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My high-mileage 2010 Kia Soul (automatic transmission) just came down with a case of "everything's broken all at once". Symptoms include:

  • Stalling at idle
  • Slow to start after adding gas
  • Lurching when downshifting
  • Traction control comes on after a few minutes of driving
  • Cruise control no longer works

Does anybody know if there's a common cause for all of the above issues? I've replaced the spark plugs and am going to try cleaning the MAF next. Thanks in advance!

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  • When you say “all at once” do you literally mean all in the same day.
    – HandyHowie
    Sep 27, 2021 at 19:00
  • Somehow yes, all symptoms started on the same day, although it's been stalling more frequently each time I drive it Sep 27, 2021 at 19:17
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    A common cause for multiple electronic failures is low battery voltage. Have you had the battery properly tested?
    – Jupiter
    Sep 27, 2021 at 19:26
  • What is your definition of high mileage? Over 300k?
    – Solar Mike
    Sep 27, 2021 at 20:14
  • @Jupiter, I haven't had it checked - I'll do that tomorrow Sep 27, 2021 at 23:39

1 Answer 1

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First thing I'd do is find an OBD scanner tool and see if it's throwing any codes. Some things that come to mind however are:

  • Vacuum leak from somewhere.
  • Throttle position sensor failure (which would explain stalling, lurching, hard starting, cruise not working etc)
  • As others have stated, battery or alternator failing

While it doesn't explain the cruise and traction control, the poor engine performance may also be explained by a clogged fuel filter and/or air filter.

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