Kia is a very popular brand in North America. But the uniquely built Kia Soul took the Americans and Canadians by storm in 2010 with its first generation. It didn’t take long to gain popularity due to its low maintenance, affordability, and reliability.
However, a few model years have been problematic for Kia Soul owners. Soul owners have had several complaints about the build quality for the earlier models, which escalated to transmission, steering, and engine problems in the later years. This article will discuss the most asked questions concerning Kia Soul, diagnosing and troubleshooting the most reported Kia Soul problems.
Kia Soul transmission problems
The transmission carries power from the engine to the wheels to drive at your desired speed. Since the transmission has to convert the exact power for your desired speed, minor transmission problems won’t be hard to notice. Unfortunately, there were more reported transmission problems in the newer Kia Soul model years after 2019 compared to the earlier years. Kia Soul owners have reported the following transmission problems:
Shifting delays
Kia Soul owners with the A4CF $-speed automatic transmission have complained about delayed shifting or slipping into the second, third and fourth gears. There is even a prolonged pause followed by a clunk when shifting to reverse in some cases. These symptoms tend to trigger the check engine light with a corresponding code in DTC memory.
Possible causes and solutions
- A faulty transmission fluid temperature sensor is giving false readings. Since the transmission is susceptible to temperature, false readings will cause running issues and illuminate the check engine light. The corresponding error codes range from P0711 to P014. Inspect the sensor and its wiring to make a more precise diagnosis.
- Kia Soul transmission has an adaptive learning procedure that adjusts shift patterns based on drivers’ habits. Therefore, when drivers with different driving styles use the same car, they may experience unusual gear shifting. The solution is to reset the learning procedure.
Grinding when accelerating
Kia Soul trims with the D7UF1 7-speed dual-clutch transmission will experience strong vibrations, rattling during accelerations or while idling, delayed response, and harsh shifting. Although you may notice these symptoms when driving aggressively, they do not trigger a check engine light.
Possible causes and solutions
- A worn dual-mass flywheel will cause a metallic rattle when the vehicle is idling due to excessive play. Check the flywheel, look for free movement between the plates, and replace them if necessary.
- Broken or worn engine mounts allow excessive play, leading the engine and gearbox to jump when pulling off from its position.
Car shaking at any speed
Another Kia Soul transmission problem is harsh shifting, which triggers the Check Engine light and an error code.
Possible causes and solution
- Faulty solenoid valves at the direct clutch, front brake, or input clutch cause the vehicle’s erratic shaking. Luckily, failure at each of the solenoid valves will trigger a different, making the diagnosis of the issue quicker.
- Wiring problems due to corrosion or damage will interfere with the communication between the TCU and solenoids. The communication issues will trigger harsh shifting or complete failed gear changes. Check the wiring to the solenoid to fix the problem.
- Disconnected or corroded connectors on the control board will cause sporadic signal loss. If you notice signs of rusting, you can easily clean it off with a rag or steel wool. However, you cannot solder the broken connectors. You will have to replace the board.
What is bad about a Kia Soul?
Kia is renowned for making incredibly reliable cars; however, the Kia Soul seems weak. Since its inception, there have been a few troubling model years for Soul. Also, several reports on the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and body hardware do not meet the usual Kia standards.
Worst Kia Soul model years
In general, the model years between 2012 and 2016 has the most complaints overall. However, according to owner complaints and recalls compiled by CarComplaints, the 2014 model year has the most overall complaints. Still, the 2016 model year is the worst because most problems occurred at lower mileage and higher repair costs.
The 2015 model year had the most engine failure issues. These engine problems would occur around the 72,000-mile mark, with an average of $2,720 for an engine replacement. Therefore, we advise against buying used Kia Soul vehicles from the mentioned model years unless the previous owner had the engine issues fixed.
The 2015 model year also had five recalls for broken accelerator pedals, steering gear separation, overheating catalytic converter, faulty park mechanism, and engine fires.
Common Kia Soul problems
Although Kia Soul is a reliable and compact vehicle, there have been a lot of problems reported over the years. They include:
Engine problems
Engine problems have been quite prevalent among the Kia Soul of all generations. These engine problems also come in various symptoms. These include engine seizing up, knocking engine, failing thermostats, broken head gaskets, loud banging noises, and the risk of the engine failing or catching fire.
Electrical problems
Another common problem reported about the Kia Soil is electrical issues that cause stereo problems. There are also other reports on the speakers going in and out when driving on bumpy roads, high beam lights turning on autocratically, and the electrical harness failing at low mileage.
There were also reports on steering issues presenting as a clunking noise while driving, the steering wheel having too much play or getting stiff, and a clicking noise when the vehicle is not moving. This problem occurred at around 53,000 miles.
