2016 Kia Soul recalls and problems
The 2016 Kia Soul has 2 safety recalls and 825 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2016 Kia Soul vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2016 Kia Soul recalls
Recall 19V-120: Engine, Engine and Engine Cooling
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
Risk: Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.
Recall 17V-608: Steering
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Soul and Soul EV vehicles. The pinion plug may allow the pinion gear to separate from the steering gear assembly.
Risk: If the pinion gear separates, steering will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and secure the pinion plug or replace the steering gear assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC155. Note: This recall supersedes campaigns 14V-332 and 15V-736. Vehicles previously remedied under those numbers are being recalled again under this campaign.
2016 Kia Soul problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 567 | |
| Unknown or Other | 124 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 110 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 85 | |
| Power Train | 62 | |
| Electrical System | 57 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 33 | |
| Steering | 30 | |
| Service Brakes | 19 | |
| Structure | 19 | |
| Exterior Lighting | 18 | |
| Air Bags | 17 |
Most reported parts
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Catalytic Convertor — 39
- Structure › Body — 18
- Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 4
- Steering › Column — 1
- Structure › Body › Door — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Oil/Lubrication — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System — 1
- Steering › Steering Wheel /Handle Bar › Yaw/Angle Sensor — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 82,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2016 Kia Soul complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other Kia Soul years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2016 Kia Soul have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Kia Soul: 19V-120 (engine, engine and engine cooling), 17V-608 (steering). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2016 Kia Soul?
Owners report engine problems most often (567 reports), followed by unknown or other (124). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 82,000 miles.
Are Kia recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Kia dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.