2017 Kia Soul Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2017 Kia Soul's primary ownership risk centers on a critical airbag control unit recall; verify its completion.
- Despite a high number of Technical Service Bulletins (31), consumer complaints are notably absent.
- Fuel economy is respectable, with a combined EPA rating of 27 MPG.
- Safety is a strong suit, with 5-star ratings in frontal and side crash tests.
2017 Kia Soul
The 2017 Kia Soul offers a practical and distinctive package for used car shoppers. Its boxy shape maximizes interior space, making it surprisingly versatile for its compact footprint. While it boasts excellent safety ratings, potential buyers should be aware of a notable recall concerning the airbag control unit, which impacts its overall reliability assessment. Despite zero consumer complaints logged, the recall activity and a high TSB count suggest thorough pre-purchase inspection is warranted.
Critical Failure Risk
Recalls indicate a defect where the ACU's electrical circuit can be damaged by its cover, potentially deactivating airbags. This is a critical safety system failure.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and distinctive compact car.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a vehicle with a proven track record of exceptional reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2017 Kia Soul Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Kia Soul.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27
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Most Common Issues
1. Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) Malfunction
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Engine Oil Leaks
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2017 Kia Soul reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Kia Soul is 8.3/10. Reliability score is 8.3/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2017 Kia Soul for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.5/10. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2017 Kia Soul?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Kia Soul is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.3/10. Practicality 5.5/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 Kia Soul?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) (estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).
What engine is in the 2017 Kia Soul?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.
What transmission does the 2017 Kia Soul use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Soul, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Kia Soul?
EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.
What kind of powertrain does the 2017 Kia Soul use?
Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Kia Soul?
9 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2017 Kia Soul?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Soul, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2017 Kia Soul?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Soul, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2017 Kia Soul use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Kia Soul, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 Kia Soul?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Kia Soul?
This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Kia Soul?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Honda Fit and 2017 Toyota Yaris.