🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Kia Model: Soul Year: 2011 Generation Generation Code: AM 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Subcompact Crossover SUV Competitive Analysis Key Competitors 2011: Nissan Juke, Honda Element (discontinued), Scion xB, Chevrolet HHR. Key Features Unique Selling Points: Distinctive boxy styling, spacious and versatile interior for its class, good fuel economy, value pricing. Manual Value Proposition Benefit To Owner: Provides comprehensive DIY repair and maintenance capabilities, saving on dealership service costs and empowering owners with in-depth vehicle knowledge. Manual Target Audience Intended Users: Do-it-yourselfers, independent repair shops, and Kia technicians. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Complete Factory Service and Repair Page Count Estimated Page Count: Hundreds of pages (printable in entirety or selected sections) Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format File Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, and timing systems. Engine Management: Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control systems, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnosis and programming. Transmission Manual: Service, repair, and diagnosis of manual transmissions, including clutch operation, gear selection, and internal component replacement. Transmission Automatic: Service, repair, and diagnosis of automatic transmissions (if applicable to the 2011 model), including torque converter, valve body, and electronic control. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive systems, axles, differentials, and CV joints. Suspension: Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures. Steering: Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, and steering column. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems, including discs, calipers, pads, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, ABS system, and parking brake. Electrical System: Complete electrical system diagnosis, including battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, and body control modules. Body And Chassis: Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, mirrors, and structural components. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system service, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and climate controls. Infotainment Audio: Audio system, speakers, and basic infotainment system troubleshooting (specifics dependent on trim level). Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, and brake inspections. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues across all vehicle systems. Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, often with detailed substeps. Electrical Diagnostics: Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting for electrical faults. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Comprehensive, ranging from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. Illustrations: Hundreds of photos and illustrations, including enlarged insets for detailed part examination. Guidance: Numbered instructions, notes, cautions, and warnings to guide the user through each procedure. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Printability: Printable without restriction, allowing for individual page or full manual printing. Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) Delivery Method Delivery: Instant download via link on checkout page after payment. Requirements Software Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Option 1: 2.4L Inline-4 GDI (Theta II) Engine Displacement 1: 2359 cc Engine Code 1: G4KC Horsepower 1: 175 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque 1: 169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Optional Engine Engine Option 2: 1.6L Inline-4 MPI (Gamma) Engine Displacement 2: 1591 cc Engine Code 2: G4FC Horsepower 2: 122 hp @ 6300 rpm Torque 2: 117 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 1.6L, Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for 2.4L. Recommended Fuel: 87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (confirm in manual for specific requirements) Engine Features Timing Drive: Timing Chain (for both engines) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 5-speed Manual (typically with 1.6L engine) Optional Optional Transmission: 6-speed Automatic (typically with 2.4L engine), 4-speed Automatic (with 1.6L engine) Features Automatic Transmission Control: Electronically controlled with adaptive shift logic. Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: Refer to manual for specific Kia ATF type (e.g., SP-III or SP-IV, depending on transmission variant). Manual Transmission Fluid: Refer to manual for specific gear oil viscosity and API rating (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 100.4 inches (2550 mm) Length: 160.6 inches (4080 mm) Width: 70.5 inches (1790 mm) Height: 63.4 inches (1610 mm) Weights Curb Weight Est Min: 2,840 lbs (1288 kg) (1.6L Manual) Curb Weight Est Max: 3,150 lbs (1429 kg) (2.4L Automatic) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats: 19.3 cu ft (546 L) Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded: 53.4 cu ft (1512 L) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver: 4 Stars (2011 model year) NHTSA Frontal Passenger: 4 Stars (2011 model year) NHTSA Side...
Nissan Juke, Honda Element (discontinued), Scion xB, Chevrolet HHR.
Key Features
Unique Selling Points:
Distinctive boxy styling, spacious and versatile interior for its class, good fuel economy, value pricing.
Manual Value Proposition
Benefit To Owner:
Provides comprehensive DIY repair and maintenance capabilities, saving on dealership service costs and empowering owners with in-depth vehicle knowledge.