How do I reset my Kia Soul computer?
The vehicle’s computer or Engine Control Module(ECM0 is responsible for the engine functionalities when the car is running. The computer learns and adapts the engine to your driving style. When the ECM stops functioning correctly, the check engine light illuminates, and you will need to reset it. Resetting the computer will delete the long-term memory, including error codes. Below are the instructions to reset your Soul computer:
- Enter your car and insert the key into the ignition.
- Turn the key as far as it can go without starting the engine.
- Press the lock button on your Kia key fob for three seconds or until the light on your dashboard flash once.
- This indicates a successful computer reset of your Kia Soul.
Kia Soul is not starting, just clicking.
When you start the engine of your Kia Soul, but instead of turning on, it just clicks, you likely have a broken starter motor. A starter is a motor that ignites or starts your vehicle’s engine. The average lifespan of a starter motor is between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. However, the starter engine can go bad due to:
- Dead or low battery
- Corroded or loose battery terminals
- Defective starter
- Faulty starter solenoid
To troubleshoot a Soul that won’t start but makes a clicking sound when you turn the key:
- Check the battery and its terminal cable connections. If they have rust, clean the terminals with dry steel wool or if they are too corroded, replace them.
- Check the battery’s charge using a multimeter. If your car battery has less than 12 volts, you’ll have to recharge it then test it with a load tester.
- If the terminal connections and battery charge are okay, ensure the cables are securely connected.
- Check if there is power reaching the starter solenoid using a multimeter. If there is no power to the solenoid, there is a faulty starter control unit between the relay and the starter.
- Check the starter. You have to perform a bench starter test to confirm if the starter is working. If the solenoid attached to the top of the starter is defective, you have to replace the starter motor, starter solenoid, starter contacts or repair the starter circuit as necessary.
Kia Soul is not accelerating.
For your vehicle to accelerate, the internal engine combustion has to breathe. The engine makes a specific amount of air and fuel, compresses this mixture, and ignites it, leading to an explosion that propels the car faster. Anything that disrupts this process leads to a loss of power. Several causes can reduce acceleration in your Kia Soul car:
Air delivery problems
- Check the air filter. It prevents dirt and other impurities from entering the combustion chamber. A clogged air filter will reduce the air getting into the engine and affect the air and fuel mixture needed for acceleration. If the air filter is too clogged, you will have to replace it.
- A faulty mass airflow sensor, idle air control or throttle body will affect airflow into the engine, calling it to strain during acceleration. Cleaning the air intake system to help fix this issue.
- A bad throttle position switch will also slow down your Kia Soul. The throttle position switch measures the movement and position of the throttle plate to help maintain proper air and fuel mixture. If you suspect a faulty TPS, take your car to a professional mechanic.
Fuel delivery problems
- A clogged fuel filter and fuel tank strainer will starve the fuel engine and cause low engine power. Also, defective fuel injectors and fuel pumps will limit the amount of fuel going into the engine. You can clean the fuel system and replace the fuel filter and other bad parts.
Ignition issues
- The ignition system in your Kia Soul produces a spark that ignites the fuel and air mixture to produce energy. Unfortunately, dirty or worn spark plugs or damaged ignition wires will prevent the mixture from completely burning, causing a loss in engine power. You can replace the spark plugs yourself, but replacing the wires will need professional help.
Emission control sensors
- The oxygen sensor in the Kia Soul measures oxygen levels in the exhaust system after combustion. If the oxygen sensor is damaged or dirty, causing it to react slowly, it leads to a rich or lean air and fuel mixture and slow acceleration. Try cleaning the sensor, and if that doesn’t work, you can easily replace it yourself.
- The car computer uses data from the crankshaft sensor to sync fuel delivery and spark timing. The mismatched fuel delivery and spark timing can cause your vehicle to accelerate slowly.
- A problem with any emission control device will illuminate the check engine light. Once the car computer detects severe issues, it can activate ‘limp home mode’, which reduces engine power to protect the drivetrain from damage.
Kia Soul does not recognize the key.
The most common reason your car may not detect your key fob is that the key battery is too low; therefore, it also has a weak signal. But there are other possible causes for this issue. They include:
Low or dead key fob battery
If the battery inside your Kia Soul key fob is dead or too weak, it means it cannot send a strong enough signal to the keyless entry system. Replacing the batteries should fix the issue; if not, progress with troubleshooting.
Damaged key
If the key gets damaged from impact or water, it can damage parts responsible for sending a signal to the car. You will have to get a new Kia key fob from your Kia dealer and reprogram it to your vehicle.
