MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // SAFETY RECORD

2019 Kia Soul Ev

Recall and complaint safety record from NHTSA. This configuration has not been crash-tested.

3Recalls
132Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE KIA SOUL EV

The 2019 Kia Soul EV is the all-electric variant of Kia's distinctive boxy subcompact crossover, slotting into the growing affordable EV segment. Aimed at urban commuters and eco-conscious buyers who want a practical, personality-driven hatchback without a gasoline engine, it pairs the Soul's familiar quirky packaging with a battery-electric powertrain for zero-tailpipe-emission daily driving.

VERDICT

The 2019 Kia Soul Ev has not been crash-tested by NHTSA, so it carries no Safety Index. Its safety record here is built from 3 recalls and 132 owner complaints on file, giving it a moderate recall and complaint burden.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • shoppers who want the full federal safety picture in one place
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally find the 2019 Kia Soul EV charming and well-suited to city driving, praising its upright, spacious cabin and user-friendly technology layout. Most note that its driving dynamics are smooth and composed at everyday speeds. Some reviewers flag the interior materials as modest for the segment, and a few point to the limited range as a practical constraint for buyers outside urban environments.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)23V724000

Risk: Unintended vehicle movement can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the electronic control unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC287. This recall expands and replaces recall number 20V-389. Vehicles previously repaired under 20V-389 will need to have the new remedy completed.

Reported 2023-10-26

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY23V218000

Risk: A battery electrical short-circuit increases the risk of a fire.

Remedy: Dealers will update and/or replace the battery management system and software, as necessary, free of charge. The new software will illuminate the EV warning light, limit charging capacity, and reduce vehicle power if abnormal voltage is detected. If this occurs, the battery will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 18, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer ser

Reported 2023-03-29

AIR BAGS22V031000

Risk: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the ACU, and either update the software or replace the unit, as necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 21, 2022. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC226.

Reported 2022-01-25

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

132 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

13reported crash
8reported fire
14reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 83Unknown Or Other 19Air Bags 14Electrical System 13Fuel/Propulsion System 12Service Brakes 9
Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings, recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Kia Soul Ev 2019. Methodology · Disclosure