Market Position:
The 2010 Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV known for its distinctive boxy styling, practical interior, and value proposition. It targeted younger buyers and those seeking an alternative to traditional sedans and hatchbacks.
Competitors:
Key competitors for the 2010 Kia Soul included the Scion xB, Nissan Cube, Honda Fit, and Ford Fiesta. Its unique design and affordability were key differentiators.
Key Features:
Unique 'boxy' design, spacious interior for its class, customizable interior lighting (Soul! trim), good fuel economy, affordable pricing.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system.
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmission operation, fluid checks, park/neutral safety switch.
Chassis:
Brakes (ABS, EBD, Brake Assist), steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, lighting (exterior/interior), fuses, wipers, horn, power accessories.
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control (HVAC), audio system, power windows, door locks, mirrors, seating adjustments, interior features.
Safety Features:
Airbags (SRS), seat belts, child seat LATCH system, child safety locks, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), vehicle security system.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, tire rotation, fluid level checks (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), air filter replacement, cabin air filter replacement.
Operation:
Starting and driving the vehicle, using transmission modes, operating climate control, audio system functions, and other vehicle features.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic troubleshooting steps for common issues.
Emergency Procedures:
Changing a flat tire, jump starting a dead battery, using the spare tire and tools.
Depth:
Comprehensive owner-level information, focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic codes typically found in a service manual.
NHTSA Front Crash:
5 Stars (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Crash:
4 Stars (Front and Rear Passenger)
IIHS Small Overlap Front:
Good (for vehicles tested after 2010, but general structural integrity is a good indicator)
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Passive Safety:
Dual front advanced airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear), active front head restraints, three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Tpms:
Standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input. Optional SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims (Soul!) featured enhanced audio systems with USB port and Bluetooth connectivity.
Driver Assistance:
Rear parking sensors were an optional feature on select trims. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist were available on this model year.
Connectivity:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming became available on higher trim levels later in the model year or as an option.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or annually.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Refer to manual for specific recommendations, often based on driving conditions. Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-20 (check specific engine variant and climate recommendations).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (Long Life Coolant - Pink/Red) meeting KMC specification.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Kia Genuine ATF SP-III or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W/85 or 75W/90 gear oil (check specific manual for exact specification).
Known Issues:
Some reports of premature wear on the front suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings, sway bar links) due to urban driving conditions. Occasional issues with the climate control blower motor. Early models may have had minor interior trim fitment concerns.
Brand Heritage:
Kia Motors Corporation, founded in 1944, is South Korea's oldest manufacturer of motor vehicles. Known for its aggressive growth, value pricing, and improving quality under the Hyundai Motor Group.
Model Evolution:
The Kia Soul was introduced for the 2009 model year as Kia's distinctive urban crossover. The 2010 model represents the early production phase of the first generation (AM), establishing its unique identity in the market.
Production Location:
Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
