TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to install a Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector on certain 2010-2022MY Kia vehicles outlined on page 15, which may not have been equipped with an immobilizer and whose Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) / Body Control Module (BCM) are not able to receive the Anti-Theft Software Logic upgrade under CS2301/02/03/04/05/06/07/08/09 TSBs. In an effort to help prevent thefts of K
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 Kia Soul steering problems
moderate Owners of the 2013 Kia Soul have filed 150 NHTSA complaints about the steering, typically surfacing around 70,000 miles at roughly $700 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See steering across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
150
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$700
| Model year | steering complaints |
|---|---|
| 2010 Soul | 12 |
| 2011 Soul | 4 |
| 2012 Soul | 166 |
| 2013 Soul (this page) | 150 |
| 2014 Soul | 55 |
| 2015 Soul | 44 |
| 2016 Soul | 30 |
| 2017 Soul | 9 |
1crash
1injury
When does it fail?
Of the 150 steering complaints filed for the 2013 Kia Soul, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Owners have filed 150 steering complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Among the 13 model years of Kia Soul in our records for steering problems, this one ranks #2 by owner-complaint volume.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering steering on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to install a Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector on certain 2010-2022MY Kia vehicles outlined on page 15, which may not have been equipped with an immobilizer and whose Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) / Body Control Module (BCM) are not able to receive the Anti-Theft Software Logic upgrade under CS2301/02/03/04/05/06/07/08/09 TSBs. In an effort to help prevent thefts of K
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin has been revised to include additional information. New/revised sections of this bulletin are indicated by a black bar in the margin area. This bulletin provides information to install a Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector on certain 2010-2022MY Kia vehicles outlined on page 15, which may not have been equipped with an immobilizer and whose Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) / Body Control Module (BCM) are not able to receive the Anti-Theft Software Logic upgrade under CS2301/02/03/04/05/06/07/08/09 TSBs. In an effort to help prevent thefts of K
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: THEFT DETERRENT IGNITION CYLINDER PROTECTOR & DECAL INSTALLATION (CS2311) - This bulletin provides information to install a Theft Deterrent Ignition Cylinder Protector on certain 2010-2022MY Kia vehicles outlined on page 13, which may not have been equipped with an immobilizer and whose Integrated Body Control Unit (IBU) / Body Control Module (BCM) are not able to receive the Anti-Theft Software Logic upgrade under CS2301/02/03/04/05/06/07/08/09 TSBs. In an effort to help prevent thefts of Kia vehicles that are not equipped with an immobilizer, a protective cover will be permanently affixed to the ignition cylinder. This Theft Deterrent Igni
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗CUSTOMER SATISFACTION CAMPAIGN: OWNER RE-NOTIFICATION - This document is the owner re-notification advising that Kia is now making steering wheel lock devices available directly to certain Kia vehicle owners. These devices can help deter a theft attempt. We are making this device available to customers free of charge and will ship it directly to customers who place orders within eighteen (18) months from the date of this letter.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2013 Kia Soul has a well-documented steering coupler problem that 149 complaints converge on. The flexible coupling between the steering column and steering gear deteriorates, typically causing a clicking or clunking noise when turning the wheel left or right—both while parked and while driving. Owners report this noise often begins subtly and worsens over time. Beyond the noise, the steering wheel develops excessive play, feeling loose and unstable, especially at highway speeds above 65 MPH. In severe cases, the steering wheel vibrates violently or even locks up entirely, creating life-threatening situations where drivers have nearly collided with oncoming traffic.
The failure timeline varies widely but clusters around 25,000 to 100,000 miles. Kia issued technical service bulletins acknowledging the defect and provided extended warranty coverage (10–15 years, unlimited miles in most states; free replacement only in coastal states for Optima models). However, 2013 model-year Souls were largely excluded from the major recall campaigns that covered 2014–2016 models. Repair costs range from $175 to over $1,900 in labor, despite the actual part costing under $15. Dealers have been inconsistent—some declined to repair vehicles still within the extended warranty window, citing technicalities; others charged diagnostic fees even when the problem was obvious. Owners express frustration that the same defective part triggered recalls for other Kia and Hyundai models but not their 2013 Soul.
