2018 Kia Soul recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Kia Soul and 219 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (141), power train (31), unknown or other (30). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 27–108 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2018 ranks #6 of 14 Soul model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (376). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
Recalls 1
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2018 Kia Soul. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Air bags
Problem: Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
Risk: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
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
I am reporting excessive engine oil consumption in my 2018 Kia Soul, VIN [XXX], with over 150,000 miles. The engine consumes approximately 1-2 quarts of oil every 1,000 miles. There are no visible external oil leaks, and the vehicle does not produce visible exhaust smoke. I am concerned that this excessive oil consumption may indicate an internal engine defect and could lead t…
This Kia has an oil consumption issue I need to add oil every 3 to 4 hundred miles also my oil gets black at least 1 week after an oil change.
This Kia has an oil consumption issue I need to add oil every 3 to 4 hundred miles also my oil gets black at least 1 week after an oil change.
Safety ratings
2018 Kia Soul SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2018 Kia Soul.
Soul
Auto (AM7) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo
Regular
Soul
Auto (S6) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Soul Electric
Auto (A1)
Electricity
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Kia Soul have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2018 Kia Soul, most recently for air bags (01/25/2022). 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 2018 Kia Soul?
Based on 219 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (141), power train (31), unknown or other (30).
Is the 2018 Kia Soul safe?
The 2018 Kia Soul earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2018 a good year for the Kia Soul?
The 2018 ranks #6 of 14 Soul model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (376). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2018 Kia Soul get?
EPA ratings for the 2018 Kia Soul range from 27 to 108 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2018 Kia Soul in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
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.