🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Kia Model: Soul Year: 2012 Generation: First Generation (AM) Codes Platform Code: AM 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Official, genuine factory service repair manual, not...
Official, genuine factory service repair manual, not a third-party alternative
Competitive Analysis
Advantage:
Provides factory-level information, saving significant labor costs compared to professional servicing
Key Features
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
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
All Styles Covered:
Yes
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive)
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
General Maintenance:
Included
Troubleshooting:
Included
Engine Service Repair:
Included
Transmission Service Repair:
Included
Brake System:
Included
Wiring Diagram:
Included
Electrical System:
Included
Suspension:
Included
Periodic Lubrication:
Included
Steering:
Included
Cooling System:
Included
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Included
Emission System:
Included
Heater Air Conditioning:
Included
Engine Control System:
Included
Chassis Body:
Included
Restraint System:
Included
Interior:
Included
Differential Drive:
Included
Axle:
Included
Procedures 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
Technical Depth
Depth:
Factory trained technician level
Detail Level:
Extremely detailed, step-by-step instructions
Diagrams Illustrations:
Includes all necessary illustrations, drawings, and photos
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Readability:
Requires Adobe PDF Reader
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable without any restriction (individual pages or entire manual)
Resolution:
High resolution
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download - printable and can be burned to CD-ROM)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - user's choice of printing)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
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)
Performance
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 System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) depending on engine
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic transmission
Features
Transmission Coverage:
Detailed service and repair procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
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)
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 2,700 - 2,900 lbs (1225 - 1315 kg), varies by engine and trim
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating 2012:
4 out of 5 stars (as reported for similar models in the generation)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control
Passive Features
Airbags:
Standard front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
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
Driver Assistance Features:
Features like rearview camera (on some trims), parking assist sensors (optional), cruise control.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free connectivity for phone calls and audio streaming on equipped models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
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.
Fluid Specifications
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
Known Issues
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.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Kia is a South Korean automobile manufacturer known for producing value-oriented and increasingly stylish vehicles.
Model Evolution
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
Production Location:
Primarily manufactured at the Gwangmyeong plant in South Korea.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
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.