2021 Kia Soul
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Engine is the leading concern among 234 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 8th highest complaint count among 16 Soul model years with reports.
Of the 2021 reports, 12 involved a crash and 3 involved a fire. 5 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Engine and engine cooling, engine, hard parts internal/mechanicalFeb 17, 2025
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.
Campaign 25V099000 on NHTSA.gov
EngineApr 13, 2021
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.
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.
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.
Campaign 21V259000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints: engine
180 reports, newest first. Show all
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 17, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact stated that the vehicle consumes one quart of engine oil every 1,000 miles. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 30,000.
Engine, Sep 12, 2025
Basically since I bought this car back 2020, brand new, the engine loses oil. Vehicle even stalled in the middle of the highway because there was no oil and no warning at all. Kia dealership tells me over and over that there is nothing wrong with it, after doing oil testing for 1000 miles. They have replaced components but nothing has worked so far. Latest issue that after 2700 miles from an oil change, I had to fill it up with oil. Now my car has about 57000 miles on it.
Engine and engine cooling, Sep 8, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while accelerating from a complete stop, the vehicle shuddered, and there was an abnormal rumbling and clunking sound coming from the engine. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling), and the vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software was installed; however, the failure recurred and progressively worsened. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road and restart the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and the vehicle could not be restarted. Additionally, the vehicle experienced excessive oil consumption. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the starter was replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The dealer diagnosed that the engine had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to the recall, but the dealer informed the contact that the repair could not be covered under the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure several times, but no assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
Engine, Sep 6, 2025
New updated testing for recall regarding Piston Oil Rings seems to be faulty. My engine failed with previous testing, which is consistent with the issues my engine is having. However, the new testing claims that my engine has passed even though it is evident that my engine is not in good standing and should have failed. Extreme oil consumption is the number one sign of the faulty piston oil rings, which my car does. I have to add oil every couple of weeks.
Engine, Sep 2, 2025
In November 2024, I was having issues with oil consumption and my car stalling while driving. I took it into Bob Sight Kia and explained that I'm constantly having to change or add oil to my car. They ran diagnostics and "fixed" the issue without any requests of maintenance records. The very next day after I picked it up, my oil light came on. I changed my oil November 2024, January 2025, March 2025, April 2025, May 2025. On May 10, 2025, while driving back from a family emergency, my transmission went out. I had it towed to Bob Sight Kia and was told the transmission would need replaced and it is under warranty, they did not request maintenance records then either. The transimission was replaced and I picked up my vehicle on June 5, 2025. My car started stalling again July 2025 and August 2025, I changed the oil each time. I took it back to Bob Sight Kia and was told I needed to provide maintenance records this time. I provided receipts of the above dates I changed my oil but was told my claim is being denied due to not having maintenance records from 2022 and 2023. I have called Kia Consumer Affairs and Bob Sight Kia. The general manager at Bob Sight Kia told me my car had been misdiagnosed in November 2024. I have explained to Kia Consumer Affairs exactly what I have been told by the dealership but they still refuse to replace the engine. My car currently has 73k miles and I am having to change my oil every 1500 miles. I believe my vehicle is under the engine recall and Kia will not honor it
Engine, Aug 22, 2025
We are experiencing problems consistent with the issues identified in recall SC336, which pertains to defective piston rings potentially leading to increased oil consumption and engine damage. Specifically, for an extended period of time we have encountered significant oil consumption, the check engine light turning on repeatedly, engine overheating, and abnormal temperature gauge readings. Additionally, our vehicle has stalled multiple times while driving, lost power, and exhibited jerky acceleration, along with strange noises from the engine. These stalling incidents, in particular, were extremely frightening and created unsafe conditions on the road for our traveling family. We previously contacted members of Kia’s corporate office in early April 2025 (we can forward email), but unfortunately, we initially never received a response from Kia with respect to our email. We brought our vehicle to Wesley Chapel Kia for the recall service on June 9th; however, no repairs were made. Our engine was not replaced. We were told our vehicle passed the vibration test, which we find insufficient. The check engine light returned shortly after the visit to address the recall. We are aware that Kia changed the procedure for the recall inspection after the initial recall was announced. We have read accounts online from other Kia owners whose vehicles originally failed the recall inspection and were due for engine replacement—only to pass under the new testing protocol. This shift in procedure was never explained to us during our recall appointment, and we have serious concerns about the effectiveness of the updated remedy program. The lack of transparency and the unresolved issues with our vehicle leave us deeply dissatisfied and looking for answers. We are seeking assistance in understanding what steps we can take to ensure the safety and reliability of our vehicle and to hold the manufacturer accountable for following through on their recall commitments.
