The 2015 Kia Soul generally uses SAE 5W-20 motor oil for the standard 2.0-liter engine, while turbocharged 1.6-liter variants typically require SAE 5W-30. Use a synthetic or synthetic-blend oil that meets API SN or higher and ILSAC standards. Always verify the exact specification for your vehicle in the owner's manual or on the under-hood label.
Engine options in the 2015 Soul
The 2015 Soul lineup included two main gasoline engines. The base model relied on a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while higher trims offered a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder. Each engine has its own recommended oil viscosity and capacity.
- 2.0-liter I4 – Recommended oil: SAE 5W-20 (full synthetic or synthetic blend). Typical capacity: about 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with a filter.
- 1.6-liter turbo I4 – Recommended oil: SAE 5W-30 (synthetic recommended). Typical capacity: about 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) with a filter.
If you are unsure which engine your Soul has, check the door jamb placard or the owner's manual. Specifications can vary by market and transmission choice.
Oil specifications and approval standards
To ensure compatibility and protection, use motor oil that meets the following standards when purchasing your oil.
- Viscosity: 5W-20 for most 2.0L engines; 5W-30 for turbocharged 1.6L engines or extreme climates as recommended by the manual.
- Performance specs: API SN (or higher) and ILSAC GF-5 (or higher). Kia approvals may also be listed on the bottle.
- Quality: Synthetic or synthetic-blend recommended; conventional oil is generally acceptable only if the manual permits it, but synthetic blends often provide better protection in modern engines.
Always confirm exact viscosity and spec on the vehicle’s oil fill label or in the owner’s manual for your VIN.
Oil capacity and service interval
Oil capacity and change interval vary slightly by engine, but the guidelines below apply to most 2015 Souls.
- 2.0L engine: approximately 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) of oil with a filter.
- 1.6L turbo engine: approximately 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) of oil with a filter.
- Oil change interval: typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) under normal driving with synthetic or synthetic-blend oil; more frequent changes may be advised under severe conditions.
Always follow the interval specified in your owner's manual and perform routine checks on the oil level between changes.
How to confirm the correct oil for your vehicle
- Consult your owner’s manual to confirm the exact oil viscosity and specification for your engine variant and market.
- Check the under-hood oil fill sticker for the recommended viscosity and API/specific standards.
- If in doubt, contact a Kia dealer or trusted service center with your VIN to verify the correct oil specification.
- When purchasing oil, ensure the bottle lists API SN (or higher) and ILSAC GF-5 (or higher) and the correct viscosity (5W-20 or 5W-30 as applicable).
Following these steps helps ensure you use the right oil for your 2015 Kia Soul and maintain engine protection and efficiency.
Summary
For most 2015 Kia Souls with the 2.0-liter engine, the recommended oil is SAE 5W-20 (synthetic or synthetic blend) with a capacity of about 4 quarts. The turbocharged 1.6-liter variant typically requires 5W-30. Always verify the exact spec from the owner’s manual or the under-hood label, and use oil that meets API SN and ILSAC standards. Regular oil changes at the manufacturer’s recommended interval help keep the Soul running smoothly.
How do Kia Souls drive in the snow?
Kia Soul Winter Tires
One thing that a number of drivers have commented on across the web, and our expert service team agrees with, is that the Kia Soul performs spectacularly even during winter conditions. However, this is only after you have switched out your tires for proper winter tires.
What kind of oil goes in a 2015 Kia Soul?
SAE 5W-20
Typically, the Kia Soul performs optimally with SAE 5W-20 grade oil. Depending on your vehicle's model year, you might need between 3.8 and 4.2 quarts to achieve the proper Kia Soul oil capacity. Remember, maintaining the right level is crucial—avoid underfilling or overfilling.
Why is insurance so high on a Kia Soul?
Owners living in areas with a history of auto theft may face higher insurance premiums due to the increased risk associated with these locations. Rising Repair Costs: In addition to theft-related concerns, the cost of repairing Kia and Hyundai vehicles has also contributed to higher insurance premiums.
What kind of oil does a 2015 Kia take?
5W-20, 5W-30 (All TEMPS) - For better fuel economy , it is recommended to use SAE 5W-20. Capacity: 5.1 quarts (with filter). After refill check oil level.