2019 Kia Soul recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2019 Kia Soul and 137 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (88), unknown or other (19), air bags (15). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 27–108 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2019 ranks #5 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 2019 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
Engine seized while driving with no warning. Dealer has submitted findings to kia corporate techline for powertrain warranty claim which is requesting a $700 engine teardown at my expense
Burns way to much oil then it should for a 2019. I have to put a quart of oil in every 1,000 miles due to the oil consumption the motor does.
My 2019 Kia Soul has been professionally diagnosed with DTC B162000, “Internal Fault – Replace SRSCM,” involving the Supplemental Restraint System/Airbag Control Module. My repair shop documented this diagnosis on August 24, 2026. Kia Safety Recall SC226 / NHTSA Recall 22V-031 addresses an Airbag Control Unit defect in certain 2017-2019 Kia Souls and specifically addresses vehi…
Safety ratings
2019 Kia Soul SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2019 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 2019 Kia Soul have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2019 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 2019 Kia Soul?
Based on 137 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (88), unknown or other (19), air bags (15).
Is the 2019 Kia Soul safe?
The 2019 Kia Soul earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2019 a good year for the Kia Soul?
The 2019 ranks #5 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 2019 Kia Soul get?
EPA ratings for the 2019 Kia Soul range from 27 to 108 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2019 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.