2016 Kia Soul recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Kia Soul and 823 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (561), unknown or other (125), engine and engine cooling (106). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 26–27 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2016 ranks #12 of 14 Soul model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (376). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2016 Kia Soul. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Engine
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.
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.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
Vehicle suffered a sudden, dangerous loss of power on the highway at 70 mph, dropping immediately to 20 mph, creating a severe safety risk. The vehicle has an active P0420 code. The official NHTSA database confirms that Safety Recall SC176 (Campaign 19V120) is INCOMPLETE for this vehicle. However, the KIA dealership and KIA corporate are actively refusing to honor the federal r…
I have a 2016 kia soul that has been having drinking oil every 2-3 weeks but there isnt any oil leaking on the ground.last week i was driving home and my car woulnt go over 20mph i took it to kia and they said i need a catalytic converter the oil is still escaping somewhere and when i looked at the recalls my vin didnt show i had any but my car is somehow having the same issue…
Dear Kia Customer Care, I am writing to formally express my disappointment and serious concern regarding my 2016 Kia Soul, VIN [XXX], its engine failure, the applicable engine recall/warranty coverage, and my experience obtaining assistance and repairs through Kia. Most importantly, this situation involved more than an inconvenience or ordinary mechanical problem. My son's sa…
Safety ratings
2016 Kia Soul SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2016 Kia Soul.
Soul
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Soul
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L
Regular
Soul ECO dynamics
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2016 Kia Soul have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2016 Kia Soul, most recently for engine (02/22/2019). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Kia Soul?
Based on 823 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (561), unknown or other (125), engine and engine cooling (106).
Is the 2016 Kia Soul safe?
The 2016 Kia Soul earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2016 a good year for the Kia Soul?
The 2016 ranks #12 of 14 Soul model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (376). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2016 Kia Soul get?
EPA ratings for the 2016 Kia Soul range from 26 to 27 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2016 Kia Soul in South Carolina?
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Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: SOUL, Soul.