Programming issues
You have removed your key fob from your Kia Soul. Therefore your car will not recognize nor respond to any signal from that specific key fob. The solution is to reprogram your key fob to your vehicle.
Weak car battery
The car battery runs your vehicle’s electronic parts, and the keyless entry system is one of them. If the car battery has partially discharged, it can prevent the immobilizer module from working. Check the car battery charge and if it is lower than 12 volts, charge it or replace it if necessary.
Immobilizer
The immobilizer system is a security device in your Kia Soul that prevents the engine from starting without the correct key present. However, if the immobilizer is defective from a damaged circuit board, water damage or software issues, the keyless entry system might not read the key signal.
Wrong key
Check if you’re using the wrong key.
Start button
If the start button is disconnected or damaged, your car will not start.
Kia Soul is not taking gas.
Kia Soul model years between 2014 and 2016 have issues taking in gas and accelerating due to a restricted low-pressure fuel line. It can also indicate engine problems or a stuck emergency brake.
Begin by checking fuel pressure at the fuel tank’s low-pressure pump fuel output line using a fuel gauge kit to fix the issue. The gauge should display a pressure of 69.6 PSI for the 1.6L engines and 71.8 PSI for the 2.0L engines if the low-pressure fuel pump is working well.
If you’re experiencing fuel intake issues accompanied by loss of power, but the reading is within specification, remove the fuel pressure gauge from the low-pressure pump and connect it to the high-pressure pump.
If you’re experiencing fuel intake issues accompanied by loss of power and the gauge reading is below the PSI specification, there is probably a restriction in the fuel feed line coming from the low-pressure pump to the high-pressure pump. So replace the low-pressure fuel line from the tank to the high-pressure pump.
What is Active ECO in Kia Soul?
Active ECO is responsible for improving the fuel efficiency of your Kia Soul by controlling the specific engine and transaxle system operating parameters. Typically, your car’s fuel efficiency depends on the driver’s driving habits and road condition, but the ECO system will change your car’s systems to reduce fuel consumption.
When you press the Active ECO button, the ECO indicator will illuminate in green to show Active ECO is running. It will remain active until you press the ECO button again, and the system will return to normal mode.
When Active ECO is engaged, the following changes will happen to improve gas mileage:
- The acceleration may slightly reduce even when you depress the accelerator fully.
- The air conditioner performance will be limited.
- The shift pattern of the automatic gear may change.
- The engine noise may get louder.
How many miles does a Kia Soul last?
A well-maintained Kia Soul can run for about 200,000 miles before any major breakdowns. If your drive about 15,000 miles a year, your Kia Soul should last you for 13 years without major repairs. Some Kia Soul owners have reported having more than 240,000 miles on their vehicles.
Kia Souls are highly reliable vehicles; even for commercial driving like hailing services, your car can serve you about ten years before it goes out of use. Apart from the manufacturing defects for the model years, regular oil changes and professional services will help your Kia Soul last longer.
Where is Kia Soul made?
The Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV marketed worldwide. Kia Soul was designed at Kia’s design centre in California and debuted at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Kia makes all the Soul models in South Korea at Kia’s Gwanju Plant. Other important Kia Soul facts include:
- Earlier models (2008-2013) were assembled in South Korea, China, Russia, and Kazakhstan.
- Second Generation models (2013-2019) were manufactured in South Korea and Russia.
- Later models were produced solely at Gwangju Plant in South Korea.
- The entire Kia Soul line is shipped to the U.S. and is then distributed and sold by Kia Motors America (KMA) based in Irvine, California.
What kind of oil does a Kia Soul use?
The best Kia Soul engine oil should meet the API SN, ILSAC GF-5, and ILSAC GF-6 specifications. We recommend ILSAC GF-4 engine oil for older models. The table below shows the oil capacity and type for all Kia Souls.
| Kia Soul model years | Oil capacity | Oil type |
| 2008-2012 | ||
| 1.6 Engine | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt.) | ILSAC GF-4 or above 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-20 |
| 2.0 Engine | 4.0 l (4.23 US qt.) | ILSAC GF-4 or above 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-20 |
| 2013-2018 | ||
| 1.6 Engine M/T | 3.80 US qt. (3.6 l) | ILSAC GF-4 or above 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-20 |
| 1.6 Engine A/T | 3.80 US qt. (3.6 l) | ILSAC GF-4 or above 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-20 |
| 1.6 L T-GDI DCT | 4.75 US qt. (4.5 l) | ILSAC GF-4 or above 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-20 |
| 2.0 Engine | 4.23 US qt. (4.0 l) | ILSAC GF-4 or above 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-20 |
| 2019-2021 | ||
| 1.6 L T-GDI | 4.5 l (4.75 US qt.) | 5W-20, 5W-30, 10W-30, 15W-40, 20W-50Without GPF: ACEA A5/B5With GPF: ACEA C2/C5 |
| 2.0 L MPI | 4.0 l (4.23 US qt.) | SAE 5W20 / API Latest (ILSAC Latest) |
How many gallons of gas does a Kia Soul hold?
