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2020 Kia Soul recalls and problems

The 2020 Kia Soul has 1 safety recall and 393 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any Kia dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
393
Crashes / fires
9 / 6
Injuries / deaths
6 / 8

Recalls may cover only some 2020 Kia Soul vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2020 Kia Soul recalls

Recall 21V-259: Engine

Reported Apr 13, 2021 · 147,249 vehicles affected · Kia Motors America

Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.

Risk: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.

Fix: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall began June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC209.

2020 Kia Soul problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Engine248
Power Train91
Unknown or Other54
Electrical System30
Steering16
Fuel/Propulsion System15
Vehicle Speed Control14
Structure11
Engine and Engine Cooling11
Service Brakes10
Exterior Lighting6
Forward Collision Avoidance5

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body — 11
  • Forward Collision Avoidance › Warnings — 4
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 3
  • Child Seat › Tether › Strap/Webbing — 1
  • Forward Collision Avoidance › Adaptive Cruise Control — 1
  • Electrical System › Adas › Blindspot › Sensors — 1
  • Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-Theft › Immobilizer/Proximity › Key/Sender — 1
  • Lane Departure › Blind Spot Detection — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 13,500 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 2020 Kia Soul complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Unknown or Other · reported Nov 11, 2026
During driving my car loses acceleration and is only able to drive no higher than 16 mph. This occurred on the highway, side streets and it starts within 20 minutes of starting the car. There is currently a settlement for a SC – 199. I found out that it only qualifies for Kia souls 2020 through 2021 standard models and mine is a XL.
Engine · reported Nov 7, 2026
Since XXX our Kia Soul has been stalling and burning oil. It stalled out on a city street near me and had to be towed to the kia dealership where it is serviced. They said it was out of oil. We just had it serviced in XXX with complete oil and filter done. On research, we have learned this car burns oil and had a piston defect recall. At the time it was inspected they found no piston defect yet (NHTSA Recall 21V259000) They did the initial (PNSS) piston ring noise sensing system or vibration test which was negative AT THAT TIME. I would like to request a Techline case to authorize an oil…
Engine · reported Nov 6, 2026
Engine stalled all lights came on On a 2020 Kia Soul GT, the “Gas Saver” (ISG) button disables the Idle Stop & Go system for that drive, but if the engine still cuts off at stops, it’s likely a fault in the ISG or related electrical system — often a weak AGM battery or a failing Low‑Voltage DC‑to‑DC Converter (LDC) module. Engine stopped at low speed 1mph and would not restart when gas peddle was pushed. Valve tapping noise from top of engine and engine stalling. New Battery installed and problem continued. Kia Soul GT 2020 Mileage 39947
Structure · reported Nov 3, 2026
The pearl white paint on my car has begun to bubble and peel off in several sections. One of the areas is around the top of the front windshield, and I am concerned that will affect the windshield itself, which might crack or not hold securely. There is also a large section of paint which has peeled off, down to the metal, on the right rear door, and I am concerned that water will make its way into the car or the exposed metal underneath will rust and cause safety issues.
Engine · reported Oct 22, 2026
Reason for Dispute & Desired Resolution: I am filing an executive escalation regarding a catastrophic engine failure on my 2020 Kia Soul, which is actively included in the Piston Oil Ring Safety Recall (Campaign SC209). The engine suffered a total structural failure where a rod broke and punctured a hole directly through the engine oil pan. The vehicle is completely undrivable and presents an environmental hazard due to active fluid leakage. Standard Kia Customer Care and Roadside Support lines have officially denied emergency towing assistance and rental car coverage, stating they cannot…

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Frequently asked questions

Does the 2020 Kia Soul have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2020 Kia Soul: 21V-259 (engine). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2020 Kia Soul?

Owners report engine problems most often (248 reports), followed by power train (91). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 13,500 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.