2021 Kia Soul Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 127 1 crash 1 fire 2 injury

“We were going south on [XXX] about 25 mph intending to make a left turn onto [XXX] My wife said “slow down or you won’t make the turn” to which I replied “I am trying but it won’t slow down” As I applied the brakes to slow down to turn, instead the car started to speed up and I could not make the left turn. I continued down the road trying to slow down enough to attempt a left turn on to [XXX] But the car continued to go even faster, so I pumped the brakes trying to slow down and get the car to stop. Instead, the car kept speeding up faster. In seeing I was close to the end of the dead-end…”
NHTSA complaint #11643735, 2024 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“I was driving and car started to lose power,the service engine light came on less than a minute before the boom.l tried to speed up and then there was a big boom and it was loud, so I went to the shoulder of the road and the car stalled ,I tried to restart the car and it just engulfed into flames. The car is a total loss. That's all that was left was a metal shell.”
NHTSA complaint #11531039, 2023 · fire

“Vehicle: 2021 Kia Soul LX, 2.0L Engine Subject: Loss of Motive Power and Stall While Driving Under Recall SC336 Description of Incident: On 07/02 @ roughly 6:15PM, while driving on the highway I-35E at approximately 60 MPH, my vehicle's engine experienced a sudden and complete loss of engine power, stalling while in motion. I was able to safely navigate to the shoulder, activate my hazard lights, and restart the vehicle after pulling over. This stall occurred despite the vehicle being covered by Recall SC336 for defective piston oil rings . The recall condition explicitly warns that engine…”
NHTSA complaint #11748114, 2026

Engine And Engine Cooling 42

“The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost automotive power while the accelerator pedal was depressed. No warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road, where the vehicle was later towed to the residence. The vehicle was towed to a local independent dealer, where it was determined that the engine oil level was low. The contact…”
NHTSA complaint #11747628, 2026

“The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated while at a light the vehicle stalled. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was determined that the valve train needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, who informed the contact that the engine light was illuminated. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was approximately 82,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11741265, 2026

“The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the oil pressure sensor light was illuminated. The vehicle was making an abnormal knocking sound. The contact had to add additional oil. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who informed the vehicle was related to the recall. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the camshaft and timing needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken previously to the local dealer for NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Eng…”
NHTSA complaint #11738706, 2026

Power Train 26 1 crash

“In April 2023 I purchased a 2021 Kia Soul. I had no issues at all with my Used Kia Soul. In Nov 2023 I was in an accident. I hit a deer and that did cause damage. My insurance company fixed it. I got my car back in Dec [XX], 2023 with approximately 96,000 miles on it. A few days later on my way to work. I entered the highway the car was running fine at 70mph then all of a sudden it lost power.. No power in the middle of the busy Atlanta Highway!! I was able to coast onto the shoulder. At that point I turned the car off. Turn the car back on to see if I was able to get it into Drive. Unfortunat…”
NHTSA complaint #11570756, 2023 · crash

“Cv joint and axle causing car to stall when turunning”
NHTSA complaint #11740270, 2026

“took to kia of jackson for recall sc209a they said they would not do recall because i was a dealer ,called customer service and they said do to the fact that i was a dealer it would not be covered kia of jackson [XXX] kia customer service case [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
NHTSA complaint #11734070, 2026

Unknown Or Other 25 2 crash 2 fire 1 injury

“My daughter was driving her 2021 KIA Soul S and a Chevy Silverado suddenly pulled in front of her. The crash report says impact was at 50 mph. My daughter survived the crash; however, the vehicle immediately caught on fire and flames entered the cabin from what was left of the engine compartment. Her airbag inflated, but did not deflate. She punched the airbag to make enough room for her to try and exit the vehicle, but her driver's door would not open using the handle even after manually unlocking the door. Only after repeated Black Belt level martial arts' kicks and elbow thrusts did the doo…”
NHTSA complaint #11445255, 2021 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“On May 15, 2022 my house burned and all my belongings and the home were a total loss. The fire origination specialist brought in by my homeowners Insurance Company reported the back left of the garage was the origination spot and that my 2021 Kia Soul was parked face in on the left side of the garage. The car was charred and the Chrysler 300 parked next to it was also damaged but recognizable. The Kia had been unused for 24 hours plus. Both the auto and home owners insurance companies are investigating the Kia as the source at a salvage company in Lumberton, NC.”
NHTSA complaint #11471615, 2022 · fire

