Last updated: 2026-04-20
2024 KIA Soul Reliability Report
The 2024 KIA Soul scores 86/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 0 recalls and 23 owner complaints.
Recalls
0
Complaints
23
Complaint Rate
4.4per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$437
Annual Fuel Cost
$1,950–$2,000
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
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)
- POWER TRAIN (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2024 is 1 year after the third facelift (2023) refresh.
- Year 5 in the Third generation (SK3) (2020–present).
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- 3rd generation Soul (US).
What this means for buyers
Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.
2020: Third generation (SK3) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2023: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
2024: This Model Year
2024 is 1 year after the third facelift (2023) refresh.
Should You Buy the 2024 KIA Soul?
The 2024 KIA Soul earns an Excellent 86/100 reliability score. 2024 is 1 year after the third facelift (2023) refresh.
At 4.4 per 10,000 vehicles sold, its complaint rate sits below the SUV segment average, and most owners report a trouble-free ownership experience.
A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, new or used.
Compared to the 2025 KIA Soul, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2023 KIA Soul for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Strong reliability score
- +$29 cheaper to maintain than avg subcompact SUVs
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (9%)
- +No recalls issued
Cons
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Two primary electrical system issues with the 2024 KIA Soul (6 complaints)
- −1 fire incident reported in owner complaints
Compare 2024 KIA Soul With
2024 Hyundai Kona
Reliability: 68/100
2024 Nissan Kicks
Reliability: 81/100
2024 Chevrolet Trax
Reliability: 80/100
2024 Mazda CX-30
Reliability: 68/100
2024 Honda HR-V
Reliability: 83/100
Common Problem Categories
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)
Recall Overview
0
recalls on record
No recalls are on record for the 2024 KIA Soul — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
4.4
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 7.7
Safety Incidents
0
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 4/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
Buying a used 2024 KIA Soul? Check its history first
Every 2024 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
2024 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.
KIA Soul Resale Value
The KIA Soul is estimated to retain about 69.5% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the KIA Soul model overall and is not specific to the 2024 model year.
- Value Retained
- 69.5%
- Depreciation
- 30.5%
- Listings Analyzed
- 355
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore KIA Soul depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
30–31 MPG
Running cost: $2,400–$2,450/yr
Fuel + repair
27–29 city / 33–35 hwy MPG
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 2024 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soul Eco dynamics 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 29 | 35 | 31 | $1,950 |
| Soul 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 27 | 33 | 30 | $2,000 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2024 KIA Soul.
Test instrument cluster for blackouts
Verify horn functionality
Check for engine stalling during idle and driving
Inspect low beam headlights for brightness
Ensure back over prevention system provides audible alerts
Confirm all dashboard warning lights function properly
2024 KIA Soul Common Problems by Component
23 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
6 complaintsOwners report two primary electrical system issues with the 2024 KIA Soul. The most frequently mentioned problem involves the instrument cluster failing, resulting in a blacked-out dashboard that prevents drivers from seeing critical information such as speed, fuel level, and warning indicators. This issue is noted at mileages as low as 1,400 and has led to safety concerns, as drivers are unable to monitor their vehicle's status while on the road. Another issue involves horn malfunctions, with some owners indicating that their horn either does not work or emits unusual sounds, raising safety concerns due to the horn's role in alerting other road users. These complaints highlight potential safety implications, particularly when dashboard visibility is compromised.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaintsOwners report that the 2024 KIA Soul has issues with the horn malfunctioning, with multiple complaints highlighting a nationwide backorder for the necessary repair parts, leaving the vehicle without a functional horn. This issue is noted at various mileages, including as early as 7,600 miles, and poses a safety concern due to the inability to signal effectively while driving. Additionally, the Driver Attention Warning system is described as activating randomly and frequently, causing distraction rather than enhancing safety. Another owner mentions a rear window shattering unexpectedly, and there is a report of vehicle vandalism linked to theft, though it lacks a settlement claim option due to the model year. These issues may affect the vehicle's safety and usability, especially concerning the horn malfunction and the associated delays in obtaining repairs.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Kia Soul report issues with the vehicle's exterior lighting, specifically the low beam headlights. Complaints frequently mention that the low beams are very dim, providing inadequate illumination in low-light areas, particularly where there are no street lights. The headlights are described as having a yellow and dim light quality, likened to driving with candles. These issues are noted at relatively low mileages, around 5,000 miles. While no crashes or loss of control have been reported, the dim lighting could pose safety concerns for night driving.
