2013 KIA SOUL Electrical System Problems
71 complaints about Electrical System
High Severity Issue
This component has been associated with crashes, fires, or deaths.
This Problem Across All Years
All Electrical System Complaints (71)
Put gas in it and out the blue would go pass 30 rpm we never had any issues with it I work on cars for a living I have spend over 3000 in new parts now I got it tow to Firestone they telling me it’s something wrong with my engine cylinder two and four not getting any power they told me it was bad bargin or piston I don’t know how it happens because we kept the car up to maintenance
Recall since I got the car but never been able to afford to bring it go he fixed. Single mother of 2 boys. Both autistic, one age [XXX] and one age [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
On [XXX] Jim Ellis Kia of Kennesaw performed Recall SC284 on my 2013 Kia Soul (VIN: [XXX] ), replacing the HECU fuse. The next day, [XXX], the vehicle lost acceleration while driving, produced a muffled engine sound, and became barely able to move forward, creating an unsafe driving condition. At no point did the check engine light illuminate, even though the vehicle was experiencing severe drivability issues. Prior to the recall, Kia’s own diagnostic (July 19, 2025) showed no catalytic converter or battery issues. An independent AAA diagnostic performed after the failure (July 21, 2025) ruled out pre-existing converter damage and linked the problem to the recall work. Despite this, the dealership denied responsibility and issued an unsupported estimate of $4,951.41 for catalytic converter replacement. The absence of a check engine light raises concerns that the recall work may have compromised the vehicle’s OBD-II diagnostic system, preventing detection of a safety defect. Furthermore, the evidence suggests that damage occurred to the catalytic converter while the vehicle was in Kia’s possession or as a direct result of the faulty installation of the recall fuse. This incident involves a safety risk, improper recall repair, and potential violation of federal recall law. I am requesting that NHTSA investigate the adequacy of Recall SC284 installation procedures and Kia’s handling of this case. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Was driving on the highway when my car started to smoke pulled over and it was a fire under my hood from the abs module
The contact owns a 2013 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked and unoccupied in a carport when it suddenly caught fire near the engine compartment. The fire had expanded and caused damage to the entire garage near the carport and 2 other vehicles and a motorcycle inside the garage. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. A fire report was filed and the origin was an electrical issue. The vehicle was towed and identified as totaled. There were no injuries sustained. A dealer was not contacted. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulics), after the vehicle fire. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 110,000.
Mileage: 110,000
The engine caught on fire. The car cut off while I was driving. It began to smoke and then I saw the flames. My safety was put at risk because I was driving the car. The car is burned from the front bumper to the backseat. The car has not been inspected because of how bad it is burned. There were not any warnings of the failure before it happened.
The car stared to lose all power and sputtering. Then the check engine light started coming on then it would go off. This has been going on for about 4 months. One day it would run on then next day not good at all. I changed the plugs and coils and it ran a lil better for about 2 days. Not every time I put it in reverse I started cutting out and now I don't the it can idle at all. It's a 4 cylinder feeling like a beefed up v8 trying to ideal. I looked at my coils and it looked like it had been on fire I have put every bit of money I could to try to fix it. I just had tires put on too. I pay for full coverage and a car payment. I pay aot for this car every month yet I can't drive it. I take care of my father that is terminal and on hospice, plus I'm disabled myself on a fixed income. This car is all I have and it my only car for my father as well. Help pleas
i WAS NOIFIED LAST YEAR SEPTEMBER 2023 OF A DANGEROUS RECALL THAT COULD CATCH THE VEHICLE ON FIRE. NOW. 9 MONTHS LATER KIA HAS NOT PROVIDED ME WITH A REPAIR FOR MY SAFTY.
Car is not starting
My 2013 Kia Soul has been recalled for HYDRAULIC ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT (HECU) which can RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE WHILE DRIVING OR PARKED since September of 2023. I was advised to park my vehicle away from the house and wait for a solution from Kia. It has been 6 months that I have been unable to drive my vehicle. Kia states that a remedy is *still* unavailable.
I received the recall information in the mail. Found out that there is no remedy for it yet. Have been waiting since November 2023. I have not had any problem with the car but don't want to drive it or have it near my house if it can catch fire. I have it parked with the battery disconnected cause I don't want the fire to happen.
My complaint has to do with the current recall on my vehicle. It's not driveable as it's safety hazard - engine quits at stops no rpm's panel lights (ABS, battery (brand new as mechanic I went to put on diagnostic machine and that's only thing that showed) oil light and malfunction indicator illuminate and then everything goes off including my headlights (I was driving early evening). Called local dealer (I never received notice but by chance looked up to see if any recalls and saw it on your website. they rudely said "you know as much as we do about when we'll get parts to repair recall". Clearly it's shorting out and I'm not going to endanger myself or others but what do I do? I've have a number of medical issues and am missing necessary appointments. How much longer is it expected before recall repairs can be made? I do Thank you for all you do. I am grateful an entity exists that look out for us. Least I don't feel totally lost.
