2023 Kia Soul Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant engine recall (25V099000) due to piston oil ring defects requires thorough inspection and verification of repair.
- Airbag system recall (23V830000) for unexpected side curtain deployment needs confirmation of remedy.
- Instrument cluster recall (23V298000) impacts driver information display and requires software updates.
- Transmission pump recall (23V531000) addresses potential overheating issues.
2023 Kia Soul
Critical Failure Risk
A critical recall addresses potential engine damage due to incorrectly manufactured piston oil rings. This can lead to excessive oil consumption, reduced engine performance, and ultimately, engine failure if not addressed.
Early detection can help you avoid a $2,000-$5,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
No primary complaint themes found.
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing distinctive styling and fuel efficiency.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers prioritizing long-term, worry-free mechanical reliability above all else.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2023 Kia Soul Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 Kia Soul.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 30
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Most Common Issues
1. Engine Oil Ring Defects
Most reportedUsage data observed
2. Instrument Cluster Malfunction
Usage data observed
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2023 Kia Soul reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 Kia Soul is 7.1/10. Reliability score is 7.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 13. Owner complaints: 0.
How practical is the 2023 Kia Soul for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.4/10. EPA combined economy is 30 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2023 Kia Soul?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 Kia Soul is 7.3/10. Overall score is 7.3/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 5.4/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 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 - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 15,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,000 • Max: $5,000+).
What engine is in the 2023 Kia Soul?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2023 Kia Soul use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Soul, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2023 Kia Soul?
EPA combined estimate is 30 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 Kia Soul?
14 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2023 Kia Soul?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Soul, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2023 Kia Soul?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Soul, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2023 Kia Soul use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 Kia Soul, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 Kia Soul?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 Kia Soul?
This model year has 13 official safety campaigns listed.