The 2020 Kia Soul is known for its unique design and impressive performance in the automotive industry. However, some owners have reported facing transmission problems. In this guide, we will explore the common transmission problems, their underlying causes, and provide practical solutions for 2020 Kia Soul owners who are dealing with these issues.

2020 Kia Soul CVT Problems vs. 2020 Kia Soul IVT Problems

The 2020 Kia Soul introduced the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), a type of CVT. While CVTs aim to provide smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency, several owners reported issues that sparked a discourse around the reliability of this innovative technology.

Common 2020 Kia Soul Transmission Problems

The 2020 Kia Soul has faced a range of transmission issues, with both the automatic and CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) models experiencing recurring problems. Owners have reported erratic shifting, failures, and, in some cases, complete breakdowns. These problems have raised concerns among Kia Soul enthusiasts, leading to a closer investigation of the issue.

To shed light on the gravity of these concerns, let's hear from real Kia Soul owners:

“2nd time in 2 months my 2020 Kia Soul had to be towed to the dealership due to transmission issues! This time again I was out and about with my 80-year-old mother – thankfully I was able to get her home safely before my vehicle stopped accelerating.” – Lynn W., Orland Park, US

“My Kia Soul transmission failed at 24,000 miles. Dealership garage found metal shavings in the transmission. A new transmission was installed under warranty. 2500 miles later my transmission just failed again. I have lost confidence. The rest of the car is fine.” – Tom, 11/26/2020

Specific Issues

1. Shifting Erratically at Stops

Some owners reported erratic shifting at stops, with the vehicle not wanting to upshift, bogging down, and triggering service vehicle warnings. This issue disrupts the smooth operation of the car, causing inconvenience and potential safety hazards.

“Vehicle is brand new. Two weeks after very limited mild driving, at exactly 636 miles, the vehicle started shifting erratically at stops, not wanting to upshift, bogging, and the service vehicle lamps illuminated up.” – Kevin W., Buckner, IL, US

2. Random Shifting at Constant Speed

Another prevalent problem involves random shifting at constant speeds, a nuisance that persisted even after multiple dealership visits. Owners found themselves grappling with an issue that not only affects the driving experience but also raises questions about the overall reliability of the transmission.

“Problem started out minor (random shifting at constant speed). Two trips to dealer and no fix. No error code. Unable to reproduce.” – Kettlehill, Amherst, US

3. Transmission Failure

Perhaps the most severe concern is transmission failure, leading to extended periods without a vehicle as owners await replacement parts. This issue has left owners frustrated and skeptical about the long-term reliability of the 2020 Kia Soul's transmission.

“Our 2020 KIA soul with 20,200 miles on it began to buck, one second you would have acceleration the next you did not… diagnosed it as a transmission failure and that they had had several already come through.” – Paul A., Knightdale, NC, US

Seeking Solutions

For owners grappling with these transmission issues, seeking solutions is paramount. Identifying the Kia Soul 2020 transmission problems early, communicating effectively with dealerships, and exploring potential remedies can mitigate the impact of these challenges.

Legal Recourse: Lemon Law and Warranty Claims

Owners who have experienced problems with the performance of their vehicles should consider possible claims such as:

• Deceptive Practices Claim: If you've been misled or deceived during the purchase or repair process, you may have grounds for this claim.
• Magnuson-Moss Claim: Federal law safeguards consumers who purchase products with warranties, ensuring fairness and remedies for defects.
• Breach of Implied Warranty Claim: Your vehicle should meet certain expectations of quality and performance, and if it doesn't, you may have a case under this claim.
• Lemon Law Claim: Is your vehicle a constant source of frustration due to defects? Lemon laws provide recourse for consumers in such situations.
• Breach of Express Warranty Claim: Manufacturers must uphold the promises made in their warranties. If they fail to do so, you may have grounds for this claim.

If you find yourself in the midst of transmission problems with your 2020 Kia Soul, don't navigate this journey alone. Our expert team is here to provide a free consultation and guide you through the complexities of lemon law and warranty claims. Call us today at (973) 598-1980 for personalized assistance.

Sources:

• NHTSA
• CarComplaints.com
• Edmunds
• Consumer Reports
• CarProblemZoo.com
• Vehicle History
• Lemon Law Partners
• Lemberg Law
• GT Automotive
• KiaSoulForums.com

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