I've received two things in the mail about recalls one is about the car being able to catch on fire due to some fuse that they don't even have a part for this...this is unacceptable. I mean, how long am I gonna be waiting on a part and have to worry about my car catching on fire. second I got something in the mail about Kia being sued about people being able to steal the car from the ignition just seems like Kia needs to take this car back because it seems like there's way too many issues it very unacceptable when I have kids that this car could catch on fire driving or just sitting in my yard unacceptable
I'm already aware of the recalls on alot of vehicles including my 2013 KIA SOUL and am aware of a judges ruling on this. How can KIA SOUL play God with peoples lives? I already filed a claim but still not not getting any help until the end of April. I'm a [XXX] woman who is at risk of getting hurt not to mention other people/and or other people close to my vehicle. This is just beyond wrong. I saved for 2 years to get a more dependable vehicles and now have to worry about an explosion. I already filed a claim but I'm scared. The radio has been funky since I got it last year. It's a used vehicle buy to me it looked new to me. I love it bur now afraid to even get in it but really don't have a choice since I'm [XXX] and don't have anyone else to get help or have another vehicle to use. I depend solely on myself. I need help with getting another vehicle until all of this mess is taken care of. I have gas gauge issues, revving up randomly, caution light staying on now and yesterday I had smoke coming out under the dash and then it just stopped while I was trying to pull off and call for help but it stopped so I came back home. The oil was changed right after I got it last year and I put new tires on it with the money I got from a junk yard in Johnson City that came to get my 98 Ford Escort that my church family helped for me after a very traumatic accident that killed my little senior rescue pommy, totaled my vehicle and I spent several days in ICU. I live on a very strict monthly income and this has caused more anxiety and panic issues that I can't even get under control with breathing exercises, journaling and taking my fur baby for walks and am back on my regular meds. Please someone needs to help me or I'm just going to give up. Thank you [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
I bought my KIA SOUL 2013 last year after saving for it bc I needed something more dependable and love it but I don't feel safe anymore bc of the possibility of an engine explosion. There's always been something funky about the radio coming when I start it but now there's a caution light staying on and the oil and everything else checks out. Also the gas lever starts blinking when I've just filled it up. What I don't get is how these people can play God with people's lives? I need a dependable vehicle to be able to go help my granddaughter needs me. At first the radio issue I blamed on me just being PARONOID thankfully I know there is something major going on.I don't let my fur baby go with me anymore, not risking hi life, it's bad enough I have worry about myself and it's just wrong.
In November, the platform through whom I rent my Kia Soul delisted the vehicle due to a safety recall. Within a week, I received a notice for Recall 23V652. The issue is that the car can experience an electrical short circuit, which can result in an engine compartment fire while driving or parked. The notice helpfully pointed out that an engine fire can increase the risk of injury, but that no fix is in sight, yet. I can no longer support my son and his education (I was using the money from renting out the vehicle to pay for tuition), I cannot even drive the car to get another part time job,and despite calls and letters, nothing is being done to fix the car. It's been 4 months without transportation. To add insult to Russian-Roulette injury, ANOTHER notice arrived from Kia advising that thieves have an easy time breaking into a stealing certain vehicles (Offer QHJWT) and if I could just drive my car and get someone to agree to have the ticking flame-bomb in their parking lot, they would fix this - at no charge. I need the car to work. I need the fix. If not, I need my money returned. I continue to make payments on a car I cannot drive. I will also file a complaint with the FTC. Note: when I first filed, I did not smell a burning smell. I got that smell on a quick 4 minute trip to the store, so do not drive the car at all.
Caution light on since October 23rd of 2023. My question is how your company can play God with people's lives. Gas light lever going crazy, caution light on for 2 months
Have two active recalls on my soul. Not driving because could catch on fire. I still have to pay insurance on my vehicle. KIA is dragging their feet with a fix. They say a fuse but it isn’t fixing the problem unit! It’s been four months still no fix. They need to get this remedied I need my car back on the road.
Slow to accelerate abs light on Engine light on
While driving, the lights flickered, then car shut down in the middle of the road. I could smell something burning. No warning lights came on. Had to tow the car. Found out there was no oil in the engine, when I should have had 2000 miles to go until next oil change. Engine seized. Apparently there is an oil consumption recall on almost all other kias for oil consumption EXCEPT my car
On [XXX] I was driving my 2013 Kia Soul in the center lane on [XXX] when all of a sudden the whole dashboard panel lit up and then everything went off and the car came to a halt. the engine was dead it would not start nothing would turn on. I had to push my vehicle from the center of the 3 lane highway off to the right side breakdown lane. I had to call AAA to have them tow my car to my mechanic. After looking over the vehicle i was informed that my engine had seized up and there was no oil in the engine. I had my oil change a little less then a month ago from the date of the incident. There was no low oil light warning that came on while I was driving my car. This same car I have had issues with the catalytic converter and issues with the 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) that i had to pay over $1400.00 to have repaired and had several issues with it trying to get it to pass safety inspection and safety emissions. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2013 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated while driving and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle hesitated to respond. Additionally, the tachometer was inoperable. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 110,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mileage: 110,000
Informed of fire risk by KIA, informed of planned resolution (replacement of fuses), however to date there is no resolution available because they dont have the part. Fuses are common off the shelf items. The delay is unacceptable, especially in light of the recommendation to park the car outside when there is also an issue of theft because they failed to included even the most basic anti-theft tech.