The Kia Soul has gas tank sizes ranging from 12.7 gallons to 14.3 gallons depending on the trim level and model year.
| 2021-2014 Kia Soul gas tank size | 14.2 gallons (53.7 liters) |
| 2013-2010 Kia Soul gas tank size | 12.7 gallons (48.1 liters) |
How safe is a Kia Soul?
Since Kia Soul is a compact car, potential buyers always ask about its safety ratings. The vehicle’s safety features that prevent accidents and how it reacts during a crash determine its safety rating. After assessing the two gold-standard organizations, National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Kia Soul checks most safety boxes.
Below is a detailed description of Kia Soul safety ratings categorized into their generations. Note that some ratings will vary depending on trim level and model year.
NHTSA Ratings: First-generation Soul (2010-2013)
- Overall Rating: 4 Stars
- Frontal Crash: 5 Stars
- Side Crash: 5 Stars
- Rollover: 4 Stars
NHTSA Ratings: Second-generation Kia Soul (2014-2019)
- Overall Rating: 5 Stars
- Frontal Crash: 5 Stars
- Side Crash: 5 Stars
- Rollover: 4 Stars
NHTSA Rating: Third-generation Kia Soul (2020-Present)
- Overall Rating: 4 Stars
- Frontal Crash: 4 Stars
- Side Crash: 5 Stars
- Rollover: 4 Stars
IIHS Ratings: First-generation Kia Soul (2010-2013)
Crashworthiness
- Small overlap front, driver, and passenger side: Poor
- Moderate overlap front: Good
- Side: Good
- Roof strength: Good
- Head restraints and seats: Good
Crash Avoidance and Mitigation
- Front crash prevention, vehicle-to-vehicle, and pedestrian: Good
- Headlights: Good
- Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) Ease Of Use: Acceptable
IIHS Ratings: Second-generation Kia Soul (2014-2019)
Crashworthiness
- Small overlap front, driver, and passenger side: Good
- Moderate overlap front: Good
- Side: Good
- Roof strength: Good
- Head restraints and seats: Good
Crash Avoidance and Mitigation
- Front crash prevention, vehicle-to-vehicle, and pedestrian: Not done
- Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) Ease Of Use: Acceptable
IIHS Ratings: Third-generation Kia Soul (2020-Present)
Crashworthiness
- Small overlap front, driver, and passenger side: Good
- Moderate overlap front: Good
- Side: Good
- Roof strength: Good
- Head restraints and seats: Good
Crash Avoidance and Mitigation
- Front crash prevention, vehicle-to-vehicle, and pedestrian: Superior
- Headlights: Good and Poor
- Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) Ease Of Use: Acceptable
How many seats does a Kia Soul have?
The Kia Soul can fit up to five people in two rows; two people at the front and three at the back.
How much is a replacement key for a Kia Soul?
If you have lost your Kia Soul keys and have no spare, you can get a replacement key at about $130 to $440. The Kia Soul key cost varies depending on several factors such as:
- Type of key
- Your car’s model year: Newer models cost more than $250 for a replacement key because they have better security features.
- Your time of day and location
- The place of replacement, Kia dealer, automotive locksmith, or online: The dealer typically charges 10-15% less for a replacement key than a locksmith. However, you will have to tow your car to your dealer to program the new key or fob. So ultimately, the total price is usually higher.
- Availability of code to cut a new key: If your ignition cylinder has been replaced before, especially in older cars, the key code is unnecessary. Therefore, the key will be cut manually by a locksmith or change the ignition again.
- Original ignition
Kia Soul sunroof is not working.
Before your start troubleshooting the sunroof on your Soul, first, ensure you’re operating it correctly.
- You can control your Kia Soul sunroof using the lever located on the overhead console. Also, the sunroof can only open, close or title if the ignition switch is in the ON position.
- Due to freezing, the sunroof may not operate well during cold and wet weather. If it seems stuck, wait until the weather gets warmer or park your car in the garage for a while. Moving the sunroof during cold weather could damage the glass or sunroof motor.
- If you replaced your car battery recently and your sunroof isn’t working, you need to reset it using the instructions below.
- Turn on the ignition.
- Manually close the sunshade and sunroof entirely if they are open. Then, pull the sunroof control lever backwards to the closed position.
- Release the sunroof control lever.
- Push the sunroof control lever to the close position for about 10 seconds until the sunroof moves slightly. Then, release the lever.
