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2019 Kia Soul Timing Belt Replacement Cost in Chicago, IL

Hard
60,000–100,000 miles — replace on schedule, not when it breaks
•Updated June 2026

If you need a timing belt replacement on your 2019 Kia Soul in Chicago, IL, expect to pay between $531 and $810 at a local shop. That breaks down to $156–$236 for parts and $375–$574 for labor at Chicago's average rate of $120/hour. Read on for a full cost breakdown, money-saving tips, and what to watch out for.

Timing Belt Replacement — 2019 Kia Soul in Chicago, IL

$531–$810

Estimated total cost at a shop in Chicago

Parts$156–$236

29% of total

Labor$375–$574

71% of total

Time

4–5.2 hrs

Shop Rate

$120/hr

DIY Saves

~$284

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What's Included in This Repair

  • 1Replace timing belt
  • 2Replace tensioner and idler pulleys
  • 3Replace water pump (recommended)
  • 4Inspect and replace seals as needed
  • 5Set engine timing
Typical Lifespan:
60,000–100,000 miles — replace on schedule, not when it breaks
Difficulty:
Hard

Warning Signs You Need This Repair

  • ▸ Ticking noise from engine
  • ▸ Engine misfires or runs rough
  • ▸ Oil leaks near timing cover
  • ▸ Difficulty starting cold

Preventive — don't wait for symptoms. Belt failure = engine destruction

What Drives the Cost in Chicago?

Labor Market: Chicago, IL

Chicago is an above-average labor market, with shops charging $120–$140/hour for labor. For this timing belt, you'll pay $375–$574 in labor alone — accounting for approximately 71% of your total bill. Independent shops in Chicago typically run 20–35% cheaper than dealerships.

2019 Kia Soul Notes

The 2019 Kia Soul has a solid parts supply from both OEM and aftermarket suppliers. Parts for this timing belt typically cost $156–$236. Shop around between the dealer and independent shops — you can often save 20–40% at a trusted indie.

DIY vs. Paying a Shop

DIY vs. Professional: Not Recommended for DIY

This repair is not recommended as a DIY project. Not recommended for DIY. Requires precise timing knowledge. One mistake destroys the engine. The professional rate of $531–$810 is fair for the complexity involved. Attempting this repair without the right training risks damaging other components, costing far more in the end.

5 Ways to Save Money on This Repair

  1. 1Get quotes from at least 3 shops in Chicago — prices vary by 25–40% between dealers and independents.
  2. 2Ask specifically if they'll use OEM or aftermarket parts. Aftermarket is fine for most components except timing belt on luxury brands.
  3. 3Check if your extended warranty or car insurance covers this repair — some aftermarket warranties cover timing belt.
  4. 4If your car is near the end of its useful life, compare repair cost ($531–$810) against the vehicle's value.
  5. 5Combine this repair with other deferred maintenance to save on labor — shops often discount when doing multiple jobs at once.
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Frequently Asked Questions

In Chicago, expect to pay $531–$810 total for timing belt replacement on a 2019 Kia Soul. Parts run $156–$236, and labor is $375–$574 (4.0 hours at $120/hr).

Explore Related Pages

→ All Timing Belt Replacement estimates→ Same repair in New York→ Same repair in Los Angeles→ Same repair in Chicago

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Disclaimer: Cost estimates are based on national parts pricing databases and regional labor rate surveys. Actual prices vary by shop, vehicle condition, and parts availability. Always obtain a written estimate before authorizing repairs. Affiliate disclosure: links marked with Amazon may earn us a small commission.