Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Your Kia Soul's Oil

Why Regular Oil Changes Matter

Oil keeps your Kia Soul's engine running smoothly. Over time, oil breaks down and gets dirty, which can hurt engine performance. Changing your oil on a regular schedule helps your engine last longer and run better. Most Kia Souls need an oil change every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on your model year and driving habits. Check your owner's manual for the exact schedule for your vehicle.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather these supplies:

• New oil (the right type and amount for your Soul)
• A new oil filter
• An oil drain pan
• A wrench or socket set
• An oil filter wrench
• Jack and jack stands (if you need to raise the vehicle)
• Ramps (optional, but helpful)
• Rags or paper towels
• Safety glasses

Your owner's manual will tell you what type and weight of oil your Soul needs. Don't guess—using the wrong oil can damage your engine.

Getting Ready

Park your Kia Soul on a level surface. Let the engine cool for a few minutes if you just drove it. Warm oil flows better, but hot oil can burn you. Put on safety glasses to protect your eyes.

If your Soul sits low to the ground, you may need to raise it with a jack. Use ramps or jack stands to keep it secure while you work underneath. Never rely only on a jack—it can slip.

Drain the Old Oil

Locate the oil drain plug under your engine. It's a bolt at the bottom of the oil pan. Position your drain pan underneath it. Using a wrench, turn the drain plug counterclockwise to loosen it. Once it's loose enough, carefully unscrew it by hand. Be careful—oil may still be warm.

Let all the old oil drain into the pan. This takes several minutes. While you wait, you can locate and prepare to change the oil filter.

Replace the Oil Filter

Find the oil filter on your engine. It's a cylindrical canister. Use an oil filter wrench to turn it counterclockwise and remove it. Some oil will spill out, so keep your drain pan nearby.

Wipe the filter mounting surface clean with a rag. Take your new oil filter and apply a thin layer of new oil around the rubber gasket on top. This helps create a good seal. Screw the new filter on by hand until the gasket touches the surface, then turn it about three-quarters of a turn more. Don't over-tighten it.

Add New Oil

Once the old oil has finished draining, wipe the drain plug clean and screw it back in. Tighten it firmly, but don't overtighten it or you may strip the threads.

Locate the oil filler cap on top of your engine. Unscrew it and set it aside. Using a funnel, pour in the new oil slowly. Check your manual for the exact amount. Most Kia Souls hold between 3 and 4 quarts.

Replace the oil filler cap and screw it on snugly.

Check Your Work

Start your engine and let it run for a minute or two. This circulates the new oil through the engine and filter. You may see the check engine light come on briefly—this is normal. Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to settle.

Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and pull it out again. The oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks. If it's low, add a little more oil. If it's too high, drain some out.

Check under your vehicle for any leaks around the drain plug and filter. If you see drips, tighten those connections slightly.

Dispose of Old Oil Properly

Never pour old oil down a drain or into the ground. It harms the environment. Take your old oil to a recycling center, auto parts store, or service station. Many places take it for free. Some will even take old oil filters.

Keep Records

Write down the date, mileage, and type of oil you used. This helps you track when your next oil change is due and shows future owners that you maintained your Soul properly.