Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Kia Soul
The 2017 Kia Soul has a notable number of engine complaints and a single airbag-related recall. While this model's reliability could be affected by engine issues, the safety aspects linked to the airbag recall should also be considered. Evidence is limited for many components, suggesting a varied ownership experience. Approach with caution based on engine-related feedback and recall resolution.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Kia Soul has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 272 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 #22V031000 Air Bags May Not Deploy NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 191 complaints
- Unknown or Other 32 complaints
- Electrical System 19 complaints
- Power Train 19 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 18 complaints
- Air Bags 16 complaints
Of the 272 complaints on file, 17 report a crash and 14 a fire; across all 272 complaints, owners report 19 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine failure
How to check: Listen for knocking sounds or irregular idling
Airbag deployment failure
How to check: Check recall resolution with VIN
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for knocking or ticking sounds
Red flag: Persistent knocking noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe for erratic RPM fluctuations
Red flag: Unstable idling RPM
- 03
City driving
What to check: Monitor acceleration response
Red flag: Lag or hesitation
- 04
Braking
What to check: Feel for smooth, quiet stopping
Red flag: Grinding or squealing noises
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth engine performance
Red flag: Power loss or stuttering
- 06
Parking
What to check: Evaluate ease of steering
Red flag: Steering stiffness or noise
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Have there been any engine repairs?
- Any known electrical issues?
- How often was the oil changed?
- Can I see maintenance service records?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service and maintenance records
- Recall resolution documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty documentation
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Kia Soul at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 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.