2018 Kia Soul EV
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 2 |
| 2015 | 6 |
| 2016 | 7 |
| 2017 | 17 |
| 2018 | 3 |
| 2019 | 3 |
| 2020 | 0 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 3 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 3 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2018 Kia Soul EV. The contact stated that the electrical system had experienced power fluctuations, which reduced the charging capacity of the battery to only 8 percent. The EV warning light remained illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231113
My 2018 kia soul EV has had a significantly decreased range, inconsistent charging, and a check EV light illuminating periodically. All of these are symptoms of the recall.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230531
1 of 3 total reports mentions: power train.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
This is for 2018 Kia Soul EV. I stopped, placed the car in park and got out. Car then rolled down a hill with no one in the car. Causing an accident.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230809
1 of 3 total reports mentions: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
My 2018 kia soul EV has had a significantly decreased range, inconsistent charging, and a check EV light illuminating periodically. All of these are symptoms of the recall.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230531
SAFETY TIMELINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles.
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.
Campaign 22V031000 — check if this car was fixed
Pedestrian alert sounds
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Soul EV vehicles equipped with an E400 battery. The high-voltage battery pack may experience an electrical short-circuit while driving.
Remedy: Dealers will update and/or replace the battery management system and software, as necessary, free of charge. The new software will illuminate the EV warning light, limit charging capacity, and reduce vehicle power if abnormal voltage is detected.
Campaign 23V218000 — check if this car was fixed
Vehicle Rollaway
Kia America, Inc. (KIA) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Soul EV vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will update the electronic control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC287.
Campaign 23V724000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 Kia Soul EV — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V031000 (air bags) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V218000 (electrical system) has been completed.
- Verify recall 23V724000 (electrical system, power train) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2018 Kia Soul EV reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Kia Soul EV?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 67% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Kia Soul EV have?
3 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.