2012 Kia Soul: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2012 Kia Soul? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 509 complaints, with Engine Problems as the top reported area.
2012 Kia Soul Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 6 2012 Kia Soul trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 6 trims analysed.
2012 Kia Soul Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
15.1% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
15.1% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2012 Kia Soul has 509 owner complaints, 25 crash-related complaints, and 3 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Engine Problems. NHTSA reliability signal: Severe Issues.
- Make
- Kia
- Model
- Soul
- Model year
- 2012
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 509
- Crash-related complaints
- 25
- Safety recall campaigns
- 3
- Top reported component
- Engine Problems
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 27
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 25 / 30
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2012 Kia Soul Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Engine Problems
Steering Defects
Brake System
Complaint patterns center on Engine Problems, Steering Defects, Brake System. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2012 Kia Soul?
The 2012 Kia Soul shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2012 Kia Soul
Inspection Focus
- Have a mechanic inspect the engine for any signs of problems.
- Check the steering system for unusual noises or play.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and steering repairs.
Before You Close the Deal
- Have a mechanic inspect the engine for any signs of problems.
- Check the steering system for unusual noises or play.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for engine and steering repairs.
- Test drive the vehicle to assess engine and steering performance.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2012 Kia Soul, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
The 2012 Kia Soul has a high volume of NHTSA complaints, with engine problems and steering defects being the most frequently reported issues. Crash-related complaints are relatively low compared to total complaints. The data suggests potential concerns with the engine and steering systems, but the confidence level is low due to the nature of consumer-reported data.
- Engine problems account for the largest share of complaints, with 238 reports.
- Steering defects are the second most common issue, with 165 complaints.
- There are 3 recalls associated with this model year.
- Engine Problems: 238 complaints, indicating possible issues with engine performance or reliability.
- Steering Defects: 165 complaints, suggesting potential problems with steering control or components.
- Brake System: 44 complaints, though less frequent, may indicate brake-related concerns.
All 2012 Kia Soul Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2012 Kia Soul. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Problems | 238 | 2 | 20 | — | |
| Steering Defects | 165 | 3 | — | — | |
| Brake System | 44 | 3 | 3 | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 39 | 2 | 2 | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 38 | 2 | 2 | — | |
| Hydraulic | 34 | — | 1 | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 21 | — | — | — | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 21 | 3 | 1 | — | |
| Structural Problems | 18 | 4 | 1 | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 17 | 15 | 1 | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 10 | — | — | — | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 9 | — | 1 | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 7 | 2 | — | — | |
| Electronic Stability Control (Esc) | 7 | 1 | — | — | |
| Wheel Issues | 6 | 1 | — | — | |
| Door Lock Issues | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Seat Belt Issues | 4 | 3 | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 4 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Traction Control System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Lane Departure | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Equipment Adaptive/Mobility | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2012 Kia Soul. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
See attached document for complaint.
Check engine light came on. Car starts to shutter upon acceleration as well when its idling. Changed spark plugs 3 times since Jan 2025 and coils twice. Code for engine misfire in cylinder 3. Also have to add oil every 2 weeks.
I have a used kia soul 2012 which I bought 3 years ago. It's steering column has started making strange clicking noises when I turn the wheel left and right. I went to KIA dealership, they inspected the steering column and said it's gonna cost me $1200. They said it's not covere…
On Oct. 14, 2025, this vehicle experienced a sudden catastrophic engine failure while driving approx. 70 mph on a highway. While in the passing lane, the vehicle began to lose power, shake, and wouldn’t accelerate. The check engine light came on just moments before a loud explosi…
I am submitting this complaint regarding a known defect with the steering wheel coupler in my 2012 Kia vehicle. The steering coupler is a component that has been subject to recall concerns due to premature wear. When this part becomes worn, it can result in looseness or failure i…
On 12/ 22/ 2025 I went to start the 2012 KIA Soul and it would act like it would start but, it would not turn over. Battery was fine checked it. Let it set a moment and tried it again would not start. Called a wrecker and towed it in. The service guy tried and couldn't get it to …
Steering is slightly loose and thumps when turned to the right.
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that parts needed to be ordered for the repair. The contact stated that the parts…
I bought the car 2 yrs ago come April and it's had nothing but issues. I've had one recall did which was the knock sensor however now the check engine is on and it's smelling like rubber my brakes are wearing like an eraser and my engine just feels sluggish. The code is p0420 whi…
P1326 code followed by loss of power (limp mode) followed by multiple misfires and loss of compression in cylinder 2. Loss of power going up a hill on interstate with a full car one under age 10. Dealer and firestone states no compression in cylinder 2 and says needs engine.
Steering makes a clicking noise and will pull either direction while driving straight. I took it to the dealership and they want me to pay for the repair. They state that the problem is the steering coupler. To me this is a safety issue, they said my warranty is expired so they w…
I have self diagnosed the problem thus far. The issue is with a severe hesitation in the steering wheel..it started 3 days ago and is getting worse. I feel as though I will lose complete control of my vehicle at any time. I am scared to death to drive my car. I will contact my de…
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V652000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact informed the dealer of an attempted theft of the vehicle and that the ignition was damaged. Th…
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while reversing and parking the vehicle, the steering wheel malfunctioned and became difficult to turn, and the driver was unable to control the direction of the vehicle, causing the rear passenger side wheel to strike the…
The contact's son owned a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked in the driveway, the contact's daughter-in-law looked through the glass door of the residence and noticed that the vehicle had caught on fire. The contact stated that the fire started fr…
In March 2023 I reported my keys stolen by a tow truck driver and in March 2025 I discovered my auto registration documents was forged by the auto dealer. The time In August 2024 my ID was stolen and because of slander HPD refused to investigate. All of this was followed by more…
I was driving on the highway when I heard a whistle. When I arrived at my destination, I was surprised to see that the front driver’s side windshield trim panel was missing and flew off when I was driving. Earlier, I had a similar issue with the front passenger side trim panel. …
premature wear of the motor-driven power steering (MDPS) flexible coupling. This wear causes a "knock" or "clunk" noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at a stop, and may be accompanied by a tight or loose steering feel.
I had some work done on the drive train of my car by a local mechanic. When I picked up the car, the Brake light and the Low Tire light were on. I asked the mechanic to see about getting them turned off. He came to me a bit later, said they tried to replace a fuse connected to th…
The contact owns a 2012 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving and turning, there was an abnormal metal-on-metal sound coming from near the wheels. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the driver's side wheel bearing, and axle had failed. T…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2012 Kia Soul.
2012 Kia Soul Recalls
3 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2012 Kia Soul. 3 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2012 Kia Soul Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2012 Kia Soul reliable?▾
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 509 owner complaints, 25 crash-related complaints, and 3 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2012 Kia Soul shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Kia Soul?▾
#1: Engine Problems (238 complaints). #2: Steering Defects (165 complaints). #3: Brake System (44 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2012 Kia Soul?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2012 Kia Soul?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2012 Kia Soul, NHTSA complaints include 25 crash-related reports and 23 fire reports out of 509 total complaints. 25 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2012 Kia Soul have any recalls?▾
Yes. 3 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2012 Kia Soul. A major recall area is ENGINE. 3 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2012 Kia Soul?▾
The 2012 Kia Soul shows higher complaint activity for its model-year profile, so buyers should inspect known problem areas carefully before purchase. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Engine Problems during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Kia Soul reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2012 Kia Soul based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.