- Push the sunroof control lever forward again until the sunroof starts running as follows: sunshade and sunroof glass slide open>sunroof glass slide close> sunshade closes. Then release the lever, and the sunroof system has reset.
- If resetting the sunroof doesn’t work, follow the troubleshooting instructions below.
- Disconnect the glass from the sunroof to access the lift arms. If the sunroof is stuck open, use a screwdriver to push the guides that the lift arms follow forward until they close fully. Then replace the glass when the lift arms start moving automatically.
- Check the sunroof motor. If there is no power to the sunroof motor, the sunroof will remain stuck in the open or closed position. Check the motor by inserting a screwdriver into the center of the motor with the nylon brushing. Turn and push the screwdriver to work the motor manually. If the sunroof runs manually, the motor is damaged and needs replacing.
- Check a short circuit on the sunroof wiring if the motor is working fine. Test the sunroof switch with a multimeter. If there is no resistance, the wiring is intact. If there is high resistance, there is a short, and you need to replace the wires.
- Remove dirt and debris from the sunroof tracks, which can cause the sunroof to become stuck. Clean the sunroof tracks regularly to avoid dirt from accumulating. If too much dirt builds up on the trucks, it can damage the sunroof cables, which are more complex and expensive to fix.
Kia Soul Bluetooth is not working.
If the Bluetooth in your Kia Soul is dropping calls or has connection issues, there are several ways you can fix it and correctly sync your smartphone to it. Follow the troubleshooting tips below.
- First, ensure your device is compatible with your Kia Soul. Press the phone button on your vehicle’s control panel, then select Phone settings > Add new device. Activate Bluetooth on your device, search for your vehicle’s system, and choose the device you want to pair. Enter or confirm the password that appears either on the system screen or your device.
- Check the condition of the AUX or USB cable you’re using. Look for tears or damages to the plastic coating. If the cable has torn, you will need to replace it.
- Make sure your device is close to your Kia audio system at all times. Going out of range will disconnect the connectivity.
- Try disconnecting all other paired devices from your Soul’s infotainment system. You have to connect one device at a time for Bluetooth to work. So turn off Bluetooth from the other devices and unpair them from your Kia.
- Remove all metals such as coins and pens from the area near the infotainment system to ensure the Bluetooth signal is efficient.
- Make sure your phone has enough charge. If your device is low on battery, it will give a weak Bluetooth signal that can affect pairing to your Kia Soul.
Kia Soul is radio not working.
When you experience issues with the radio in your Kia Soul, the first thing you should do is reset it. The radio reset procedure is simple to do on your own with these steps:
- Locate the small reset pinhole on the radio faceplate. Depending on the trim level and model year, it could be on the lower right of the display or the upper right of the screen.
- Insert a paper clip into the reset button hole, press and hold for one second, and reset the entire system.
If the radio shuts down and doesn’t turn back on, there are a few possible reasons this could happen:
Blown fuse
A blown fuse is the most probable cause for a car radio to stop working. For instance, if you start the car and the radio doesn’t turn on, there’s likely a blown fuse cutting off current to the radio. Using a multimeter, you can verify this issue by testing the radio for power and ground.
A blown fuse typically indicates that your vehicle has other electrical issues. Like other electrical systems, the radio has a fuse that prevents damage from power surges. If you detect a blown fuse, replace it. If the problem keeps recurring, contact a mechanic to diagnose the problem.
Wiring short
If one or more of the electrical wires in the radio system shorts out, the radio may behave erratically or not operate at all.
Damaged antenna or tuner
If the CD/AUX is working, but the radio isn’t, then there’s something interfering with the signal, such as a broken antenna or a loose tuner. A damaged antenna prevents the radio from receiving a signal from stations, while tuner problems prevent you from searching through stations. Unfortunately, you will need to replace the entire head unit if the tuner has broken, but you can easily replace the antenna yourself.
Damaged speaker wires
If your radio turns on, but no sound is getting out, then there’s likely an issue with the speaker wires, the speaker or the amplifier. If the speaker is bad, you’ll need to replace it. Sometimes the amplifier can go into protect mode in case of overheating, internal faults, and wiring problems. To inspect the amp to ensure it is working.
Then check the wiring and the speakers. If the wiring is loose, you can reconnect them tightly; you will need to replace them if damaged. If the speakers have gone bad, replace them as well.
Kia Soul AC is not blowing cold air.
There are many reasons why the AC in your Kia Soul is running but not blowing cold air.
Leaking refrigerant
The refrigerant in your car’s AC is what runs the system. If your refrigerant is leaking, the AC won’t work. Sometimes it won’t even cycle without the right amount of refrigerant pressure. You need to find the leak using forming gas and fix it before refilling the coolant.
