Last updated: 2026-04-20

2025 KIA Soul
RELIABILITY SCORE: 85/100 (EXCELLENT)

2025 KIA Soul Reliability Report

The 2025 KIA Soul scores 85/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 0 recalls and 9 owner complaints.

Recalls

0

Complaints

9

Complaint Rate

1.8per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$437

Annual Fuel Cost

$1,950–$2,000

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity75/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs90/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact100/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity77/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Buy

Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.

Top Issues to Watch

  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (4)
  • AIR BAGS (1)
  • VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2025 is 2 years after the third facelift (2023) refresh.

  • Year 6 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.

2025: This Model Year

2025 is 2 years after the third facelift (2023) refresh.

Should You Buy the 2025 KIA Soul?

The 2025 KIA Soul earns an Excellent 85/100 reliability score. 2025 is 2 years after the third facelift (2023) refresh.

At 1.8 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.

See also the 2024 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

  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING: Significant issues with the 2025 KIA Soul's exterior lighting, particularly... (4 complaints)
  • Tire and brake issues reported at 8,500–10,000 miles

Compare 2025 KIA Soul With

Common Problem Categories

Other

HIGH RISK
  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING (4)
  • AIR BAGS (1)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

0

recalls on record

No recalls are on record for the 2025 KIA Soul — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

1.8

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 4.1

LowAvgHigh
Very Low

Safety Incidents

2

Crashes

0

Fires

1

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 4/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2025 KIA Soul? Check its history first

Every 2025 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.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2025 KIA Soul NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 4 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 14.7%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger)Knee (Not Available)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)Unattended Child Reminder Direct Sensing System (No)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver, Front Passenger, Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

KIA SoulRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4.5Maintenance rating: 4.5 out of 5

Based 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

Soul
$437
Category Avg
$466
All Vehicles
$652

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & 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 2025 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Soul Eco dynamics 2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (variable gear ratios)293531$1,950
Soul 2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (variable gear ratios)273330$2,000

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2025 KIA Soul.

  • Inspect tire tread for abnormal wear

  • Test brakes for grinding noises during application

  • Check low beam headlights for adequate brightness

  • Inspect headlight housing for moisture or humidity

  • Verify functionality of airbag and collision avoidance systems

  • Test vehicle speed control for unexpected acceleration

2025 KIA Soul Common Problems by Component

9 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

4
1
1
1
1
1
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (4)AIR BAGS (1)VISIBILITY/WIPER (1)SUSPENSION (1)VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

4 complaints

Owners report significant issues with the 2025 KIA Soul's exterior lighting, particularly with the low beam headlights. Complaints frequently mention that the low beams are so dim they make night driving nearly impossible, with one owner describing near-misses with road obstacles and animals due to inadequate visibility. Additionally, one owner notes that humidity inside the headlights further diminishes their effectiveness, exacerbating visibility problems. These issues have led to dangerous driving situations, including almost driving off the road and narrowly avoiding collisions. While the complaints do not specify mileage ranges, the described incidents indicate a potential safety risk, particularly in dark or unfamiliar areas.

4 complaints total

AIR BAGS

1 complaintSafety-related
2026-03-23Crash reported

Hit a deer. Airbag did not deploy or emergency braking system didn't come on. Police took pictures of car. The car is at the repair shop now. Insurance company hasn't stated if it will be totaled. There were no other problems prior to incident.

