2012 Kia Soul Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your 2012 Kia Soul and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
0%
15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
0%
55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2012 Kia Soul engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2012 Kia Soul engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take when a 2012 Kia Soul's engine is stalling?

When faced with an engine stalling issue in a 2012 Kia Soul, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to identify the underlying problem. Start by examining the fuel system, as fuel-related issues are often the primary culprits behind stalling. Ensure that the fuel is clean and free from contaminants, as bad gas or water in the tank can prevent the engine from firing correctly. Next, inspect the air intake system, paying close attention to the mass airflow sensor and manifold absolute pressure sensor, as malfunctions in these components can disrupt engine performance. Following this, evaluate the ignition system, particularly the idle air control valve, which plays a crucial role in maintaining engine idle speed. If these initial checks do not reveal the issue, proceed to test the engine control components, such as the oil control valve, to ensure they are functioning properly. Finally, if all else fails, check for any mechanical damage by draining the oil and looking for metal debris, which could indicate serious internal problems. By methodically working through these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the stalling issue in your Kia Soul.

What are the common problems that could cause the engine to stall in a 2012 Kia Soul?

When dealing with engine stalling in a 2012 Kia Soul, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is engine failure, which can result in irreversible stalling issues. Additionally, fuel-related problems, such as contaminated gas or water in the fuel tank, can disrupt engine performance and lead to stalling. Another frequent issue is the failure of the crankshaft position sensor, which plays a vital role in engine timing and can cause the engine to stall if malfunctioning. Furthermore, problems with the mass airflow sensor or manifold absolute pressure sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to stalling. Lastly, issues with the idle air control valve or the PCV valve can result in rough idling and stalling, making it essential to inspect these components regularly. By addressing these common problems promptly, Kia Soul owners can maintain their vehicle's performance and prevent further complications.

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