Last updated: 2026-04-20

2019 KIA Soul Reliability Report
The 2019 KIA Soul scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 1 recall and 123 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
1
Complaints
123
Complaint Rate
12.6per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$437
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,150–$2,200
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- ENGINE (56)
- AIR BAGS (11)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is the last model year of the Second generation (PS).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 2 years after the last refresh (2017).
- 2nd generation Soul (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
2014: Second generation (PS) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2017: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2019: This Model Year
2019 is the last model year of the Second generation (PS).
Should You Buy the 2019 KIA Soul?
At 76/100, the 2019 KIA Soul lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is the last model year of the Second generation (PS).
Owners log 123 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to engine (56). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2020 KIA Soul, which scored 6 points lower. See also the 2018 KIA Soul for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +$29 cheaper to maintain than avg subcompact SUVs
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (9%)
Cons
- −ENGINE: Frequent engine failures in the 2019 Kia Soul, often linked to severe oil... (56 complaints)
- −UNKNOWN OR OTHER issues reported (15 complaints)
Compare 2019 KIA Soul With

2019 Hyundai Kona
Reliability: 55/100

2019 Nissan Kicks
Reliability: 73/100

2019 Chevrolet Trax
Reliability: 75/100

2019 Honda HR-V
Reliability: 75/100

2019 Jeep Compass
Reliability: 70/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ENGINE (56)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (15)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2019 KIA Soul carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
12.6
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 22
Safety Incidents
11
Crashes
7
Fires
12
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 KIA Soul Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2019 KIA Soul. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
AIR BAGS
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
Consequence
Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.
POWER TRAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Kia America, Inc. (KIA) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Soul EV vehicles. The parking mechanism may be damaged, which can result in unintended vehicle movement when the gear shift lever is in the Park 'P' position and the parking brake is not applied while the vehicle is powered on.
Consequence
Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will update the electronic control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC287. This recall expands and replaces recall number 20V-389. Vehicles previously repaired under 20V-389 will need to have the new remedy completed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Soul EV vehicles equipped with an E400 battery. The high-voltage battery pack may experience an electrical short-circuit while driving.
Consequence
A battery electrical short-circuit increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will update and/or replace the battery management system and software, as necessary, free of charge. The new software will illuminate the EV warning light, limit charging capacity, and reduce vehicle power if abnormal voltage is detected. If this occurs, the battery will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 18, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC267.
Buying a used 2019 KIA Soul? Check its history first
Every 2019 KIA Soul has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2019 KIA Soul NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 14.7%
Safety Technologies
KIA SoulRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4.5Maintenance rating: 4.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$437
vs $466 avg for subcompact SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.2
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
9%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
27–28 MPG
Running cost: $2,600–$2,650/yr
Fuel + repair
24–26 city / 30–31 hwy MPG
Electric
111 mi range
Fuel cost: $700/yr
Fuel only
31.226 kWh/100mi · 5 hrs @ 240V
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soul 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (AM7) | 26 | 31 | 28 | $2,150 |
| Soul 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 26 | 31 | 28 | $2,150 |
| Soul 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S6) | 25 | 30 | 27 | $2,200 |
| Soul 1.6L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Manual 6-spd | 24 | 30 | 27 | $2,200 |
Electric trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | Range | kWh/100mi | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soul Electric | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 111 mi | 31.2 | $700 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 KIA Soul.
Check for excessive oil consumption by inspecting oil levels frequently
Inspect catalytic converter for clogs or damage
Test steering for looseness or knocking sounds
Verify if engine recall work has been completed
Test brakes for responsiveness and pedal travel
Inspect for any signs of electrical overheating or smoke
2019 KIA Soul Common Problems by Component
123 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ENGINE
56 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent engine failures in the 2019 Kia Soul, often linked to severe oil consumption and piston ring defects. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as engine stalling, knocking noises, and sudden power loss, with some incidents occurring at highway speeds. These issues commonly arise around 90,000 to 120,000 miles, often just beyond warranty coverage. Safety implications are significant, with reports of engine fires and sudden loss of power posing risks of accidents. Used car buyers should be aware of the potential for costly repairs, such as engine replacements, and the possibility of encountering unresolved defects.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
15 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Kia Soul frequently report issues related to excessive oil consumption, with several complaints describing the need to add oil multiple times within short mileage intervals, often between 98,000 to 100,000 miles. Symptoms include burning oil smells, engine stalling, and in some cases, complete engine failure. Safety concerns are evident, as two complaints involve crashes, one due to brake and steering failure and another due to unintended vehicle movement, resulting in injury. Additionally, a fire incident is reported following engine noise and warning lights, leading to total vehicle loss. Prospective buyers should be aware of these patterns, particularly in vehicles with higher mileage.