Bad condenser
The condenser in the AC is at the front of the vehicle. It is responsible for releasing the heat from the refrigerant into the ambient air. Unfortunately, over time, dirt, dust, and bugs build upon its surface and close the gaps of its mesh. This prevents the condenser from releasing heat into the air, resulting in poor cooling. If the condenser is dirty, clean it gently not to damage the delicate fins.
Failing clutch cycling switch
Like other vehicles, Kia Soul AC systems use an electromagnetic clutch switch that detects refrigerant flow and engages the compressor during cycling. However, since this switch cycles on and off over time, it wears down and affects cooling. Have the clutch switch tested and replaced if necessary. After replacing the clutch cycling switch, refill the AC system with oil and refrigerant.
Faulty blower motor
If neither hot nor cold air is blowing from the AC in your Soul, the motor has likely failed. There will also be some abnormal sounds from the AC when the motor fails, and you will have to replace it.
Bad blend door actuator
The blend door actuator controls how much cool and heated air enters the Soul cabin. If there is no cool air coming from the AC and there is a slight clicking sound under the dashboard when you turn on the AC or turn off the engine, it’s a probable sign of a faulty blend door actuator.
How to unlock the Kia Soul steering wheel
There are a number of reasons why your steering wheel can lock up, but here’s how you can unlock it.
- Insert your Kia key into the ignition switch and turn it gently without using too much force. If the key turns, then the steering wheel will unlock. If there is difficulty turning the key to the ACC position, turn the key and move to the steering wheel right and left to release the tension.
- If your key has worn out, try using a spare key. If you do not own a spare key, remove the key from the ignition and then reinsert it a little and turn it.
- If the steering wheel has locked with a pin on one side, it can only move in the other direction. Therefore, as you turn the key, apply pressure to the steering wheel in the direction the wheel moves. Do not shake the steering wheel side to side to avoid damaging the locking pin and preventing disengaging it.
- Spray some WD40 lubricant into the ignition and try turning the key and the steering wheel again.
- If none of the above ways works, you will have to install a new ignition cylinder to unlock your steering wheel.
How to program a Kia Soul key fob
The keyless remotes run on a battery that will need changing once in a while. After replacing the battery, you will need to reprogram the key fob to the care system to ensure it works. Programming the key fob may be complex, but we have made it easier using the steps below:
Tools
- 2 feet of 22 gauge wire
- Wire strippers
- Remotes
Directions
- Open the hood of your Kia Soul.
- Find the diagnostic plug for your car behind the battery on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. Remove the plug cap that says “Diagnostic” on it.
- Strip both ends of the 22-gauge wire and expose about half an inch of the bare copper.
- Connect one end of the wire in the number six-port to the diagnostic connector.
- Place the other end of the wire to the battery’s positive terminal.
- Go to the driver’s seat and turn the car ignition to the ‘On’ position but not start the vehicle.
- Press and hold the ‘LOCK’ button on the key fob for one second and let go. Next, repeat the procedure for the other key fobs you want to program. If you’re programming only one remote, press and hold the lock button for three seconds and release. The lights on the dashboard will turn off to indicate successful programming.
- Turn off the vehicle, disconnect the wires from the battery and diagnostic terminal then test the key.
How to start a Kia Soul with key
You can start your Kia Soul using the remote start button on the Kia smart key.
To start the car remotely:
- Press the door lock button within 32 feet(10 meters) from the vehicle to lock the doors.
- Then within four seconds after locking the doors, press and hold the start button, the engine will start, and the hazard warning lights will blink.
- After remotely starting the engine, it automatically turns off after 10 minutes.
To start up the vehicle:
- Carry the smart key into the car with you.
- Ensure the parking brake is firmly engaged.
- Manual gears: Depress the clutch pedal fully and shift the gear into Neutral(N). Keep the clutch and brake pedals depressed while starting the engine.
- Automatic gears: Put the gear into Park(P) and then fully step on the brake pedal.
- You can also turn on the engine when the gear is Neutral.
- Press the ENGINE START/STOP button while pressing on the brake pedal.
- Allow the engine to warm up before depressing the accelerator during very cold weather below -18°C(0°F) or after the vehicle has not been running for several days.
NOTE: The engine may not start even if the smart key is in the vehicle but far away from you
- It’s essential to always have the Kia smart key with you. If the ENGINE START/STOP button is in the ACC position, and any door is open, the car system looks for the smart key. If the system doesn’t recognize the smart key in the vehicle, a message “key is not in the vehicle” will display on the LCD. But if all the doors are closed, the chime will ring for five seconds. The warning message will turn off while the vehicle starts moving.
