Kia Soul Engine Is Stalling

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

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 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 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.

The most likely symptom of a faulty fuel temperature sensor is a check engine light. When the sensor goes bad, the Engine Control Module signals the driver that there is a problem by turning on the dash light. Poor fuel economy might also be noticed. In some cases, a failing fuel temperature sensor could lead to hard starting of the engine or an engine misfire and poor performance.

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.

Troubleshooting Engine Stalling Issues in a Kia Soul

When troubleshooting engine stalling issues in your Kia Soul, begin with the simplest potential causes before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking the fuel quality; bad gas or water in the tank can lead to rough running and stalling, so consider draining and replacing the fuel if necessary. Next, inspect the oil levels, particularly in models from 2012-2016, as excessive oil consumption may indicate a need for more frequent oil changes or repairs. If you hear a whining noise from the fuel tank, this could signal a failing fuel pump, which should be tested and replaced if needed. Additionally, examine the Idle Air Control valve, especially in 2009-2011 models, as a malfunctioning valve can disrupt engine idle and contribute to stalling. Lastly, check for a clogged catalytic converter, as this can restrict exhaust flow and lead to performance issues. By systematically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve stalling problems in your Kia Soul.

What Are the Common Causes of Engine Stalling in a Kia Soul?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a Kia Soul, it's essential to consider several common problems that could be affecting performance. One of the primary culprits is bad gas, which can occur if the wrong fuel type is used or if water contaminates the gas tank. This can lead to poor combustion and stalling. Additionally, issues within the fuel system, such as a failing fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or malfunctioning fuel injectors, can disrupt the necessary fuel flow to the engine, causing it to stall unexpectedly. Engine problems, particularly in models from 2012 to 2016, may also contribute to stalling, with excessive oil consumption and knocking being notable concerns. Regular maintenance checks and addressing any recalls are vital for ensuring engine health. Furthermore, the PCV valve and vapor hose should not be overlooked, as a dirty or faulty PCV valve, along with damaged vapor hoses, can lead to rough idling and stalling. By understanding these common issues, Kia Soul owners can take proactive steps to maintain their vehicle and prevent engine stalling.

Why is the Engine Stalling in a Kia Soul?

When experiencing engine stalling in your Kia Soul, it is crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid dangerous situations on the road and prevent further damage to your vehicle. A faulty throttle body can disrupt the essential fuel-air mixture, leading to stalling, while fuel-related problems, such as contaminated gas, can exacerbate the situation. Additionally, stalling during quick turns can pose significant safety risks, making it imperative to investigate the underlying causes. Sensor malfunctions, particularly with the mass airflow or manifold absolute pressure sensors, can also lead to erratic engine behavior. Furthermore, excessive oil consumption can indicate deeper mechanical issues that, if left unchecked, may result in severe engine damage. Problems with the PCV valve and vapor hose can contribute to rough idling, while a restricted exhaust system can severely limit engine performance. Regular maintenance and immediate attention to these symptoms are essential to ensure the safety and reliability of your Kia Soul, preventing minor issues from escalating into major repairs.

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