees, Inspection fees that were never reimbursed. All in avoidance of a repair that was clearly needed to my engine. Go back into a new Kia on 6/1/21 for scheduled oil change, and the Tech tells me there is NO OIL ON THE DIPSTICK. AGAIN. 10 months later and I still have the same problem. THIS VEHICLE IS NOT SAFE and KIA will not address.

NHTSA #: 11419943
mediumENGINE
Filed: May 2021

MY CAR HAS 64,700 MILES ON IT. I WAS ACCELERATING TO GET ON THE HIGHWAY GOING ABOUT 50 MILES PER HOUR ALL OF THE SUDDEN I HEARD A POOF NOISE WHITE SMOKE STARTED COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE CAR AND I LOST ALL POWER

NHTSA #: 11414714
mediumENGINE
Filed: Mar 2021

ON JANUARY 22, 2021, VEHICLE FELT SLUGGISH WHEN ACCELERATING. SOON AFTER, LOUD NOISE FROM ENGINE AND ENGINE DIED. VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALERSHIP, AND WAS DIAGNOSED WITH ENGINE FAILURE AT 75K MILES. DEALER STATED SEVERAL ENGINE FAILURES IN THE YEAR MODEL CURRENTLY BEING SERVICED. USED ENGINE WITH 12 MONTH WARRANTY WAS PRICED AT $9100.

NHTSA #: 11398886
mediumENGINE
Filed: Feb 2021

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT AFTER GETTING AN OIL CHANGE AND DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL METALLIC SCRAPING SOUND COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO PULL OVER WHEN THE CHECK OIL WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE SHUT-OFF AND FAILED TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS NOT RELATED TO THE RECENT OIL CHANGE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO KIA OF BOWIE (16620 GOVERNOR BRIDGE RD, BOWIE, MD 20716, (301) 820-7500) WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENGINE HAD FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MECHANIC REFERENCED A RECALL FOR 2014/2015 MODEL YEARS HOWEVER, THE 2018 MODEL YEAR VEHICLES WERE NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND CONFIRMED THAT THE CONTACT'S MODEL YEAR VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 84,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

NHTSA #: 11394646
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2021

I WAS DRIVING MY 2018 KIA SOUL WITH 89,000 MILES ON IT AND ENGINE MADE A RATTLE NOISE IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWED BY A LOUD CLUNK NOISE OUT OF THE BLUE. DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH AND HAD BEEN DRIVING FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES, AFTER THE NOISE THE ENGINE IMMEDIATELY DIES. I COAST INTO THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD AND THE ENGINE IS LIGHTLY SMOKING AT THIS POINT. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE KIA DEALERSHIP WHERE THEY TELL ME THE ENGINE IS BLOWN AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED, THE SHOP MANAGER ALSO STATES THAT THE 2018 KIA SOUL SHOULD HAVE AN ENGINE RECALL IN HIS OPINION BECAUSE HE STATED THAT THE ENGINE THE 2018 SOUL USES IS THE SAME ENGINE THAT IS IN OTHER KIA VEHICLES WITH RECALLS ON THEIR ENGINE. I HAVE RELIGIOUSLY PERFORMED ALL RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE AND OIL CHANGES AT MANUFACTURES PRESCRIBED TIME.

NHTSA #: 11390399
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2021

WAS DRIVING ON A MAIN ROAD AND THE CAR JUST STOPPED. IT GAVE NO WARNINGS OR MADE NO NOTICES. IT JUST STOPPED WORKING. I HAD TO PUSH THE VEHICLE TO A SAFE AREA AND CALLED AAA TO COME AND TOW THE CAR TO MY HOME. MY HUSBAND WENT TO START IT AND SAID BATTERY WASN'T GOOD SO WE BOUGHT A NEW ONE, THEN HE STATES THE STARTER WAS BAD SO WE REPLACED IT, THEN WE FINALLY GOT IT TO START ONLY TO HEAR THE CAR MAKE A LOUD SLAPPING SOUND. THE CAR DOESN'T DRIVE AND THE ENGINE HAS FAILED. I AM THE SECOND OWNER SO THE WARRANTY JUST RAN OUT. I HAVE ONLY HAD THE CAR FOR 18 MONTHS. I HAVE TAKEN IT TO HAVE OIL CHANGES AND KEEP IT CLEAN. I HAVE TAKEN REALLY GREAT CARE FOR THE CAR AND I CAN'T UNDERSTAND WHY IT NEEDS A NEW ENGINE, WHEN IT'S A 2018 KIA. ENGINES SHOULD LAST A LONG TIME.

NHTSA #: 11389953
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2021

I WAS DRIVING MY KIA 2018 SOUL TO MY JOB GOING AROUND 55 AN HOUR AND I HEARD A LOUD CLINK IN THE ENGINE, THE VEHICLE JUST GOT FIXED FROM HITTING A DEER AND PASTED INSPECTION. EVERYTHING DONE ON IT WAS COMETIC AND WAS NOT DUE FOR AN OIL CHANGE FOR ANOTHER 1,500 MILES. IT COMPLETELY BROKE DOWN WAS TOWED BACK TO WHO REPAIRED IT AND THE ENGINE IS COMPLETELY DESTROYED AND WILL NEED TO BE REPLACE. I ONLY HAD IT A YEAR AND IT ONLY HAS 73,000 MILES ON IT. I AM NOW OUT A VEHICLE AS I CANNOT AFFORD A NEW ENGINE AND ALWAYS GOT AN OIL CHANGE BEFORE THE RECOMMEND TIME AND MILEAGE. THIS IS NOT AN ISSUE A VECHILE SHOULD HAVE IN THE CONDITION IT IS IN!!!!