The recall for my vehicle happened weeks ago and there is still no solution. This is a fire hazard and the only vehicle I own. I need this fixed asap
The contact owns a 2013 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the defroster and air conditioning failed to turn off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 72,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Mileage: 72,000
The check engine light has been on about a few weeks. While driving on the highway at approx 65 miles per hour my car started losing power and the temperature gauge indicator went to "H". I pulled off the highway and noticed a burning smell and smoke coming from the hood. I waited about 10 minutes then got back on the road again the temperature gauge began to rise to "H". I pulled off several things before reaching home. The next day the car was towed to Hollywood Kia. My car has been at the shop for 2 weeks. I was giving a repair bill of $1500. I need help please and can't afford to pay for the repairs. Respectfully, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
About 3 months ago my steering wheel started rattling and continues to get worse I haven’t had it looked at yet but I think I need to also my dash lights come off and on all the time do you think I have a problem
Mileage: 147,769
Our 2013 Kia Soul accelerated on its own at a Sonic drive-in restaurant. First ran into a brick wall and then when put in reverse, it continued at accelerated speed until it came to a stop. Nobody injured - just the car. Afterward I did some research and found it has been a problem with various makes and models of Kias.
Car’s check engine and oil light came in and flickered. Went to get an oil change and have them check the car. I turned the car off when I got there. When I went to start the car to wind the windows down, the mechanic saw sparks, I saw smoke coming out of the engine and he yelled for me to stop trying to start it. We opened the hood, tried again and the same thing happened - almost caught on fire. Now, the engine won’t turn over. He said the battery is good. He said the engine is done.
The brake lights go out all the time. They work one day and then not the next. This is a known issue with Kia vehicles. Apparently this is a wide spread issue that effects many Kia brand cars not just the Soul model that I drive. I have people stop me saying they did not see my brake lights come on at all when I obviously had to. Why hasn't this been a recall? This is a problem that could end in fatalities.
I have been having major battery issues switching out my batteries and them going out fast. Also when I'm driving my car shakes when it goes above 60 miles per hour, also when I change gears I noticed I get a hard thump when I change my gears. The electrical in the car sometimes it goes off and on my radio has completely went out it comes on when it wants. Cruise control when I put it on sometimes just cuts off when I'm driving. Engine runs kind of rough when I first got my car everything was smooth but after 6 years I noticed everything started running the little rough.
Catalytic converter is going out. Although apparently there was no recall for MY car in particular but there has been a recall for the converter overheating and damaging the engine. Car no longer goes over 40 mph; meaning I can no longer use the freeway. Oil light comes on at least twice a month. Even after a oil change It comes right back on. Check engine light never goes off. Piston Rod is damaged which then contributes to a oil leak. This has been happening over a 6 month time span. I call myself fixing one thing then something else more detrimental breaks.
Mileage: 237,205
the catalytic converter is damaged, soon the engin could fail, and there is a recall on the catalytic converter for this car type and model and year. it has all the symptoms that the converter is damaged, tried to liquid to fix it it did not work It is available for inspection no risk yet, inspected and problem was confirmed engine light is on
2013 Kia Soul randomly turns off. It has 101K miles. No dash or warning lights come on before this happens. Then after it turns off an oil can icon, battery icon and a steering wheel icon with exclamation come on the dash and the air is still on, so its on battery power. I have to put it in park, turn off the ignition and AC and restart the car. The second issue that is happening. It is also randomly struggling to start up. I have bought a new battery thinking it was the issue. Still it randomly has startup cranking issues. The random engine power off has happened while slowing down to go over a speed bump, while idling at a stop lights and while i tried to engage the reverse to backup. It is also randomly struggling to start after these engine power off events. Never consistent. Sometimes it starts right up after the power off and others it takes several cranks before it starts. I have to put it in park, turn off the ignition and restart it. I drive 5 miles to work and luckily don't need to go over 35MPH to get there, but I shudder to think what could have happened if i was going faster and the engine cuts off. I have had it diagnosed at a non Kia reputable mechanic repair shop, where they tested the battery and is shows to be good(Should since it is new). Since it sounded like an electrical issues they tested and cleaned the power and ground cables. They attached the scan tool and checked all the modules on the vehicle and no diagnostics trouble codes were stored in any of the modules. But the problem continues. I have scheduled another diagnostic with a Kia dealership Sept 29, 2022 to see if they can figure this out. This is very dangerous as it happens randomly and disables the car. Like i mentioned I shudder to think what could of happened the times I was on the highway driving at 60-65MPH and the only way to get it turn back on is to put it in park and restart it and hope it starts right away before an accident occurs. Not driving til fixed
2013 Kia Soul base model when Kia reset engine because catallactic convertor (to show proper MPG) this started shortly after. Soul started having fuel levels drop to EMPTY after fueling. With fuel light & engine light coming on. Driving a short time fuel gauge then shows correct amount. This is occurring more often, talking with other Kia Soul owners they have seen it also. I am told sensors in fuel tank will need replaced almost $1000.00 but nothing can be done until lights stay on all time with NO GAURENTEE it will fix problem. Both of my Souls have this issue, I have 1 Soul still on the road, Soul 2 was traded in. Pictures from a video as event was happening.
My car without warning started smoking from the hood. I immediately parked the car, popped the hood, and flames starting rising from underneath before I had even exited the vehicle. Within 5 minutes of the smoke, my car was completely on fire.
While driving down the highway, or turning around a curve the engine stops. The car can be restarted after it is put un park. Not always possible on a busy road.