Kia Soul backup camera is not working.
The backup camera in your vehicle helps prevent accidents, helps with parallel parking, and more. The camera should turn on automatically as soon as you engage the reverse gear. When this camera stops working on your Kia Soul, here’s how you can troubleshoot it.
- Check for faulty wiring that could prevent signals between the display and the backup camera. For example, if you hear some flickering noise, there’s likely some loose contact in the wires.
- If the wiring is intact, there could be a software error failing to transmit the correct signals to the camera. If the screen is black or is displaying the backup instructions but not the image, then there is likely a firmware glitch that will need fixing at the dealers.
- Like other electrical devices, a broken fuse or bad switch can cause the Kia Soul backup camera to stop working. Test the fuse to the camera with a multimeter and replace the fuse if necessary.
- If none of the solutions works, you may have to replace the backup camera entirely as it has most likely stopped working due to damage.
Kia Soul horn is not working.
Several Kia Soul owners have reported issues with the horn assembly for the model years 2010, 2011, and 2014. The horn is a safety feature in your Kia Soul, making it dangerous to drive with a broken one. Several reasons explain why the horn doesn’t sound when you press the steering wheel button.
Blown fuse
The horn is an electric device with a fuse that protects it from damage during a power surge. When there is a power surge, the fuse blows out to cut off current to the horn; therefore, the horn cannot work. Locate the fuse box in your Soul and check the fuse for the horn. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one with the same amp rating.
Bad relay
A relay is an electromagnetic switch that turns electrical loads on and off. If the relay becomes faulty, the horn will also stop working. Locate the relays in the engine compartment or under the steering wheel on the left-hand side. Identify the horn relay and use an AC relay to test it. In case the relay is not working, replace it. Make sure to disconnect the car battery before removing the bad relay.
Broken wire or corroded connector
The horn is at the from of your Kia Soul, where it is open to dust, dirt, and small particles which build up over time. The build-up can corrode the connector and lead to poor conductivity. You can clean the connector with some WD40, ensuring the battery is disconnected when cleaning.
If the connector has not corroded, test for current. Next, insert the multimeter probes into the connector, ensuring the probes don’t touch. Then ask someone to press the horn button. The multimeter should read 12+ volts. If the reading is zero, then there is conductivity failure n the horn system from a broken wire, broken clock spring, faulty switch, or bad connector. If you suspect this issue, drive your Kia Soul to the nearest professional mechanic for troubleshooting.
Faulty horn
Horns rarely break down and can outlive the vehicle. However, factory errors and use can cause the horn to malfunction. If the horn goes bad or sounds off, you may have to replace the horn system at the dealer.
How to turn on Kia Soul speaker lights
One of the unique traits of the Kia Soul is the mood lighting system. The mood lighting system works with the infotainment system whereby lights around the front speakers, cup holders, foot area, and other places will pulsate and change color with the music playing.
You can set up your speaker lights to create your ambiance as follows:
- First, on the Home screen, press ‘All Menus’.
- Next, press’ Sound Mood Lamp’ to activate the sound-reactive mood light.
- Select a lighting mode and customize the light settings such as;
- The color theme changes its colors in various patterns.
- Color lighting changes the speaker’s color to red, green, blue, sky-blue, purple and yellow. The colors vary depending on model years.
- Synchronize the lighting with the playing music.
- Adjust the lightness level
- Save changes and turn on your radio.
- When your open the door, the speaker lighting automatically turns off.
Kia Soul temperature display is not working.
When the Kia Soul temperature display is not working, there’s likely a problem with the thermostat. This thermostat measures the temperature of the refrigerant running through the line. It then determines the engine temperature and displays it. If the thermostat is not working, the engine runs the risk of overheating and breaking down entirely if not fixed. Also, if the Check Engine light is on, you need to replace the entire thermostat. To replace a faulty thermostat in your Kia Soul:
- Allow the car to cool down completely.
- Use the OBD2 scanner to confirm the error code. P0118 is the trouble code indicating a problem with the engine coolant temperature sensor.
- Locate the thermostat at the top of the radiator or its base.
- Disconnect the battery from the car.
- Lift the front end of the car for better clearance and access.
- Remove the radiator cap.
- Drain the radiator.
- Remove the faulty thermostat and replace it with a new one.
- Check the coolant plugs are secure.
- Add the coolant and replace the cap onto the reservoir.
- Lower your car, start the engine and check for temperature display.
Kia Soul USB is not charging iPhone.
If your Kia Soul USB is not charging your iPhone, the problem is usually with the cable, your phone or the USB port. Here’s how you that troubleshoot this problem to ensure you can charge your iPhone with the Kia Soul USB:
- First, make sure you’re using an original Apple USB cable. Often, charging issues are a result of using third-party cables.
