The Kia Soul is a popular and versatile SUV that offers a spacious interior, a stylish design, and a range of features to suit different needs and preferences.
However, some Kia Soul owners have reported experiencing various transmission problems that can affect their driving experience and safety.
In this article, you will learn about the common transmission issues that affect Kia Soul vehicles.
The common issues such as engine failures, delayed shifting, jerking and hesitation, lack of response, loud and clunking noise, transmission slippage, flimsy suspension, and more.
You will also find out how to detect, fix, and prevent these problems to give you a complete understanding of your Kia Soul car.
Taking that in mind, let’s get started;
What Are The Common Transmission Issues That Affect Kia Soul Vehicles?
Kia Soul vehicles can experience a few common transmission problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues;
Shifting Delays
This is a telltale sign of transmission trouble. If your Kia Soul hesitates or takes a noticeably long time to shift gears, it could indicate a problem. The problem of delayed shifting can be caused by various factors, such as low or contaminated transmission fluid, faulty transmission solenoids, malfunctioning transmission control modules, or damaged shift linkage or cables.
Grinding Noises
Unusual grinding noises coming from the transmission area, when you shift gears, point toward internal component wear and tear. The grinding noise problem can be caused by various factors, such as worn or damaged transmission components. It can also be caused by low or contaminated transmission fluid or faulty transmission solenoids.
Jerking or Shuddering
The transmission should provide a smooth transition between gears. If your Kia Soul jerks or shudders during acceleration or gear changes, it signifies a problem that requires attention. The Kia Soul transmission problem of jerking or shuddering can be caused by various factors, such as worn or damaged transmission components, low or contaminated transmission fluid, or faulty transmission solenoids.
Slipping Gears
In severe cases, the transmission might struggle to engage gears properly, causing the engine to rev without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. This can be dangerous and necessitates immediate repair. The Kia Soul transmission problem of slipping gears can be caused by various factors, such as low or contaminated transmission fluid, faulty transmission solenoids, malfunctioning transmission control module, or worn-out clutch or pressure plate.
Burning Smell
A burning odor emanating from the transmission is a serious warning sign. It could indicate overheating caused by low fluid levels, internal friction, or a failing component. This Kia Soul transmission problem can be caused by various factors, such as low or contaminated transmission fluid, faulty transmission solenoids, malfunctioning transmission control module, or damaged clutch or pressure plate.
Also Read: 2007 Chevy Avalanche Transmission Problems – Causes and Repairs!
How To Diagnose And Fix The Kai Soul Transmission Problems.
- Check the transmission fluid level and condition. If the fluid is low, add more fluid of the correct type and specification. If the fluid is dirty, burnt, or smells bad, you should change the fluid and filter.
- Scan the transmission system for any trouble codes using a diagnostic tool. If there are any codes, look up their meanings and possible solutions. Some common codes related to delayed shifting are P0700, P0750, P0755, P0760, and P0765.
- Inspect the transmission solenoids, which are responsible for controlling the flow of fluid and shifting gears. If the solenoids are faulty, they can cause delayed or erratic shifting. You can test the solenoids using a multimeter or an ohmmeter. If the solenoids are defective, you should replace them.
- Check the transmission control module, which is the computer that manages the transmission’s operation. If the module is malfunctioning, it can cause incorrect or delayed shifting. You can try resetting the module by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes and reconnecting it. If the module is damaged, you may need to replace or reprogram it.
- Examine the shift linkage or cables, which connect the gear shift lever to the transmission. If the linkage or cables are loose, worn, or broken, they can cause difficulty or inability to shift gears. You can adjust or replace the linkage or cables as needed.
- Examine the clutch or pressure plate, which is responsible for engaging and disengaging gears. If they are worn out or damaged, they can cause slipping gears. You can inspect them visually or use a pressure tester to check their condition.
How To Prevent The Kai Soul Transmission Problems?
To prevent the Kai Soul Transmission problems, you should follow some general maintenance tips, such as:
- Changing the engine oil regularly, as low or dirty oil can cause damage to the engine and the transmission.
You should check the oil level and quality every 3,000 miles or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Regularly checking and adjusting the transmission fluid levels, as low or contaminated fluid can cause friction and overheating in the transmission.
You should check the fluid level and color every 15,000 miles or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. You should also use the correct type and grade of fluid for your vehicle.
- Replacing worn-out or damaged transmission components as needed, such as the clutch, the gear shift cable, the sensors, the solenoids, and the dampers.
These components can affect the performance and efficiency of the transmission, and they can wear out over time or due to harsh driving conditions. You should inspect and replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations or when you notice any signs of trouble.
- Examining and adjusting the gear shift cable, if necessary, as it can affect the accuracy and timing of the shifting.
The cable can stretch or loosen over time, and it can cause delayed or erratic shifting. You should check the cable tension and alignment every 30,000 miles or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. You should also lubricate the cable and the linkage to prevent corrosion and friction.
- Replacing faulty components, such as the powertrain control module (PCM), the transmission control module (TCM), or the transmission range sensor (TRS),
if they are malfunctioning or sending incorrect signals to the transmission. These components are responsible for controlling and monitoring the transmission functions, and they can fail due to electrical or software issues.
How Can You Protect Your Kia Soul Transmission From Damage And Extend Its Lifespan?