I purchased the 2013 Kia Soul used on 5/22/2021 and shortly afterward discovered water leaking into the front passenger side compartment and evidence that the leak was old. I brought the car to Fred Anderson Kia of Raleigh (kiaofraleigh.com) on 6/7/21, 6/25/21, and 7/20/21, and they incorrectly diagnosed the leak as an air conditioner hose. And then, after they replaced the hose, they thought it might be a windshield leak. After the unneeded air conditioner repair, they referred me out for windshield/water leak testing. McConnell Auto Glass (mcconnellautoglass.com) determined that the windshield was not leaking. The leak was coming in from substandard factory welding in the car frame. The car has never had frame repair on that side. My attempts to patch the bad weld joints with JD Weld caused the leak to continue to move across multiple failing car frame welds. The leak has damaged the interior of the car, grown mold, and exposed the electrical components to failure, rust, and fire. I contacted Kia Corporation (800 333 4542) on 1/12/22, 1/20/22, and 1/21/22. They have told me that Fred Anderson Kia will not return their outreach calls, and they would refer my case # 14586235 to the district manager for a callback -- which has not happened. They tell me the DM’s name and contact information are secret, so I can not call them. Q1: The frame welds. I have covered some of the leaking areas with JD Weld, but the welds are unaltered and could be inspected by removing the JD Weld. I also took several pictures. The leak is still present. Q2: The leak caused interior damage, including mold, and could damage electrical components due to moisture, rust, or fire. Q3: Fred Anderson Kia of Raleigh verified the leak but could not correctly diagnose it. McConnell Auto Glass verified the leak. Q4: Yes, Fred Anderson Kia of Raleigh on 6/7/21, 6/25/21, and 7/20/21 Q5: I noticed the wet carpet shortly after I purchased the car, but there is evidence of long-term damage.
I purchased the 2013 Kia Soul used on 5/22/2021 and shortly afterward discovered water leaking into the front passenger side compartment and evidence that the leak was old. I brought the car to Fred Anderson Kia of Raleigh (kiaofraleigh.com) on 6/7/21, 6/25/21, and 7/20/21, and they incorrectly diagnosed the leak as an air conditioner hose. And then, after they replaced the hose, they thought it might be a windshield leak. After the unneeded air conditioner repair, they referred me out for windshield/water leak testing. McConnell Auto Glass (mcconnellautoglass.com) determined that the windshield was not leaking. The leak was coming in from substandard factory welding in the car frame. The car has never had frame repair on that side. My attempts to patch the bad weld joints with JD Weld caused the leak to continue to move across multiple failing car frame welds. The leak has damaged the interior of the car, grown mold, and exposed the electrical components to failure, rust, and fire. I contacted Kia Corporation (800 333 4542) on 1/12/22, 1/20/22, and 1/21/22. They have told me that Fred Anderson Kia will not return their outreach calls, and they would refer my case # 14586235 to the district manager for a callback -- which has not happened. They tell me the DM’s name and contact information are secret, so I can not call them. Q1: The frame welds. I have covered some of the leaking areas with JD Weld, but the welds are unaltered and could be inspected by removing the JD Weld. I also took several pictures. The leak is still present. Q2: The leak caused interior damage, including mold, and could damage electrical components due to moisture, rust, or fire. Q3: Fred Anderson Kia of Raleigh verified the leak but could not correctly diagnose it. McConnell Auto Glass verified the leak. Q4: Yes, Fred Anderson Kia of Raleigh on 6/7/21, 6/25/21 and 7/20/21 Q5: I noticed the wet carpet shortly after I purchased the car, but there is evidence of long-term damage.
It all started when I thought I received bad gas a couple of months ago after filling my tank up with regular gas from a Speedway , It didn't start right away, and that never happened and then it continued to Be hard to accelerate, as I drove it. That has happened on 2 other occasions since that incident a couple of months ago I would push the pedal to the floor and the RPM would not move it stayed on zero. The accelerator was resistant to move, but I made it home. Spoke a mechanic friend, who's done body work on my car, and thought, as I did, I had bad gas.. suggested, I get the fuel tank flushed and filled, which I did at Jiffy Lube. I've since put HEET in on every fill up, and used premium gas. Happened again yesterday am on my way home from work about about 830am. I was stopped at a light, it cut off, I put it in park, and cut it back on, but it was hard to accelerate. I made it home, but now extremely worried, given all the spontaneous fires, and engine problems. It's my only source of transportation, so I'm in desperate need of help.
My 2013 Kia Soul has been stalling while idle or at red lights. In addition, sometimes it is difficult to start and I have to attempt several times. Lately, once I do start the vehicle and begin to drive, it’s as if the vehicle doesn’t know which gear to maintain. As a result, the car will attempt to “cut off” driving and l literally will have to pull over immediately in attempt to not be hit or run off the road, as the car is practically in neutral by its own choice. Also, the “emergency brake” light is on, even though the emergency brake is not being used.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH, THE BATTERY LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ALTERNATOR FAILED TO OPERATE AS DESIGNED. DUE TO THE ALTERNATOR FAILURE, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER STEERING FUNCTIONALITY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 185,000.
