The Kia Soul hatchback is a distinct offering in the family-hauler segment. Its upright design, neat build, and fine craftsmanship, all make it a practical proposition. The Korean vehicle is fun-to-drive and comes packed to the hilt with class-leading specifications despite its accessible pricing. Though it does suffer from a constricted cargo space, the 2013 Soul cements its position in the market with its comprehensive warranty coverage and a justifiable number of problems. In the current iteration, the hatchback has 393 complaints and 2 recalls. Most of its issues are concerned with its electrical system and mechanical components. Nonetheless, keeping its sales in mind, there is not much that buyers would have to worry about. A 2013 Kia Soul for sale starts at around $16,200 and it competes with the likes of the Honda Fitand the ChevroletSonic.
2013 Kia Soul User Complaints and Problems
Safety Complaints
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Non-deployment of airbags: In the list of 2013 Kia Soul issues, buyers of the hatchbackhave reported problems with the airbag system. In case of a crash, complainants have recorded the failure of the airbags to deploy, which has resulted in injuries to the occupants. While it is a common problem, no solution is currently available for the affected parties.
Electric System Complaints
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Malfunctioning infotainment system: In a few cases, buyers of the 2013 Kia Soul have reported the infotainment system going blank inadvertently. The screen loses its power, which makes it difficult to control functionalities like the navigation system, rearview camera, and radio. While it does affect the overall utility, the issue is not rampant and might not affect your vehicle.
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Drained battery: In the 2013 Kia Soul problems list, a handful of complainants have reported the failure of the vehicle’s battery unit. Without any prior symptoms, the battery of the hatchback dies, which renders the vehicle inoperable. It fails to crank and to restore normal functionality, either the battery needs to be jump-started or replaced.
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Blown out low-beam headlights: In a few listed cases on NHTSA, users of the 2013 Soul have recorded the low-beam headlights ceasing operation. They fail to illuminate inadvertently, restricting the driver’s visibility, and the only solution available is to shift to the high beam headlamps.
Mechanical Complaints
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Failure of engine: Across the current iteration, the premature failure of the engine is the most common complaint registered by the buyers of the hatchback. In several cases, complainants have reported the vehicle losing power and stalling unexpectedly, which is symptomized by a knocking sound from the engine compartment and the illumination of the check engine warning light. While it can happen due to a failed engine rod, the overheating of the catalytic converter is the most common reason for the recurrence of the problem. To deal with the Kia Soul catalytic converter issues, the brandhas introduced a recall, referenced by NHTSA ID 19V120000.
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Service brake failure: The Kia Soul brake problems are typically noted at low mileage levels. In several cases, buyers of the hatchback have reported the brakes pulsating and failing to bring the vehicle to a halt despite the pedal being floored. Where a diagnosis was conducted, warped rotors and damaged brake pads were attributed as the underlying cause of concern.
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Problems with the suspension system: The Kia Soul common problems list also includes the issues with its suspension system. In a handful of cases, buyers have reported the vehicle becoming unstable on rough patches. Complainants have recorded the hatchback fishtailing and gliding over untoward surfaces, which makes it difficult to control. It is most commonly noted above 40 MPH and has been reported by owners of some other models from both Kia and Hyundai.
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Damaged steering coupler: The 2013 Kia Soul steering coupler problems are similar to what buyers of the Hyundai Elantraand the Velosterhatchback have experienced. Due to a damaged flexible coupler inside the steering system, the steering wheel makes a clunking noise when turned. While no reason for the problem is yet known, a failed coupler can eventually cause a loss of the power steering assist.
2013 Kia Soul Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1. |
22nd Feb 2019 |
19V120000 |
Engine damage due to overheating of the catalytic converter |
In vehicles equipped with the 1.6L GDI units, high exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, which can result in abnormal combustion that may affect the pistons or its connecting rod. |
Dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent its overheating. Additionally, depending on the extent of damage the catalytic converter or the engine might be replaced, free of cost. |
|
2. |
29th Dec 2019 |
14V822000 |
Detachment of headliner plate |
In vehicles equipped with a sunroof, the headliner plate may detach upon deployment of the curtain airbag. |
Dealers will install industrial adhesive strips to secure the headliner, free of cost. |
Should you buy the 2013 Kia Soul?
Absolutely! For a vehicle that manages to sell a little over 118,000 units, the Kia Soul’s performance is enlightening. Its complaints are constricted and though there are some recurring concerns, the brand seems to have a readily available solution to most problems. The ownership experience is hassle-free and even the 2013 Kia Soul recalls list is neither extensive nor worrying. So, for a vehicle that is affordably priced, the Korean hatchback reeks of reliability. It coalesces its trustworthy aura with its immaculate practicality to curate a vehicle that is the jack of all trades, while also being a master of some.
