2021 Kia Soul LX, S, X-Line
VIN: KNDJ23AU0M7772142 | 2021 | Kia Corporation | GWANG-JU, SOUTH KOREA
2021 Kia Soul LX, S, X-Line — 2L 4 Cyl, 4x2, Automatic. Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV].
C
66/100
Safety & Recall Score: Fair
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 2 open recall(s)
⚠ 222 owner complaints (high)
✓ VIN fully verified
Vehicle Report
Report
VIN KNDJ23AU0M7772142 identifies a sport utility vehicle — the 2021 Kia Soul LX, S, X-Line. This specific unit was assembled at the GWANG-JU, SOUTH KOREA facility. It is equipped with 4x2 and a 2L 4 Cyl engine producing 147 hp.
This vehicle carries an 2 open NHTSA recalls. Affected systems include engine, engine and engine cooling:engine:hard parts internal/mechanical. All recalls must be repaired by a Kia dealer at no charge to the owner. Verify current recall status at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
The EPA rates this vehicle at 30 MPG combined (27 city / 35 highway), which represents reasonable fuel economy. Annual fuel cost is estimated at $2050 at national average gas prices. It scores 6/10 on the EPA greenhouse gas scale, emitting 296 g CO₂/mile.
Based on vehicle class, trim, and U.S. market data, this 2021 Kia Soul LX, S, X-Line falls in an estimated used-market range of $18,300–$24,300. The recall history may provide some negotiating leverage. Verify actual market value with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds using specific mileage and condition.
Important limitation: This free VIN report does not include odometer/mileage history, accident records, flood or fire damage, number of previous owners, or title/lien status. Get the full history with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to unlock it. Use this report alongside a full history check, an independent pre-purchase inspection, and a NICB stolen vehicle check for the most complete picture before buying.
About the 2021 KIA Soul
The 2021 Kia Soul is a sport utility vehicle. For detailed model history and owner reviews, see Edmunds, Car and Driver, or Consumer Reports for the 2021 model year evaluation.
📊 View all 2021 Kia known problems & year comparisons →
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Body: Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
- Plant: GWANG-JU, SOUTH KOREA
NHTSA Recalls
2 Open Recalls- Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul,...
- Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos...
Owner Complaints
222 filed with NHTSA- Took my vehicle in a year ago for the...
- Noise while driving and over bumps and steering
Fuel Economy
30 MPG Combined- City: 27 MPG
- Hwy: 35 MPG
- Combined: 30 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$18,300–$24,300
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
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Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
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Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Kia dealer with this VIN to confirm all 2 recall(s) are resolved.
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NICB Stolen Vehicle CheckFree check at nicb.org to confirm no theft, salvage, or total-loss history.
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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 2 open recall(s) as leverage for a lower price.
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📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
KNDJ23AU0M7772142
Model Year
2021
Make
Kia
Model
Soul
Trim
LX, S, X-Line
Series
Not available
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Doors
Not available
Seats
5
Seat Rows
2
Drive Type
4x2
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
2L 4 Cyl
Manufacturer
Kia Corporation
Plant Location
GWANG-JU, SOUTH KOREA
Country of Origin
SOUTH KOREA
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — Country
K → South Korea
Position 2 — Manufacturer
N → Kia Corporation
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
D → MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
J23AU → Soul LX, S, X-Line
Position 9 — Check Digit
0 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
M → 2021
Position 11 — Plant Code
7 → GWANG-JU, SOUTH KOREA
Positions 12–17 — Serial
772142 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
MPI NU
Engine Manufacturer
KMC
Cylinders
4 Cyl
Displacement
2 L
Displacement CC
2000.0
Displacement CI
122.04748818946
Engine Config
Not available
Engine Cycles
Not available
Horsepower
147 hp
Torque
Not available
Valve Train
Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Fuel Injection
Multipoint Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Cooling System
Not available
Engine Brake HP
Not available
Turbocharger
Not available
Supercharger
Not available
Transmission Style
Not available
Transmission Speeds
Not available
Drive Type
4x2
Electrification
Not available
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Type Secondary
Not available
Battery Type
Not available
EV Drive Unit
Not available
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Secondary Fuel
Not available
Combined MPG
30 MPG
Combined MPGe
Not available
City MPG
27 MPG
Hwy MPG
35 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,050
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$10,250
GHG Score
6/10
Smog Rating
Not available
CO₂ Emissions
296 g/mi
Barrels/Year
9.92
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Included
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Included
Lane Departure Warning
Not available
Lane Keep System
Not available
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not available
Blind Spot Intervention
Not available
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not available
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not available
Parking Assist
Not available
Dynamic Brake Support
Included
Pedestrian AEB
Included
Rear Auto Braking
Not available
Auto Reverse System
Included
Daytime Running Lights
Included
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not available
Keyless Ignition
Included
Auto High Beams
Included
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Curtain Airbags
1st and 2nd Rows
Knee Airbags
Unknown
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not available
Brake System
Not available
Steering Location
Left-Hand Drive (LHD)
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
Wheelbase
Not available
Ground Clearance
Not available
Vehicle Length
Not available
Vehicle Width
Not available
Vehicle Height
Not available
Curb Weight
Not available
Track Width Front
Not available
Track Width Rear
Not available
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Doors
Not available
Bed Length
Not available
Cab Type
Not available
Fuel Tank
Not available
0–60 mph
Not available
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Trailer Type
Not Applicable
Axles
2
Axle Config
Not available
Trailer Body
Not Applicable
Drive Type
4x2
Wheels & Tires
Front Tire Type
Not available
Rear Tire Type
Not available
Front Wheel Size
Not available
Rear Wheel Size
Not available
Spare Tire Type
Not available
Spare Tire Size
Not available
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Wheel Material
Not available
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
Kia Corporation
Manufacturer ID
21994
Make ID
499
Model ID
2460
Plant Company
Not available
Plant City
GWANG-JU
Plant State
Not available
Plant Country
SOUTH KOREA
Plant ZIP
Not available
Dest. Market
Not available
Vehicle Descriptor
KNDJ23AU*M7
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
2
Recall Status
Active recalls found
Overall Risk Level
Moderate Risk
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Included
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
4 Stars
Front Crash Rating
4 Stars
Side Crash Rating
5 Stars
Rollover Risk
4 Stars
Safety Recalls
ENGINE
Kia Motors America (Kia) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Soul, and 2021 Seltos vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which may result in engine damage.
