Kia Soul Common Problems and Solutions
Engine Is Ticking
Problem:
There is a ticking sound coming from the engine, and it may suddenly die.
Solution:
More common on early models of the Soul, this is being caused by a problem with your coolant system. In most cases, it will not cause your coolant warning light to come on, and the temperature gauge won't rise either. Kia's only advice here is to install a new engine. You can save yourself a lot of cash by ordering a new engine from BreakerYard and installing it yourself.
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Bumpy Driving
Problem:
The ride is harsher than it used to be, and you can feel every bump in the road.
Solution:
The Kia Soul is well-known to have a weak suspension system. The entire system can wear out prematurely, and that includes the shock absorbers, joints, and bearings. Replacing an entire suspension system is a very challenging DIY job, but we can deliver a complete system to you when you order from our parts page.
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Check Engine Light
Problem:
Your check engine light is on, and you have no idea why.
Solution:
There are lots of possible reasons for this. Check your fuel tank for damage, as well as the oxygen sensor inside the tank. If they both look fine, there's a good chance that you have a faulty cylinder gasket. Ignore the check engine light at your peril, as it can easily lead to engine failure if left untreated. You can order a new fuel tank, oxygen sensor, and cylinder gasket direct from BreakerYard to resolve the major issues.
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DPF warning light
Problem:
Has the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) warning light appeared on the dashboard? The DPF removes harmful gases, keeping the emissions low, but it can get blocked up if the vehicle is only used for short journeys, around town etc.
Solution:
You can take the car out onto an open road and drive at about 2500rpm in fourth gear for about 10 minutes to allow the DPF to get hot enough to burn off the unwanted particles and clear the DPF. This should turn off the warning light on the dashboard. Cars with DPF fitted are not suitable for use only on short journeys. If this does not work, you will need to have the DPF unblocked manually.
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Glove box cover damage
Problem:
The plastic glove box cover is prone to damage on the Soul. It is known that the plastic interior on most Kia cars is not of the best quality and the interior trim can be easily damaged, or broken. Most of the time it is more expensive to have it repaired than it is to replace the part.
Solution:
You will need to replace the plastic glove box cover. We can help you find a replacement glove box cover at a very low price.
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Paintwork on rear wheel arches
Problem:
The paintwork around the rear wheel arches on the Soul is prone to chipping away. As stones knock against this area, the paintwork can chip away and if left unattended, it leads to corrosion.
Solution:
As you inspect around the rear wheel arches for chips and any corrosion, you will need to take the following actions: If it is only chips, you will need to touch up the areas with the correct paint. If there is signs of corrosion, you will need to rub down the affected area, treat it and then apply the correct paint.
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Electrical Issues
Problem:
You are experiencing a wide range of electrical issues. From popping sounds on your radio to random lights turning on, this can be a very serious and dangerous problem. Your sunroof may stop working, as well as your windows and wipers.
Solution:
Unfortunately, the only solution is to replace the electrical harness. In some cases, even this may not work, and you'll have to replace the entire wiring system. This is a huge job, and it is best to leave to a professional. In most cases, it will be cheaper to buy a new car.
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Loose Seat Belt
Problem:
Your seat belt doesn't lock into place when pulled quickly.
Solution:
Another recall by Kia, this is being caused by a faulty seat belt pre-tensioner. If your Kia dealership doesn't replace it for free, then we always have pre-tensioners available for quick delivery, and it's an easy part to install yourself.
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Brakes Applying Randomly
Problem:
Your brake keeps applying at random times without you pressing the brake pedal.
Solution:
The electronic stability control (ECS) has numerous problems with the 2011 model of the Soul, and Kia offers no real solutions. It eventually caused a recall, so it's best to head to a Kia dealer for a diagnosis.
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Unlatching Bonnet
Problem:
The bonnet suddenly opens when you're driving. This causes bonnet damage and may smash the windscreen.
Solution:
This can happen at around the 40,000-mile point, so check your bonnet lathes if you're close to hitting that mileage. Replacing the bonnet latches is very simple, and the parts are very inexpensive when you order from us. Replacing the windscreen is a lot harder, but we do have these in stock at all times.
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Tapping Sound From Engine
Problem:
There is a loud tapping sound coming from the engine that gets progressively worse.
Solution:
The single most common problem with the redesigned Soul in 2013, this is an issue that has no diagnostic code. It's impossible to fix yourself, and you'll have to take your car to a Kia dealer.
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Loss of Steering Control
Problem:
You have lost some directional control, and there may be odd noises coming from your steering rack.
Solution:
This caused a recall by Kia, so your Soul should have already had the work carried out. If yours hasn't, then you need to replace the steering rack. You can order a new steering rack from our parts list, but a Kia dealer may carry out this work for free.
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Headlight Flicker
Problem:
Your headlights are flickering and may simply burn out.
Solution:
The bulbs that were installed on the 2014 version of the Soul are notoriously brittle. Even if you have yet to experience these issues, it's always a good idea to order more durable and long-lasting bulbs, which are available at all times from our online store and easy to install.
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