🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Soul

Year:

2009

Engine:

1.6 DOHC GDI (Gamma)

Platform:

First Generation (AM)

Chassis Code:

AM

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Crossover SUV / Urban Crossover

Target Audience:

Young professionals, students, small families seeking a stylish, practical, and affordable vehicle with a distinctive design.

Key Competitors:

Nissan Cube, Scion xB, Honda Fit (though a different class, competed on utility and style), Ford Fiesta (as a small car alternative).

Design:

Unique, boxy, upright styling; spacious interior for its size; customizable interior options.

Value Proposition:

Affordable price point, good fuel economy, practical cargo space, and Kia's improving reputation for quality and warranty.

📋 Manual Details

Areas:

Complete service and repair procedures for North American market 2009 Kia Soul models equipped with the 1.6L Gamma GDI engine. Includes maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnosis, repair, and overhaul of all mechanical and electrical systems.

Pages:

Approximately 2500+

Type:

Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (assembly, disassembly, inspection), fuel system (injection, pumps, lines), cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine management (ECM diagnosis, sensors, actuators).

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission systems, clutch system, driveline components (CV joints, driveshafts), differentials.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear, components, alignment), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), brakes (hydraulic system, ABS, disc/drum components, parking brake).

Body And Interior:

Body structure, panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (climate control, A/C components), exterior lighting, interior lighting.

Electrical And Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, fuses and relays, instrument cluster, lighting circuits, power accessories (windows, locks), body control module (BCM), audio system, basic sensor diagnostics.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, fluid replacements, filter changes, spark plug replacement, brake pad inspection/replacement, tire rotation, battery checks.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides based on symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, scan tool usage, component testing procedures (ohms, voltage, resistance).

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, adjustment, and replacement for all major systems.

Overhaul:

Engine and transmission rebuild procedures, component torque specifications, assembly clearances, and specifications.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complex component replacement and internal system diagnostics. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear diagrams and text. Printable pages.

Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

G4FA (Gamma 1.6)

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

1591 cc (1.6 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

77.0 mm x 85.4 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower:

122 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

117 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Injection Type:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) / Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) on some later models or specific markets. This manual focuses on the DOHC G 1.6, likely MPI for the 2009 US market introduction. Clarification within the manual is key.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Octane Rating:

87 AKI (minimum)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (M5CF1)

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (F4A51)

Manual Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific gear ratios.

Automatic Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up clutch.

Manual Fluid Type:

GL-4 SAE 75W-85 Gear Oil (Kia P/N: 04300-00110 or equivalent)

Automatic Fluid Type:

SP-III ATF (Kia P/N: 00200-00130 or equivalent)

Manual Capacity:

Approximately 2.0 Liters

Automatic Capacity:

Approximately 6.8 Liters (Total fill, check dipstick)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4115 mm (162.0 in)

Width:

1765 mm (69.5 in)

Height:

1600 mm (63.0 in)

Wheelbase:

2600 mm (102.4 in)

Ground Clearance:

150 mm (5.9 in)

Passenger Volume:

Approx. 96.2 cu ft

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Up:

Approx. 14.7 cu ft

Cargo Volume Rear Seats Down:

Approx. 49.3 cu ft

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 1250 kg (2756 lbs)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 1270 kg (2800 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle placard

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4 Stars (Front Seat), 4 Stars (Rear Seat)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:

Good

IIHS Side Impact:

Good

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esp:

Available Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags (front and rear).

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters for all seating positions.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard CD player with AM/FM radio, auxiliary input, and USB port. Optional premium audio systems available on higher trims.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming available on certain trims.

Features:

Cruise control, power windows and locks, tilt steering wheel. Higher trims may include steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (or 7,500 miles if using synthetic oil and severe conditions are avoided, consult manual for specifics).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 105,000 miles (for original iridium plugs).

Coolant Flush Interval:

First at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (for long-life coolant).

Engine Oil Type:

API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher, SAE 5W-20 (Synthetic recommended).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.1 US quarts (3.9 liters) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-85 Gear Oil (Same as manual transmission for some applications, confirm with manual).

Engine Wear:

Some reports of oil consumption in high-mileage engines; ensure regular oil level checks. Timing chain system generally robust.

Suspension Components:

Front sway bar links and bushings can wear prematurely, leading to clunking noises over bumps. Rear shocks may also wear out.

Electrical Issues:

Occasional reports of interior accessory failures or immobilizer system glitches, often related to wiring or control modules. Headlight bulb burnout is common.

Paint And Finish:

Some owners have reported thin clear coat on certain panels leading to premature swirling or fading with improper care.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Kia Motors Corporation, South Korea

Introduction:

The Kia Soul was first unveiled as a concept car in 2006 and officially launched in late 2008 for the 2009 model year. It marked Kia's entry into the burgeoning subcompact crossover segment.

First Generation:

The AM generation (2009-2013) established the Soul's signature quirky styling and functional interior. The 1.6L Gamma engine was one of the primary powertrain options, focusing on efficiency.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Gwangmyeong, South Korea.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Achieved 'Good' ratings in IIHS front and side impact crash tests, contributing to overall safety perception.

Consumer Reports:

While specific awards vary, the Soul generally received mixed to average reliability ratings in its early years, with improvements over subsequent model years. The 2009 model would fall into the earlier end of this trend.

Fuel Economy Est Mpg City:

26 MPG (Manual), 24 MPG (Automatic)

Fuel Economy Est Mpg Highway:

31 MPG (Manual), 30 MPG (Automatic)