Same Kia Soul steering reports on nearby years: 2010 · 2012 · 2014 · 2015 · 2016
Failure modes owners describe
MDPS Flexible Coupling / Steering Coupler Failure
The flexible coupling that connects the steering column to the steering gear deteriorates or disintegrates, typically due to wear. This is the most prevalent failure across the complaints. The coupler's rubber component breaks down, and the plastic gear teeth can break off or fail completely, creating excessive play in the steering wheel and clicking/clunking noises. Some narratives reference part number 56315-2K000FFF or similar variants.
When: Typically appears between 25,000–120,000 miles; some failures reported as early as 8,000 miles, others as late as 100,000+ miles. Multiple complaints note the problem starting around 60,000–70,000 miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Clicking or clunking sound from steering column when turning left or right, both while stationary and while driving; Steering wheel has excessive play or looseness; Steering wheel feels unstable or jerky, particularly when turning or driving over bumps; Vibration or grinding noises during steering, especially at highway speeds (65+ MPH); In severe cases, steering wheel lockup or near-lockup events while changing lanes or turning
Repairs/costs cited: Owners and dealers cite replacement costs between $175–$1,900 depending on labor and whether additional components (EPS motor, alignment) are involved. The actual part is reported as costing under $10–$15 at retail, but labor is extensive and tedious. Some owners mention dealers charging $143–$400+ for diagnosis alone. One owner paid $1,702.68 for AAA tow and repair after a steering lockup incident.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia issued Technical Safety Bulletins (TSB-CHA044, TSB-CHA072, TSB-CHA074) acknowledging the defect in Optimas, Fortes, and some Souls. Optima owners received free replacement or extended warranty (10 years/unlimited miles for non-coastal states; free replacement in 9 high-humidity coastal states including Florida under Customer Satisfaction Program CS1604). Souls and Fortes were offered extended warranty (10 years/unlimited miles, later extended to 15 years/150,000 miles for some models) but not free replacement. A recall was issued for 2014–2016 model years manufactured between July 21, 2013 and September 30, 2015 (NHTSA campaigns 14V332000, 15V736000, 17V608000), but 2013 model year and early manufacture-date Souls were excluded. Some owners report that Kia denied coverage after the warranty extension expired or if they exceeded mileage thresholds.
Steering Rack and Pinion Looseness / Play
The steering rack assembly develops excessive play or looseness where the steering shaft couples with the steering gear/rack. Some owners and mechanics identify this as a related but distinct issue from the coupler, though the underlying cause and repair often overlap. One complaint specifically mentions a gland nut backing off the shaft.
When: Issues reported between 31,000 and 130,000+ miles, often progressing gradually.
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel feels loose with significant play when turned side to side; Clunking or rattling from the steering column, especially when parked with the engine running; Steering pulls or veers to one side on its own, requiring constant correction; Loss of steering control or instability, particularly when braking or going over uneven road surfaces; Steering feels unstable on curves; driver must reduce speed to maintain control
Repairs/costs cited: Owners report being told by mechanics and dealers that the steering shaft needs internal inspection and repair. Cost estimates include ~$500 for diagnosis and repair labor; one Florida owner was quoted $500+ after an alignment fee. The part itself is noted as inexpensive, but labor is described as timely and tedious.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No specific TSB or recall identified for this mode in the narratives. Kia dealers advised some owners that this is a normal wear issue or not covered under warranty.
Power Steering System Failure / Loss of Power Steering Assist
Complete or intermittent loss of power steering assist, making the steering wheel extremely difficult or impossible to turn. In one case, this was tied to an alternator failure; in others, the cause is unclear but appears related to the electronic power steering (MDPS) system.