AIR BAGS
11 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 KIA Soul frequently report issues with airbag non-deployment during crashes, with eight complaints involving such incidents. Common symptoms described include airbags failing to deploy in frontal or side impacts, even in severe collisions. Injuries are reported in several cases, including head, neck, and back injuries, as well as bruising from steering wheel impact. The complaints span various mileage ranges, with one specific report mentioning approximately 120,000 miles. Buyers should be aware that these reports often involve significant safety implications, as the lack of airbag deployment is associated with multiple injuries.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
9 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several electrical issues with the 2019 KIA Soul, with complaints frequently mentioning problems related to the fan control switch overheating, resulting in melted components and, in one case, smoke from the dashboard. Multiple owners describe engine shutdowns while driving, sometimes accompanied by a lack of warning lights, low oil levels, or knocking sounds. One incident involved a crash due to the vehicle shutting off, and another detailed an engine fire. These issues typically occur around 60,000 to 81,000 miles. Potential buyers should be aware of these safety implications, including the risk of fire and loss of vehicle control.
SERVICE BRAKES (8 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
8 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Kia Soul frequently report issues with the service brakes, with several complaints describing the brake pedal going to the floor and the vehicle failing to stop. Symptoms often include the brake pedal becoming unresponsive or requiring excessive force, sometimes accompanied by warning lights such as ABS and AED. These issues are noted at various mileages, with some occurring as early as 400 miles, and others around 73,000 to 80,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, as two complaints involve crashes with injuries reported due to brake failure. Buyers should be aware of potential brake system malfunctions that could lead to loss of vehicle control.
POWER TRAIN (6 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
6 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Kia Soul frequently report issues related to excessive oil consumption and power loss. Complaints describe symptoms such as sudden vibrations, delayed throttle response, and engine misfires, often accompanied by the check engine light. Several owners mention catalytic converter problems, with some noting these issues arise around 80,000 miles. There are reports of potential safety implications, including power loss at critical moments and the risk of fire due to oil consumption. Additionally, one owner reports a transmission failure at approximately 73,000 miles, further highlighting potential power train concerns.
STEERING (5 complaints)
STEERING
5 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Kia Soul frequently report issues with the steering system, particularly involving the steering wheel coupling and coupler. Symptoms described include a loose or vibrating steering wheel, knocking sounds, and in some cases, a complete loss of power steering. These issues often occur at varying mileages, with one report at approximately 122,000 miles and another at 33,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, including near-loss of vehicle control and a high-speed incident involving a detached control arm. Additionally, one owner reports repeated thefts leading to steering column damage, highlighting a potential vulnerability in the vehicle's security.
FUEL SYSTEM (3 complaints)
FUEL SYSTEM
3 complaintsOwners of the 2019 Kia Soul report issues with the fuel system, primarily involving severe corrosion on fuel tank straps and problems with fuel injectors. Complaints frequently mention sudden loss of power while driving at highway speeds, with vehicles stalling or failing to accelerate beyond certain speeds. These issues are noted at mileages around 37,754 to 56,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, the sudden loss of power could pose safety risks, especially at high speeds. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential fuel system failures and consider inspecting these components before purchase.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 Kia Soul report two primary issues related to the engine and engine cooling system. Multiple complaints describe excessive oil consumption, with some owners needing to add quarts of oil weekly, even in the absence of visible leaks. This issue is noted at mileages around 90,000 to 99,000. Another significant issue involves a reported incident where the vehicle caught fire while driving, attributed to a connecting rod failure, at approximately 65,000 miles. This incident highlights potential safety risks, including fire hazards and loss of braking capability. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these issues, particularly at higher mileages.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2019 KIA Soul report issues with the fuel propulsion system, specifically concerning fuel injectors and engine response. One complaint describes fuel injectors getting stuck open, resulting in a flooded engine, with two out of four injectors identified as faulty in a vehicle under 18 months old. Another owner reports the vehicle stalling and delayed engine response when the gas pedal is pressed, particularly at low speeds or during turns, posing a potential safety risk in traffic situations. These issues occur relatively early in the vehicle's life, suggesting a pattern of early component failure. Buyers should be aware of these symptoms and consider the potential need for fuel system repairs.
When Do 2019 KIA Soul Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst KIA Soul Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best KIA Soul Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best KIA Soul year is 2024 with a reliability score of 86/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (85/100) and 2022 (78/100).
KIA Soul Years to Avoid
The worst KIA Soul year is 2020 with a score of 70/100, primarily due to engine (144) issues. Also avoid 2021 (72/100).
KIA Soul Reliability Score Trend
KIA Soul reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 82/100 compared to 73/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 70/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 72/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 86/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 85/100 | Excellent |
KIA Soul Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 KIA Soul reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 KIA Soul?
How many recalls does the 2019 KIA Soul have?
Is the 2019 KIA Soul expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2019 KIA Soul without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the KIA Soul.
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