“The Plastic Ignition Switch for my vehicle is an invitation to steal my car. Which is exactly what happened. I could have been harmed had I seen this happening. Many people on the streets of Milwaukee could have been harmed as well, because my stolen vehicle ended up in a Police car chase and caused almost $9,000 worth of damage. Kia knows this is happening to their customers. This component have been inspected by the police and insurance company. Their was no warnings of this known problem with the ignition. I would not have bought that problem. I wasn't aware of this until my car was…”
NHTSA complaint #11439326, 2021 · crash

Electrical System 15 1 crash 2 injury

“We were going south on [XXX] about 25 mph intending to make a left turn onto [XXX] My wife said “slow down or you won’t make the turn” to which I replied “I am trying but it won’t slow down” As I applied the brakes to slow down to turn, instead the car started to speed up and I could not make the left turn. I continued down the road trying to slow down enough to attempt a left turn on to [XXX] But the car continued to go even faster, so I pumped the brakes trying to slow down and get the car to stop. Instead, the car kept speeding up faster. In seeing I was close to the end of the dead-end…”
NHTSA complaint #11643735, 2024 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“Mi carro hay veces que prende la luz de la engine, lo lleve a checar y salió en la computadora que era un problema de Power Train system, que era secondary DTCs P1C28 Y P1C28000, lo busque en Google y salía que era un problema muy recurrente en Kias souls y sorentos. Que podría causar incendios”
NHTSA complaint #11730043, 2026

“The entire car is dead from the engine to the key function completely dead. The car broke down 3 time in the middle of the street which could've caused a serious crash putting my safety and others at risk. The problem has been addressed to two different dealers and Kia corporate without resolution. I did make a police report about the mold infestation inside the car. I did now see any warnings prior to the complete reck. The cars been dead from the past 3 months. Both dealers are refusing and/or delaying any type of resolution in fact they gave me even more pressure. Causing me more anxiety th…”
NHTSA complaint #11720757, 2025

Fuel/Propulsion System 10 1 crash

“I WAS GOING TO GET MY MAIL ATTEMPTING TO PARK WHERE I ALWAYS PARK. I HIT THE BRAKE AND THE CAR SPED UP AND HIT TWO MAILBOXES. I COULDN'T GET IT TO STOP. I DO NOT KNOW HOW FAST IT WAS GOING WHEN I HIT THE MAILBOXES”
NHTSA complaint #11387530, 2020 · crash

“What component or system failed or malfunctioned? The engine (piston rings) and catalytic converter failed. The catalytic converter is available for inspection upon request. How was safety put at risk? The engine ran low on oil without any external leak, causing warning lights and engine rattling. Low oil pressure can lead to sudden engine seizure or fire. The failed catalytic converter can clog, causing loss of power on highways and increasing the risk of a crash. Has the problem been confirmed by a dealer or independent shop? Yes. A Kia dealer found the engine 2 quarts low, with no exte…”
NHTSA complaint #11732502, 2026

“Owner was driving home at the normal posted speed limit when the car stalled out. The check engine light was on along with the oil Light, the car cranked back up in time before owner was rear ended. No accident occurred but a close call. The vehicle made it about another 1 mile before stalling again this time losing all control in steering as well and was towed home.”
NHTSA complaint #11716039, 2026

Service Brakes 10 6 crash 2 injury

“We were going south on [XXX] about 25 mph intending to make a left turn onto [XXX] My wife said “slow down or you won’t make the turn” to which I replied “I am trying but it won’t slow down” As I applied the brakes to slow down to turn, instead the car started to speed up and I could not make the left turn. I continued down the road trying to slow down enough to attempt a left turn on to [XXX] But the car continued to go even faster, so I pumped the brakes trying to slow down and get the car to stop. Instead, the car kept speeding up faster. In seeing I was close to the end of the dead-end…”
NHTSA complaint #11643735, 2024 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“I am filing this complaint to report a serious safety failure involving the service braking system and the failure of Forward Collision‑Avoidance Assist (FCA) and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) on my 2021 Kia Soul. During an imminent collision event, the vehicle failed to brake as expected, and FCA/AEB did not activate, despite conditions that should have triggered emergency braking. This created an extremely dangerous situation and placed me and other motorists at risk of serious injury or death. The vehicle is currently subject to an active recall and has now been inoperable at the dealer…”
NHTSA complaint #11724786, 2026 · crash

“Description of Incident: On February 13, 2026, at approximately 3:00 PM, I was driving my 2021 Kia Soul (VIN: [XXX] ) on Calvine Road in Elk Grove, CA. A vehicle suddenly merged into my path. I immediately attempted to apply the brakes, but the pedal failed to depress or engage normally. Despite the imminent collision, the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) failed to provide any alert, and the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system did not activate. To avoid a high-speed rear-end collision, I was forced to perform an emergency steering maneuver toward the curb and into roadside bushes…”
NHTSA complaint #11718935, 2026 · crash

Steering 9

“1. Component or System Malfunction Engine (internal piston/piston ring system) is malfunctioning. The vehicle exhibits clanking noises (“marbles in a can”) and cuts off or stalls unexpectedly while driving. The car is available for inspection by a Kia dealer or independent mechanic. 2. Safety Risk Vehicle loses power while driving, which is extremely dangerous, particularly on highways or in traffic. Stalling while moving poses a risk of collision, loss of steering or braking control, and endangers both driver and others. This makes the vehicle unsafe to drive long distances. 3. Reproduction o…”
NHTSA complaint #11724523, 2026

“I purchased vehicle in Nov 2025 from Autonation. It drove well for awhile, but once I drove steadily for several miles, the steering wheel started drifting back and forth, rather like it was driving itself. I was in on the 2025 recall for the piston issue, and failed the first test; apparently passed Kia's "new test". While at the dealership, they did an alignment and told me my problem was solved; I asked if they had test driven it, and had let the previous service rep, named Ken, know that it started after a period of driving, not come and go driving in town. I asked if they had test dri…”
NHTSA complaint #11661370, 2025

“Hi I keep needed a oil change on this vehicle please have Kia to check why thanks and I sometimes smell oil out of no where thanks [XXX] [XXX] and I have had serval oil changes at Walmart only since I got the vehicle from carmax INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
NHTSA complaint #11651966, 2025

Visibility/Wiper 6

“Manufacturer defect: Massive paint delamination/adhesion failure on the roof. Large sheets of paint are flaking off while the vehicle is in motion, creating a debris hazard for following drivers and distracting the operator. The failure has exposed the bare metal structure, which may lead to premature rusting.”
NHTSA complaint #11730709, 2026

“Sunroof failure, spontaneously exploded. Fortunately I was not driving the car when it happened or could have caused an accident. Went to my car one morning and the sunroof looked like an earthquake for no reason. No damage, car was parked my driveway and was definitely not vandalism. Dealer said to contact Kia directly and report the incident to them because they would get nowhere with the factory and I should contact them. I also had a left front drivers door glass break that I originally thought was vandalism but nothing penetrated the glass, no rock or anything found and 2-3 video camera…”
NHTSA complaint #11685031, 2025

“Engine does not work properly. It is loud and car shakes. Dealership had me do maintenance and did not fix the problem. Rear windshield wiper pours out fluid and turns on with no reason. They say there is a short however it turns on and blocks my rear window view every while just driving, or using my turn signal, I have to mess with the switch while driving to finally get it to stop.”
NHTSA complaint #11644403, 2025