Engine, Aug 21, 2025
In May 2025, my 2021 kia soul engine suddenly seized while I was driving close to my home. I took it to my local Kia dealership to have it inspected in which they said my engine needed to be replaced but did not identify exactly what caused my engine to fail. I have not had any issues with my car before this happened and kept up with oil changes, etc.I also told the service department about the recent recall on my vehicle regarding faulty piston rings leading to engine failure. Due to not having an extended warranty, I was told the replacement would be around $10,000. I reached out to them Kia Customer care to see if they could provide assistance considering this was something I did no t expect to happen. I decided to have it towed to a mechanic my family knows and he had my engine rebuilt for lower cost. Today (8/21/2025), we picked up the car which started out good initially but still demonstrated the same issue with the engine failing after driving it one time. My VIN is not in the recall list but I am not understanding how my vehicle which was performing perfectly, all of sudden seized on me. Prior to my engine failing, there were no dashboard indicators that anything needed to be inspected. They appeared after the engine seized. Fortunately, when my engine seized, I just turned into my neighborhood but I'm sure if I was a couple seconds or minutes late, my safety would have been at risk considering I live off a busy highway.
Engine, Aug 15, 2025
My vehicle was originally diagnosed (after recall) with a defective engine and I was to be notified when the replacement engine arrived. On a subsequent visit to the dealer to repair an additional check engine light episode I was informed that the replacement engine was no longer needed and that Kia was installing software to monitor the condition of the piston rings. On [XXX] (third incident) while operating my vehicle in heavy traffic the check engine light went on and the vehicle immediately started to lose power and developed an engine noise which continued as i immediately drove to the Kia dealership and when I arrived there was a burning smell when I got out of the vehicle and I was told it would be two weeks before they would diagnose the incident. The vehicle continues to sit at International Kia of Orland Hills, Il 60462. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine and engine cooling, Aug 14, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact had received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING). The vehicle was taken to a local dealer and repaired under the recall; however, the failure occurred. The contact stated that soon after the recall repair, the failure occurred while driving at an undisclosed speed and accelerating. The contact stated that the engine sputtered and stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact was informed that the recall repair had already been performed on the vehicle. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 81,073.
Electrical system, Engine, Aug 13, 2025
When the car was originally going out, the check engine light came on and the engine was making a funny sound, then after we filled up on gas like 10-15 miles later, the engine shut off and stopped accelerating but all of the electronics were still coming on, the battery and oil pressure light came on as well, we pulled it over and when trying to start, it was cranking but not coming on, but the electronics and everything was still working just fine, radio worked and my phone was charging, eventually when we tried cranking again, the engine started rattling and grinding . Towed it to Kia. KIA said they did every test possible on the car and are about 90% sure that the car needs a new ecu, but that kia doesn't manufacture that part anymore and that if they made it, it could take 2 weeks to 4 months, they're saying that it's not apart of the warranty so it would be expensive. They said that the best bet would be to trade in the car. Then they asked for all receipts for oil changes. Then they said it's the camshaft. "Wanted to reach out to let you know we need to replace the Cam shaft, the camshaft phaser and valve cover gasket before we can do the test for the recall this will cost about $1530". He said this after already saying they tested it. They are refusing to repair the recall. This is the Kia dealership in Gettysburg PA.
Steering, Power train, Engine, Aug 12, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced a transmission failure, and the transmission was replaced by the dealer. The contact stated that the dealer also replaced the rack and pinion due to an abnormal clunking sound coming from the steering wheel. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was experiencing abnormal oil consumption. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an oil consumption test was performed. The contact returned to the dealer after driving for 1,000 miles on three occasions. The dealer determined that the vehicle was not experiencing excessive oil consumption. The dealer replaced the motor mounts. The contact related the abnormal oil consumption to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine), which was previously performed on the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 4,815.
Engine, Jul 31, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from the engine compartment, and the steering wheel was slightly difficult to turn. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by the dealer or an independent mechanic. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine); which was previously performed on the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 24,000.
Engine, Jul 22, 2025
While driving, the vehicle began running rough and stalled shortly after. It would not restart. The vehicle was towed to a dealership, where they diagnosed “excessive cylinder wall scoring” and no engine compression. This matches the symptoms described in Recall SC336, which affects piston oil rings and can lead to engine failure, stalling, or fire. The dealer confirmed the engine won’t turn over and compression is lost, but they refused to perform the required piston ring inspection under the recall. They stated I would need to pay for an engine tear-down first. However, according to the recall remedy, the inspection and engine replacement should be performed free of charge if symptoms are present. The issue occurred without warning, leaving me without transportation and unable to safely pick up my child. I have opened a case with the manufacturer and am awaiting their review.
Engine, Jul 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V259000 (Engine). The contact stated that the check engine warning light was flashing. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for the recall repair. The dealer cleared the check engine warning light code and deployed the Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The dealer advised the contact to bring the vehicle back if the failure recurred. The dealer marked the recall as completed. The contact stated that the failure recurred, and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where DTC: P1327 (Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) was retrieved, and the dealer diagnosed the vehicle with piston vibration. The dealer determined that the engine needed to be replaced; however, the dealer informed the contact that the failure was not related to the recall. The vehicle was not repaired, but the dealer cleared the diagnostic trouble code. Additionally, the vehicle was taken to AutoZone, where DTC: P1327 (Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) was retrieved, and the contact was informed that there was a vibration in cylinder #3. The contact stated that the failure recurred, and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where DTC: P1327 (Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) was retrieved; however, the dealer informed the contact that the vehicle passed the SC336 recall inspection test. The contact stated that the dealer performed the test in 20 minutes. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the engine was previously replaced at 67,000 miles. The dealer and the manufacturer informed the contact that once the district manager became available a determination would be made if the engine should be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 128,495.
Engine, Jul 10, 2025
Engine burns oil irregularly and quickly. In October 2022, the check engine light was on and stalled while driving. Kia dealership in Sioux City stated my vehicle was not part of the original recall. The car was under warranty and they kept it for nearly 2 months to repair. Vehicle started stalling again last winter. Was told mice ate wires per dealership. In June 2025 - oil still burning quickly despite getting on time and regular oil changes. This time while driving on the interstate the check engine light came on again. Went to my local mechanic immediately (Car is out of warranty per mileage 85,000) and I hate the dealership - bone dry oil. They are convinced it's the pistons. Called the dealership. They made me call Kia. Kia claims my vehicle is not effected by the updated April recall - but they could repair my...horn. This car is dangerous. It constantly makes a knocking sound. I check the oil twice a week and have to add oil accordingly like it's a 1978 Buick. If this car stalls out while I'm commuting to work on an interstate, I and others could be seriously injured.
Engine, Jun 27, 2025
Saw that there was a recall for faulty oil piston rings on my Kia 2021 soul received the letter from Kia in mid to late April made the appointment with Coughlin Kia of Newark for May 5. Coughlin Kia canceled it on May 4 June 24 had to have my Kia towed to Coughlin Kia of Newark June 20 27. They said Oil was going through my piston rings. There was vertical scoring on the cylinder walls, but they said that it was not because of the recall and I would have to pay $7000 to fix it even though I hid made the appointment and they canceled it. I had talked to Kia manufacturing in late February and had them record my call and ask them what do I do in the meantime because my Kia is burning a lot of oiland their response was we don’t know now I have engine failure and they’re claiming that they won’t fix it, even though it is under the recall.
Engine, Jun 25, 2025
Recall by KIA for engine malfunction--website/nhtsa shows multiple recalls, issues & motor replacements due to Piston Oil Ring issues that could result in stall or fire; had 2 recall dealer inspections citing need for camshift replacement, & SC336 Piston Oil Ring failure. Engine has used excessive oil (now 3+ qts in 3000 miles) which nhtsa lists as issue with the engines--recall was issued for this engine 2/17/2025, letters sent 4/4/2025 which I never received, oil consumption occurred over years/months. Techs at dealer told me operation of the engine "can be detrimental". KIA refuses to replace or repair the engine--this has been noted by nhtsa. Independent testing (2) indicates camshaft and crankshaft sensors are not in sync. I am fearful to operate the vehicle due to danger of stalling and/or fire, which could cause crash or injury. I ask for NHTSA to enforce their directions to KIA and replace the engine.
Engine, Jun 25, 2025
Unusual engine oil consumption. Engine using 1 quart of engine oil every 1000 miles. Not normal.
Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 18, 2025
I took my 2021 Kia Soul to Kia of Leesburg here in Florida, and dropped it off yesterday June 17th, per service department request and was told that they were going try to repair the multiple recalls on this vehicle. They told me that it was going to be 24-48 hours before I was going to be able to get it back when I called, regarding my safety critical recall. So, I dropped it off last night as instructed, the KIA of Leesburg service department called me today stating that due to sludge in the engine, they're refusing to fix the recalls, and stated that I owe them $200 before I am able to pick up my vehicle
Engine, Jun 12, 2025
My car had sputtered leaving gas station I took it to my mechanic February 17 had engine coil and spark plugs replaced There was a anti theft recall for software update I took my car to Kia dealer and they preform the update As I was waiting I looked up my vin for any other recalls and there was one but letters would not be sent out till April 4 2025 On May 10 th my car had loss power and on the 12 th I called Kia and they said there was a recall for sc336 piston oil rings I took my car in on May 17 they did a software update 2 days latter my car was making a knocking sound I had that repaired by my machanic on May 20th I received a email from Kia reference a up date to the recall and says my car will be fixed with no charge I spoke with a Kia representative and out in a claim for reimbursement but was denied…. WS my repairs related to the recall SC336 if so I would like to be reimbursed please help me get this resolved I would think Kia would send me a detailed explanation on why my part that was repaired are not reimbursed
Engine and engine cooling, Jun 10, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling). The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence. The contact stated that a recall appointment with a local dealer was scheduled; however, while driving to the dealer the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled while at the dealer. The dealer attempted to restart the vehicle and then ran several tests on the vehicle. The dealer stated that the engine had failed; however, the dealer would not be replacing the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 95,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Engine, Jun 8, 2025
my vehicle was part of a recall for the piston oil rings. the car was taken to KIA for testing. The car failed the test and I was told that the engine would need to be replaced (I have a video and test results of the failed test. Then KIA stated that too many cars were failing and that they were redoing the test. My car was in the Kia repair shop waiting for an engine that was ordered. KIA cancelled my engine and my car was tested with the new test and it passed. After two weeks of being in the repair shop I was told to come and get it. This not only appears unethical but a blatant attempt to circumvent the recall.
Power train, Engine, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 7, 2025
[XXX], the vehicle was delivered to Crain KIA dealership located in Conway, Arkansas, due to failure of engine to start (engine would turn over but not run). I scheduled a service appointment for May 20th at 0930, for the car to be evaluated/troubleshot. While at the KIA dealership service desk, I discussed KIA SAFETY RECALL SC336, and that my VIN# was effected by the recall (verified by speaking with KIA Customer Care representative) and by using NHTSA's VIN/Recall search engine. At that time, I disclosed that the car was a SALVAGE TITLE vehicle, but was restored, looked nearly brand new and was otherwise operational prior to the engine "no start" condition (4 months of ownership). The service team at the dealership confirmed the SALVAGE TITLE via "Carfax", however they noted that KIA's internal VIN/TITLE database DID NOT REFLECT the car as salvaged. Crain Kia dealership then decided to submit the car for KIA's SAFETY RECALL inspection and possibly warranty work since the vehicle has not exceeded the 5yr/60,000 mile limited basic warranty. Unfortunately, the dealership did not open a "tech-line case' until approximately 15 days later. Tech-line communication between the service technician and KIA's engineering/recall rep, directed the dealership to perform an engine wet/dry compression test (due to deficient piston oil-rings). On June 5th, Crain KIA notified me that the resulting 'LOW" compression test results indicated that the piston rings were faulty, and that the engine would need to be replaced. Additionally, they told me that the vehicle would NOT BE ELIGIBLE for factory warranty due to the SALVAGE TITLE and that I would be responsible for engine change costs. Moreover, the dealership's service team charged me for the cost of the compression testing. I have thoroughly reviewed the KIA recall SC336 documentation as well as NHTSA's 25V-099 bulletin and verified that neither notices proclaim, exclude or deny coverage to salvage title vehicles. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine, Jun 4, 2025
While driving to work [XXX] my engine seized on the highway, going 50mph, leaving me struggling to get it to the side of the road and out of traffic. No warning lights came on, no signs of any kind to alert me. Car completely shut off while moving at a high enough rate of speed for a fatality or serious injuries, to myself and other drivers. Immediately that day, after calling KIA, I was informed of the engine recall that wasn't in effect yet. Shortly after that I received two notices in the mail from KIA, two recalls, regarding my VIN number. I towed the car to KIA in Blufton SC from Pembroke GA, after towing it home from the side of the road. All at my own expense. KIA informed me 6/02/2025 that they will not perform any repairs free of charge because I am "out of warranty coverage". I am still making payments on this vehicle, and have not been in possession of nor been able to drive it, for several months now. I am the second owner, purchased the car December 2023, with 40,000 miles or so on it. Mileage now is roughly 85,000. And I still owe $12,000 on the vehicle. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Engine and engine cooling, Jun 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The dealer was contacted. The contact was informed that the recall repair was on hold. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.