Thinking about buying a used Kia Soul (2009–2019) in New Zealand? We've documented 9 known faults for this model spanning engine, electrical, and suspension. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
9
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$400–$3,000
Typical repair
3
Systems covered
Known Kia Soul faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
012.0 Nu GDI connecting-rod bearing failure and fire risk
CriticalCommonEngine $5,500–$10,000 to fix
The PS Soul's 2.0 'Nu' GDI engine was the subject of a Kia recall (around 295,000 US vehicles, 2014-2015 Souls) for excessive connecting-rod bearing wear that can let the rod punch through the block, dumping oil and risking an under-bonnet fire. Dealers inspected/tested engines and fitted knock-sensor (KSDS) software, replacing engines where needed. On NZ/AU-delivered and imported cars, confirm the recall work was done and listen hard for any bottom-end knock — this is the make-or-break check on a PS Soul.
Symptoms to notice
Deep metallic knock from the engine
Ticking that worsens under load
Oil light / stalling
Burning-oil smell or smoke (in bad cases)
What to check
Start from cold and listen for any knock or heavy tick deep in the engine, then rev gently and listen again. Ask if the KSDS software and recall inspection were completed and whether the engine has ever been replaced. Check the oil for metallic glitter.
Where to look: Engine bottom end — connecting-rod bearings inside the block
Ask the seller
“Was the engine recall / KSDS update completed?”
“Has the engine ever knocked or been replaced?”
“Any evidence of an engine warranty claim?”
02Steering column/coupler clunk and front-end knocks
MinorCommonSuspension $250–$800 to fix
AM Soul owners commonly report a clunk or knock felt through the steering, traced to the steering column coupler/intermediate shaft, along with the usual worn front suspension links and bushes by this age. The steering clunk is more unsettling than dangerous but should be checked, and a car with several worn front-end parts rides poorly and may fail a WOF. These are cheap, normal fixes and useful bargaining points.
Symptoms to notice
Clunk felt through the steering wheel over bumps or turning
Knock from the front on rough roads
Vague steering feel
Uneven front tyre wear
What to check
Rock the steering gently side to side while stationary and feel/listen for a clunk. Drive slowly over rough tarmac and listen for front-end knocks. Push down on each front corner to check for looseness. Check the last WOF for advisories.
Where to look: Steering column coupler; front struts, links and bushes
Ask the seller
“Any clunk through the steering?”
“Were there advisories at the last WOF?”
“Have steering or suspension parts been replaced?”
ElectricalMajor
EngineMajor
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SuspensionMinor
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7 more documented faults on the Kia Soul
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 9 documented faults for the Kia Soul, the recurring problem areas are engine, electrical, and suspension. A Kia Soul with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Kia Soul?
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We've catalogued 9 known faults for the Kia Soul, covering engine, electrical, and suspension. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Kia Soul?
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Most single repairs on the Kia Soul fall between $400–$3,000 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 9 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Kia Soul?
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Yes. A Kia Soul inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.