Vehicles · Insights

2014 Kia Soul

What 2014 Kia Soul owners report most

Engine problems are the dominant complaint pattern for this model, with owners describing sudden power loss and persistent check-engine lights that dealers repeatedly fail to resolve. Exterior lighting and electrical system faults — including at least one report of a seat catching fire — account for a significant share of remaining complaints. Powertrain issues round out the picture, with owners noting hesitation during gear shifts and sluggish acceleration.

Most reported areas

Engine safety 61%
Owners report the check-engine light activating unpredictably, accompanied by a severe reduction in power across the lower gears that persists even after multiple dealer visits. · 51 fire · 5 crash · 5 injured
Exterior Lighting safety 15%
Owners report difficulty unlocking electric doors at night, with the door-unlock system failing to respond promptly during urgent situations. · 1 fire
Electrical System safety 11%
Owners report electrical faults serious enough to cause a heated seat to ignite, burning through the seat material. · 15 fire · 4 crash · 2 injured
Power Train safety 6%
Owners report the vehicle hesitating repeatedly when shifting gears and being slow to build speed, with at least one dealer recommending timing belt replacement. · 4 fire · 1 crash · 1 injured
Engine And Engine Cooling safety 6%
55 reports (6%) · 5 fire

Source: NHTSA owner complaints · 888 complaints

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General information compiled from public NHTSA complaint data, for reference only — not professional advice and not reviewed by automotive experts. Verify before acting; Team AM is not responsible for decisions made from it.