Risk: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of...
Remedy: Kia will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Kia will deploy Piston Ring...
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL
Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Seltos and Soul vehicles. The piston oil rings may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can result in engine damage.
Risk: Engine damage can cause a vehicle stall or fire, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the engine as necessary, free of charge. Dealers will also install piston-ring noise sensing system (PNSS) software, free of...
TSBs are manufacturer repair instructions issued to dealerships. They are not safety recalls. If you're experiencing an issue, ask your dealer if a TSB applies.
No bulletins found
No technical service bulletin records returned for this vehicle.
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Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2021 Kia Soul
$1,330/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$6,650
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$10,250
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$10,935
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Kia Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Kia dealer.
Find Kia Dealers →NICB VINCheck is a free federal database. Run a check to confirm this VIN has no theft, salvage, or insurance total-loss history.
Run Free NICB Check for KNDJ23AU0M7772142 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
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Common:
Owner Complaints
Took my vehicle in a year ago for the...
Took my vehicle in a year ago for the oil piston recall to the Kia dealer in North Huntington, Pa. I was told they corrected the recall during...
Noise while driving and over bumps and steering
Noise while driving and over bumps and steering
Vehicle: 2021 Kia Soul LX, 2.0L Engine Subject: Loss...
Vehicle: 2021 Kia Soul LX, 2.0L Engine Subject: Loss of Motive Power and Stall While Driving Under Recall SC336 Description of Incident: On 07/02 @ roughly 6:15PM, while...
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact...
The contact owns a 2021 Kia Soul. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V099000 (Engine and Engine Cooling); however, the part to do the recall repair...
The vehicle burns oil. The first incident occurred when...
The vehicle burns oil. The first incident occurred when the car stopped running. Fortunately I was in a residential area and was able to pull into a parking...
I am filing this complaint regarding my 2021 Kia...
I am filing this complaint regarding my 2021 Kia Soul due to repeated engine and powertrain failures and concerns about the quality and safety of the repairs. While...
Nothing happened - YET. I'm reporting a manufacturing error....
Nothing happened - YET. I'm reporting a manufacturing error. Refer to my upload. I wouldn't be suprised that this defect has been the root cause of some accidents...
The first incident occurred on November 2, 2025. I...
The first incident occurred on November 2, 2025. I was driving down a state road. I missed my turn so I pulled into a parking lot to turn...
Showing 8 of 222 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Kia recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Current
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Soon
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Soon
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Current
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2021 KIA Soul based on vehicle class and age. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
2021
$21,300
2022
$18,700
-12%
2023
$16,600
-22%
2024
$14,500
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,330/yr
18%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
21%
Fuel/Energy
$2,050/yr
28%
Depreciation
$2,187/yr
30%
Registration
$250/yr
3%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$7,317/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
7.5
/ 10
Rank #9 overall
33 issues / 100 vehicles
Kia Reliability
Kia shares platforms with Hyundai. Similar reliability trajectory with competitive warranty coverage.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
13/04/2021
17/02/2025
Vehicles in a similar class and price range to the 2021 KIA Soul:
Private Party
$16,100–$22,400
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$19,200–$26,700
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$19,800–$27,900
Full warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle has 2 open recall(s). Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm all recalls are resolved or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
33 PSI
See door jamb
Rear Tires
33 PSI
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Kia Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
5yr/60k
Powertrain
10yr/100k
Corrosion / Rust
5yr/unlimited
⚠ At 5 years old, factory warranty coverage has likely expired on this vehicle. A third-party extended warranty may be worth considering.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
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Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2021 KIA Soul.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2021 KIA Soul:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
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🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Fix open recalls first
This vehicle has 2 open recall(s). Resolving them before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 222 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
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VIN KNDJ23AU0M7772142:
2 open recall(s) currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
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Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,330/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN KNDJ23AU0M7772142 decode to?
VIN KNDJ23AU0M7772142 decodes to a 2021 KIA Soul LX, S, X-Line, assembled in GWANG-JU, SOUTH KOREA.
How many recalls does this 2021 KIA Soul have?
This 2021 KIA Soul has 2 open recalls on record with NHTSA. Recalls are safety-related and should be resolved by a dealership at no charge to the owner.
Is it safe to buy a 2021 KIA Soul with open recalls?
Open recalls don't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but they should be addressed promptly. Contact a KIA dealer with this VIN to confirm which recalls have been completed and schedule any outstanding repairs — they are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2021 KIA Soul?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2021 KIA Soul LX, S, X-Line is estimated at $18,300–$24,300. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2021 KIA Soul get?
According to EPA data, the 2021 KIA Soul gets approximately 30 MPG combined (27 city / 35 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,050.
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