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2019 Kia Soul Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026·Ryan Davis·5 Critical Recalls
2019 Kia Soul Report

Overall Score

7.0/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Kia Soul achieved top marks in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall rating.
  • Fuel economy is a strong suit, with a combined EPA rating of 27 MPG.
  • A significant safety recall affects the airbag control unit, potentially disabling airbags. Buyers must verify this recall has been addressed.
  • Despite no reported consumer complaints, a high TSB count suggests other minor issues may arise.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Kia Soul

The 2019 Kia Soul presents a compelling option for used car shoppers seeking a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and distinctive styling. Its compact SUV-like profile offers surprising interior space for its footprint, making it versatile for urban commuting and light hauling. While the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and automatic transmission deliver adequate performance for daily driving, the vehicle's standout features are its excellent safety ratings and commendable fuel economy. However, a critical safety recall related to the airbag control unit impacts its overall reliability assessment, underscoring the importance of thorough pre-purchase inspections.

Critical Failure Risk

A significant safety recall addresses potential circuit damage in the Air Bag Control Unit (ACU), which can lead to deactivated airbags. This is a critical safety concern impacting occupant protection.

Early detection can reduce the odds of major repair bills.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
27
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.1/ 10

Practicality

5.5/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers seeking exhilarating performance or sporty handling.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Kia Soul Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 Kia Soul.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
27

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbag Control Unit (ACU) Defect

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Brake Wear

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 - Inspect Brakes

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 (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
5 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Kia Soul reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Kia Soul is 8.1/10. Reliability score is 8.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2019 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 2019 Kia Soul?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Kia Soul is 7.0/10. Overall score is 7.0/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.5/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag Control Unit (ACU) (estimated cost Min: Covered by Recall).

What engine is in the 2019 Kia Soul?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2019 Kia Soul use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Soul, transmission is Automated Manual Transmission (AMT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Kia Soul?▾

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What kind of powertrain does the 2019 Kia Soul use?▾

Powertrain classification is Battery Electric (BEV).

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Kia Soul?▾

8 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Kia Soul?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Soul, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Kia Soul?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Soul, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Kia Soul use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Kia Soul, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automated Manual Transmission (AMT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 Kia Soul?▾

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Kia Soul?▾

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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