When: Varies; one case reported at 8,000 miles with repeated failure by 12,000 miles; another at unknown mileage; another at 185,000 miles related to alternator failure.
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel becomes very difficult to turn in either direction; Complete loss of power steering assist; Power steering system cuts out intermittently; Vehicle becomes nearly impossible to maneuver, especially in parking situations
Repairs/costs cited: One owner reported a dealer replaced an unknown component at the steering gear with only 8,000 miles, and the gland nut backed off the shaft. The problem recurred by 12,000 miles. The mechanic warned the vehicle was unsafe to drive.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Not mentioned in these specific narratives.
Steering Column Noise (Rattling, Grinding, Squeaking)
A range of audible noises emanating from the steering column: rattling, grinding, squeaking, or popping sounds that intensify with speed or road roughness. While many of these noises are associated with the coupling failure, some complaints describe them as distinct secondary symptoms or separate mechanical issues.
When: Reported between 31,000 and 120,000+ miles.
Symptoms owners cite: Loud rattling or knocking from the steering column, especially at speeds over 55 MPH or on bumpy roads; Grinding or squeaking noise when turning at lower speeds or while stationary; Popping sound from steering column at various speeds; Noise becomes progressively louder and more severe over time; One complaint mentions clicking that affects blinker function
Repairs/costs cited: No specific repair costs cited separately for this mode; typically addressed as part of coupling replacement or column service.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers have acknowledged the noises in some cases but told owners the issue is not severe enough to warrant immediate repair or that it will not need attention for 5–10 years.
Steering Wheel Lockup / Complete Steering Failure
The steering wheel suddenly seizes or locks completely, preventing any turning. These are rare but catastrophic events that create immediate safety hazards.
When: Reported at 8,000 miles, 14,000 miles, and 98,441 miles in separate incidents.
Symptoms owners cite: Steering wheel suddenly becomes locked and cannot be turned in either direction; Occurs without warning while driving, including during lane changes; Vehicle veers into oncoming traffic or loses directional control; In one case, power-cycling the engine (turning it off and restarting) temporarily restored steering
Repairs/costs cited: One owner's vehicle was towed after a near-collision, costing $1,821.19 (tow + repair). The steering was restored, but the lockup recurred twice in the subsequent month. Other lockup incidents were not immediately repaired or had ambiguous repair outcomes.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Kia has been contacted in these cases but offered no recall coverage for 2013 model year vehicles.
Synthesized from 150 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 5 most recent
Has a thud while turning the steering wheel left and right at a stop. Steering wheel shakes and vibrates when droving over bumpy road or train tracks. Steering for now unaffected.
I have a Kia soul 2013 I noticed a clucking noise in the stearing collum when it is stationary postion also the collum seems to have alot of play in it . I notice if I hit a bump in road it ratals . I have made an appointment with dealer next week. I have been reading all about these issuse from si many people . I cant beleive that Kia has not done something abiut this . I drive my. 94 year old…
2013 Kia soul is making a clicking noise when I turn my steering wheel. It makes one click noise once I start turn the wheel. When I stop moving it and try to move it again it clicks. Vehicle mileage: 63,667
The dealer originally said it was the steering coupler that was bad and needed replaced for $2000. Then they call back two weeks later to say the steering assist motor was bad and it needs to be replaced for an additional $2400. Still waiting for the parts and repairs. I see many other complaints on the steering, should this be a recall?
Feel no control of steering Clicking sound when turning steering wheel Tight/ hard to steer wheel…doesn’t want to turn
Had steering trouble with your 2013 Kia Soul?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the steering problem on the 2013 Kia Soul?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 150 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $700 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the steering typically fail?
Across the 82 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most steering failures cluster between 50,000 and 100,000 miles, with the median around 70,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 50,000; a quarter make it past 100,000. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $700 for steering repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to steering?
No active recalls currently cover steering issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/Kia/Soul.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.