2016 Kia Soul — Should You Buy One?
Typical asking price: $8,000–$13,000. There is 1 high-severity known issue you need to know before handing over a check.
Kestrel Take
A boxy, practical, easy-to-live-with hatch with tons of headroom and a low price. The 2.0L is the one to have; note that some 2.0L Nu GDI engines fall under engine recalls/warranty extensions, so verify the campaign work. Cheerful, roomy, and cheap to run — a sensible used pick if the engine documentation is in order.
Known Issues for the 2016 Kia Soul
Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.
Certain Nu 2.0L GDI engines are covered by recalls/warranty extensions for knock/failure. Verify the knock-sensor software and any engine work; listen for knocking.
Repair cost range: $0 under warranty / $4,000+ otherwise
Chips and thins faster than average. Cosmetic.
Repair cost range: Varies
The boxy shape brings wind noise; ride is firm. Character.
Repair cost range: N/A
Brakes, tires, suspension wear normally.
Repair cost range: $150-$500
Walk-Away Red Flags
- ✗Knock or tick at idle
- ✗No record of engine recall/software
- ✗Oil consumption
- ✗Salvage title
Good Signs
- ✓Recall software/engine work documented
- ✓Quiet engine, steady oil
- ✓Remaining powertrain warranty
Found a specific Kia Soul?
This page covers what goes wrong on the 2016 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