2019 Kia Soul
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 | 135 |
| 2011 | 193 |
| 2012 | 514 |
| 2013 | 661 |
| 2014 | 895 |
| 2015 | 897 |
| 2016 | 807 |
| 2017 | 271 |
| 2018 | 218 |
| 2019 | 135 |
| 2020 | 376 |
| 2021 | 231 |
| 2022 | 88 |
| 2023 | 50 |
| 2024 | 29 |
| 2025 | 12 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
64% of complaints: engine — 86 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
Engine failure fluid leek and wire burning smells engine burst into flames from the under carriage of the engine. The contact wants to see if there are any recalls and if so should the car be sold at msrp price.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240130
Also filed under AIR BAGS
The contact owned a 2019 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at a low rate of speed, an abnormal, burning odor began to emit from the vehicle. As the odor grew stronger, the contact's wife parked and exited the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 20231214
I was driving through a busy intersection when the vehicle stopped accelerating causing risk to myself and other drivers. I was able to get the vehicle through the intersection and pulled over. I turned the vehicle off and it would not restart.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260714
11% of complaints: air bags — 15 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURYShow complaint excerpts
I HAVE A TOTALED CAR DUE TO A WRECK. THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY EVEN THOUGH THE CAR WAS HIT MULTIPLE TIMES EXTREMELY HARD.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190628
Also filed under SERVICE BRAKES and STRUCTURE
My 2019 Kia Soul has been professionally diagnosed with DTC B162000, âInternal Fault â Replace SRSCM,â involving the Supplemental Restraint System/Airbag Control Module. My repair shop documented this diagnosis on August 24, 2026.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260824
Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
10% of complaints: electrical system — 14 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing alternator/generator/regulator and 12v/24v/48v battery.
CRASH FIREShow complaint excerpts
I purchased a 2019 Kia Soul in June 2022. Since purchasing the vehicle, it has been stolen three separate times.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260715
Also filed under STRUCTURE
9% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 12 distinct reports on file.
FIRE6% of complaints: service brakes — 8 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASH INJURYSAFETY 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
Loss of Motive Power
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2019 Kia Soul — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (86 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for air bags issues (15 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (14 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 22V031000 (air bags) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2019 Kia Soul reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2019 Kia Soul is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Kia Soul?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 64% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2019 Kia Soul have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.