Kia Soul Oil Change

Kia recommends that you change your oil every 3,000-5,000 miles for new Kia Soul models—SAE 5W-30 is preferred.
Written by Max Werner
Reviewed by Melanie Reiff
Kia Soul drivers are recommended to change their oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles and use SAE 5W-30 conventional oil. On the other hand, if your Soul uses synthetic oil, you can generally wait for between 7,000 and 10,000 miles.
Oil reduces friction and regulates the temperature in your engine. Even high-performance oil will pick up debris, which can lead to severe engine damage over time. Regular oil changes are necessary to keep your car's components running as smoothly as possible.   
While every make and model is a little different, the process of an oil change is typically standard across the board. Here, the
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How often does a Kia Soul need an oil change?

How often your Kia Soul needs an oil change depends on the type of oil.
  • For conventional oil, Kia recommends changing the oil and filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
  • For synthetic oil, this service can be completed every 7,500 to 10,000 miles
To ensure your oil stays clean, you should never wait longer than 10,000 miles.

What kind of oil does a Kia Soul need?

The Kia Soul usually requires SAE 5W-30 oil
The low viscosity of this oil ensures that it flows most easily in cooler temperatures but still runs optimally during the summer heat. This property also positively impacts fuel economy—putting less strain on the oil pump during long trips.
Visit the owner's manual to ensure you’re using the correct oil on any vehicle. Note that your warranty may be voided if you put the wrong oil in your car.   

How much does an oil change cost for a Kia Soul?

The price of a Kia Soul oil change will depend on your approach: going to a dealer or mechanic or doing it yourself. 

Professional cost

Between parts and labor, a professional oil change may cost you between $105 and $115. The price of this service will fluctuate based on the age of your Kia Soul.

DIY cost 

If you have your own equipment at home, the only cost you need to account for is the oil itself. Your Kia Soul has a capacity of 4.8 quarts—and you can expect to pay between $10 and $40 for 5 quarts of SAE 5W-30.

How to change the oil in a Kia Soul yourself 

What you’ll need

  • SAE 5W-30
    (4.8 quarts)
  • Kia Soul oil filter
  • Kia Soul oil filter wrench
  • Carjack
  • Jack stands
  • Ratchet wrench
  • Drain pan with at least 6-quart capacity
  • Funnel

1. Warm up the engine 

You’ll want to run the engine for a few minutes until it reaches normal operating temperature. For colder climates, adjust the time accordingly.

2. Secure the car

Use jack stands or steel ramps to get your vehicle into place. For even more security, wheel chocks can prevent your car from moving.

3. Drain the old oil

Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of your oil pan and place a drain pan underneath. 
Next, unscrew the plug and allow the oil to drain into the pan fully—this will take roughly 15 minutes. Once the oil is completely drained, you may replace the plug. 

4. Remove the filter

Use an oil filter wrench to remove the filter. Be sure to keep the pan underneath the basin during this step, as additional oil may leak.

5. Install the new oil filter

When installing the new filter, be sure to rub a bit of oil around the rubber seal. This lubricates the filter and ensures it seals airtight.

6. Put new oil in the engine

After the new filter is added, remove the oil fill cap and pour 4.8 quarts of SAE 5W-30 oil into the engine. 

7. Stop the engine and check the oil level

Run your car for a few minutes and then return to the engine. 
Using a dipstick, check to see if your oil levels have decreased—if low, add more and rerun the engine. This process can be repeated until you reach the optimum oil level.

8. Reset the oil change reminder

Lastly, reset your Kia Soul’s oil change reminder. This can be found on the display system behind your steering wheel under “user settings.” Once it’s reset, you’re ready to hit the road!

What happens if you don’t change the oil on a Kia Soul?

There are significant consequences of neglecting regular oil changes, ranging from minor inconveniences to engine failure. Oil helps lubricate your engine, and old oil that has become thick or sluggish can cause the following problems:
  • Reduced engine performance
  • Engine corrosion
  • Reduced fuel efficiency
  • Engine overheating
  • Total engine failure
The longer the wait, the more likely it is that severe damage will occur. It’s better to commit to regular maintenance with its requisite fees than risk huge repair bills due to engine corrosion or failure.

How to save money on car insurance 

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