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.
- Typical repair
- Major mechanical repair · £800–£2,500
Is the 2014–2019 Kia Soul reliable?
Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team
Quick answer
3.8/ 10
Buy with cautionOn our documented-fault scoring the Kia Soul rates 3.8 out of 10 · buy with caution. We hold 8 known faults for it and 1 of them are rated critical and 2 high, so a bad example can be expensive. The weak points cluster around engine, emissions and steering. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.
Verdict · Walk unless the history is spotless
What the score is built from
- Critical
- 1
- High
- 2
- Medium
- 3
- Low
- 2
Weak points cluster around engine, emissions, steering, hvac.
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Check this carThe faults that decide it
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.
- Typical repair
- Exhaust / emissions component · £200–£950
TransmissionHigh
Judder or hesitation when pulling away from a standstill, particularly on 7-speed DCT models.
- Typically appears
- 40,000-70,000 miles
- What to inspect
- Select drive and accelerate gently from a standstill on an incline. Feel for a harsh shudder or delayed clutch engagement before the car moves.
- Typical repair
- DCT clutch pack / mechatronic work · £900–£3,200
SteeringMedium
Steering coupler noise / clunk.
- Typically appears
- 60,000+ miles
- What to inspect
- Listen for a knock when turning at low speed.
- Typical repair
- Routine repair · £180–£700
Body and ElectricalMedium
Tailgate refuses to open via the exterior handle due to a failed microswitch or water ingress in the latch.
- Typically appears
- 5-7 years
- What to inspect
- Lock and unlock the vehicle, then attempt to open the boot using the exterior rubber release button multiple times to ensure consistent operation.
- Typical repair
- Water-ingress trace & seal · £150–£800
Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.
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