I’ve had this car for the last 10 years, and I’m up to about 86,000 miles. I recently had to have the catalytic converter replaced, because it was completely blocked. The dealership wanted to charge me $4,300, but an independent mechanic got me up and running for less than $1,200 with non-OEM parts. Before the catalytic converter blockage, I had tried to clean out the engine with CRC intake cleaner as I’ve seen done online. I’m concerned that that cleaning may have led to the catalytic converter blockage, or at least exacerbated it.
Before that, I had to have my crank position sensor replaced.
I know I have the 2.0L 4 cylinder engine, which is generally considered better than the 1.6 that is more liable to failure, but everything I keep reading online keeps me constantly concerned that this vehicle is going to fail in a catastrophic way sometime soon. After the recent repairs, it’s running pretty well, and my gas mileage is going back up to levels that I expect from this car. However, I’m wondering if I shouldn’t get out of this vehicle while it still has some value, and maybe buy something that’s widely considered more reliable.
I’m especially concerned because of carbon buildup potentially accruing in this notorious GDI engine.
Thoughts?
Had to think on this one for a minute, hah. As a mechanic/car guy I do rather like Kia Souls. As far as cheap modern cars go they have always been pretty nice. However we can’t ignore that Hyundai/Kia are forever notorious for sudden catastrophic failures and machining mishaps. Plus GDIs are just not long life engines generally unless meticulously cared for. You got good life out of this car, and you probably have time to thoughtfully look for another. But don’t procrastinate, start the search now.
That’s my overall opinion. If you wanted to see how bad the GDI carbon buildup is you could pay a shop to remove the intake. I’d make sure they have a walnut blaster system; if it’s bad they could clean it properly. And a good indy shop could also possibly give you a better sense of how much life she’s got left, with a proper thorough evaluation. Though that’s money you’d have to spend, and a good mechanic to find. I’d still recommend starting the search for a new used vehicle. And check your oil.
I’ve done some light maintenance, and it’s been pretty easy going. Some of the stuff I’ve seen indicates they’re pretty easy to work on.
I’m concerned about the GDI issue, but it’s hard to find a car with good gas mileage that doesn’t have some version of it these days. I’ve heard Toyota solved a lot of the issues with a combination of direct and multi port injection, though.
Your thinking is kind of where I’m at. I want to plan on a replacement before too long, but I don’t want to jump into something worse.