Mileage: 185,000
I HAVE A 2013 KIA SOUL, I HAVE BEEN PAYING MY LOAN ON THIS CAR SINCE 2016. I TAKE CARE OF IT AND ROUTINELY DO OIL CHANGES ON IT AND UP KEEP. OVER THE COURSE OF THE PAST FOUR MONTHS I NOTICED MY CAR ACTING UP, I HAD TAKEN IT TO SHOPS AND NONE COULD FIND A PROBLEM. MY CAR WAS NOT STARTING UP, I WOULD HAVE TO JIGGLE MY WHEEL TO MIRACULOUSLY GET THE VEHICLE TO START. THEN ONCE IT STARTED IT WOULDN'T ACCELERATE AND WOULD SLOWLY GO INTO NEUTRAL. PROGRESSIVELY IT GOT WORSE, MY CAR WOULD TURN OFF IF I WAS PARKED OR AT A STOP SIGN OR WHEN GOING 20MPH OR LESS. ON 12/24/2020 AS I WAS DRIVING MY CAR ON A MAJOR HIGHWAY I SAW SMOKE COMING FROM MY CAR. I TURNED THE VEHICLE OFF AND THEN AS I RESTARTED IT, THERE WAS A LOUD CLANGING AND THE CAR WAS JUMPING. I IMMEDIATELY TURNED IT OFF AND GOT IT TOWED. I AM AT A LOSS AND COMPLETELY AT RISK WITH THIS VEHICLE PLEASE HELP.
Mileage: 139,000
MY CAR DIED WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY GOING 75MPH WITH 70K MILES THATS ABOUT WHEN A VEHICLE SHOULD BE BREAKING IN NOT BREAKING DOWN. MY STEERING WHEEL IS LOOSE, GAS PLAY. THE RADIO SOMETIMES DOESNT COME ON AND MY ENGINE JUST SOUNDS CLOGGED
Mileage: 67,000
VEHICLE WILL JUST RANDOMLY NOT START. GET IN CAR TURN ON KEY AND NOTHING, LIGHTS, RADIO, ECT ALL WORK, BUT CAR WILL NOT START. SO FAR IF YOU WAIT A SHORT TIME AND TRY AGAIN IT STARTS AND ALL IS FINE. I THOUGHT THAT IT WAS THE BATTERY SO I REPLACED IT AND ALL WAS GOOD FOR ABOUT 6 MONTHS, AND THEN ABOUT 2 WEEKS AGO IT DID THE SAME THING, WOULD NOT START. WENT ABOUT MY BUSINESS IN ANOTHER CAR, CAME HOME ABOUT 1 HOUR LATER, GOT INTO CAR AND IT STARTED RIGHT UP AND HAS BEEN FINE SINCE. I HAVE GONE ONLINE AND HAVE SEEN THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM, BUT THERE DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE ANYTHING THAT THE DEALER CAN DO. THEY REPLACE DIFFERENT PARTS, BUT IT OCCURS AGAIN. LOTS ON MONEY BEING SPENT AND NO RESULTS TO BE HAD. VERY FRUSTRATING . THIS HAS HAPPEN ABOUT 15 TIMES IN THE LAST YEAR, BUT IT DOES START IF YOU WAIT AWHILE. AT LEAST MY HAS, BUT I NOTE THAT OTHERS HAVE NOT.
Mileage: 57,500
IT'S BEEN A LOT OF COMPLICATIONS WITH THE CAR STEERING COLLAR CAR MAKE A LOUD SOUND WHILE DRIVING OVER 60MPH KNOCK SENSOR CAUSES A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH HOLDING GAS ENGINE IS VERY LOUD
WELL THE FIRST ITEM IS THE DEALERSHIP TOLD ME THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE DRIVER SIDE PANEL DOOR. THE SECOND PROBLEM RIGHT LOW BEAM LIGHT HAS BEEN OUT NOW FOR ALMOST TWO YEARS I HAVE BEEN EVERYWHERE WE HAD SWITCHED BULBS WE HAVE TRACED WIRES EVERYTHING REPLACE THE RELAY STILL CAN I GET THAT TO WORK AND SOMETIMES HE DOES LUNDS HIGHWAY ROAD YOU HIT BUMPS ALL THE LIGHTS COME ON IN CAR IT IS SOME KIND OF ELECTRICAL SHORT IN A CAR SOMEWHERE
Mileage: 95,000
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TURNING IN EITHER DIRECTION THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. ADDITIONALLY, ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START AND THE BATTERY POWER WAS DRAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BATTERY WAS NOT DEFECTIVE. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WERE NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER HOLLYWOOD KIA LOCATED AT (6011 PEMBROKE RD. HOLLYWOOD FL) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 43,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Mileage: 43,000
ENGINE LITE WHEN ON. GOT A RECALL NOTICE. HAD RECALL PERFORMED. RECALL STATE THAT IF DAMAGE WAS DONE TO CATALYTIC CONVERTER IT WOULD ALSO BE REPLACED. A FEW MONTHS LATER AFTER RECALL PERFORMED ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON SAYING CATALYTIC CONVERTER PROBLEM. THEY SAY I NEED TO PAY $2000 TO GET FIXED. I BELIEVE IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN REPLACED AT TIME OF RECALL.
Mileage: 263,000
RADIO/BACKING CAMERA STOPPED WORKING. HAD CAMERA REPLACED EARLIER. RADIO COMES ON BUT PLAYS NO SOUNDS.
WAS DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE WHEN ALL THE LIGHTS ON THE DASH COME ON AND THE CAR SHUT DOWN. HAS NOT CRANKED SINCE.
