Chevrolet Equinox vs Kia Soul
For 2009–2022 models, the Chevrolet Equinox has 19.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 38.2 for the Kia Soul. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2009–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Chevrolet Equinox
19.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
50% fewer than the Kia Soul
- Complaints
- 6,246
- Sold
- 3,283,520
- Recall campaigns
- 22
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2010. Fewest: 2017, 2019 and 2021–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Oil consumption and leaks
Typically around 98,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 64,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 77,832 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 68,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 64,000 mi
Kia Soul
38.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
2.0× the Chevrolet Equinox’s rate
- Complaints
- 5,404
- Sold
- 1,414,821
- Recall campaigns
- 12
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2013–2015 and 2020. Fewest: 2009–2010, 2019 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 100,000 mi
-
Oil consumption and leaks
Typically around 90,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 85,300 mi
-
Catalytic converter
Typically around 105,000 mi · repair $720–$2,370
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 63,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Equinox or the Kia Soul?
For 2009–2022 models, the Chevrolet Equinox has 19.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Kia Soul has 38.2, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Chevrolet Equinox?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Equinox is oil consumption and leaks, typically around 98,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Kia Soul?
The most-reported problem on the Kia Soul is internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings), typically around 100,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Equinox and Kia Soul years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Equinox: 2010; Kia Soul: 2013–2015 and 2020.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.