What are the most common problems with the 2022 Kia Soul?

A critical engine defect affecting piston oil rings poses a risk of catastrophic failure. Confirm recall completion.

How many recalls does the 2022 Kia Soul have?

The 2022 Kia Soul currently has 1 recall on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2022 Kia Soul a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. A critical engine defect affecting piston oil rings poses a risk of catastrophic failure. Confirm recall completion. The 2022 Kia Soul achieves an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined, contributing to reasonable running costs. NHTSA awarded the Soul a 4-star overall safety rating, with a perfect 5-star score in side crash tests. Despite a lack of consumer complaints, the engine recall and numerous TSBs suggest potential for other issues. The 1.6L four-cylinder engine paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) prioritizes efficiency over performance. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2022 Kia Soul?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2022 Kia Soul.

2022 Kia Soul Report

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

Updated Jun 10, 2026Daniel Wilson1 Critical Recall

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

A critical engine defect affecting piston oil rings poses a risk of catastrophic failure. Confirm recall completion.
The 2022 Kia Soul achieves an EPA-estimated 29 MPG combined, contributing to reasonable running costs.
NHTSA awarded the Soul a 4-star overall safety rating, with a perfect 5-star score in side crash tests.
Despite a lack of consumer complaints, the engine recall and numerous TSBs suggest potential for other issues.

See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $

Overview

2022 Kia Soul

The 2022 Kia Soul is a compact car known for its distinctive styling and practical interior. For used car shoppers, it offers a generally fuel-efficient package with respectable safety scores. However, a significant engine defect identified by a recall campaign demands careful consideration and thorough inspection before purchase. This issue, involving faulty piston oil rings, can lead to catastrophic engine failure, a risk that overshadows otherwise positive attributes like its 29 MPG combined fuel economy and 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating.

Critical Failure Risk

A critical defect involving incorrectly manufactured piston oil rings can lead to potential engine damage and catastrophic failure. This issue is addressed by recall 25V099000.

Early detection can help you avoid a $4,000-$7,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls1

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

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient compact car.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a vehicle with a flawless reliability record.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Kia Soul Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 29

CarFocal account required

See the full 2022 Kia Soul buyer report before you decide

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

Most Common Issues

1. Engine Internal Mechanical Failure

Most reported

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 - Fluid Level Checks

Est. shop cost: $100 - $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

1 recall campaign details & remedy notes

Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

Is the 2022 Kia Soul reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Kia Soul is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 1. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2022 Kia Soul for daily use?

Practicality score is 7.1/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. EPA combined economy is 29 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 685 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Kia Soul?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Kia Soul is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 7.1/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 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 - Fluid Level Checks at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $4,000 • Max: $7,000+).

What engine is in the 2022 Kia Soul?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.

What transmission does the 2022 Kia Soul use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Soul, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2022 Kia Soul?

EPA combined estimate is 29 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 Kia Soul?

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

How many people fit in a 2022 Kia Soul?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Soul, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2022 Kia Soul?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Soul, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2022 Kia Soul use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Kia Soul, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2022 Kia Soul?

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

Are there open safety recalls on the 2022 Kia Soul?

This model year has 1 official safety campaigns listed.