NHTSA Complaint #11506984 — 2021 KIA SOUL

POWER TRAIN issue reported to NHTSA

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Complaint Details

ODI Number 11506984
Vehicle 2021 KIA SOUL
Component POWER TRAIN
Date of Incident
Date Filed
Mileage N/A miles
Crash No
Fire No
Injuries 0
Deaths 0
Vehicle Towed No
State TN

Consumer Description

I own a 2021 Kia Soul with 34,130 miles. Purchase brand new in 5/21. I just had it serviced on 2/3/23. On 2/10/23, I was driving toward home on I-40 east, near mile marker 418 and the rpms suddenly started to jump up and down from 1000x to 6000x and the car had no ability to go anywhere close to the speed limit. There was a whistle noise coming from under the car. I took the I-81 north interchange to try to get the 80 or so miles back home but could not get the vehicle to go more than 15 mph. I was terrified I was going to get hit by the 18 wheelers whizzing by me. I got in the break down lane and limped to exit 8. The car began to shake violently and barely move. I got off the exit ramp praying no one would rear end me. I called Kia roadside and they towed it to the closest dealership in Moristown because they only tow up to 50 miles, unless I paid the requested $300+ to take it the extra 30 miles to my dealership where I bought the car. The service department called on 2/11/23 to tell me it was being evaluated now, but I have heard nothing else since. I had to sit at the dealership in Moristown until my sister could drive from Lexington KY to take me home. I have severe walking impediment due to broken neck from a car wreck. This whole experience was terrifying.

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