The Kia Soul, first introduced globally for the 2009 model year, represents a distinctive approach to compact automotive design. The 2012 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh for the first generation (AM) of this versatile vehicle, featuring updated exterior styling and interior enhancements. Known for its bold and unique aesthetic, the Kia Soul has garnered positive consumer recognition and design awards, positioning itself as a practical yet stylish choice. It offers a range of engine options, typically including a 1.6L Gamma GDI I4 and a 2.0L Theta II MPI I4, paired with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. Safety is a key consideration, with standard features like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags.
This factory service repair manual provides comprehensive, genuine information for the 2012 Kia Soul. Designed to be used by owners, mechanics, and technicians alike, it offers detailed, step-by-step instructions, diagnostic procedures, and technical specifications at a factory-trained technician level. The manual covers all aspects of the vehicle, including general maintenance, engine and transmission service and repair, brake systems, electrical systems, suspension, steering, cooling systems, fuel injection, chassis, body, and interior components. With its extensive coverage and inclusion of all necessary illustrations and diagrams, this manual is an invaluable resource for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing your Kia Soul, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Generation:
First Generation (AM)
Positioning:
Official, genuine factory service repair manual, not a third-party alternative
Advantage:
Provides factory-level information, saving significant labor costs compared to professional servicing
Authenticity:
Actual Genuine Repair Service Factory Manuals
Content Source:
Same information used by professional technicians and mechanics
Usability:
Easy to use, no advanced computer skills required for printing
Search Functionality:
Searchable PDF for quick information retrieval
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
General Maintenance:
Included
Troubleshooting:
Included
Engine Service Repair:
Included
Transmission Service Repair:
Included
Electrical System:
Included
Periodic Lubrication:
Included
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Included
Emission System:
Included
Heater Air Conditioning:
Included
Engine Control System:
Included
Restraint System:
Included
Differential Drive:
Included
Maintenance Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for routine services
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for component repair and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Advanced troubleshooting guide for problem diagnosis
Rebuilding Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for major component overhauls
Refurbishing Procedures:
Guidance on restoring vehicle components to optimal condition
Restoration Procedures:
Information to guide complete vehicle restoration projects
Depth:
Factory trained technician level
Detail Level:
Extremely detailed, step-by-step instructions
Diagrams Illustrations:
Includes all necessary illustrations, drawings, and photos
Readability:
Requires Adobe PDF Reader
Printability:
Printable without any restriction (individual pages or entire manual)
Resolution:
High resolution
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download - printable and can be burned to CD-ROM)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - user's choice of printing)
Engine Options Covered:
This manual covers all engine variants for the 2012 Kia Soul (typically 1.6L Gamma GDI I4 and 2.0L Theta II MPI I4)
Typical 1.6L Hp:
Approximately 138 hp @ 6300 rpm
Typical 1.6L Torque:
Approximately 123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm
Typical 2.0L Hp:
Approximately 164 hp @ 6200 rpm
Typical 2.0L Torque:
Approximately 147 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) depending on engine
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic transmission
Transmission Coverage:
Detailed service and repair procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions
Wheelbase:
Approximately 100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Length:
Approximately 162.2 inches (4120 mm)
Width:
Approximately 70.5 inches (1790 mm)
Height:
Approximately 63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 2,700 - 2,900 lbs (1225 - 1315 kg), varies by engine and trim
NHTSA Overall Rating 2012:
4 out of 5 stars (as reported for similar models in the generation)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control
Airbags:
Standard front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Infotainment System Availability:
Available with AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system, satellite radio, USB/auxiliary input jacks. Higher trims offered optional navigation system and premium audio.
Driver Assistance Features:
Features like rearview camera (on some trims), parking assist sensors (optional), cruise control.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free connectivity for phone calls and audio streaming on equipped models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil as recommended.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed or at manufacturer recommendation (e.g., 15,000 - 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 5W-20 or 5W-30 for most conditions)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 quarts (3.8 - 4.3 liters) with filter change, depending on engine.
Coolant Type:
Asia/Europe Type Coolant (usually ethylene glycol-based, long-life)
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Genuine ATF SP-IV or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Gear oil, API GL-4, SAE 75W/85
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some owners have reported higher than expected engine oil consumption on certain 2.0L engines, particularly in earlier production runs.
Interior Rattles Noises:
As with many compact vehicles, interior trim pieces can sometimes develop rattles or squeaks over time.
Suspension Components:
Wear on bushings and ball joints can occur with higher mileage, leading to potential clunking noises.
Brand Focus:
Kia is a South Korean automobile manufacturer known for producing value-oriented and increasingly stylish vehicles.
Introduction Year:
The Kia Soul was introduced for the 2008 model year in South Korea and globally for the 2009 model year.
2012 Model Year Update:
The 2012 model year represented a mid-cycle refresh for the first-generation Soul, including exterior styling updates and some interior enhancements.
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured at the Gwangmyeong plant in South Korea.
Consumer Ratings:
Generally well-received by consumers for its distinctive styling, practicality, and value proposition.
Design Awards:
The Kia Soul has received positive recognition for its unique and bold design, often being cited in 'coolest cars' lists.
