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Kia · Supermini · 2014–2019

Kia Soul PS

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 3 engine variants
Most Fun Engine

110–204 PS

Elektro Soul EV Elektro

Early electric pioneer with character

Decent

Generations

Engine Overview

The Kia Soul PS is available with 3 engine variants — from 90 to 204 hp.

1.6 CRDi · Diesel· 128 PS
2014 2019
Be Careful 6 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →
1.6 GDi · Benziner· 129–132 PS
2014 2019
Be Careful 4 weaknesses
EV 30 kWh · Elektro· 110 PS
2014 2019
Be Careful 0 weaknesses
Show all weaknesses →

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 GDi (Benziner, 129–132 PS) has the G4FD (1.6L GDi (Gamma)) — rated: "Be Careful", 4 known weaknesses.

The Kia EV 30 kWh (Elektro, 110 PS) has the KIA-SOUL-EV (Elektro Soul EV) — rated: "Be Careful".

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Rear control arm bushings wear prematurely

The rear control arm bushings on the Soul PS are known for premature wear. The complete torsion beam must be removed for replacement as the bushings cannot be pressed individually. Often already from 100,000 km.

Symptoms: Knocking and banging from the rear over uneven surfaces, especially when pulling away and braking. Uneven rear tyre wear.
from 100,000 km
Ad control arm Kia Soul PSrear axle bushing Kia Soul 2010Torsionslenker Kia Soul
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
3,123 complaints · 2014–2019
Engine
2066 ⚠ 17
Other
377 ⚠ 11
Electrical
275 ⚠ 9
Fuel System
241 ⚠ 4
Engine & Cooling
229 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine (2066 complaints)
⚠ Other (377 complaints)
⚠ Electrical (275 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 15 weaknesses have been documented for the Kia Soul PS (2014–2019) — 10 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Suspension, Interior, HVAC, Rust.

Soul (D4FB, 2014–2019) — Be Careful: Timing chain stretches and skips, EGR valve blocked by soot deposits, DPF blockage in short-trip use. Power: 128 PS.

Soul (G4FD, 2014–2019) — Be Careful: High-pressure fuel pump failed, Carbon deposits on intake valves, Timing chain noise and elongation. Power: 129–132 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

What problems and weaknesses does the Kia Soul PS have? +
The Kia Soul PS has 10 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Kia Soul PS? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: G4FD (1.6L GDi (Gamma)), D4FB (1.6L CRDi (U2)), KIA-SOUL-EV (Elektro Soul EV). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the KIA-SOUL-EV (Elektro Soul EV).
Which Kia Soul PS engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Kia Soul PS — rated: "Decent". {description} 110 hp in the boxy first-generation Soul EV — pioneering spirit meets urban charm. Revolutionary for its time, today a charming classic.
Is the Kia Soul PS worth buying used? +
The Kia Soul PS requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Kia Soul PS? +
The Kia Soul PS is available with engine variants from 90 to 204 hp. Petrol: G4FD (1.6L GDi (Gamma)). Diesel: D4FB (1.6L CRDi (U2)).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee