Jeep Wrangler vs Kia Soul
For 2009–2022 models, the Kia Soul has 38.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 38.7 for the Jeep Wrangler. 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.
Jeep Wrangler
38.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Kia Soul
- Complaints
- 9,367
- Sold
- 2,422,048
- Recall campaigns
- 53
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 5
Most complaints: 2010 and 2018. Fewest: 2015–2017 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 55,000 mi
-
Tie rods, linkage, shaft and column
Typically around 6,600 mi · repair $270–$510
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 65,437 mi
-
Tank, lines and filler
Typically around 45,000 mi
-
Shocks and struts
Typically around 17,000 mi · repair $280–$1,440
Kia Soul
38.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Jeep Wrangler
- 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 Jeep Wrangler or the Kia Soul?
For 2009–2022 models, the Kia Soul has 38.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Jeep Wrangler has 38.7, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Jeep Wrangler?
The most-reported problem on the Jeep Wrangler is body control and other modules, typically around 55,000 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 Jeep Wrangler and Kia Soul years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Jeep Wrangler: 2010 and 2018; 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.