Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2015 Kia Soul
The 2015 Kia Soul has had some significant issues, primarily involving the engine, with a high number of complaints and two related recalls. The steering and vehicle speed control also have associated recalls, indicating potential weaknesses. Inspection and testing are recommended given the complaint data and recall history, though evidence is limited in some areas.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2015 Kia Soul has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 902 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V750000 Engine Damage May Cause Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V120000 Overheated Catalytic Converter May Damage Engine NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V608000 Steering Gear May Separate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V123000 Accelerator Pedal may Fracture NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 631 complaints
- Unknown or Other 108 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 77 complaints
- Electrical System 75 complaints
- Power Train 61 complaints
- Engine and Engine Cooling 58 complaints
Of the 902 complaints on file, 34 report a crash and 84 a fire; across all 902 complaints, owners report 32 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine compartment fire risk
How to check: Inspect for any burnt smells or signs of fire damage.
High exhaust temperatures
How to check: Check for excessive heat near exhaust after operation.
Pinion gear separation
How to check: Ensure smooth and consistent steering response.
Accelerator pedal fracture
How to check: Test pedal for any bending or weakness.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or vibrations.
Red flag: Loud knocking or ticking noise.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check idle stability and engine smoothness.
Red flag: Rough idle or stalling.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Observe steering responsiveness and ease.
Red flag: Steering feels loose or unresponsive.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for smooth acceleration without delays.
Red flag: Hesitation or poor acceleration response.
- 05
Braking
What to check: Ensure brake pedal firm and responsive.
Red flag: Spongy pedal or overlong stopping distance.
- 06
Parking
What to check: Check for excessive effort needed to steer.
Red flag: Steering requires excessive force or is jerky.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the engine recall work been completed?
- Any recent problems with steering or handling?
- Have you experienced any engine overheating issues?
- Has the accelerator pedal been repaired?
- Any electrical issues or repairs?
- What maintenance was recently performed?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Service and maintenance records
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
- Vehicle history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2015 Kia Soul at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2015 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.