NHTSA #: 11387668
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2021

I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY FOR ABOUT 5 MINS AND MY KIA SOUL MADE A RATTLING NOISE THAN 200 FT LATER MY CAR WAS ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THE ENGINE IS GONE ACCORDING TO KIA DEALERSHIP AND GAVE NO WARNING ⚠️ LIGHTS ON THE DASH AND ENGINE JUST CUT OFF

NHTSA #: 11386695
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jan 2021

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HER SON WAS DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HER SON'S APARTMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE LOCAL DEALER KIA OF SOUTH AUSTIN (5306 S IH 35 FRONTAGE RD, AUSTIN, TX 78745, (512) 444-6635) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 68,000.

NHTSA #: 11386699
mediumENGINE
Filed: Dec 2020

MILEAGE 68000 - TICKING NOISE BEGAN APPROXIMATELY 5 DAYS BEFORE THE ENGINE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN PARKED FOR TWO DAYS (FOR THE HOLIDAY). TWO DAYS LATER, WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. TOOK TO MECHANIC AND RAN CODE AND PERFORMED AN OIL CHANGE. NOISE CHANGED IMMEDIATELY TO KNOCKING AND SQUEAKING AND CAR DIED WHILE DRIVING HOME. TOWED VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE RODS EITHER BROKE, BLEW, OR WERE GOING TO, AND A NEW MOTOR WAS NECESSARY. MY VEHICLE HAS THE 2.0L MOTOR THAT IS SUBJECT TO MANY OTHER RECALLS AND ISSUES BUT YET NOT ON THE RADAR OF THE AUTHORITIES. I'VE ONLY HAD THIS CAR FOR LESS THAN 10 MONTHS AND APPROXIMATELY 20,000 HIGHWAY MILES, AND JUST OUTSIDE THE WARRANTY PERIOD.

NHTSA #: 11377741
mediumENGINE
Filed: Nov 2020

2018 KIA SOUL #3 PISTON AND CONNECTING ROD SHATTERED WITHIN 1.5 BLOCKS OF INITIAL KNOCKING DETECTION WHEN TRYING TO PULL INTO A PARKING LOT OFF OF THE STREET.. THE MOTOR SEIZED AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STOP AND ALMOST BEING REAR ENDED BY OTHER DRIVERS.

NHTSA #: 11377230
mediumENGINE
Filed: Sep 2020

WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE TO WORK, VEHICLE CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP AND WOULD NOT TURN ON. AT FIRST THOUGHT IT WAS THE BATTERY BUT THE TOW TRUCK CHARGED THE BATTERY AND WHEN STARTED THE RODS WERE KNOCKING. WE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP, REGAL KIA AND THEY DIAGNOSED MY CAR FOR NEEDING A WHOLE NEW ENGINE. IF WE WERE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE ANY FURTHER THE ENGINE WOULD BLOW. OIL CHANGE WAS JUST A MONTH BEFORE AT THE REGAL KIA DEALERSHIP SO IT WASN'T DUE TO LOW OIL. THE 2018 KIA SOUL HAD 61,000 MILES AT IT AND ENGINE WAS RUINED.

NHTSA #: 11361636
mediumENGINE
Filed: Aug 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH, AN ABNORMAL NOISE WAS PRESENT WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (KIA OF MUNCIE 6732 W HOMETOWN BLVD, MUNCIE, IN 47304) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED AND DETERMINED THAT THAT THE ENGINE ROID FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000.

NHTSA #: 11351542
mediumENGINE
Filed: Jul 2020

ON 7/8/20, MY CAR MADE A VERY LOUD NOISE AND SHUT OFF ON ME. NO SENSORS, NO LIGHTS CAME ON. I HAD IT TOWED TO THE KIA IN WHICH I PURCHASED IT FROM, AND THEY TOLD ME MY ENGINE BLEW. MY WARRANTY WAS SUPPOSE TO COVER THE REPAIRS BUT THEY ARE REFUSING TO COVER THE REPAIR.

NHTSA #: 11338396
mediumENGINE
FireFiled: Nov 2019

CITY STREET. WAS TEST DRIVING THIS VEHICLE WHEN IT CAUGHT FIRE AT THE LOWER BACK END OF THE ENGINE.

NHTSA #: 11281431
mediumENGINE
FireFiled: Nov 2018

THE CAR WAS PARKED IN A PUBLIC PARKING LOT, WITH NO ONE AROUND IT, WHEN THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE AND DESTROYED THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. FIRE INSPECTOR STATED CAUSE OF THE FIRE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED.

NHTSA #: 11150429

Other 2018 Kia Soul Issues