How to Reset the Oil Change Light on Your Kia Soul

Understanding the Oil Change Light

Your Kia Soul has a dashboard light that reminds you when it's time for an oil change. This light looks like an oil can and appears on your instrument cluster. The light turns on based on your vehicle's service schedule, which tracks both time and mileage since your last oil change. Once you've had your oil changed at a service center or by a mechanic, you'll need to reset this light so it can track the next service interval.

The oil change light is different from the check engine light. The oil change light is a maintenance reminder—it doesn't mean something is wrong with your engine. It simply tells you that your Soul is due for routine oil service based on Kia's recommended maintenance schedule. Resetting the light after each oil change keeps your vehicle's maintenance system working as designed.

Steps to Reset the Light: 2010–2019 Models

If your Kia Soul was made between 2010 and 2019, resetting the oil change light involves using your vehicle's ignition and gas pedal. This method is straightforward and takes only a minute or two to complete. Make sure you're parked in a safe location before you begin.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine. Press the start button once without your foot on the brake pedal. You should see your dashboard lights come on, but the engine should not be running.
2. Press the gas pedal all the way down three times within 10 seconds. Do this firmly but don't rush—count the pedal presses to make sure you complete all three.
3. Turn off the ignition by pressing the start button again or turning the key to the off position.
4. Start the engine normally to confirm the light has been reset. The oil change light should no longer appear on your dashboard.

If the light is still on after you start the engine, wait a few seconds. Sometimes it takes a moment for the system to register the reset. If it remains on, you may need to try the process again from the beginning.

Steps to Reset the Light: 2020 and Newer Models

Kia updated the reset process for Soul models made in 2020 and later. These newer vehicles use touchscreen menus and steering wheel controls instead of the gas pedal method. The process is a bit different, but it's still something you can do yourself without visiting a dealer.

Follow these steps for your newer Soul:

1. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine. Press the start button once without your foot on the brake pedal, just like with older models.
2. Use the steering wheel controls or your vehicle's touchscreen to navigate to the settings menu. Look for options labeled "Settings," "Vehicle Information," or "Maintenance."
3. Scroll through the menu options until you find "Oil Change," "Service," or "Maintenance Reset."
4. Select the reset option when prompted. Your screen may ask you to confirm—select yes or confirm to proceed.
5. Start the engine normally to verify the reset was successful. The oil change light should disappear from your dashboard.

If your Soul has a digital instrument cluster, the reset option might appear directly on that screen instead of through the touchscreen. Check your owner's manual if you're unsure where to find the menu on your specific model.

What to Do If the Light Won't Reset

Sometimes the oil change light doesn't reset on the first try. This can happen if you didn't complete the steps exactly as described, or if there's a delay in the system registering your input. The good news is that you can try again without any risk to your vehicle.

Start by attempting the reset process one more time, following each step carefully. Make sure you're using the correct method for your model year—using the gas pedal method on a 2020+ Soul won't work, and vice versa. If the light still remains on after a second attempt, consult your owner's manual for your specific model year and trim level, as there may be slight variations in the process.

You can also contact a Kia dealer or certified mechanic for help. They have diagnostic tools that can check whether the light is truly a maintenance reminder or if there's an underlying issue with your vehicle's oil system. A dealer visit is especially recommended if the light keeps coming back on shortly after you reset it, as this could indicate a problem with your oil level or the sensor itself.

Keeping Track of Your Oil Changes

Resetting the light after each oil change helps you stay organized with your vehicle's maintenance schedule. The oil change light is designed to remind you at regular intervals, but it only works if you reset it each time you have service done. If you skip the reset, the light will come back on sooner than it should, and you may miss the actual timing of when your next oil change is due.

Check your owner's manual to learn how often your Soul needs oil changes. The recommended interval can vary based on several factors, including your driving habits, the type of oil your vehicle uses, and your engine type. Some Souls may need oil changes every 3,000 miles, while others can go 5,000 to 10,000 miles between services. Following the manufacturer's recommendation helps keep your engine running smoothly and can extend the life of your vehicle.

Keep a simple record of when you have your oil changed—write down the date, mileage, and type of oil used. This record can be helpful if you ever need to show a mechanic or dealer your maintenance history. It also helps you remember whether it's been a while since your last service, especially if you drive your Soul infrequently.

Key Takeaways

• The oil change light is a maintenance reminder that appears on your dashboard when service is due.
• 2010–2019 models reset using the ignition and gas pedal method.
• 2020 and newer models reset through the touchscreen or steering wheel menu.
• If the light won't reset, try the process again or contact a Kia dealer for help.
• Resetting the light after each oil change keeps your maintenance schedule on track.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will resetting the oil change light harm my Kia Soul?

No, resetting the oil change light is a normal part of vehicle maintenance and will not harm your Soul. The light is simply a reminder system, and resetting it tells your vehicle's computer to start counting down to the next service interval. You should only reset the light after you've actually had your oil changed.

What if I reset the light by mistake before getting an oil change?

If you reset the light before having your oil changed, you can reset it again after you get the service done. The light will then track from that point forward. To avoid confusion, try to reset the light right after your oil change is complete, while you're still at the service center or mechanic's shop.

Can I reset the oil change light at a gas station or do I need to go to a dealer?

You can reset the oil change light yourself using the methods described in this guide—you don't need to visit a dealer. However, if you're having your oil changed at a service center, they will often reset the light for you as part of the service. If they don't, you can do it yourself when you get home using the steps for your model year.

How do I know which reset method to use if I'm not sure of my Soul's model year?

Check your vehicle's registration or title to confirm the model year. You can also look at the sticker on your driver's side door jamb, which lists the year your Soul was manufactured. If you still aren't sure, try the gas pedal method first (for older models). If that doesn't work, then try the touchscreen method for newer models.