2020 Kia Soul Engine Problems
Engine problems account for 251 of 381 complaints (66%) filed against the 2020 Kia Soul, with a median failure mileage of 25,053. A related recall (21V259000) covers piston oil rings that were not properly heat-treated, which can cause engine damage on 2.0L Nu MPI engines.
- Engine complaints
- 251
- 66% of 381
- Crashes reported
- 4
- Fires reported
- 6
- Injuries reported
- 3
- Median mileage
- 25,053 mi
- Related recalls
- 1
Typical engine symptoms owners report
- Some owners report the engine stalling or dying at highway speed, with the check-engine light coming on beforehand.
- Multiple owners describe engine fires breaking out under the hood, sometimes preceded by overheating or smoke.
- Several complaints center on the idle stop-start feature shutting the engine off at stops, then producing a loud groaning or shuddering noise and a stumble when the driver accelerates again.
- One owner reported a diagnosed crankshaft failure that led to a stall while the vehicle was underway.
- A few owners describe unintended acceleration or the vehicle revving and moving on its own at low speed or while parking.
- One owner reported the vehicle consuming all its oil between changes, causing the engine to lock up and cut off.
When 2020 Kia Soul engine complaints were filed
First complaint Jun 21, 2019, latest Sep 22, 2026.
Engine recalls for the 2020 Kia Soul
- NHTSA 21V259000Apr 13, 2021Engine147,249 vehicles
Engine
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall began June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC209.
Engine complaints by Soul model year
Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.
Frequently asked questions
- How common are engine problems in the 2020 Kia Soul?
- NHTSA lists 251 engine-related complaints out of 381 total complaints for the 2020 Soul, or 66% of all complaints filed for the year.
- Is there an engine recall for the 2020 Kia Soul?
- Yes. Recall campaign 21V259000, reported April 13, 2021, covers 2020-2021 Soul and 2021 Seltos vehicles with 2.0L Nu MPI engines whose piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, risking engine damage.
- At what mileage do 2020 Kia Soul engine problems usually occur?
- The median mileage at failure for engine complaints on the 2020 Soul is 25,053 miles, according to NHTSA data.
- Have there been fires or crashes linked to the engine issue?
- NHTSA records 6 fires, 4 crashes, and 3 injuries associated with engine complaints on the 2020 Kia Soul.