2025 Kia Soul

Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues

Exterior lighting is the leading concern among 12 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 16th highest complaint count among 16 Soul model years with reports.

Complaints by model year
  1. 12

Of the 2025 reports, 2 involved a crash. 1 person was injured.

Primary concernExterior lighting4 reports · 33% of complaints
Owner complaints12Filed with NHTSA
Recall relationshipNo recalls on fileNHTSA campaign records

What owners report most often

  1. Exterior lighting4
  2. Other or unspecified3
  3. Forward collision avoidance2
  4. Lane departure2
  5. Service brakes2
  6. Air bags1
  7. Back over prevention1
  8. Engine1

Recalls and investigations

No safety recalls on file.

Representative owner complaints: service brakes

2 reports, newest first. Show all

  1. Suspension, Wheels, Service brakes, Feb 2, 2026

    I am submitting this complaint to report serious concerns regarding the quality, safety, and reliability of my new Kia Soul, as well as the financial burden caused by defects that should not occur on a vehicle with such low mileage. At approximately **8,500 miles**, one of the original tires failed prematurely. I was forced to purchase a used tire to keep the vehicle safely drivable. I had the front alignment inspected, and I was informed that it was within normal specifications, yet the tire issue persisted. Now at **10,000 miles**, I am still experiencing abnormal tire wear. Additionally, at **10,000 miles**, the vehicle began making **grinding noises when applying the brakes**, which is extremely concerning for a car that is still essentially new. These issues raise questions about the vehicle’s manufacturing quality and whether it meets reasonable consumer expectations for safety and durability. I purchased this vehicle with the expectation that it would be reliable and free from major defects. Instead, I am facing unexpected expenses, safety concerns, and ongoing problems that should be covered under warranty. I am now questioning whether I should continue making payments on a vehicle that is already showing signs of significant defects. I am requesting that the FTC review this matter as a potential issue involving product quality, warranty compliance, and consumer protection. I am seeking assistance in ensuring that Kia addresses these defects appropriately and that my rights as a consumer are upheld. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

  2. Vehicle speed control, Service brakes, Oct 14, 2025, crash

    While driving, the vehicle began accelerating (forced acceleration) without driver input. When driver attempted to stop or slow the vehicle down, the brakes were unresponsive due to the brake override system failure. Because the vehicle could not be stopped or slowed down, and to avoid hitting or harming others, driver veered off the road which caused the vehicle to flip multiple times and finally stop, landing on the roof. It was noted that the engine was still running at that time. The safety of the driver and others was in immediate risk, as the vehicle could not be controlled. The problem has not been reproduced by a dealer or independent service center. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.