Recall 19V-120
Kia Motors America recalled the 2012 to 2016 Kia Soul: Engine; Engine and engine cooling (exhaust system, emission control, catalytic convertor).
At a glance
- Campaign number
- 19V-120
- Reported
- February 22, 2019
- Vehicles affected
- 378,967 estimated by the manufacturer
Source: NHTSA recall records
What is wrong
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2012-2016 Kia Soul vehicles equipped with 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) engines. High exhaust gas temperatures may damage the catalytic converter, possibly resulting in abnormal engine combustion and damage to one or more of the engine's pistons and possible piston connecting rod failure.
The risk
Piston damage may result in an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash. A broken connecting rod may puncture the engine block allowing engine oil to escape. The leaking oil may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix
Kia will notify owners, and dealers will upgrade the Catalytic Overheating Protection Engine Control Unit logic to prevent overheating of the catalytic converter. In addition, the catalytic converter will also be replaced if it has been damaged. Depending on the extent of any damage, the engine may also be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 17, 2019. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-[removed]. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.
Notes from the manufacturer
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-[removed] (TTY 1-[removed]), or go to [link removed]
Affected vehicles
- Kia Soul 2012 to 2016