2017 Kia Soul Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2017 Kia Soul
- Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the air bags.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Kia Soul earns a 88.
- The system most likely to surface first: 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (dct) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2017 Kia Soul?
The 2017 Kia Soul offers a compelling blend of practicality and unique style, making it a good value, but specific powertrain configurations warrant careful consideration. While generally a solid performer, the 1.6L Turbo GDI engine with its 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission presents elevated risks for costly repairs. For a dependable, urban-friendly crossover, you'll want to prioritize models with the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine.
While the 2017 Kia Soul is a stylish and practical compact, it's not a uniformly reliable choice. The substantial risk of transmission issues with the 1.6L Turbo GDI engine and its 7-speed DCT means buyers must exercise extreme caution. Opting for the 2.0L MPI engine with the conventional automatic transmission sign…
Best Model Years
2015-2016 (prior to turbo/DCT introduction), and 2017+ 2.0L MPI models
Years to Avoid
Any 2017+ models equipped with the 1.6L Turbo GDI engine and 7-speed DCT due to transmission concerns.
Biggest Strengths
- Practical and spacious interior for its class
- Generally robust 2.0L naturally aspirated engine
- Good standard features and infotainment for the price
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 Kia Soul, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Exclusively paired with the 1.6L Turbo GDI engine, this transmission is known for shuddering, jerky shifts, and premature failure, often requiring costly clutch pack or full unit replacement. Kia issued TSBs for software updates, but mec…
The 1.6L GDI engines (both naturally aspirated base and Turbo) are susceptible to carbon buildup on intake valves due to direct injection, leading to reduced performance, misfires, and potentially increased oil consumption. While not as…
Owners report various minor electrical gremlins including infotainment system freezes, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and occasional sensor malfunctions (e.g., TPMS, ABS). While usually not stranding, they can be annoying and lead to dia…
2017 Kia Soul Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 Kia Soul most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Soul is still relatively new. Initial services like oil changes and tire rotations are key. For 1.6L Turbo models, this is often when early DCT shuddering or hesitation might begin to manifest.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage often marks the need for more significant preventative maintenance, including transmission fluid changes (especially crucial for DCTs) and spark plugs. Carbon buildup in GDI engines may start becoming noticeable.
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90,000 miles, the probability of encountering more substantial repairs increases. Engine oil consumption, significant carbon buildup, and suspension component wear are more likely. The DCT, if problematic, will likely be showing c…
High Risk Zone
Vehicles crossing the 120,000-mile mark will almost certainly require significant preventative maintenance and potentially costly repairs. Major engine or transmission overhauls become a real possibility, especially without meticulous pr…
2017 Kia Soul Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 Kia Soul on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally
How Long Does the 2017 Kia Soul Last?
A 2017 Kia Soul with the 2.0L engine and a well-documented service history can confidently reach 150,000 miles or more. For 1.6L Turbo models, expect potential major transmission work by 100,000 miles, requiring a higher repair budget.
What 2017 Kia Soul Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Unique, distinctive styling stands out from typical crossovers
- Surprisingly spacious and practical interior for its compact footprint
- User-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration
- Comfortable ride quality for daily commuting (non-turbo models)
Common Frustrations
- Significant road and wind noise at highway speeds
- Lackluster acceleration from the base 1.6L GDI engine
- Stiff ride and less refined handling compared to some rivals
- Potential for frustrating DCT issues in 1.6L Turbo models
Who Should Buy the 2017 Kia Soul?
Best For
- Urban commuters seeking a practical, easy-to-park vehicle
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for good features and style
- First-time car owners or those seeking a second family car
Not Ideal For
- Drivers prioritizing absolute bulletproof long-term reliability without proactive maintenance
- Performance enthusiasts, especially those considering the 1.6L Turbo for speed
How the 2017 Kia Soul Compares to Rivals
The Soul offers a more distinctive personality and often better value than many competitors. However, its reliability can be a mixed bag; while the 2.0L models are solid, the 1.6L Turbo with DCT falls short of the class leaders in long-term dependability.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Juke (particularly CVT issues)
- Fiat 500X
- Older generations of some domestic compact SUVs
Comparable To
- Honda HR-V (some early CVT concerns)
- Mazda CX-3
- Hyundai Kona (similar powertrain risks)
NHTSA Recalls
1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
AIR BAGS
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Sedona, Soul, Soul EV, 2017-2018 Forte, and 2017 Forte Koup vehicles. The Air Bag Control Unit (ACU) cover may contact a memory chip on the printed circuit board and damage the electrical circuit. Circuit damage may result in deactivated air bags that will not deploy in a crash.
What breaks on the 2017 Kia Soul?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Kia Soul by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Kia Soul. Click any year for its full report.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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