Manual Target Audience
Intended Users:
Do-it-yourselfers, independent repair shops, and Kia technicians.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
Complete Factory Service and Repair
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (printable in entirety or selected sections)
Manual Type
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
File Format:
PDF
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair of all engine components, including cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, and timing systems.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emissions control systems, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnosis and programming.
Transmission Manual:
Service, repair, and diagnosis of manual transmissions, including clutch operation, gear selection, and internal component replacement.
Transmission Automatic:
Service, repair, and diagnosis of automatic transmissions (if applicable to the 2011 model), including torque converter, valve body, and electronic control.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive systems, axles, differentials, and CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, including struts, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, tie rods, and steering column.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, including discs, calipers, pads, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, ABS system, and parking brake.
Electrical System:
Complete electrical system diagnosis, including battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, and body control modules.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, doors, windows, mirrors, and structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system service, including refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator, and climate controls.
Infotainment Audio:
Audio system, speakers, and basic infotainment system troubleshooting (specifics dependent on trim level).
Procedures Included
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues across all vehicle systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation, often with detailed substeps.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting for electrical faults.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, ranging from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations, including enlarged insets for detailed part examination.
Guidance:
Numbered instructions, notes, cautions, and warnings to guide the user through each procedure.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable without restriction, allowing for individual page or full manual printing.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Delivery Method
Delivery:
Instant download via link on checkout page after payment.
Requirements
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Option 1:
2.4L Inline-4 GDI (Theta II)
Engine Displacement 1:
2359 cc
Engine Code 1:
G4KC
Horsepower 1:
175 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 1:
169 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Optional Engine
Engine Option 2:
1.6L Inline-4 MPI (Gamma)
Engine Displacement 2:
1591 cc
Engine Code 2:
G4FC
Horsepower 2:
122 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque 2:
117 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for 1.6L, Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) for 2.4L.
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline (confirm in manual for specific requirements)
Electronically controlled with adaptive shift logic.
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific Kia ATF type (e.g., SP-III or SP-IV, depending on transmission variant).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific gear oil viscosity and API rating (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
100.4 inches (2550 mm)
Length:
160.6 inches (4080 mm)
Width:
70.5 inches (1790 mm)
Height:
63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Est Min:
2,840 lbs (1288 kg) (1.6L Manual)
Curb Weight Est Max:
3,150 lbs (1429 kg) (2.4L Automatic)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
19.3 cu ft (546 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
53.4 cu ft (1512 L)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
4 Stars (2011 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
4 Stars (2011 model year)
NHTSA Side Driver:
5 Stars (2011 model year)
NHTSA Side Passenger:
5 Stars (2011 model year)
NHTSA Side Rear Occupant:
5 Stars (2011 model year)
IIHS Roof Strength:
Good (2011 model year)
IIHS Head Restraints And Seats:
Good (2011 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Electronic Traction Control System (TCS)
Esc:
Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input jack and USB port (on some trims). SiriusXM Satellite Radio available.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity available on some trims.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil. Refer to manual for specific conditions and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions (inspect per manual).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (refer to manual for exact spec).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush around 60,000 miles, then every 30,000-50,000 miles thereafter (refer to manual for specific coolant type and procedure).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 5W-20 (for both 1.6L and 2.4L engines - confirm with manual).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0-4.5 quarts (3.8-4.3 Liters) with filter change (confirm with manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Kia Genuine Long Life Coolant or equivalent meeting specifications outlined in the manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (confirm with manual).
Known Issues
Common Complaints 2011 Soul:
Potential for minor interior rattles, some reports of premature brake wear on earlier models, some HVAC blend door actuator issues. Engine oil consumption could be a concern on higher mileage 2.4L engines. Refer to the manual for specific diagnostic steps for these.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer Origin:
South Korea
Model Evolution
Generation Introduction:
First Generation (AM) introduced for the 2009 model year.
2011 Model Year Updates:
Minor updates often include new exterior color options, minor trim enhancements, or feature shuffling between trim levels. No major redesign for 2011.
Production
Assembly Location:
Gwangmyeong, South Korea (primarily for the AM generation).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Consumer Ratings:
Consistently received good ratings for value, practicality, and unique styling in automotive reviews. The 2011 model was part of the initial successful launch of the Soul.