Mileage: 119,000
THIS IS THE SECOND COMPLAINT BEING FILED REGUARDING THIS CAR. AFTER WE FILED THE FIRST COMPLAINT WE TOOK OUR CAR BACK INTO THE KIA DEALERSHIP FOR THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FLASHING. THEY SCANNED ENGINE AND DIDN'T FIND ANYTHING. THEY TOPPED OFF OUR OIL BECAUSE IT WAS HALF FULL. I JUST RECENTLY GOT MY OIL CHANGE DONE THERE 2,000 MILES AGO. ACCORDING TO THE OWNERS MANUAL IT SHOULD BE DONE EVERY 7,500 MILES. THE FOLLOWING DAY WE WERE DRIVING DOWN THE FREEWAY, PULLED OFF AT OUR EXIT AND SMELLED A HORRID LEAK BURNING/ ROTTEN EGG/ SULFUR SMELL. WE IMMEDIATELY PULLED OF THE ROAD AND CHECKED THE CAR FOR FLAMES. WE DIDN'T FIND ANY. I'M REALLY STARTING TO FEEL UNSAFE ABOUT BEING IN THIS VECHIEL.
Mileage: 77,300
KIA SOUL 2013 RECALL. WE WERE DRIVING HOME FROM WORK ON THE FREEWAY GOING ABOUT 55MPH AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STARTED FLASHING. WE RUSHED IMMEDIATELY TO THE KIADEALERSHIP AFTER HEARING ABOUT THE KIA ENGINE FIRES. THEY SCANNED OUR VECHIEL AND SAIDONE OF THE ENGINE COILS MAY STOP WORKING. THEY SAID OUR CAR COULD JUST STOP WORKING ON THE ROAD AND THEN WE WOULD NEED TO TOW IT IN. THIS DOESN'T SOUND LIKE A CLEAR EXPLAINATION OF THE PROBLEM TO ME. I'M CONCERNED WE'LL KEEP DRIVING THE CAR AND IT WILL CATCH ON FIRE.
Mileage: 77,000
THE BATTERY KEEPS DRAINING. REPLACED BATTERY AND IT KEEPS DYING AFTER A FEW WEEKS. THE DOORS LOCK AND CAN'T BE OPENED WITH THE KEY PROVIDED WHEN THE BATTERY IS DEAD, SO WE ARE LOCKED OUT OF VEHICLE WITHOUT ACCESS TO OPENING THE HOOD TO GET THE CAR JUMPED. THIS IS DANGEROUS. USELESS TO HAVE A KEYHOLE FOR A KEY THAT WON'T WORK WHEN THE BATTERY IS DEAD. THE KEY WORKS ANY OTHER TIME WHEN THE CAR BATTERY IS OK.
CAR WONT START, INTERMITTENTLY. GOT A NEW BATTERY AND THEN ALL OF A SUDDEN THE CAR WOULD START. LIGHTS COME ON THE DASH BUT CAR WOULDN'T START, QUICK JUMP AND CAR STARTED RIGHT UP. THIS KEPT HAPPENING SO I THOUGHT I HAD GOTTEN A BAD BATTERY. REPLACED THE BATTERY WITH A NEW ONE AND A WEEK LATER THE SAME THING STARTING HAPPENING. THE CAR WOULDN'T START. TOOK IT TO THE AUTOMOTIVE SHOP BECAUSE I THOUGHT IT MIGHT BE THE ALTERNATOR. THEY HAD IT FOR 3 DAYS AND EVERYTHING CHECKED CHECKED OUT FINE, COULD FIND A PROBLEM AND COULDN'T DUPLICATE THIS. TOOK CAR HOME AND 3 DAYS LATER THE SAME THING THE CAR WONT START. QUICK JUMP STARTS RIGHT UP AND LASTS FOR ABOUT 3 DAYS AND WONT START AGAIN. THERE ARE A LOT OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS STARTING ISSUE ON THE KIA SOUL WITH CUSTOMERS AND NO ONE SEEMS TO BE ABLE TO FIND THE PROBLEM, THEY ALL SEEM TO BE THE SAME ISSUE AND WHEN WE TAKE IT IN THEY ARE UNABLE TO DUPLICATE IT. THIS NEEDS TO BE LOOKED INTO
Mileage: 45,000
MY CAR HAS 55K MILES ON IT. I PURCHASED IT OCTOBER 2013. THE STEERING COUPLING JUST WENT BAD AND NOW I HAVE TO PAY $500 FOR THE REPAIR. THIS COMPLAINT SEEMS TO BE PREVALENT WITH THIS VEHICLE. IT SHOULD BE A RECALL. ALSO, THE PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW WILL NOT GO BACK UP WITH DRIVER'S SIDE CONTROL. THE DEALER IS TELLING ME THAT THAT IS ALSO OUT OF WARRANTY AND THAT IT WILL $350 FOR THE REPAIR. I'M CONFUSED... HOW CAN NONE OF THIS BE COVERED UNDER WARRANTY? PLUS, I'M STILL WAITING FOR KIA MILES PER GALLON SETTLEMENT FROM 4 YEARS AGO. IF THIS IS THEY WAY THEY OPERATE, I'LL NEVER BUY ANOTHER ONE.
Mileage: 55,000
I WENT ON A TRIP FROM ORLANDO TO KEYWEST WITH TWO YOUNG CHILDREN IN THE CAR AND I BROKE DOWN. THANKFULLY, I HAD THROUGH INSURANCE FREE TOWING. GOT TOWED TO AN AUTOMOTIVE STORE AND THEY SAID NOTHING WAS WRONG THEY CHECKED THE BATTERY AND ACCELERATOR AND MULTIPLE ITEMS I HAVE PROOF OF ON PAPER. I BEGAN TO DRIVE AGAIN AND MY CAR WOULDNT START WHEN I STOPPED TO GET GAS. SOMEONE HAD TO JUMP MY CAR AT THE GAS STATION AND IT HAPPENS ON AND OFF NOT EVERYTIME BUT I HAVE TO PUSH MY GAS AND TURN MY KEY AT THE SAME TIME TO GET MY CAR TO START. IN ADDITION, WHEN I AM DRIVING I HEAR SOUNDS AND BROUGHT IT TO KIA IN KEYWEST. I BOUGHT AN ACCELERATOR FOR $717.54 AND STILL HAVING ISSUES! LUCKILY, I JUST MADE IT HOME TONIGHT WITH MY CHILDREN AND WE ARE SAFE BUT THIS IS STILL AN ISSUE AND AFTER PAYING ALL OF THAT MONEY I AM LIVID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2013 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT'S WIFE INFORMED HIM OF AN ABNORMAL ODOR ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES LATER, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. A FIRE REPORT WAS FILED AND THE FIRE MARSHALL DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRING IN FRONT OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT CAUSED THE FIRE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES SUSTAINED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED BY THE FIRE. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000.
Mileage: 45,000
BATTERY REPLACED 2/18. INSTALLED W/ ROTORS & BRAKE PADS BY DEALERSHIP AFTER THIS MY CAR WOULD NOT START. IT WAS PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY. IT WOULD NOT EVEN MAKE A NOISE. ALL THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS WENT ON. ALARM WORKED (INSTALLED BY DEALERSHIP). I GOT OUR OF CAR LOCKING IT & TRIED TO START MANUALLY, STILL NOTHING. 1 OF THE TIMES I TRIED IT THE RADIO WENT ON. AFTER APPR. 6X'S THE CAR STARTED BUT IDLING EXTREMELY LOW. KIA DEALERSHIP GOT THE CAR THAT DAY, THEY HAD CAR FOR 9 DAYS & COULD NOT REPLICATE ISSUE. I GOT CAR BACK 3 WKS LATER SAME ISSUE. CLOCK HAD BEEN BEHIND 20ISH MIN THAT WK. I THOUGHT IT WAS ODD. 3/18/18 (SAME WK CAR TIME WAS OFF), I TRIED STARTING MANY X'S. EVERYTHING WAS THE SAME, I NOTICEDI WHEN DASHBOARD LIGHTS ON,I DON'T HAVE. RADIO WOULD GO ON & OFF. I CALLED KIA,CAR WAS NOT STARTING, I WAS HAVING IT TOWED TO THEM. MADE VIDEO OF TRYING TO START CAR.THE CAR IS AT THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN. THEY MENTIONED REPLACING IGNITION. IF YOU GOOGLE KIA SOUL STARTING ISSUES, THERE ARE PAGES OF THEM. ALL WITH SAME DESCRIPTION. DEALERSHIP COULD NOT REPLICATE ISSUE. THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG ELECTRICALLY IN SOME OF THE SOULS. IT DIDN'T APPEAR TO BE LIMITED TO ANY PARTICULAR YEAR. DEALERSHIPS KNOW ABOUT THIS ISSUE, DON'T KNOW WHAT TO DO AND RANDOMLY REPLACE THINGS. DIDN'T FIX ISSUE. PEOPLE ONLINE STATED THEY GOT SO FRUSTRATED AND TRADED IN VEHICLE. I HOPE IT DOES NOT COME TO THAT WITH ME.THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL OR REMEDY FOR THIS SITUATION. IF YOU GOOGLE IT YOU WILL GET SO MANY PAGES ON THIS ISSUE WITH KIA SOUL, ALL YEARS. SO THE PROBLEM IS UNKNOWN, COULD POTENTIALLY CAUSE HARM. I HAVE A VERY CLEAR SHORT VIDEO 1MIN 30 SEC.
Mileage: 54,000
SO I AM ACTUALLY SHOCKED THAT THERE'S NO COMPLAINT LOGGED HERE ABOUT THIS, YET IT SEEMS TO BE EVERYWHERE ALL OVER THE INTERNET. OUR 2013 KIA SOUL (AND THIS HAPPENS WITH MORE THAN JUST OUR YEAR) WHEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN, THE DOOR AJAR INDICATOR COMES ON, ON THE DASH PANEL, AND THE IGNITION KEY RING THAT ILLUMINATES, AND ALSO ILLUMINATES THE DOOR/MAP LIGHTS IN THE CENTER CONSOLE. YOU DON'T EVEN HAVE TO JUST BE MAKING A RIGHT TURN FOR IT TO COME ON. IF YOU TOUCH (NOT HIT IT OR BE FORCEFUL) THE DRIVERS DOOR PANEL, YOU CAN MAKE IT COME ON, AND SOMETIMES IT GOES RIGHT OUT AND SOMETIMES IT DOESN'T. I KNOW WHAT YOU'RE GOING TO SAY "MAKE SURE THE DOOR IS CLOSED TIGHTLY!" WELL THE DOOR IS CLOSED. ALL 4 DOORS AND THE HATCH ARE SECURELY CLOSED, AND IT'S ONLY THE DRIVERS DOOR. IT WILL NOT DO IT WHEN THE VEHICLE IS NOT RUNNING, IT ONLY DOES IT WITH THE KEY IN THE IGNITION, AND THE VEHICLE RUNNING. I AM SHOCKED THIS IS NOT A RECALL. I HAVE SEEN THIS WITH OTHER SOULS DATING BACK TO 2009! I AM RELUCTANT OF TAKING THE DOOR APART, BUT I MEAN SERIOUSLY!
