The 2016 Kia Soul does not have a single universal oil filter size; it depends on the engine. Both common engines for that year — the 2.0-liter inline-four and the 1.6-liter turbo — use a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a dedicated filtration assembly, and the exact size and part number are tied to your engine code and VIN.
In more detail, choosing the correct filter requires identifying which engine your Soul has and then selecting the corresponding OEM or trusted aftermarket cartridge filter designed for that engine. Below is a practical guide to understanding and confirming the right size for your vehicle.
Engine options and filter types
Before listing the engine variants, note that Kia Soul models in 2016 commonly used two engine configurations, both with cartridge-style filters in a housing.
- 2.0-liter inline-four engine (Nu family) — cartridge-type oil filter located in a housing under the hood. Use the OEM Kia cartridge filter or an equivalent aftermarket filter specified for this engine.
- 1.6-liter turbocharged engine ( Gamma/GDI family) — cartridge-type oil filter in a housing; again, use the OEM filter or a cross-referenced aftermarket equivalent built for this engine configuration.
The key takeaway from this list is that the specific size and part number depend on which engine your Soul has; there isn’t a single universal “one size fits all” filter for all 2016 Souls.
How to find the exact filter size and part number
To ensure you buy the correct oil filter, follow these steps to confirm the precise part for your car:
- Identify your engine code and VIN. This information determines the exact filter model required by Kia for your vehicle.
- Consult the owner’s manual or a service manual for the lubrication section, which lists the recommended OEM oil filter part number and compatible specifications.
- Use a VIN-based parts lookup via Kia's official parts catalog or a trusted aftermarket cross-reference (Wix, Mann, Bosch, etc.) to pull the exact filter part number that fits your engine variant.
- Inspect the existing filter or filter housing for any stamped part numbers or markings to aid cross-referencing if you’re shopping in a store.
Buying the correct filter is important to ensure proper fit, seal, and filtration performance. If you’re unsure, stick with OEM Kia filters or reliable aftermarket equivalents that clearly specify compatibility with your engine code and year.
OEM vs aftermarket considerations
OEM filters are designed to match the exact specifications of your 2016 Kia Soul’s engine. Reputable aftermarket filters can offer equivalent filtration, but always verify compatibility with your engine code and oil type. When in doubt, confirm with a parts specialist using your VIN.
Summary
In short, there isn’t a single “size” for the 2016 Kia Soul oil filter. The correct filter depends on whether your Soul has the 2.0-liter inline-four or the 1.6-liter turbo engine. Use the engine code/VIN to look up the exact OEM part number or a cross-reference from a trusted aftermarket brand, and prefer cartridge-style filters that fit the engine’s housing. For the most reliable result, consult the owner’s manual or a Kia parts catalog and confirm the exact specification before purchase.