Exterior Lighting 5

“Less than 24 hours after being purchased as a Kia factory certified pre-owned vehicle my daughter was driving. While driving headlights, wipers, and dash lights went out including infotainment/CarPlay map display on a rainy day. California requires headlights be on when wipers are used. Occurred while doing approximately 25 mph after going over a speed bump. When stopped and key was turned to ACC, they came back on. Issue did not return when vehicle was started again. Dealer has said they can find not fault. We have located threads for this issue with other Kia models on [XXX] . One co…”
NHTSA complaint #11641511, 2025

“The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed at night, he became aware that the headlamps were not functioning properly. The exterior lighting warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that a short in the electrical system resulted in exterior lights burning out and identified burned wiring. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 13,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11574432, 2024

“Nothing happened - YET. I'm reporting a manufacturing error. Refer to my upload. I wouldn't be suprised that this defect has been the root cause of some accidents though.”
NHTSA complaint #11746339, 2021

Forward Collision Avoidance 5 4 crash 1 injury

“While crossing an intersection a Jeep Gladiator ran a red light causing my vehicle to hit it broad side. Front and side airbags did not deploy. The frontend was damaged is buckled, hood about 6", fenders crushed and the grill was destroyed. Driver's door wouldn't open. The seatbelt didn't restrain my wife enogh to keep her from hitting the steering wheel. This caused bruises on her leg , abdomen and chest areas.”
NHTSA complaint #11500246, 2022 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“I am filing this complaint to report a serious safety failure involving the service braking system and the failure of Forward Collision‑Avoidance Assist (FCA) and Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) on my 2021 Kia Soul. During an imminent collision event, the vehicle failed to brake as expected, and FCA/AEB did not activate, despite conditions that should have triggered emergency braking. This created an extremely dangerous situation and placed me and other motorists at risk of serious injury or death. The vehicle is currently subject to an active recall and has now been inoperable at the dealer…”
NHTSA complaint #11724786, 2026 · crash

“Description of Incident: On February 13, 2026, at approximately 3:00 PM, I was driving my 2021 Kia Soul (VIN: [XXX] ) on Calvine Road in Elk Grove, CA. A vehicle suddenly merged into my path. I immediately attempted to apply the brakes, but the pedal failed to depress or engage normally. Despite the imminent collision, the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) failed to provide any alert, and the Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system did not activate. To avoid a high-speed rear-end collision, I was forced to perform an emergency steering maneuver toward the curb and into roadside bushes…”
NHTSA complaint #11718935, 2026 · crash

Suspension 5

“Noise while driving and over bumps and steering”
NHTSA complaint #11750863, 2026

“Cv joint and axle causing car to stall when turunning”
NHTSA complaint #11740270, 2026

“Turned my wheel to pull out of a parking spot. I heard a grinding noise as I moved forward and then lost the ability to steer my car. I was able to get my car off the street and upon inspection found my left front tie rod had snapped in half.”
NHTSA complaint #11554939, 2023

Air Bags 4 4 crash 1 fire 3 injury

“My daughter was driving her 2021 KIA Soul S and a Chevy Silverado suddenly pulled in front of her. The crash report says impact was at 50 mph. My daughter survived the crash; however, the vehicle immediately caught on fire and flames entered the cabin from what was left of the engine compartment. Her airbag inflated, but did not deflate. She punched the airbag to make enough room for her to try and exit the vehicle, but her driver's door would not open using the handle even after manually unlocking the door. Only after repeated Black Belt level martial arts' kicks and elbow thrusts did the doo…”
NHTSA complaint #11445255, 2021 · crash · fire · 1 injury(ies)

