P0304 on KIA SOUL — Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected

Q: "What does P0304 mean on a KIA SOUL?"

"P0304 indicates: Cylinder 4 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 P0304 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 P0304 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 P0304?"

"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 P0304 Means on Your KIA SOUL

P0304 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Cylinder 4 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 2013-2020. Most reports come from the 2013, 2017 model years. The most commonly reported component is Engine (100.0% of reports).

Real KIA SOUL Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"I was driving home from work. vehicle started normal in parking lot. once on road i started to go up a hill. vehicle started losing power. obdii reader stated p0304 cylinder 4 misfire detected and p0420 catalyst system efficiency below threshold (bank 1)."

— 2013 KIA SOUL owner · ENGINE · Filed 04/17/2020

"While driving, the vehicle suffered a sudden and total engine seizure and loss of power (stalling), creating a life-threatening hazard in traffic . A certified Kia technician diagnosed a seized short block, multi-cylinder misfires (P0300-P0304), and a hole in the exhaust valve."

— 2017 KIA SOUL owner · ENGINE · Filed 01/23/2026

"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

'13

1

'17

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 P0304 mean on a KIA SOUL? ▾

P0304 indicates: Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 3 KIA SOUL owners have reported this to NHTSA.

What are the most common causes of P0304 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 P0304 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 P0304? ▾

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.