Kia Soul recalled over fire hazard

Recall date

February 22, 2019

Source

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Official notice title

Kia America, Inc. recalls 2012–2016 Kia Soul

Recall number

19V120000

Brand / firm

Kia

Sold / distributed

Potentially affected: 378,967 units

Why it was recalled

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.

What was recalled

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.

What to do

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 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC176.. Follow the official notice for full instructions.