Kia Soul ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (2010–2025)
Side-by-side AutoScores, risk levels, and owner-cost projections for every Kia Soul we've analyzed. Identify the best years to buy, the ones to avoid, and the problems that follow the Soul across generations.
Average AutoScore
83/100
Best Year
2019 Kia Soul
Score 88
Weakest Year
2010 Kia Soul
Score 78
Every Kia Soul Ranked
Sorted by AutoScore. Each link opens the full year-specific report.
A smart, practical, and highly reliable choice for urban dwellers or small families looking for long-term value.
Top risks: Engine (2.0L Nu GDI) · Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT - Turbo models) · Electrical (Infotainment/Sensors)
A smart, reliable choice for urban commutes and daily errands, offering excellent bang for your buck with minimal long-term mechanical worries.
Top risks: Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) · Electrical & Infotainment System · Catalytic Converter Theft Risk
A budget-friendly box with exceptional reliability potential, especially with diligent IVT maintenance.
Top risks: Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) · Engine Sensors & Emissions · Infotainment System Glitches
A quirky, reliable, and value-packed choice that keeps running without major fuss.
Top risks: Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) · Infotainment System & Sensors · Suspension Components
A quirky yet mechanically sound vehicle offering significant peace of mind and low running costs for urban and suburban explorers.
Top risks: Fuel System (GDI) · Infotainment/Electrical · Catalytic Converter
A practical, feature-rich compact that offers good reliability, provided the IVT is properly maintained and monitored.
Top risks: Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) · Catalytic Converter · Electrical/Infotainment
A quirky and practical compact that delivers solid reliability, provided you understand its specific powertrain considerations.
Top risks: Engine (GDI Specific) · Transmission (1.6L Turbo DCT) · Electrical System (Minor Glitches)
A quirky and practical subcompact crossover that delivers solid reliability, with the IVT being the primary consideration for long-term ownership.
Top risks: Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) · Electrical/Infotainment System · Fuel System (2.0L Engine)
A fun and practical urban vehicle that requires careful scrutiny of its steering and engine for lasting reliability.
Top risks: Steering System · Engine (2.0L GDI) · HVAC System
A quirky yet robust urban companion, the 2015 Soul largely holds its own, though specific steering and electrical checks are paramount.
Top risks: Steering System · Engine (Oil Consumption) · Electrical Systems
A smart, reliable choice for urban driving and value, provided consistent maintenance is prioritized.
Top risks: Engine Oil Consumption · Electrical System & Sensors · Suspension Components
A quirky and practical choice, but tread carefully with the turbo engine and its problematic DCT.
Top risks: 7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) · GDI Engine Carbon Buildup / Oil Consumption · Electrical System & Infotainment
A quirky urban warrior that's a good value, but demands a vigilant eye on its mechanical and electrical health.
Top risks: Engine Longevity · Automatic Transmission · Electrical Accessories
A fun, practical crossover, but demand service records and a thorough steering system inspection to mitigate known risks.
Top risks: Steering Column Assembly · Engine Oil Consumption & Timing Chain (2.0L) · Suspension Components
A quirky and practical choice, but be prepared for diligent maintenance and potential engine/electrical repairs.
Top risks: Engine Longevity · Electrical System · Suspension Components
A quirky and practical compact that demands attention to its known mechanical weak spots, especially the engine and steering.
Top risks: Engine (1.6L GDI) · Steering System · Electrical Accessories
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Problems That Follow the Soul Across Generations
Issues that appear in the top-3 risks across multiple model years — the cost of ownership you can actually predict.
Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT)
Appears in 5 model years · 31% of generations
Suspension Components
Appears in 4 model years · 25% of generations
Steering System
Appears in 3 model years · 19% of generations
Engine Longevity
Appears in 2 model years · 12% of generations
Electrical Accessories
Appears in 2 model years · 12% of generations
Catalytic Converter
Appears in 2 model years · 12% of generations
Soul vs. the Competition
Head-to-head reliability comparisons with the Soul's main rivals.
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