VISIBILITY/WIPER

1 complaint
2025-09-07

Headlight housing kept falling out of the bracket Driving at night impossable. Fixed one light still dim lights maKES DRIVING AT night dangerous. Second dealer instructed me to not sue the suto light setting because it dims the headlights. It appears that the front bumper design blocks the light to the roadway. In my view the 4 seperte visits to the Family dealership in Saint Augestein Fl suggest ther is nothing more he can do to improve the light problem. What am I supposd to do to have this 2025 new KIA soul problem corrected that I so I can drive at night

SUSPENSION (1 complaints)

SUSPENSION

1 complaint
2026-01-05

I am submitting this complaint to report serious concerns regarding the quality, safety, and reliability of my new Kia Soul, as well as the financial burden caused by defects that should not occur on a vehicle with such low mileage. At approximately **8,500 miles**, one of the original tires failed prematurely. I was forced to purchase a used tire to keep the vehicle safely drivable. I had the front alignment inspected, and I was informed that it was within normal specifications, yet the tire issue persisted. Now at **10,000 miles**, I am still experiencing abnormal tire wear. Additionally, at **10,000 miles**, the vehicle began making **grinding noises when applying the brakes**, which is extremely concerning for a car that is still essentially new. These issues raise questions about the vehicle’s manufacturing quality and whether it meets reasonable consumer expectations for safety and durability. I purchased this vehicle with the expectation that it would be reliable and free from major defects. Instead, I am facing unexpected expenses, safety concerns, and ongoing problems that should be covered under warranty. I am now questioning whether I should continue making payments on a vehicle that is already showing signs of significant defects. I am requesting that the FTC review this matter as a potential issue involving product quality, warranty compliance, and consumer protection. I am seeking assistance in ensuring that Kia addresses these defects appropriately and that my rights as a consumer are upheld. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaintSafety-related
2025-10-04Crash reported1 injury

While driving, the vehicle began accelerating (forced acceleration) without driver input. When driver attempted to stop or slow the vehicle down, the brakes were unresponsive due to the brake override system failure. Because the vehicle could not be stopped or slowed down, and to avoid hitting or harming others, driver veered off the road which caused the vehicle to flip multiple times and finally stop, landing on the roof. It was noted that the engine was still running at that time. The safety of the driver and others was in immediate risk, as the vehicle could not be controlled. The problem has not been reproduced by a dealer or independent service center. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

1 complaint
2025-01-01

2025 Kia Soul LX Headlights. Totally inadequate standard headlights. Higher end models get LED headlights but this standard light system on the LX is dangerous on anything but well lit streets. Safety should not be an option. I would have upgraded to a model that has adequate headlights but was unaware of how bad the standard headlights were until after purchase. These standard headlights should never have been approved by the DOT. There are many reports online about this issue and I'm hoping it will be addressed soon.

When Do 2025 KIA Soul Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

8,500–10,000 milesTire and brake issues

Best & Worst KIA Soul Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best KIA Soul Years to Buy

The 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).

Top Pick
86
Excellent

2024

0Recalls
23Complaints
85
Excellent

2025

(Current Model)

0Recalls
9Complaints
78
Good

2022

1Recalls
78Complaints

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.

KIA Soul reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201873/100Good
201976/100Good
202070/100Good
202172/100Good
202278/100Good
202377/100Good
202486/100Excellent
202585/100Excellent

KIA Soul Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
2025(selected)85/100-1Excellent09
202486/100+9Excellent023
202377/100-1Good445
202278/100+6Good178
202172/100+2Good2190
202070/100-6Good1338
201976/100+3Good1123
201873/100Good1199

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2025 KIA Soul reliable?
Yes, the 2025 KIA Soul is considered highly reliable with a score of 85/100 ("Excellent"). It has 0 recalls and a complaint rate below the segment average, placing it among the more dependable vehicles in its class.
What are the most common problems with the 2025 KIA Soul?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2025 KIA Soul include: EXTERIOR LIGHTING (4 complaints), AIR BAGS (1 complaints), VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints), SUSPENSION (1 complaints), VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2025 KIA Soul have?
The 2025 KIA Soul has no recalls on record, which is a positive indicator.
Is the 2025 KIA Soul expensive to maintain?
The 2025 KIA Soul is expected to have below-average maintenance costs at $437/year, which is $29 less than the subcompact SUVs average of $466. Its high reliability score of 85/100 and complaint rate below the segment average suggest that unexpected repairs are uncommon.

Don’t buy a 2025 KIA Soul without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

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.

4

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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