Yes. A 2016 Kia Soul generally uses a remote key fob for entry, and higher trims offer a proximity Smart Key with a push-button start.
This article explains what to expect for the model year and how to tell if a particular Soul has the Smart Key features. Availability can vary by market and by options package, but the presence of a key fob for remote entry is common across 2016 Souls.
Key entry options by trim
Below is a general guide to what you might find on a 2016 Soul by trim level. Keep in mind that features can vary by market and individual vehicle configuration.
- LX (base): Remote keyless entry with a standard key fob; the fob typically includes a metal key blade for emergencies.
- Soul Plus and higher trims (such as Exclaim): Proximity Smart Key available, often paired with a push-button start inside the cabin; this means the fob can stay in your pocket and still allow starting the engine.
In short, most 2016 Kia Souls come with a key fob for remote entry, and Smart Key/proximity features are offered on mid to high trims or as part of options packages in many markets.
How to confirm for your specific car
If you’re trying to determine whether a particular 2016 Soul has Smart Key features, use these checks:
- Look for a Start/Stop button on the dashboard or center console; its presence usually indicates a proximity Smart Key system.
- Inspect the key fob: a simple remote with Lock/Unlock/Trunk buttons suggests standard remote entry, while a Smart Key setup is often accompanied by the dashboard Start/Stop button (the car starts when you press the button, not when you insert a key).
- Check the owner's manual or window sticker for language like “Smart Key,” “Proximity Key,” or “Push-button Start.”
If you’re still unsure, you can verify by providing the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to a Kia dealer or checking a build sheet for the exact configuration of your car.
What to do if your fob is lost or dead
For a dead battery in the key fob or if you’ve lost the fob, most 2016 Souls have a mechanical key blade inside the fob and a backup entry method. Contact a Kia dealer or locksmith to get a replacement fob programmed to your vehicle, and keep a spare blade handy for emergencies.
Summary
The 2016 Kia Soul typically includes a remote key fob for entry, and many trims offer a proximity Smart Key with push-button start. To confirm the exact configuration for a given vehicle, check the cabin start button, inspect the fob design, and consult the owner’s manual or window sticker for Smart Key terminology. For the most precise answer, especially if you’re shopping used, contact a Kia dealer with the car’s VIN.