Credov

Kia Soul EV common problems: what to check before you buy

Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Kia Soul EV is known for (2014–2018), 1 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.

Known problems on the Kia Soul EV

Battery pack loses range fast

Costly if missed

2014–2018 · ev · Hybrid and EV

What to look for: Read the charge % and range on the dash; well under about 150 km at full charge points to a worn battery.

Why it matters: A weak or fast-fading battery pack on a used EV outside warranty is a very expensive problem, and the car's own dashboard figure cannot always be trusted to show the true remaining capacity.

Sources: 1 2 3

White paint peeling

Minor

2014–2019 · Body and structure

What to look for: On a white car, check the roof edges, tailgate top, bonnet and every handle and mirror for flaking or lifting paint.

Why it matters: Once started the paint keeps lifting across more panels, and because it usually shows up after the paint warranty has ended a buyer is left to pay for a respray themselves.

Sources: 1 2 3

Got a question about a Kia Soul EV? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.

Also check on every car

On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.

Other Kia models

Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.