Vehicle Segment Placement:
Kia Soul occupies a unique niche as a subcompact crossover/hatchback known for its distinctive styling and practical interior, appealing to younger buyers and those seeking versatility.
Key Competitors 2012:
Scion xB, Nissan Cube, Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta.
Design Philosophy:
Bold, boxy, and unconventional styling that prioritized interior space and a unique visual identity.
Versatility:
Spacious and flexible interior for its class, with folding rear seats enhancing cargo capacity.
Value Proposition:
Offered a strong balance of features, space, and affordability, often with competitive pricing.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for all available engine variants, including timing system, lubrication, cooling, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Coverage for both manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch, gearbox overhaul, torque converter operation, and fluid servicing.
Brakes:
Diagnosis and repair of hydraulic systems, ABS, EBD, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, and parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, shock absorber/strut service, and wheel bearing replacement.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnosis, hydraulic pump and rack repair, and steering column service.
Electrical:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, starter, alternator, battery service, lighting systems, instrument cluster, and body control module troubleshooting.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system servicing, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser, and heater core replacement.
Body And Frame:
Body panel alignment, door, hood, and tailgate repair, interior trim removal, and basic structural repair information.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt service, and SRS module troubleshooting.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change procedures, filter replacement (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues.
Repair And Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding procedures.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II code explanations, diagnostic tool usage, and sensor testing procedures.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, critical clearance measurements, and performance data.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork.
Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Engine Code 1.6L:
G4FC ('Gamma')
Displacement 1.6L:
1.6 Liters (1591 cc)
Configuration 1.6L:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Horsepower 1.6L:
128 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque 1.6L:
113 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm
Engine Code 2.0L:
G4KD ('Theta II')
Displacement 2.0L:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Configuration 2.0L:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Horsepower 2.0L:
164 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque 2.0L:
147 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control for automatic transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent (check manual for exact part number/specification).
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 stars (for 2012 model year)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front-passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Front side-mounted airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Front and rear side curtain airbags
Seatbelt Pretensioners:
Front seatbelt pretensioners
Available Audio Systems:
Base models featured a standard 4-speaker audio system, with upgrades available including a 6-speaker system and an AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Infotainment Features Optional:
Optional USB and auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity.
Rearview Camera:
Available rearview camera system with display integrated into rearview mirror or infotainment screen on higher trims.
Connectivity Options:
USB port for charging and media playback, auxiliary audio input.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions, refer to manual for severe conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 24 months.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement 1.6L:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement 2.0L:
Every 105,000 miles (168,000 km)
Coolant Replacement:
First replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km), then every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) thereafter.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 API SM or higher (check manual for exact specification and capacity).
Coolant Type:
Korean specification antifreeze (e.g., ethylene glycol-based, HOAT - consult manual for part number or type).
Common Complaints 2012:
Some owners have reported issues with excessive oil consumption in certain engines, potential brake wear, and occasional electrical gremlins (refer to manual for diagnosis).
Kia Founding:
Founded in 1944 as a manufacturer of steel tubing and bicycle parts, Kia Motors Corporation entered the automotive industry in the 1960s.
First Generation Start:
The first generation Kia Soul debuted for the 2010 model year.
Generation For 2012:
The 2012 model year represents the first generation of the Kia Soul, with minor styling updates and feature enhancements over the initial launch.
Assembly Location:
Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
