Kia Soul AM
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
Generations
Engine Overview
The Kia Soul AM is available with 2 engine variants — from 90 to 136 hp.
The Kia 1.6 CRDi (Diesel, 128 PS) has the D4FB (1.6L CRDi (U2)) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.
The Kia 1.6 (Benziner, 124–132 PS) has the G4FC (1.6L CVVT (Gamma)) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Central locking — control issues Model years 2010–2013 show known weaknesses in the electrical control of the central locking. Doors won't open or close, remote is unreliable. Often from 30,000–40,000 km. Symptoms: Doors don't open via remote, central locking responds irregularly. from 40,000 km | Low |
Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
Known Problems and Issues
A total of 17 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Soul AM (2009–2014) — 10 engine-related and 7 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Electronics, Rust, Suspension, Interior.
Soul (D4FB, 2009–2014) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretches and skips, EGR valve blocked by soot deposits, DPF blockage in short-trip use. Power: 128 PS.
Soul (G4FC, 2009–2014) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretches prematurely, Timing chain stretch from warm-up phase, Valve stem seals wear at higher mileages. Power: 124–132 PS.
What to watch out for with the Kia Soul? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee