This page covers 3 recalls, 653 owner complaints, NHTSA crash-test ratings and EPA fuel economy for the 2013 Kia Soul.
25–27 mpg combined
8.7–9.4 L/100km
Small Station Wagons
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 4 tested variants for this model year.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Engine and steering dominate the complaint picture for the 2013 Kia Soul. Engine complaints are the most common by a wide margin, with owners describing knocking, stalling, and sudden loss of power, in many cases tied to connecting rod failures that result in engine seizure or catastrophic internal damage. A recurring thread involves the engine warning light appearing shortly before the failure, though some owners report no warning at all. Steering complaints center heavily on the steering column coupler, where owners describe clicking, grinding, and progressive wear that affects steering feel and response. Service brake complaints are a distant third, with owners reporting reduced braking effectiveness. The engine failure pattern is the clearest signal here: connecting rod damage leading to a locked engine is mentioned across many reports, sometimes accompanied by smoke or fire.
653
Total Complaints
22
Crash-Related
44
Fire-Related
18
With Injuries
By System
The 2013 Kia Soul has 3 recalls, the most serious being an engine defect on 1.6L GDI-equipped models where piston or connecting rod failure can stall the engine or cause oil to escape through a punctured engine block.
On the electrical side, a fault in the anti-lock brake control module can cause an underhood fire while the vehicle is parked or in motion. There is also a structural concern specific to sunroof-equipped vehicles: the headliner plate near the curtain airbag can break free during airbag deployment in a crash, potentially striking an occupant.
At a glance
What can fail
The hydraulic electronic control unit may short electrically, potentially causing an engine compartment fire while the vehicle is parked or driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the HECU fuse at no charge to restore proper electrical function.
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Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
High exhaust temperatures can damage the catalytic converter, potentially causing abnormal engine combustion and damage to pistons or connecting rods.
What the fix does
Dealers will update the engine control system to prevent catalytic converter overheating, replace the damaged catalytic converter, and replace the engine if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The headliner plate above the sunroof may come loose when the curtain air bag deploys.
What the fix does
Dealers will install adhesive strips to secure the headliner plate to prevent detachment.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
