Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2013 Kia Soul
The 2013 Kia Soul has some notable issues, particularly with the engine and steering, based on recall and complaint data. Common complaints revolve around the engine and steering components, often related to potential overheating and steering malfunctions. Recalls have addressed these problems and others related to the brakes and body. While the issues should not be ignored, verify during inspection as these problems may not affect all vehicles.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2013 Kia Soul has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns and 668 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #23V652000 HECU May Cause Engine Compartment Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V120000 Overheated Catalytic Converter May Damage Engine NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V822000 Headliner Plate Detachment NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 286 complaints
- Steering 154 complaints
- Electrical System 71 complaints
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic 68 complaints
- Unknown or Other 62 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 45 complaints
Of the 668 complaints on file, 22 report a crash and 46 a fire; across all 668 complaints, owners report 25 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
High exhaust temperatures
How to check: Inspect catalytic converter and check for engine noises.
Steering problems
How to check: Test steering responsiveness and listen for noises.
Electrical short in control unit
How to check: Check for any dashboard alerts or warning lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or misfires.
Red flag: Persistent knocking or ticking noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe any dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Any warning lights stay on
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth power delivery.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerky acceleration
- 04
Mid-speed driving
What to check: Test steering ease and alignment.
Red flag: Steering pulls or vibrates
- 05
Highway driving
What to check: Listen for engine noise at higher RPMs.
Red flag: Pinging or rattling sounds
- 06
Braking test
What to check: Feel for smooth, consistent braking action.
Red flag: Vibration or pulling while braking
- 07
Parking
What to check: Test reverse gear engagement and steering.
Red flag: Difficulty engaging reverse
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine recall been addressed?
- Any recent repairs on the steering?
- Have you experienced electrical issues?
- Is there a history of overheating?
- Are all repairs documented?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall service records
- Recent maintenance receipts
- Vehicle history report
- Warranty documentation
- Title and registration
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2013 Kia Soul at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2013 Kia Soul? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.