To protect your Kia Soul transmission from damage and extend its lifespan, you should follow some basic tips, such as;
Changing The Engine Oil Regularly
The engine oil lubricates and cools the engine and the transmission, and it should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Dirty or low-quality oil can cause friction and wear on the transmission components, leading to poor performance and damage.
Regularly Checking And Adjusting The Transmission Fluid Levels
The transmission fluid is the lifeblood of the transmission, as it cools, lubricates, and cleans the transmission parts. You should check the transmission fluid level and condition at least once a month, and top it up or change it if needed. Low or dirty transmission fluid can cause overheating, slippage, noise, and damage to the transmission.
Replacing Worn-Out Or Damaged Transmission Components As Needed
The transmission is made up of many parts, such as clutches, gears, sensors, valves, and solenoids, that work together to ensure smooth and efficient gear shifts. If any of these parts are worn out or damaged, they can affect the transmission performance and cause problems. You should inspect the transmission components regularly and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage.
Examining And Adjusting The Gear Shift Cable, If Necessary
The gear shift cable is the link between the gear selector and the transmission, and it allows you to change the gears manually or automatically. If the gear shift cable is loose, stretched, or broken, it can cause delayed or incorrect gear shifts, which can damage the transmission. You should check the gear shift cable for any damage or adjustment issues, and fix them as soon as possible
Why Is My Kia Soul Not Changing Gears?
However, I can offer some common reasons for this issue and suggest the next steps
Possible Reasons
- Low Transmission Fluid This is a frequent cause and can lead to slipping, grinding, and difficulty shifting gears.
- Faulty Gear Selector If the connection between the gear shifter and the transmission is compromised, it might not register gear changes properly.
- Worn-out Clutch (Manual Transmission) A worn clutch can lead to slipping and difficulty engaging gears.
- Solenoid Issues (Automatic Transmission)Solenoids are responsible for controlling the flow of fluid within the transmission and malfunctioning ones can cause shifting problems.
- Internal Transmission Problems This includes worn gears, damaged bearings, or a failing torque converter, requiring professional diagnosis and repair.
What Kind Of Transmission Does A Kia Soul Have?
Kia Souls have typically been equipped with two main transmission types throughout their model years;
- 4-speed or 6-speed Automatic Transmission This is the most common transmission you’ll find in a Kia Soul. It provides a smooth and comfortable driving experience, ideal for everyday commuting.
- 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) Introduced later in some Kia Soul models, this transmission offers quicker gear changes and potentially better fuel efficiency compared to a traditional automatic transmission. However, DCTs can be more complex and expensive to repair.
What Is The Kai Soul Transmission Replacement Cost?
The Kia Soul transmission replacement cost can vary depending on the model, year, and condition of your car. However, the average range is between $2,000 and $3,000 for the base model, and between $9,000 and $11,000 for the Soul model.
These are the estimated costs for the automatic transmission only. If you have a manual transmission, the cost may be lower. You may also need to pay for additional services, such as fluid change, speed sensor replacement, or mount replacement. These can cost from $100 to $500 each.
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Kai Soul Transmission Recall
Based on my current information, there aren’t any recent widespread recalls specifically related to Kia Soul transmissions. However, it’s always a good practice to check for recalls on your specific vehicle. Here’s how you can do that.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website; This is the official US government website for vehicle safety information. You can search for recalls by entering your Kia Soul’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website.
- Kia Owners Portal: Kia provides a dedicated section for recall information on their official website. You can search by model year or VIN to see if there are any open recalls for your Kia Soul.
Is the Kia Soul a Good Reliable Car
The Kia Soul is generally considered a reliable and good value car, especially for its price point. Here’s a summary of its reliability:
- High-predicted reliability scores: J.D. Power predicts a reliability score of 87 out of 100 for the 2024 Kia Soul, which is considered great.
- Positive reviews from consumers and critics: Consumer Reports gives the 2023 Kia Soul a 4 out of 5 for reliability, and it has been named a “Best Subcompact SUV for the Money” by U.S. News & World Report.
- Long warranty: Kia offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which is longer than most competitors and demonstrates confidence in the car’s reliability.
However, it’s important to remember that no car is perfect, and some Kia Soul owners have reported experiencing transmission issues. Here is a breakdown of the Pros and Cons of the Kia Soul Cars;
Pros
- Excellent Value
- High Predicted Reliability
- Spacious and Versatile Interior:
- High Fuel Efficiency:
- Standard Features
- Kia offers a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- Fun and Stylish Design
Cons
- Mediocre Driving Dynamics
- Not As Powerful As Some Competitors
- Cargo Space Can Be Limited With Rear Seats Up
- Interior Materials Might Feel Less Upscale
Conclusion
While the Kia Soul is a popular and versatile SUV, some owners have encountered transmission issues.
These can manifest as delayed shifting, grinding noises, jerking, slipping, or burning smells.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional help to diagnose and fix the problem promptly to avoid further damage and ensure safe driving.
Regular maintenance plays a key role in preventing transmission problems.
This includes routine oil changes, checking and adjusting transmission fluid levels, replacing worn-out components, and inspecting the gear shift cable.
By following these practices and addressing any issues promptly, you can help extend the lifespan and performance of your Kia Soul’s transmission.
