2021 Kia Soul Recall

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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

8 common questions answered

What are the known NHTSA recalls for a 2021 Kia Soul?
The NHTSA has recorded 22 recalls affecting related model years and systems that can also impact the 2021 Kia Soul, covering steering, engine, catalytic converters, accelerator pedal, transmission systems and structure components. These recalls include steering pinion plug failures that can cause loss of steering, engine and catalytic-converter issues that can cause stalls or fire, accelerator pedal fractures, and transmission/park-gear software updates in EV variants. All official recall details are listed by the NHTSA and Kia; owners should verify their VIN for exact applicability.
How do I check if my 2021 Kia Soul has an open recall?
Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov or contact Nalley Kia's service team to confirm open recalls instantly. You can also call Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542 for manufacturer records, or bring your VIN to Nalley Kia and we will check for free. If you want hands-on assistance, schedule service and our factory-trained technicians will verify recalls using OEM diagnostic tools.
How much does a 2021 Kia Soul recall repair cost?
Manufacturer recall repairs are free of charge to the vehicle owner. Kia-authorized dealers, including Nalley Kia, perform recall work using OEM parts and factory-trained technicians at no cost under the recall program. If you need other non-recall repairs or want to combine services, check our service specials and ask about service financing so you can get service now and pay later.
Can I get my 2021 Kia Soul recall fixed at an independent shop or do I need a dealer?
Recall repairs must be completed by an authorized dealer to ensure OEM parts, factory diagnostics, and proper software updates; Nalley Kia is your local certified Kia dealer for recall work. Independent shops cannot always access manufacturer software updates or warranty recall parts; using a franchise dealer preserves safety compliance and manufacturer records. To avoid delays and protect resale value, use an authorized dealer like Nalley Kia; schedule appointment online if you find an open recall.
How long does a 2021 Kia Soul recall repair take?
Repair time varies by recall: many software updates or inspections take under an hour, while part replacements or engine work can take several hours to a day. For steering pinion inspections or catalytic converter and engine repairs, allow more time for diagnostics and any parts replacement. Book ahead using our schedule service page and ask about loaner options—Nalley Kia staff will give a time estimate when you arrive.
Does an open recall affect my 2021 Kia Soul's trade-in or resale value?
An unresolved recall can reduce trade-in offers and buyer confidence because many dealers and private buyers check recall status before purchase. Having recalls remedied at a certified dealer like Nalley Kia protects resale value and documents proper factory repairs on the vehicle history report. If you plan to trade in, visit our trade-in page at sell-your-car-online.htm and bring proof of completed recall service to maximize value; we also offer service financing for non-recall work.
Can I fail a state inspection because of an unresolved 2021 Kia Soul recall?
In some states and inspection programs, safety-related recalls (like steering or engine fire risks) can affect compliance; unresolved safety recalls can be flagged during inspections. Resolving recalls with Nalley Kia ensures your vehicle meets manufacturer safety updates and helps avoid inspection complications. Contact Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA for guidance and to schedule service—we can confirm recall status and perform required repairs using OEM parts.
2021 Kia Soul Recall Summary
The recalls above are compiled from NHTSA records and Kia manufacturer notifications. If your 2021 Kia Soul may be affected, contact Nalley Kia in Lithonia, GA to verify your VIN and schedule service—all manufacturer recall repairs are performed free of charge by factory-trained technicians using OEM parts.

Recall Service & Dealership Highlights

Recall Summary

22 recalls found · All repairs FREE

Transmission

FREE1 OPEN RECALL

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Kia Soul Electric Vehicle (EV) vehicles. The parking mechanism may become damaged if the driver moves the gear shift lever into Park 'P' before the vehicle comes to a complete stop. If the parking mechanism is damaged, unintended vehicle movement may occur when the gear shift lever is in the Park 'P' position and the parking brake is not applied.

Consequence

Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the electronic control unit software, free of charge. The recall began August 7, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC191.

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Transmission1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Kia Soul Electric Vehicle (EV) vehicles. The parking mechanism may become damaged if the driver moves the gear shift lever into Park 'P' before the vehicle comes to a complete stop. If the parking mechanism is damaged, unintended vehicle movement may occur when the gear shift lever is in the Park 'P' position and the parking brake is not applied.

Consequence

Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the electronic control unit software, free of charge. The recall began August 7, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC191.

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Steering7
FREE7 OPEN RECALLS

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Soul and Soul EV vehicles. The pinion plug may allow the pinion gear to separate from the steering gear assembly.

Consequence

If the pinion gear separates, steering will be lost, increasing the risk of a crash.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and secure the pinion plug or replace the steering gear assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began November 16, 2017. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC155. Note: This recall supersedes campaigns 14V-332 and 15V-736. Vehicles previously remedied under those numbers are being recalled again under this campaign.

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Engine5
FREE5 OPEN RECALLS

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2013 Sorento, 2012-2015 Forte and Forte Koup, 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid, 2014-2015 Soul, and 2012 Sportage vehicles. An engine compartment fire can occur while driving.

Consequence

An engine compartment fire increases the risk of injury.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the engine compartment for fuel and/or engine oil leaks, perform an engine test and make any repairs, including engine replacement, as necessary, free of charge. In addition, Kia is currently developing a Knock Sensor Detection System (KSDS) software update, which when available, will be performed by dealers free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 27, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC200.

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Catalytic Converter3
FREE3 OPEN RECALLS

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.

Consequence

Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.

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Accelerator Pedal2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 Soul and Soul electric vehicles manufactured July 21, 2013, to January 8, 2015. A section of the accelerator pedal may bend and fracture.

Consequence

If the vehicle has a bent or broken accelerator pedal, the driver may have difficulty accelerating the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will add a supporting rubber underneath the pedal stopper, free of charge. The recall began on March 24, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC116.

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Structure1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2010-2013 Kia Soul vehicles manufactured January 8, 2009, to October 2, 2013, equipped with a sun roof. A headliner plate may detach during deployment of the curtain air bag.

Consequence

A detached headliner plate may increase the risk of injury to the occupant during a vehicle crash.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will install industrial adhesive strips to secure the headliner plates, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin February 2, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for th

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Transmission Gear Position Indication1
FREE1 OPEN RECALL

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Kia Soul Electric Vehicle (EV) vehicles. The parking mechanism may become damaged if the driver moves the gear shift lever into Park 'P' before the vehicle comes to a complete stop. If the parking mechanism is damaged, unintended vehicle movement may occur when the gear shift lever is in the Park 'P' position and the parking brake is not applied.

Consequence

Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will update the electronic control unit software, free of charge. The recall began August 7, 2020. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC191.

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Steering Rack2
FREE2 OPEN RECALLS

Defect

Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Kia Soul and Soul EV vehicles manufactured January 18, 2014, to September 30, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the adhesive used to secure the steering pinion gear to the steering gear assembly may have insufficient strength, and as a result, the pinion gear may separate from the steering gear assembly.

Consequence

If the pinion gear separates, there would be a loss of steering which could increase the risk of a crash.

Corrective Action

Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the pinion plug that secures the pinion gear. Dealers will also install a set bolt for additional reinforcement. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on December 8, 2015. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC125.

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