P0301 on KIA SOUL — Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected

Q: "What does P0301 mean on a KIA SOUL?"

"P0301 indicates: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 3 KIA SOUL owners have reported this to NHTSA."

Q: "What are the most common causes of P0301 on KIA SOUL?"

"Based on 3 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints."

Q: "Is P0301 serious on my KIA SOUL?"

"Of 3 NHTSA reports for this code on KIA SOUL, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic."

Q: "What should I do if my KIA SOUL shows P0301?"

"1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare."

What P0301 Means on Your KIA SOUL

P0301 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected. This code relates to the ignition system system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

3 KIA SOUL owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2014-2020. Most reports come from the 2014, 2018 model years. The most commonly reported component is Engine (100.0% of reports).

Real KIA SOUL Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"My catalytic converter failed and lead to no compression in cylinder 1 of the engine. I scanned the car on 3 different OBD scanners and I had P0420 and P0300 and P0301 codes."

— 2014 KIA SOUL owner · ENGINE · Filed 08/24/2022

"While climbing a hill, the engine began to sputter and lose power immediately, throwing multiple CEL codes. I was barely able to get it off the side of the road and shut the engine off."

— 2018 KIA SOUL owner · ENGINE · Filed 03/21/2025

"The contact owns a 2020 Kia Soul. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as needed. Additionally, the engine was leaking oil. The check engine warning light was illuminated."

— 2020 KIA SOUL owner · ENGINE · Filed 02/22/2026

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1

'14

1

'18

1

'20

Common Causes on KIA SOUL

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

ENGINE 100%

What To Do Next

1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
2
Get a proper diagnosis
A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.
3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P0301 mean on a KIA SOUL? ▾

P0301 indicates: Cylinder 1 Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 3 KIA SOUL owners have reported this to NHTSA.

What are the most common causes of P0301 on KIA SOUL? ▾

Based on 3 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.

Is P0301 serious on my KIA SOUL? ▾

Of 3 NHTSA reports for this code on KIA SOUL, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.

What should I do if my KIA SOUL shows P0301? ▾

1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.