EngineCritical
GDI engine rod knock / seizure (2.0 Nu / Theta).
- Typically appears
- 70,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for knock and confirm any engine recall/warranty work.
2014–2019 Kia Soul · common problems & known faults
The 2nd-gen Soul is a practical, funky hatch, but the Theta/Gamma GDI engine and steering coupler are the checks.
Compiled & reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team · last reviewed July 2026
Quick answer
The most commonly reported faults on the 2014–2019 Kia Soul are GDI engine rod knock / seizure (2.0 Nu / Theta), Catalytic converter failure damaging the engine on some cars and Steering coupler noise / clunk. Of the documented issues, 1 rated critical and 1 rated high · these are the ones worth inspecting first. Full inspection points, onset mileage and what to check are listed below.
Reliability snapshot
Based on the documented faults on this page for the Kia Soul.
6.2/ 10
- Critical
- 1
- High
- 1
- Medium
- 1
- Low
- 1
Guidance only · reflects reported patterns, not a specific car's condition.
Kia Soul problems by year
Which faults an average example has usually reached depends on its age. Pick a model year for the faults that matter on that build.
Known faults to check
EmissionsHigh
Catalytic converter failure damaging the engine on some cars.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Scan for catalyst codes and ask about any related engine work.
SteeringMedium
Steering coupler noise / clunk.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a knock when turning at low speed.
HVACLow
AC performance drop.
- Typically appears
- 80,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Confirm cold AC output.
Inspecting a Kia Soul?
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Check this exact carFrequently asked questions
Is the Kia Soul reliable?
Practical and cheap, but check the GDI engine history carefully.
What engine problems does the Soul have?
GDI rod-knock and catalytic-converter failures; confirm any recall work.
Is there an engine warranty?
Extended powertrain coverage applied to many affected engines; verify it.
Sources & further reading
Faults are compiled from documented recalls, technical bulletins, owner reports and mechanic sources, then reviewed for accuracy. This is guidance only · not a substitute for a professional inspection.