POWER TRAIN (2 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
2 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report issues with the power train of the 2024 KIA Soul, including one instance where a fire originated in the engine compartment at approximately 2,691 miles, resulting in the vehicle burning completely. Another complaint describes electrical and system malfunctions in a rental vehicle, including dashboard indicators malfunctioning, the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly while driving, and the odometer and other gauges becoming unresponsive. These problems occur at low mileage and involve significant safety risks, such as potential fires and loss of vehicle control. These reports suggest that potential buyers should be cautious of early power train failures and associated safety hazards.
BACK OVER PREVENTION (2 complaints)
BACK OVER PREVENTION
2 complaintsOwners of the 2024 KIA Soul report issues with the back over prevention system, specifically noting the absence of an audible warning when an object is detected while reversing. Complaints frequently mention that although the vehicle is equipped with a camera, it lacks the necessary sensors to produce a warning sound, which some owners find unexpected given the presence of other sensors in the vehicle. There are no mentions of crashes, fires, or loss of control related to this issue. These reports do not specify mileage, suggesting the issue may not be tied to vehicle age or usage. Potential buyers should be aware that the back over prevention system may not provide an audible alert, which could impact reversing safety.
ENGINE (2 complaints)
ENGINE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2024 Kia Soul report issues with the engine stalling unexpectedly. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle losing power while driving or turning off completely when stationary, without any warning lights. One vehicle stalled at around 7,000 miles, while another experienced multiple incidents within a few weeks, culminating in a check engine light activation. No crashes or fires are reported, but the stalling can lead to a loss of control, particularly if it occurs in traffic. Buyers should be aware of these engine stalling issues and the potential for extended repair times, as some vehicles remain at dealerships awaiting diagnosis.
LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)
LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaintshortly after purchasing the car (06/2024) while driving (regardless of the weather or temperature, whether it’s day, night, hot, cold, etc) all of my dash warning lights come on, complete ADAS system malfunction. it shows a code for my front camera through the kia connect app and says it’s chasis related. i have taken my car in multiple times for this and i still leave with it the same day hours later. despite being told that both recommendations from my last service appointment had already been done, this is what i am left with. even after being involved in a front end collision, none of my safety features (that have never not been on) never came into play, emergency braking never happened. attaching most recent, first time addressing this issue was in august.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintSize: P205/60R16 My Daughter was driving when all of a sudden the Front Driver Tire exploaded while taking a turn on a residential street. There was no nail or puncture to the tire (see photos). We do have a video showing that there is no puncture damage via nail or sharp object, but the video file is too large.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintTHE BRAKE PEDAL RUBBER IS MADE OF A HARD PLASTIC OR SYNTHETIC RUBBER. BOTH I AND MY WIFES FOOT SLIDES OFF OF IT NO MATTER WHAT TYPE OF SHOE WERE WEARING. I STARTED WEARING TENNIS SHOES, HELPED A LITTLE. BUT I'VE NEARLY HAD SEVERAL WRECKS WHERE I WAS GOING SLOW CAME UP TO THE LIGHT AND MY FOOTS COME OFF THE PEDDLE AND I NEARLY RAN INTO THE STOPPED CAR INFRONT OF ME, I MEAN BY INCHES. I PUT BOTH FEET ON THE PEDDLE NOW WITH ONE UP ON THE PEDDLE METAL STEM THAT HOLDS THE PAD OWN OUT OF AN ABUNDANCE OF CAUTION. I'M REALLY AFRAID TO DRIVE THE CAR.IT'S AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN
STEERING (1 complaints)
STEERING
1 complaintBudget rental out of KSGF. THIS DANGEROUS COMPACT SUV IS UNFIT FOR UNITED STATES ROADS AND INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS. IN 2 WEEKS THE CAR OVER 8x Attempted to Overpower my driver inputs nearly driving me in to semi tractor trailer rigs. Further every time that happens a loud annoying message to take a coffee break even 7 minutes into the drive since engine start up. The partial Turn Off only partly lessens this Dangerous technology. It attempts to STOP THE DRIVER FROM STEERING AND ACCELERATOR AND EVEN BRAKE INPUTS. maybe appropriate in South Korea type of roads and laws and high density of autos... not true in the Continental U.S..
When Do 2024 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).
2024
(Current Model)
2025
2022
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 2024 KIA Soul reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2024 KIA Soul?
How many recalls does the 2024 KIA Soul have?
Is the 2024 KIA Soul expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2024 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.
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