What are the most common Kia Soul problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 678+ owner reports, the 2013-2013 Kia Soul has 1 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Catalytic Converter Overheating and Engine Piston Damage. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Kia Soul reliable?

The 2013-2013 Kia Soul has 1 known issues documented across 678+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: Catalytic Converter Overheating and Engine Piston Damage. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Kia Soul problems?

Repair costs for known Kia Soul issues range from $0 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Catalytic Converter Overheating and Engine Piston Damage, typically costs $0-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

Kia · Known Issues

2013 Kia Soul Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2013 model year · 678+ owner reports · Updated June 2026

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According to Au7o's analysis of 678+ owner reports, the 2013 Kia Soul has 1 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is Catalytic Converter Overheating and Engine Piston Damage ($0-$6,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Catalytic Converter Overheating and Engine Piston Damage with 678 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $ to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 1 Known Issues

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Community Reported

678 owners

On the 2012-2016 Kia Soul 1.6L GDI, the 1.6L GDI engine in 2012-2016 Souls can produce excessively high exhaust gas temperatures that damage the catalytic converter. The damaged converter can cause abnormal engine combustion, leading to piston damage and connecting rod failure. NHTSA recall covers over 350,000 vehicles. Kia will inspect and replace the engine if damage is found.

This issue also affects: BMW X6, Chevrolet Equinox, Chrysler 200

Common Symptoms

Check engine light with catalyst efficiency codes (P0420)
Rattling noise from catalytic converter area
Engine misfires and rough running
Loss of power during acceleration
Sulfur smell from exhaust
Knocking noise from engine (if piston damage has occurred)

How to Fix

Check VIN for recall eligibility. Dealer will inspect the catalytic converter and engine for damage. If catalytic converter is damaged, it is replaced free of charge. If piston or connecting rod damage is found, complete engine replacement is performed under recall. Dealer also installs KSDS (Knock Sensor Detection System) software.

What Owners Are Using

Parts and tips from 678+ owners who fixed this issue

NoteIf you hear any knocking from the engine, stop driving and have the vehicle towed. Continuing to drive can cause catastrophic connecting rod failure
UpgradePremium radiator provides improved cooling capacity (Mishimoto Aluminum Radiator)
View on Amazon
UpgradePre-mixed coolant ready for top-off or full flush (Prestone Extended Life Antifreeze Coolant)
View on Amazon

Typical repair cost:$0 - $6,000

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678+ owners have reported this issue

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerified678 reportsLast reported by owners Jul 2024Reviewed Feb 2026

2013 Kia Soul Problems: 1 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 1 Known Issues

2012-2016 Kia Soul: Catalytic Converter Overheating and Engine Piston Damage#