2011 Kia Soul Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2011 Kia Soul has an average reliability rating, underscoring the importance of a pre-purchase inspection.
- Critical safety recalls for the braking system's HECU and potential fire risk necessitate verification of completed repairs.
- Despite no reported complaints, a high TSB count indicates potential for various documented issues requiring dealer attention.
- Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 26 MPG combined, contributing to reasonable running costs.
2011 Kia Soul
The 2011 Kia Soul presents a practical, if not entirely trouble-free, option for used car shoppers. Its distinctive styling and decent fuel economy (26 MPG combined) are appealing. However, a history of significant safety recalls, particularly concerning the braking system's HECU and a fire risk from electrical shorts, alongside a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), points to potential reliability concerns. While consumer complaints are notably absent, the volume of TSBs suggests underlying issues may have been addressed proactively by dealers. Buyers should prioritize verifying recall completion and conducting a meticulous inspection of the braking and electrical systems.
Critical Failure Risk
The Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit (HECU) in the braking system can develop electrical shorts, leading to a risk of engine compartment fires. This is a critical safety recall.
Early detection can help you avoid a $100-$200 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious shoppers seeking distinctive styling and practical utility.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a vehicle with a proven, above-average reliability record.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2011 Kia Soul Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2011 Kia Soul.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic 4-spd
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. HECU Fire Risk
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Stop Lamp Switch Malfunction
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brakes and Fluid Level
Est. shop cost: $80 - $120
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FAQ
Is the 2011 Kia Soul reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2011 Kia Soul is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2011 Kia Soul for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG.
What is the overall score for the 2011 Kia Soul?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2011 Kia Soul is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2011 Kia Soul?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change and Filter Replacement (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brakes and Fluid Level at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: HECU (Braking System) (estimated cost Min: $0 (Recall)).
What engine is in the 2011 Kia Soul?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2011 Kia Soul use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Kia Soul, transmission is Automatic 4-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2011 Kia Soul?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2011 Kia Soul?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
What body style is the 2011 Kia Soul?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Kia Soul, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2011 Kia Soul use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2011 Kia Soul, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 4-spd.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2011 Kia Soul?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2011 Kia Soul?
This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.