2023 KIA Soul Reliability Report

Owners report several engine-related issues with the 2023 KIA Soul. Commonly noted symptoms include engine stalling and loss of motive power while driving, often without any warning lights. Some owners describe severe engine failures, such as pistons shooting out or needing complete engine replacements, with these incidents occurring at mileages ranging from approximately 5,800 to 20,000 miles. A few reports also mention difficulties with vehicle control, such as being unable to reverse or turn, which could have safety implications in traffic situations. These issues suggest potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers, particularly regarding engine performance and vehicle control.

Owners report issues with the airbag system in the 2023 Kia Soul, primarily involving faulty airbag deployment. One complaint details the steering wheel airbag exploding upon minor impact without fully deploying or making contact with the driver, while other airbags did not deploy at all. Another owner describes intermittent system errors, including airbag system failure warnings, which occur at various speeds and have not been resolved despite multiple dealership visits. These issues are reported in vehicles with less than 5,000 miles and can be distracting and concerning for drivers. Safety implications include potential inadequate protection during collisions due to airbag malfunctions.

Owners of the 2023 Kia Soul report issues primarily related to the power train, with some noting problems following a recall repair for the electric oil pump controller. Common symptoms include unintended activation of cruise control and intermittent activation of Lane Keep Assist. One report describes a delay in the fuel gauge reading after refueling. Mileage at the time of these issues is reported around 33,000 miles. Additionally, there is a serious incident involving a crash and fire, resulting in 10 injuries, although further details are not provided. Buyers should be aware of these issues and verify if recall repairs have been completed.

Owners of the 2023 KIA Soul report issues with the vehicle's exterior lighting, specifically the headlights. Complaints frequently mention a problematic headlight beam pattern that makes the vehicle almost undrivable at night, with some owners describing the headlights as less effective than daytime running lights or even flashlights. These issues reportedly occur from the time the vehicle is received, with no resolutions found after visits to dealerships. The inadequate lighting is described as particularly dangerous in low visibility conditions, such as rain or poorly lit roads, leading to concerns about the potential for accidents due to reduced road visibility. Multiple owners have not had their vehicles inspected by the manufacturer, and the problem is associated with a new headlight design for the 2023 model year.

Owners of the 2023 Kia Soul report issues with the service brakes that include unexpected deceleration and activation of brake and hazard lights, particularly when accelerating from a stop. This problem tends to recur even after restarting the vehicle. Additionally, some owners describe incidents where the manual parking brake disengages on its own after being applied, potentially leading to vehicle rollaway if the car is not in park. These issues are reported with vehicles having less than 1,000 miles, indicating early occurrence. Safety implications include potential loss of control and vehicle movement when parked, which may concern prospective buyers.