2021 Kia Soul VIN Check, Recalls & Reliability
The 2021 KIA Soul has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 190 owner complaints on file for the 2021 KIA Soul. Severity signals include 12 crash-related complaints and 3 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (85), Engine And Engine Cooling (36), Power Train (16).
Soul reliability snapshot
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the KIA Soul before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Most-reported 2021 KIA Soul issues
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
- Engine85
- Engine And Engine Cooling36
- Power Train16
- Unknown Or Other14
- Electrical System10
- Steering9
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 KIA Soul
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
- Check for excessive oil consumption by inspecting oil level and consumption history
- Test drive to check for transmission shudder or power loss
- Verify completion of all recall-related repairs and updates
- Inspect for engine knocking or unusual noises during acceleration
- Ensure all warning lights are functioning and check for any illuminated lights
- Test the vehicle for stalling at idle or during acceleration
2021 Soul recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Soul. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLINGNHTSA 25V099000Feb 17, 2025
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Consequence: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC336.
- ENGINENHTSA 21V259000Apr 13, 2021
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.
Consequence: 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.
Used-market value
2021 KIA Soul resale snapshot
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
2021 KIA Soul on the road
75,126 2021 KIA Soul units were sold new in the US — a key signal for the size of today's used-market inventory.
How the 2021 KIA Soul stacks up against rivals
The most-shopped alternatives in the same segment. Each link opens a side-by-side reliability and cost comparison.
Reliability verdict for the 2021 Kia Soul
The 2021 KIA Soul demonstrates moderate reliability, scoring slightly above the segment average. While its overall performance is respectable, the vehicle shows a concentration of issues primarily in the engine and engine cooling systems. This suggests these areas may warrant closer attention from owners and potential buyers.
The recall count is limited, indicating that while some issues have been significant enough to address through recalls, they are not widespread across numerous systems. The complaint data shows a notable focus on engine-related problems, which could impact long-term dependability if not properly addressed.
Overall, the 2021 KIA Soul presents a moderate risk level for buyers, with its reliability profile being mixed due to the concentration of engine-related complaints.
What you get in a 2021 Kia Soul report
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2021 Kia Soul — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Kia Soul reliable?
The 2021 KIA Soul demonstrates moderate reliability, scoring slightly above the segment average. While its overall performance is respectable, the vehicle shows a concentration of issues primarily in the engine and engine cooling systems. This suggests these areas may warrant closer attention from owners and potential buyers.
How many recalls does the 2021 Kia Soul have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Kia Soul. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Kia Soul problems?
The most-reported 2021 Kia Soul problem areas are: Engine (85), Engine And Engine Cooling (36), Power Train (16).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Kia Soul?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Kia Soul, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.