Mileage: 54,250
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SOUL. WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH, THE RADIO SHUT OFF WITHOUT WARNING. THE DEALER (HERITAGE TOYOTA CATONVILLE, 6324 BALTIMORE NATIONAL PIKE, BALTIMORE, MD 21228) STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF WARRANTY, THE REPAIR WOULD BE AT THE CONTACT'S EXPENSE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000.
Mileage: 64,000
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SOUL. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED. THE FAILURE RECURRED SEVEN TIMES AND EACH TIME, THE VEHICLE RESTARTED. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER WHO WAS UNABLE TO REPLICATE THE FAILURE AND DID NOT OFFER ASSISTANCE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE AND THERE WERE NO RECALLS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000.
Mileage: 20,000
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED BY ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT WHEN THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 19,000.
Mileage: 19,000
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE BATTERY WAS CHARGED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,000. UPDATED 5/4/15*CN UPDATED 11/10/2015*JS
Mileage: 10,000
WHEN TRYING TO START THE CAR YOU TURN THE KEY AND IT DOES NOT TURN OVER. YOU HEAR A CLICK, ALL LIGHTS ON DASH LIGHT AND RADIO PLAYS BUT THE CAR DOESN'T START. SOMETIMES YOU CAN TURN THE KEY UP TO 10 TIMES BEFORE IT STARTS. HAPPENS 2-3 TIMES A WEEK SPORADICALLY. THE CAR DOES EVENTUALLY START. THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR ALSO LOCKS BY ITSELF AT TIMES WHEN YOU SHUT THE DOOR. IT HAS BEEN TO THE DEALER 3 TIMES AND FOR 17 DAYS, THEY ARE UNABLE TO REPLICATE THE PROBLEM. MY HUSBAND VIDEOED IT ON JAN 5 AND TOOK IT TO THE DEALER WHO THEN KEPT CAR FOR 14 DAYS AND SAID THEY HAD OVER 150 STARTS AND THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. CURRENTLY WAITING FOR THE PROBLEM TO OCCUR AGAIN AND AN TECH WILL BRING PORTABLE EQUIPMENT TO THE CAR AND TEST IT THEN. DEALER HAVE BEEN VERY GOOD IN TRYING TO FIND CAUSE. *TR
Mileage: 14,000
SUDDEN DECELERATION QUICKLY FOLLOWED BY LOSS OF ALL ELECTRICAL POWER INCLUDING STEERING, BRAKES, COMPLETE ENGINE SHUT-OFF AND DASH INSTRUMENTATION. DEALER FOUND "NO PROBLEM" AND DID NOT REPAIR OR REPLACE IGNITION SWITCH OR ANYTHING ELSE. *TR
Mileage: 8,000
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILED TO ILLUMINATE WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS POWERED ON. ADDITIONALLY, THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE GEAR SHIFTER WOULD NOT MOVE OUT OF PARK WITHOUT THE CONTACT PUSHING THE GEAR RELEASE BUTTON. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT THE FAILURE WAS UNABLE TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Mileage: 25,000
CAR HAS PROBLEMS PLAYING MP3S IN WHICH I HAVE USED AUDACITY TO SPLIT UP INTO MULTIPLE TRACKS. THERE IS FREQUENTLY CRACKING/POPPING SOUNDS FROM THE AUDIO, AND WHEN TURNING ON THE CAR (AFTER HAVING LISTENED TO SAID MP3S ON THE PREVIOUS TRIP), SOMETIMES THE RADIO DISPLAY SCREEN IS BLACK. NO BUTTONS WILL TURN IT ON. IT'S COMPLETELY DEAD. I HAVE DISCOVERED THIS ONLY HAPPENS WITH FILES THAT I'VE HAD RUN THROUGH AUDACITY AND SPLIT UP INTO SEPARATE TRACKS. *TR
AIRBAG EXPLODED ON IMPACT WITH GAPING HOLES WITH HEAVY SMOKE COMING OUT WITH HOT HEAT CAUSING REDNESS TO MY CHEST AND REDNESS TO MY HANDS AND A BLOW TO MY WRIST THAT CAUSED FRACTURE TO MY LEFT WRIST. *TR
Mileage: 130,042
AFTER OWNING THIS VEHICLE FOR A MONTH OR SO, I NOTICED THAT WHEN I TURN ON THE VEHICLE THE RADIO SCREEN WAS HALF FADED OR GONE. THIS IS THE SCREEN THAT ALLOWS YOU TO USE THE HANDS FREE DEVICE ALSO. I TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERS AND THEY STATED THAT THE RADIO WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. I WAS A BIT CONFUSED AS TO HOW THIS COULD HAPPEN TO A NEW CAR BUT... STUFF HAPPENS. I REALLY ENJOY THIS CAR AND HAVE HAD NO OTHER ISSUES. *TR
Mileage: 2,150
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 KIA SOUL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 40 MPH, THE CHECK WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSIS. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE WIRING CODING WAS SOY BASED AND THAT ANIMALS WERE EATING THE WIRES. AS A RESULT, THE WIRING HARNESS AND THE EMISSION WIRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THE SAME SOY BASED CODING WIRING WAS USED TO REMEDY THE DEFECT AND HE WAS CONCERNED THAT THERE WOULD BE A RECURRENCE IN THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 1,000.
Mileage: 1,000