2020 Kia Soul recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2020 Kia Soul and 387 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are engine (244), power train (91), unknown or other (52). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 29–31 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2020 ranks #9 of 14 Soul model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more 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 2020 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 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.
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
The car stalled at red light. After a few minutes cranked back up.
On [XXX], my 2020 Kia Soul (2.0L Nu MPI, VIN [XXX], approximately 102,420 miles) suffered total engine failure: complete loss of motive power, stalled and would not restart. This is the exact defect covered by federal recall 21V259000 / Kia SC209 (piston oil rings causing engine damage and stalling). The SC209 recall remedy had already been performed on this vehicle at Kia of D…
On XXX my 2020 Kia Soul while on the freeway, would not accelerate and silently stalled. The check engine, oil, and battery light all came on. Putting it into Park and then Drive again, the vehicle began shifting backwards. The vehicle could not be safely driven and was towed to Kearny Mesa Kia in [XXX]. The dealer diagnosed code P0017 (crankshaft position and camshaft positio…
Safety ratings
2020 Kia Soul SUV FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2020 Kia Soul.
Soul
Auto (AM-S7) · 4 cyl · 1.6 L · Turbo
Regular
Soul
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Soul Eco dynamics
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 2.0 L
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2020 Kia Soul have?
NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2020 Kia Soul, most recently for engine (04/13/2021). 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 2020 Kia Soul?
Based on 387 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are engine (244), power train (91), unknown or other (52).
Is the 2020 Kia Soul safe?
The 2020 Kia Soul earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2020 a good year for the Kia Soul?
The 2020 ranks #9 of 14 Soul model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with more complaints than the average year (376). It has 1 recall vs. an average of 2.0 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2020 Kia Soul get?
EPA ratings for the 2020 Kia Soul range from 29 to 31 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2020 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.