AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2020 Kia Soul
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $7,500–$12,500
The 2020 Kia Soul suffers from significant engine issues, notably with piston oil rings, leading to a high volume of complaints. These issues contribute to costly repairs and lower overall dependability.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| engine | 40,000–70,000 miles | $4,000–$7,500 | very common |
| power train | 30,000–60,000 miles | $1,200–$2,500 | common |
| electrical system | 20,000–50,000 miles | $200–$800 | occasional |
| steering | 50,000–80,000 miles | $300–$600 | rare |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil change every 7,500 miles
- Replace air filter every 30,000 miles
- Brake pad replacement every 40,000 miles
- Coolant flush every 60,000 miles
- Transmission service every 60,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Engine knocking sounds
- Transmission slipping
- Dashboard warning lights
- Excessive oil consumption
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.