Kia · Known Issues

2017 Kia Soul Problems: 3 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2017 model year · 134+ owner reports · Updated July 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 134+ owner reports, the 2017 Kia Soul has 3 documented known issues, with 2 rated critical. The most serious are 7-Speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) Judder and Premature Clutch Failure ($300-$6,000 repair) and Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering ($500-$1,500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Electric Motor Bearing Noise (Soul EV) with 134 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $300 to $6,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Kia Soul problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 134+ owner reports, the 2017 Kia Soul has 3 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: 7-Speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) Judder and Premature Clutch Failure, Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering, Electric Motor Bearing Noise (Soul EV). Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Kia Soul reliable?

The 2017 Kia Soul has 3 known issues documented across 134+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: 7-Speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) Judder and Premature Clutch Failure and Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering. 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 $300 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, 7-Speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) Judder and Premature Clutch Failure, typically costs $300-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2017-2020 Kia Soul 7-Speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) Judder and Premature Clutch Failure?

Souls with the 1.6L Turbo-GDI and 7-speed dry dual-clutch transmission exhibit low-speed clutch judder (a body shake accelerating from a stop, worst on cold/humid mornings), harsh engagement, and hesitation. The dry clutches glaze/wear during stop-and-go creeping. Kia's diagnosis… Repairs typically run $300-$6,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2014-2020 Kia Soul Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering?

The optional panoramic glass sunroof can spontaneously shatter without impact, often at speed, showering occupants with glass and accompanied by a loud bang. NHTSA opened an investigation into Hyundai/Kia panoramic sunroof shattering in 2013 (expanded 2014) but closed it without… Repairs typically run $500-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2015-2020 Kia Soul Electric Motor Bearing Noise (Soul EV)?

The Soul EV (2015-2020) can develop a whining or grinding noise from the electric drive motor due to bearing wear. The front motor bearing deteriorates prematurely, particularly in cold climates. The noise is most noticeable at low speeds when other road noise is minimal. Kia has… Repairs typically run $400-$4,000. Severity: medium.

2017 Kia Soul Problems: 3 Issues Every Owner Should Know

All 3 Known Issues

2017-2020 Kia Soul: 7-Speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) Judder and Premature Clutch Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2014-2020 Kia Soul: Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Research This Issue

2015-2020 Kia Soul: Electric Motor Bearing Noise (Soul EV)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

Owner tips & cautions

Research This Issue

Other Kia Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Kia Soul problems?

Is the Kia Soul reliable?

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

What is the 2017-2020 Kia Soul 7-Speed Dual-Clutch (DCT) Judder and Premature Clutch Failure?

What is the 2014-2020 Kia Soul Panoramic Sunroof Spontaneous Shattering?

What is the 2015-2020 Kia Soul Electric Motor Bearing Noise (Soul EV)?