2020 Kia Soul engine and engine cooling problems
11 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine and engine cooling on the 2020 Kia Soul — 3% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving approximately 55 MPH, the check engine and oil warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle stalled. There was smoke coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was pulled over to the side of the road, and two hubcaps were…”
filed Aug 10, 2026
“The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was erratically shaking, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with piston rings failure. The contact was informed…”
filed Aug 5, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Engine and Engine Cooling problems in other Soul years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 Soul | 1 | 2% |
| 2022 Soul | 19 | 22% |
| 2021 Soul | 47 | 20% |
| 2019 Soul | 6 | 4% |
| 2018 Soul | 9 | 4% |
| 2017 Soul | 9 | 3% |
| 2016 Soul | 106 | 13% |
| 2015 Soul | 58 | 6% |
| 2014 Soul | 55 | 6% |
| 2013 Soul | 44 | 7% |
| 2012 Soul | 32 | 6% |
| 2011 Soul | 4 | 2% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2020 Kia Soul
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.