What are the most common problems with the 2014 Kia Soul?

The **engine** is a primary concern due to documented fire risk and potential internal damage from overheating catalytic converters. Verify recall completion and inspect for leaks.

How many recalls does the 2014 Kia Soul have?

The 2014 Kia Soul currently has 7 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2014 Kia Soul a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. The **engine** is a primary concern due to documented fire risk and potential internal damage from overheating catalytic converters. Verify recall completion and inspect for leaks. The **steering system** has seen multiple recalls, indicating a potential for component failure. Listen for noises and check for looseness during a test drive. While consumer complaints are low, a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) points to various potential issues that may not have triggered recalls. The 2014 Soul achieved top marks in frontal and side crash tests, with an overall 5-star NHTSA rating, offering good occupant protection. Fuel economy is respectable for its class, averaging 26 MPG combined, but high mileage examples may incur higher fuel costs. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2014 Kia Soul?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2014 Kia Soul.

2014 Kia Soul Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 10, 2026Daniel Wilson6 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

The engine is a primary concern due to documented fire risk and potential internal damage from overheating catalytic converters. Verify recall completion and inspect for leaks.
The steering system has seen multiple recalls, indicating a potential for component failure. Listen for noises and check for looseness during a test drive.
While consumer complaints are low, a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) points to various potential issues that may not have triggered recalls.
The 2014 Soul achieved top marks in frontal and side crash tests, with an overall 5-star NHTSA rating, offering good occupant protection.

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Overview

2014 Kia Soul

The 2014 Kia Soul offers a practical, if somewhat uninspired, package for used car shoppers. Its boxy design maximizes interior space, making it surprisingly versatile for its compact footprint. However, a history of significant recalls, particularly concerning engine fire risk and steering system integrity, demands careful scrutiny. While it boasts excellent safety ratings, potential buyers must weigh this against the documented mechanical concerns and a high TSB count, which suggests underlying systemic issues.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls address potential oil or fuel leaks that could lead to engine fires, and catalytic converter overheating causing internal engine damage. Remedies range from software updates to engine replacement.

Early detection can help you avoid a $0-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls7

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing interior space and practicality in a small car.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking a worry-free ownership experience with minimal potential for unexpected, costly repairs.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 Kia Soul Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 26

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Most Common Issues

1. Engine Fire Risk

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Steering System Failure

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

7 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2014 Kia Soul reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Kia Soul is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2014 Kia Soul for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2014 Kia Soul?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Kia Soul is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.4/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Kia Soul?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Fire/Internal Damage) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,000 • Max: $6,000+).

What engine is in the 2014 Kia Soul?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2014 Kia Soul use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Kia Soul, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Kia Soul?

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Kia Soul?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2014 Kia Soul?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Kia Soul, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2014 Kia Soul?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Kia Soul, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2014 Kia Soul use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Kia Soul, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 Kia Soul?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 Kia Soul?

This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2014 Kia Soul?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2014 Toyota Scion xB and 2014 Nissan Cube.