2020 Kia Soul · recalls
2020 Kia Soul recalls
NHTSA lists 1 recall that include the 2020 Kia Soul. It is 21V-259, filed Apr 13, 2021 for the engine.
- 1recalls
- 1systems
- 379owner complaints
Newest recall or investigation Dec 12, 2023 · checked Sep 22, 2026
Whether your car is included depends on its VIN, and a finished repair drops it off the list. Check yours at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Every recall, newest first
Engine
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. The recall began June 11, 2021. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC209.
236 of the 379 owner complaints on this car cite the engine. Symptom sheets that include this system: Engine stalls or loses power while driving (125) · Engine failure, knocking or rod bearing (84) · Check engine light or misfire (77) · Burns oil or oil level rises (40).
Complaints with no recall behind them
The systems owners of the 2020 Kia Soul complain about most that none of these recalls covers, as of Sep 22, 2026. A problem can be widespread without being a safety defect NHTSA can order fixed.
NHTSA investigations
Loss of motive power. Closed dec 12, 2023.
NHTSA summary
More on the 2020 Kia Soul
Problems by mileage on the 2020 Kia Soul · Kia Soul years to avoid