Basic Information Identification Make: Kia Model: Soul Year: 2010 Codes Chassis Code: AM Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Subcompact Crossover SUV (CUV) Target Audience: Young urban professionals, small families, style-conscious buyers seeking affordability and practicality. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Nissan Cube, Scion xB, Honda Element (older models), Ford EcoSport (later models). Key Features Design Philosophy: Unique, boxy, and distinctive styling that set it apart from conventional hatchbacks and SUVs. Value Proposition: Affordable pricing, practical interior space for its size, distinctive styling, and good fuel economy. Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Full Service Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Download Delivery Method: Instant Download Page Count: Not Specified (Comprehensive Digital Content) Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (ECM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Exhaust System Transmission: Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission (including clutch, gearbox, shift controls, torque converter) Drivetrain: Front Wheel Drive (FWD) System, Axles, Driveshafts, Differential Suspension: Front Suspension (MacPherson Struts, Control Arms, Stabilizer Bar), Rear Suspension (Torsion Beam Axle or Multi-link, Shock Absorbers, Springs) Brakes: Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Booster, Master Cylinder, Parking Brake Steering: Power Steering System (Electric Power Steering - EPS), Steering Column, Steering Gear Electrical: Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer System, Power Windows, Power Locks, Audio System, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System, Body Control Module (BCM) Body And Interior: Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seats, Restraints HVAC: Air Conditioning (AC) System, Heater, Ventilation, Climate Control Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Electrical System Diagnostics, Component Testing Repair: Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement Rebuild: Engine Components (pistons, rings, bearings, cylinder head), Transmission Components, Brake Calipers, Suspension Arms Refurbish: Interior and Exterior Trim Refurbishment, Component Cleaning and Reconditioning Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete system overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers. Diagrams Included: Detailed Wiring Diagrams, Exploded View Diagrams, Component Illustrations Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader & WinRAR Print Quality Printability: Full Printable (All pages) Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1 Displacement: 1.6L (1591cc) Engine 1 Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve Engine 1 Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine 1 Horsepower: 122 hp @ 6300 rpm Engine 1 Torque: 117 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm Optional Engine Engine 2 Displacement: 2.0L (1975cc) Engine 2 Configuration: Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve Engine 2 Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) Engine 2 Horsepower: 142 hp @ 6000 rpm Engine 2 Torque: 137 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm Performance Emissions Compliance: EPA/CARB certified for model year 2010 Fuel System Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.4 gallons (47 Liters) Transmission Standard Transmission Type 1.6L: 5-speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type 1.6L And 2.0L: 4-speed Automatic Transmission with Overdrive Features Automatic Transmission Modes: Includes a manual mode (Sportmatic or similar designation) on some trims. Clutch Type: Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated (for manual transmission) Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: Refer to owner's manual or service manual for specific ATF type (e.g., SP-III or compatible). Dimensions Exterior Length: 160.6 inches (4080 mm) Width: 69.1 inches (1755 mm) Height: 63.4 inches (1610 mm) Wheelbase: 100.6 inches (2555 mm) Ground Clearance: Approximately 6.1 inches (155 mm) Cargo Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats: Approximately 19.3 cubic feet (546 Liters) Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded: Approximately 49.3 cubic feet (1396 Liters) Weights Curb Weight 1.6L Manual: Approximately 2775 lbs (1259 kg) Curb Weight 2.0L Automatic: Approximately 2919 lbs (1324 kg) Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver: 5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags, check specific vehicle configuration) NHTSA Frontal Passenger: 5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags, check specific vehicle configuration) IIHS Side Impact Rating: Good (for models equipped with side airbags) Active Features Anti Lock Brakes: Standard (ABS) Electronic Stability Control: Available (ESC/VSM - Vehicle Stability Management) Traction Control: Available (TCS) Passive Features Airbags: Front Airbags, Front Side Airbags, Full-Length Side Curtain Airbags (available/standard on higher trims) Seatbelts: 3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters Child Seat Anchors: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system Technology Features Infotainment Audio System Features: Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Available upgrades include satellite radio, USB port, and enhanced speaker systems. Driver Assistance Parking Assist: Rear parking sensors were available on some higher trim levels. Connectivity Bluetooth: Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming on select trims. Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever...
Interior and Exterior Trim Refurbishment, Component Cleaning and Reconditioning
Technical Depth
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete system overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIYers.
Includes a manual mode (Sportmatic or similar designation) on some trims.
Clutch Type:
Dry single plate, hydraulically actuated (for manual transmission)
Fluid Specifications
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to owner's manual or service manual for specific ATF type (e.g., SP-III or compatible).
Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
160.6 inches (4080 mm)
Width:
69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
63.4 inches (1610 mm)
Wheelbase:
100.6 inches (2555 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 6.1 inches (155 mm)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approximately 19.3 cubic feet (546 Liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approximately 49.3 cubic feet (1396 Liters)
Weights
Curb Weight 1.6L Manual:
Approximately 2775 lbs (1259 kg)
Curb Weight 2.0L Automatic:
Approximately 2919 lbs (1324 kg)
Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags, check specific vehicle configuration)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags, check specific vehicle configuration)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Active Features
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Electronic Stability Control:
Available (ESC/VSM - Vehicle Stability Management)
Traction Control:
Available (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front Airbags, Front Side Airbags, Full-Length Side Curtain Airbags (available/standard on higher trims)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Features:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Available upgrades include satellite radio, USB port, and enhanced speaker systems.
Driver Assistance
Parking Assist:
Rear parking sensors were available on some higher trim levels.
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Available Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming on select trims.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil). Check manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months. Inspect more frequently.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
100,000 miles (160,000 km) for Iridium-tipped spark plugs (check manual for specific type and interval).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter. Use of Kia's specified coolant is recommended.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or higher, ILSAC GF-5 or higher. Viscosity: SAE 5W-20 (preferred) or SAE 5W-30. Check owner's manual for exact specification.
Engine Oil Capacity 1.6L:
Approximately 3.87 US quarts (3.66 Liters) with filter change.
Engine Oil Capacity 2.0L:
Approximately 4.65 US quarts (4.40 Liters) with filter change.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Refer to manual, likely a specific type of hydraulic fluid or ATF for electric power steering (EPS) systems, check for specific requirements.
Known Issues
Common Complaints 1.6L Engine:
Some reports of oil consumption, though generally reliable. Check for any TSBs related to piston ring wear or oil control issues.
Common Complaints Transmission:
Occasional reports of rough shifting in automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions are generally robust.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Potential for early failure of interior LED lighting on some trims. Battery drain issues due to parasitic draw are possible.
Common Complaints Suspension:
Front suspension components (struts, ball joints) can wear over time, especially with heavy city driving.
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Kia History:
Kia Motors Corporation is a South Korean automobile manufacturer, part of the Hyundai Motor Group. Founded in 1944, Kia has grown into a global brand known for its value, design, and improving quality.
Model Evolution
Soul Generation 1:
The Kia Soul was introduced for the 2010 model year as a completely new model, marking a significant step in Kia's design and market appeal. It was part of Kia's strategy to offer unique, stylish, and affordable vehicles.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Kias Design Focus:
The first-generation Soul, including the 2010 model, was widely recognized for its bold and distinctive design, contributing to Kia's brand revitalization.