Recalls · problems · safety

2013 Kia Soul: recalls and problems

3 recalls and 662 owner complaints on file with NHTSA. The most-reported problem area is engine.

3recalls
662complaints
22crashes reported
45fires reported
25injuries reported
1 recall with a “do not drive” or “park outside” warning

Check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA straight away and follow the instructions in the notice.

Recalls

Check recalls for your exact VIN

Most common problems

  • Engine283 · 43%
  • Steering151 · 23%
  • Electrical System70 · 11%
  • Service Brakes (Hydraulic)67 · 10%
  • Unknown Or Other61 · 9%
  • Engine And Engine Cooling44 · 7%
  • Service Brakes30 · 5%
  • Fuel/Propulsion System27 · 4%
  • Vehicle Speed Control17 · 3%
  • Air Bags17 · 3%

What owners report

Steering

The contact owns a 2013 kia soul. the contact stated that while making a turn, there was an abnormal popping sound coming from the steering column. the contact stated that while driving, the steering wheel was moving freely. the vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed, and it was determined that the steering wheel coupler needed to be replaced. the vehicle was being repaired. the manufacturer was notified of th

Engine And Engine Cooling,Engine

The contact owns a 2013 kia soul. the vehicle was repaired under nhtsa campaign numbers: 23v652000 (service brakes, hydraulic) and 19v120000 (engine, engine and engine cooling). the contact stated that while driving 65 mph, the vehicle lost automotive power. there was no warning light illuminated. the vehicle was restarted, and the check engine warning light was illuminated; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate.

Unknown Or Other Fire

Car caught fire while sitting in my driveway with no one in it for about 12 hours.

Steering

The contact owns a 2013 kia soul. the contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and attempting to start the vehicle, there was a popping and knocking sound coming from the steering wheel. no warning light was illuminated. a dealer was contacted. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure. the fai

Excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. They are owner reports and have not been verified.

Crash-test ratings

VersionOverallFrontalSideRollover
2013 Kia Soul SUV FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

Source: NHTSA recalls, complaints and NCAP APIs, covering Soul. Last refreshed 2026-09-29.