NHTSA Recall 19V120000: Engine and catalytic convertor (engine and engine cooling)
Kia Motors America reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 378,967 vehicles. It affects 2012–2016 Kia Soul.
| NHTSA campaign | 19V120000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | SC176 |
| Components | ENGINE; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING › EXHAUST SYSTEM › EMISSION CONTROL › CATALYTIC CONVERTOR |
| Report received | February 22, 2019 |
| Owner notification | April 17, 2019 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
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.
Safety risk
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.
Remedy
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.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Vehicles covered by recall 19V120000
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.