How common are engine problems in the 2022 Kia Soul?

NHTSA lists 72 engine-related complaints out of 88 total complaints filed for the 2022 Kia Soul, making up 82% of all complaints for this model year.

Is there a recall for engine problems in the 2022 Kia Soul?

Yes. Recall 25V099000, reported February 17, 2025, covers 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles with piston oil rings that may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage. Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary and install piston-ring noise sensors.

At what mileage do engine problems typically occur on the 2022 Kia Soul?

NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 70,000 for engine complaints on the 2022 Kia Soul.

Have engine failures caused any crashes or fires in the 2022 Kia Soul?

NHTSA records show 1 crash, 1 fire, and 3 injuries associated with engine complaints for the 2022 Kia Soul.

2022 Kia Soul Engine Problems

Engine problems account for 72 of 88 total complaints on the 2022 Kia Soul, or 82% of all filed complaints. NHTSA recall 25V099000 covers piston oil rings that may cause engine damage, and the median mileage at failure is 70,000.

Engine complaints: 72; 82% of 88
Crashes reported: 1
Fires reported: 1
Injuries reported: 3
Median mileage: 70,000 mi
Related recalls: 1

Typical engine symptoms owners report

Vehicles suddenly lose power and stall while stopped, at low speed, or while driving at highway speed near 70 mph.
Some owners report the engine will not restart after stalling, requiring a tow to the dealer.
Oil leaks have been reported seeping onto the floorboard and passenger-side floor mat while driving.
Owners describe rattling noises from the engine compartment at speeds over 40 mph.
Some report the CVVT (continuously variable valve timing) assembly and exhaust cam pin failing, requiring replacement.
A few complaints mention RPM surges on deceleration and engine shuddering combined with stalling at stoplights.

When 2022 Kia Soul engine complaints were filed

First complaint Mar 7, 2023, latest Jul 17, 2026.

72 complaints filed with NHTSA from Mar 2023 to Jul 2026; peak Aug 2025 (10).

Engine recalls for the 2022 Kia Soul

NHTSA 25V099000Feb 17, 2025Engine137,256 vehicles
Engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanical
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Risk: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.

Engine complaints by Soul model year

Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.

201022 (16%)
201136 (19%)
2012224 (44%)
2013312 (47%)
2014602 (67%)
2015673 (75%)
2016622 (77%)
2017203 (75%)
2018152 (70%)
201992 (68%)
2020251 (66%)
2021179 (77%)
202272 (82%)
202317 (33%)
20245 (17%)
20252 (17%)

Frequently asked questions

How common are engine problems in the 2022 Kia Soul?: NHTSA lists 72 engine-related complaints out of 88 total complaints filed for the 2022 Kia Soul, making up 82% of all complaints for this model year.
Is there a recall for engine problems in the 2022 Kia Soul?: Yes. Recall 25V099000, reported February 17, 2025, covers 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles with piston oil rings that may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage. Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary and install piston-ring noise sensors.
At what mileage do engine problems typically occur on the 2022 Kia Soul?: NHTSA data shows a median mileage at failure of 70,000 for engine complaints on the 2022 Kia Soul.
Have engine failures caused any crashes or fires in the 2022 Kia Soul?: NHTSA records show 1 crash, 1 fire, and 3 injuries associated with engine complaints for the 2022 Kia Soul.