Vehicles Affected: Approximately 379,000 model-year 2012-16 Kia Soul hatchbacks equipped with 1.6-liter gas engines
The Problem: 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 as well as possible piston connecting rod failure. 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 that may contact the exhaust, increasing the risk of a fire.
The Fix: 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. All repairs will be done for free.
What Owners Should Do: Kia did not immediately announce an owner-notification schedule. Owners can call the automaker at 800-333-4542, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 or visit its website check their vehicle identification number and learn more.
Need to Find a Dealer for Service? Go to Cars.com Service & Repair to find your local dealer. To check for other recalls, and to schedule a free recall repair at your local dealership, click here: Kia Soul
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