Segment:
Subcompact crossover SUV / Urban Crossover
Target Audience:
Young professionals, small families, urban dwellers seeking style and practicality.
Key Competitors:
Nissan Cube, Scion xB, Honda Fit, Mini Cooper Countryman.
Competitive Advantage:
Unique styling, value for money, spacious interior for its class, good fuel economy.
Design Philosophy:
Bold, distinctive, and urban-centric design.
Interior Versatility:
Ample passenger space and configurable cargo area.
Engine Options:
Reliable and fuel-efficient 2.0L Theta II engine.
Coverage Scope:
Complete official factory service and repair.
Diagnostic Coverage:
Extensive diagnostics for engine, transmission, chassis, and body systems.
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, inspection, and repair procedures for the 2.0L GDI engine.
Engine Management:
ECU operation, sensor diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition timing, emission controls.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (likely 6-speed) service, diagnostics, and repair.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, driveshafts, differentials.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc), ABS, EBD.
Steering:
Power steering system (likely electric), steering column.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, troubleshooting for all electrical systems.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel repair, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass replacement.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belt pre-tensioners, SRS diagnostics.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting charts.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement.
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing common wear items and major components.
Special Tools:
Identification of and procedures for using specialized Kia tools.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Schematics And Diagrams:
System schematics, wiring diagrams, exploded views.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages for in-garage use.
Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation.
Binding:
Not applicable (digital format).
Paper:
Not applicable (digital format).
Type:
6-speed Automatic Transmission
Type:
None offered for this engine/year in most markets.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia SPII (SP-II) or equivalent ATF.
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.6 quarts (7.2 Liters) for refill.
Length:
160.6 inches (4080 mm)
Width:
69.3 inches (1760 mm)
Height:
63.0 inches (1600 mm)
Wheelbase:
100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 97.5 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:
Approx. 19.3 cubic feet
Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:
Approx. 53.1 cubic feet
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2900-3000 lbs (1315-1361 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4000 lbs (1814 kg)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2012 model year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2012 model year, with specific equipment)
Brake Assist Bas:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control Esc:
Standard
Traction Control System TCS:
Standard
Anti-Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Electronic Brakeforce Distribution Ebd:
Standard
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags.
Active Front Head Restraints:
Standard
Seatbelt Pretensioners:
Standard
Audio System:
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability, USB/Auxiliary input jacks.
Display Options:
Available touch screen infotainment system with navigation (optional).
Rearview Camera:
Optional
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors.
Bluetooth:
Available for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Steering Wheel Controls:
Standard for audio and cruise control.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Iridium type plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km); replace as needed or every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
API SN, ILSAC GF-5, SAE 0W-20 Synthetic
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based, long life coolant (e.g., Hyundai/Kia Super Long Life Coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific type (often electric power steering, no fluid to check).
Engine Noise:
Some reports of engine pinging or knocking under load, potentially related to GDI carbon buildup or fuel quality.
Transmission Shift Quality:
Occasional complaints about harsh shifts or hesitation, often resolved with software updates or fluid service.
Suspension Wear:
Front struts and control arm bushings can wear over time, leading to knocking or poor handling.
Electrical Gremlins:
Minor electrical issues like power window faults or sensor malfunctions are not uncommon.
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automobile manufacturer, part of the Hyundai Motor Group. Known for offering value-driven vehicles with improving quality and design.
Soul Introduction:
The Kia Soul was first introduced for the 2010 model year, designed to appeal to a younger demographic with its unconventional styling.
Am Generation:
The AM generation (2010-2013) marked the first generation of the Kia Soul.
2012 Update:
The 2012 model year received a mid-cycle refresh with updated styling, improved interior materials, and the introduction of the more powerful 2.0L GDI engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Variable ratings across model years, generally fair to good reliability.
Kbb Values:
Historically strong resale value relative to its price point.
Emissions Standards:
Meets applicable EPA emissions standards for its model year.