The 2014 Kia Soul uses R-134a refrigerant.
In more detail, this model’s air conditioning system is designed around R-134a refrigerant with PAG-based compressor oil. It does not come equipped with the newer R-1234yf. For service—whether recharging, leak repair, or component replacement—stick to the original refrigerant type and oil, and have a qualified technician perform the work. Retrofitting to R-1234yf is not standard and can be technically complex and costly.
Refrigerant type and service considerations
Here are the core points owners should know about handling refrigerant for this model.
- Refrigerant type: R-134a
- Lubricant used with the system: PAG-based oil (commonly PAG-46 or an equivalent compatible with R-134a)
- Retrofit guidance: R-1234yf is not standard for this model; retrofitting requires professional assessment and is generally not recommended
When in doubt, consult the owner's manual or a dealer/ASE-certified technician to confirm the exact specifications for your vehicle's build date and regional specifications.
How to verify the refrigerant on your vehicle
Under-hood labeling
Most cars display the refrigerant type and capacity on a label under the hood, near the condenser or service ports.
Owner's manual and service documents
The manual and service records will specify the refrigerant (R-134a for the 2014 Soul) and the appropriate oil type and charging procedure.
Important service notes
AC service should be performed by a licensed technician with proper recovery equipment. Do not vent refrigerant to the atmosphere, and ensure the system is evacuated and vacuum-tested before recharging.
Summary
The 2014 Kia Soul uses refrigerant R-134a with PAG-based oil. For service, stick to the original refrigerant and oil, have the system recovered and evacuated properly, and avoid retrofitting to R-1234yf unless a qualified technician determines it is necessary and feasible.
Which is better R-134a or R-1234yf refrigerant?
The R-1234yf is much more reactive than R-134a. On the positive side, this higher reactivity is why R-1234yf is so much more friendly to the environment. It tends to react with other gases in the atmosphere and break down within a couple of weeks, as compared to R-134a, which remains stable for over a decade.
What type of antifreeze does a 2014 Kia Soul take?
ethylene glycol
PEAK ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT TECHNOLOGY ANTIFREEZE + COOLANT for ASIAN VEHICLES – GREEN is an ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant specifically developed for use in any Asian vehicle requiring a Green phosphate-enhanced organic acid technology (POAT) formulation.
What refrigerant does a 2014 Kia Soul take?
R-134a PAG 46
AC Refrigerant Capacities for Your 2014 Kia Soul
Certified A/C Pro R-134a PAG 46 Refrigerant Oil with ICE 32. This product contains approximately 8 fluid ounces of PAG refrigerant oil with ICE32. Low viscosity PAG oil for R-134a auto A/C systems; ISO 46 viscosity.
Why is my AC not working in my 2014 Kia Soul?
The most common reasons a 2014 Kia Soul AC isn't working are a refrigerant leak, an electrical climate control issue, or a problem with the air conditioning compressor.