NHTSA data · updated October 21, 2026
Kia Soul recalls & problems by year
Across 2012–2025, NHTSA lists 28 recalls and 5,259 owner complaints for the Kia Soul. The 2025 has the fewest complaints (12) and the 2015 has the most (908).
| Year | Recalls | Owner complaints | Top problem area | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 3 | engine | 4★ | |
| 2013 | 3 | engine | 4★ | |
| 2014 | 5 | engine | 5★ | |
| 2015 | 4 | engine | 5★ | |
| 2016 | 2 | engine | 5★ | |
| 2017 | 1 | engine | 5★ | |
| 2018 | 1 | engine | 5★ | |
| 2019 | 1 | engine | 5★ | |
| 2020 | 1 | engine | 4★ | |
| 2021 | 2 | engine | 4★ | |
| 2022 | 1 | engine | 4★ | |
| 2023 | 4 | engine | 4★ | |
| 2024 | 0 | unknown or other | 4★ | |
| 2025 | 0 | exterior lighting | 4★ |
Newer model years have had less time on the road to collect complaints. Compare years of similar age.
Questions
What is the most reliable year of the Kia Soul?
By NHTSA owner complaints, the 2025 Kia Soul has the fewest (12) of the 2012–2025 model years. Newer model years have had less time to collect complaints, so compare similar ages.
Which Kia Soul year has the most problems?
The 2015 Kia Soul has the most NHTSA owner complaints (908) of the 2012–2025 model years.
How do I check if my Kia Soul has an open recall?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our free VIN check, or at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.