- If your cable is original, check for breaks and damages. If the plastic coating is damaged, you will need t get another Apple USB code.
- Inspect the USB port of your Kia Soul to ensure there’s nothing lodged inside it. If you notice particles inside, gently remove them using a wooden toothpick or plastic pin.
- If the connection is brief, then the USB port could be loose. You can gently tighten the USB port on your own so that the cable end can sit securely into the USB port. Find the two-pin holders inside the USB port that holds the cable. Using a needle or sharp-edged object, gently pull the two pins outwards, and the port should tighten.
How to change the battery in a Kia Soul key fob
The battery replacement process varies slightly depending on whether you’re using s standard Kia key fob or a Kia Smart Key. The standard Kia Key fob has a small, circular silver button in the upper left corner to release the mechanical key shaft from the side of the fob. The Kia Smart Key has a mechanical key inside the fob, rather than on the side; it also has a small rectangular release button on the lower backside. The Smart Key is for Kia vehicles with keyless entry and keyless start functions.
Both key types use a single 2032 battery.
Changing the battery in a standard Kia key fob
- With the front side of the key fob facing down, insert the flathead screwdriver into the slot on the fob side.
- Then gently pry the casing off of the key fob.
- Remove the old battery.
- Insert the new battery in place.
- Replace the casing on the key fob.
Changing the battery in the Kia Smart Key fob
- Press the tiny silver button at the bottom of the fob to release the emergency mechanical key.
- With the emergency key now out, you can open the key fob.
- You’ll see a slot at the bottom of the key fob that matches the size of the mechanical key.
- Insert the Kia key into the slot, then gently turn it in either direction. This will pry open the key fob casing.
- Carefully finish pulling the fob entirely apart.
- Remove the old battery.
- Insert the new battery in place, with the writing on the battery facing down.
- Gently snap the key fob back together, being careful not to damage any internal Smart Key components in the process.
Kia Soul power outlet is not working.
Initially, the power outlet used to be a cigarette lighter, but its functions have evolved on the Kia Soul. These cigarette lighters are 12 volts sockets that allow you to connect other electronic devices to charge them. If the power outlet stops working, here’s how you can diagnose and fix the issue.
- Look for any obstruction inside the socket. Anything lodged in the socket will prevent the charger from contacting the circuit, while conductive objects that nails and coins can blow the circuit.
- Check the charger and ensure it is working. Then, try connecting another charger to the power outlet. If the device is charging, then the charger needs replacing.
- Check for a blown fuse. Since the power outlet generates 12 volts, you can accidentally overload the outlet causing the electrical circuit to overheat and blow the fuse. Use a multimeter to test for power on the socket’s centre pin and ground on the interior of the barrel. If there is no power, check the outlet fuse in the fuse box and replace it if necessary.
- If the fuse is okay, you will have to replace the cigarette lighter.
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Kia Soul headlights are not working.
Whether one bad or both headlights are bad, one of the following components is the cause of the failure; the headlight bulbs, the wiring hardness bringing power to the headlights, the fuses protected the circuit from surges or the headlight switch which allows you to change between low and high beams. Follow the instructions below to diagnose and fix the issue to get your Kia Soul headlights working.
- Turn on your headlights and identify the bulb that has not lit. The process of replacing the headlight bulbs will vary by trim level and model year, but in general, disconnect the wiring harness from the back of the headlight assembly, disconnect the retaining clip and pull out the bulb. Replace the new bulb, secure it with the retaining clip and reconnect the wiring harness. Test the headlights and continue with the troubleshooting if it doesn’t work.
- Locate the fuse box in the engine compartment. Remove the headlight fuses and check for discoloration. If the headlight fuse is blown, replace it, then test the headlights.
- Connect the negative multimeter probe to the negative car battery terminal. Then connect the positive probe to the corresponding battery terminal. Check the multimeter for reading; replace it if there is current in the wiring harness.
- Disconnect the negative car battery cable from the battery. Remove the bezel around the steering column of the steering wheel. Then unplug the wiring block from the back of the headlight switch. Check if the contacts on the wiring block or headlight switch are discolored. Clean them gently with a pencil eraser. Plug the wiring block back in and test the headlights again. If they still do not work, you will need to replace the headlight switch.
Conclusion
Kia Soul is one of the most budget-friendly vehicles in the market, making it one of Kia’s best-selling models. The bodywork quality and safety features have improved over time. Unfortunately, there have been minor reports on the interior quality and significant issues on engine failure. If you have a Kia Soul, it’s crucial to maintain regular servicing to get ahead of any manufacturing flaws and problems arising from the use of the vehicle.