Kia Recall 23V-218: Electrical system – traction battery

Affected: 2015–2019 Kia Soul EV. Filed with NHTSA on March 29, 2023, covering about 2,689 vehicles.

The problem

Kia America, Inc. (Kia) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Soul EV vehicles equipped with an E400 battery. The high-voltage battery pack may experience an electrical short-circuit while driving.

The risk

A battery electrical short-circuit increases the risk of a fire.

The fix

Dealers will update and/or replace the battery management system and software, as necessary, free of charge. The new software will illuminate the EV warning light, limit charging capacity, and reduce vehicle power if abnormal voltage is detected. If this occurs, the battery will be replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 18, 2023. Owners may contact Kia customer service at 1-800-333-4542. Kia's number for this recall is SC267.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign23V-218 (23V218000)
Manufacturer numberSC267
ManufacturerKia America, Inc.
ComponentElectrical system › Propulsion system › Traction battery
Report dateMarch 29, 2023
Owners notifiedAugust 18, 2023
Vehicles affected2,689
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the electrical system

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 23V-218 repair free?

Yes. Kia dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will update and/or replace the battery management system and software, as necessary, free of charge. The new software will illuminate the EV warning light, limit charging capacity, and reduce vehicle power if abnormal voltage is detected.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 2,689 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.