Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

Why won’t my Kia Soul start in cold weather?

My Kia Soul’s a bit older, but it’s been running just fine up until this morning. I left it outside overnight, and it snowed. I tried starting it, but the engine won’t turn over—did the cold weather finally do in my Kia?

avatar
Brittni Brinn · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Winter driving is hard enough without having to worry about your car not starting! Your
Kia Soul
likely won’t start in cold weather because of the effect low temperatures have on your car battery.
In addition to your battery producing less power in cold weather, your
engine oil
may thicken, making it harder for it to pump through the engine system. Your starter or alternator may also be the problem in this situation.
Here are some ways to troubleshoot your starting problem and get your Kia Soul back on the road:
  • Get a jumpstart—your battery might just need a little extra juice to get going.
  • Plug in your car—charging your battery in cold temperatures can keep it from dying.
  • Listen for a clicking noise—this can indicate a
    bad starter
    .
  • Turn the key for several seconds—this can warm up the battery.
  • Turn off all accessories—things like your stereo and internal lights draw power from the battery.
  • Calculate your battery’s age—batteries generally last three to seven years. If your Soul’s battery is getting up there, it may need a replacement.
  • Check that you have the correct motor oil—your owner’s manual will provide the recommended oil. Oil that is too thick at cold temperatures may be hampering your engine performance.
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings