2014 Kia Soul — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $6,000–$11,000. There are 2 high-severity known issues you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
Boxy, roomy, cheap, and easy to live with, from Kia's recall era. The 2.0L Nu is the engine to research, and the catalytic converter is a theft magnet. Do the VIN homework and it's a practical, distinctive little car.
Known Issues for the 2014 Kia Soul
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
Kia extended engine warranties across several engines. Any knock that tracks RPM is a walk-away.
Repair cost range: $0 if covered, $4,000-$6,000 if not
Part of the broad Hyundai/Kia recall. Verify closure.
Repair cost range: $0 recall
High clearance and easy access make the Soul a top converter-theft target.
Repair cost range: $1,200-$3,000
Front bearings and struts wear on higher-mileage cars.
Repair cost range: $300-$700
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Engine knock
- ✗Open recalls
- ✗Sudden loud exhaust — stolen converter
- ✗Oil consumption
Good Signs
- ✓Recalls closed with paperwork
- ✓Catalytic converter shield installed
- ✓Original owner with warranty balance
Found a specific Kia Soul?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2014 Kia Soul in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.
Get My Verdict — $7.99No account required. Delivered to your inbox, usually within minutes.
Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.
Other Kia Soul years
More from Kia
Similar cars & sedans