🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kia

Model:

Soul

Body Style:

Compact Crossover/Hatchback

Generation:

First Generation (First Facelift)

Chassis Code:

AM

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Subcompact Crossover/Urban Crossover

Target Audience:

Young urban professionals, small families, individuals seeking a stylish and practical vehicle.

Key Competitors:

Nissan Juke, Mini Countryman, Fiat 500X, Chevrolet Trax

Design:

Distinctive, boxy styling with a focus on interior space and practicality.

Value Proposition:

Offers a unique blend of SUV-like practicality with a smaller footprint and competitive pricing.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Years:

2013-2014

Engine Options:

1.6L Gamma GDI Petrol, 2.0L Nu MPI Petrol

Transmission Options:

Automatic (A6MF1/A6GF1), Manual (M6CF3-1/M6CF1)

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanicals (Gamma GDI, Nu MPI), fuel system, ignition system, emission control, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), automatic transmission (A6MF1/A6GF1), manual transmission (M6CF3-1/M6CF1), clutch, driveline, axles, drive shafts.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system (power steering, steering column, wheel), braking system (ABS, disc/drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), instrumentation, power windows, door locks, mirrors, audio system, HVAC controls, engine control module (ECM), transmission control module (TCM), body control module (BCM), body electrical systems (wipers, washers, horn, trailer towing preparation), airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, anti-theft system.

Body:

Exterior body panels, interior trim, seats, dashboard, roof, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass, seals, body repair procedures, corrosion protection.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.

Repair:

Engine overhaul, cylinder head repair, piston and connecting rod replacement, crankshaft seal replacement, transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings), steering rack replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams for electrical systems, diagnostic flowcharts, component testing procedures.

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities and types, component dimensions, clearance specifications, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameter ranges.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and wiring diagrams. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Fully searchable PDF, allowing quick access to specific information.

Quality:

High-resolution scans with clear diagrams, illustrations, and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

1.6L Gamma Gdi:

Type: Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Direct Injection. Displacement: 1591 cc. Bore x Stroke: 77.0 x 85.4 mm. Compression Ratio: 12.0:1. Power: Approx. 135 hp @ 6300 rpm. Torque: Approx. 121 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm.

2.0L Nu Mpi:

Type: Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Multi-Point Injection. Displacement: 1999 cc. Bore x Stroke: 81.0 x 97.0 mm. Compression Ratio: 10.5:1. Power: Approx. 164 hp @ 6500 rpm. Torque: Approx. 147 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Injection Type 1.6L:

Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)

Injection Type 2.0L:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Catalytic Converter:

Equipped with three-way catalytic converter.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

M6CF3-1 / M6CF1 (6-speed Manual)

Automatic Transmission:

A6MF1 / A6GF1 (6-speed Automatic)

Automatic Mode:

Includes manual shift mode (Sportmatic) on automatic transmissions.

Automatic Fluid:

SPIII or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification, e.g., Kia Genuine ATF SPIII)

Manual Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W/90 (refer to manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4115-4140 mm (162.0-163.0 in)

Width:

Approx. 1765-1767 mm (69.5-69.6 in)

Height:

Approx. 1595-1600 mm (62.8-63.0 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2600 mm (102.4 in)

Cargo Volume Seats Up:

Approx. 340 L (12.0 cu ft)

Cargo Volume Seats Down:

Approx. 970 L (34.3 cu ft)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1290-1380 kg (2844-3042 lbs), varies by engine and transmission.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle's VIN plate for exact GVWR.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

4/5 Stars (for most models of this generation)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Good ratings in most IIHS crashworthiness tests for this period.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Esp:

Available Electronic Stability Control (ESC) / Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Airbags:

Front airbags, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags (standard or optional depending on trim).

Seatbelts:

3-point front and rear seatbelts, pre-tensioners and load limiters for front seats.

💡 Technology Features

System Features:

Optional UVO infotainment system with touch screen, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/auxiliary input, satellite radio. Base models feature standard audio systems with CD player and aux input.

Navigation:

Optional navigation system available on higher trims.

Camera:

Optional rearview camera available on some trims.

Bluetooth:

Standard or optional Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes (e.g., 3,750 miles/6,000 km).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed based on driving conditions.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed.

Spark Plug Replacement Gdi:

Approx. 105,000 miles (168,000 km) for GDI engines (refer to manual for specific type and gap).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Refer to manual for specific interval, often around 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), depending on driving conditions. Automatic transmission fluid is often considered 'lifetime' by manufacturers but periodic checks and changes are recommended for longevity.

Engine Oil Capacity:

1.6L Gamma GDI: Approx. 4.1-4.3 quarts (3.9-4.1 liters). 2.0L Nu MPI: Approx. 4.5-4.7 quarts (4.3-4.5 liters). Always verify with the manual and dipstick.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-20 (Synthetic) for both engines, as per Kia recommendation.

Coolant:

Type: HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Antifreeze/Coolant. Color: Typically Red or Pink. Capacity: Approx. 6.5-7.0 liters (6.9-7.4 quarts).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific requirement).

Engine Oil Consumption Gdi:

Some owners have reported higher-than-average engine oil consumption in certain Gamma GDI engines, particularly older versions. Regular monitoring is advised.

Transmission Hesitation:

Occasional reports of slight transmission hesitation or rough shifts in automatic transmissions, often resolvable with fluid changes or software updates.

Suspension Noise:

Front suspension noises (clunks or rattles) have been reported by some owners, potentially related to control arm bushings or sway bar links.

Interior Rattles:

Plastic interior trim components can sometimes develop squeaks or rattles over time due to road vibration.

📚 Vehicle History

Kia History:

Kia Motors Corporation, a South Korean automaker, has a long history dating back to its founding in 1944, evolving from a bicycle manufacturer to a global automotive player known for value and distinctive design.

First Generation:

The Kia Soul was first introduced in 2008 as a 2009 model year, targeting the North American market with its unique styling and practical interior. The 2013-2014 models represent the first generation's significant facelift, introducing updated styling, improved interior materials, and revised powertrains.

Manufacturing Location:

Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Consumers Guide:

Often recognized by automotive critics for its distinctive style and practicality within its segment.

Reliability Jdpower:

Initial reliability ratings for this generation were generally average to good, though long-term durability varies with maintenance. (Refer to specific year ratings for detailed analysis).

Emissions Compliance:

Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for model years 2013-2014.