“I had a crash that severely impacted the front end of this vehicle and the airbags did not deploy. I have minor injuries.”
NHTSA complaint #11540150, 2023 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“While crossing an intersection a Jeep Gladiator ran a red light causing my vehicle to hit it broad side. Front and side airbags did not deploy. The frontend was damaged is buckled, hood about 6", fenders crushed and the grill was destroyed. Driver's door wouldn't open. The seatbelt didn't restrain my wife enogh to keep her from hitting the steering wheel. This caused bruises on her leg , abdomen and chest areas.”
NHTSA complaint #11500246, 2022 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

Structure 3

“The entire car is dead from the engine to the key function completely dead. The car broke down 3 time in the middle of the street which could've caused a serious crash putting my safety and others at risk. The problem has been addressed to two different dealers and Kia corporate without resolution. I did make a police report about the mold infestation inside the car. I did now see any warnings prior to the complete reck. The cars been dead from the past 3 months. Both dealers are refusing and/or delaying any type of resolution in fact they gave me even more pressure. Causing me more anxiety th…”
NHTSA complaint #11720757, 2025

“Paint chipping and peeling in several places”
NHTSA complaint #11708427, 2025

“My car 2021 Kia Soul S, with 28, 000 miles has a water leak issue in the passanger side. The water accumulates on the floor causing mold issues so severe that it has infected the back seat. There is too much condensantion inside the car. I cannot drive the car because i am allerguc to mold, it is hazardous to my health. Please help. I have warranty on the car and an extended warranty. Please see pictures”
NHTSA complaint #11551411, 2023

Wheels 2

“Noise while driving and over bumps and steering”
NHTSA complaint #11750863, 2026

“VEHICLE KEEPS PULLING. VEHICLE PULLED TO THE RIGHT. PERFORMED A STEERING ANGLE RELEARNED, AND WHEEL ALIGNMENT. CROSS ROTATED TIRES AND NOW THE VEHICLE PULLS TO THE LEFT. TOLD NOTHING ELSE CAN BE DONE AT THIS TIME. CAR IS CONSTANTLY. FIGHTING ITSELF WITH STEERING ASSIST.”
NHTSA complaint #11366841, 2020

Fuel System 1

“The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the engine was running rough, and there was a significant amount of air and oil when the oil cap was opened. Additionally, there was an abnormal sound coming from the exhaust system. The vehicle was sluggish while driving and depressing the accelerator pedal. The wrench warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to the dealer for repair under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine); however, upon inspection, the dealer informed the contact that no repair was needed, and the recall was marked as comple…”
NHTSA complaint #11712920, 2026

Lane Departure 1

“DRIVING 75 MPH SPEED LIMIT ON I-19 (4 LANE DIVIDED) NORTHBOUND NEAR GREEN VALLEY AZ. DRY CLEAR. IS NEW CAR WITH 400 MILES ON IT AND I WAS USING THE LANE KEEPING ASSISTANCE HANDS FREE. CLEARLY VISIBLE PAINTED LANE LINES. WORKED FINE UNTIL LANE MARKINGS DIVERGED AT SLIGHT CURVE AND AT OFF RAMP. THE CAR DROVE DIRECTLY INTO/ONTO THE "V" BETWEEN RIGHT LANE AND OFF RAMP UNTIL I MANUALLY STEERED BACK TO TRAFFIC LANE. NO ALARM OR VIBRATION SOUNDED BEFORE I HAD TO MANUALLY STEER BACK TO TRAFFIC LANE.”
NHTSA complaint #11412865, 2021

Visibility 1

“Heading to work on hwy 140, there is no trees nothing that could fall on my car the nearest car was at least half a mile away, it's 30something degrees outside and as my driving I heard a loud boom I opened up the cover to my sunroof and it was shattered, there's nothing that could have landed on it the glass was pointing upwards like it exploded out. That stretch of road I was on has nothing around that could cause that and if it had been a rock it would have hit either the front of my car or my windshield and neither were hit or anything of that nature. The only conclusion I have is that it…”
NHTSA complaint #11504887, 2023