The 2017 Kia Soul generally uses synthetic engine oil rated SAE 5W-20, but if your Soul has the turbocharged 1.6L engine, Kia recommends SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil.
With two available engines, the exact oil specification depends on which powerplant is under the hood. The base 2.0-liter engine typically calls for 5W-20, while the 1.6-liter turbo engine requires 5W-30. Always use a full synthetic oil that meets the vehicle’s API specification and consult your owner’s manual or under-hood label for confirmation.
Engine options in the 2017 Kia Soul
The 2017 Soul was offered with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-4 as the base engine and a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 in higher trims. Each engine has its own oil viscosity recommendation, so identifying your exact engine is important for selecting the correct oil.
Oil viscosity and specification by engine
2.0L GDI engine
For the 2.0L engine, the recommended oil is SAE 5W-20 synthetic oil. Use an oil that meets current API standards (for example API SN or newer) and consider a full synthetic formulation for better protection and longevity.
In practice, this means choosing a 5W-20 full synthetic oil that is compatible with the Kia engine and climate where you drive. If you live in extreme temperatures, you may still be guided by the manual’s allowances, but 5W-20 is the standard starting point for this engine.
Always verify the exact specification in your owner’s manual or on the under-hood oil fill label, since regional requirements or model updates can affect the recommendation.
Before making a purchase, a quick check of the cap and service sticker can help confirm the correct viscosity for your specific vehicle configuration.
1.6L turbo engine
For the 1.6L turbo engine, the recommended oil is SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil. This viscosity supports the turbocharged engine’s higher heat and pressure, providing adequate protection and performance.
As with the base engine, choose a full synthetic oil that meets the appropriate API specification and ensure it is suitable for turbocharged applications. Always cross-check with the owner’s manual for any climate-specific notes or updated recommendations.
A turbocharged engine may benefit from a slightly higher oil grade in hotter climates or during aggressive driving, but the official requirement remains 5W-30 synthetic for the turbo model.
Always confirm the exact specification in your owner’s manual or on the under-hood label if you’re unsure which engine your Soul has.
Before each oil change, verify the correct viscosity for your engine variant to avoid using the incorrect oil grade.
Recommended oil types by engine
- 2.0L GDI engine: SAE 5W-20 synthetic oil (API SN or newer)
- 1.6L turbo engine: SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil (API SN or newer)
Conclusion on the list above: Use the oil grade specified for your engine variant, and prefer full synthetic formulations for better protection and performance. If in doubt, reference the owner's manual or contact a Kia dealer to confirm the exact requirement for your vehicle.
How to verify and maintain the correct oil
- Check the owner’s manual for the exact viscosity and specification for your engine variant.
- Inspect the oil filler cap or the under-hood label for the recommended grade (often 5W-20 or 5W-30).
- Use a high-quality full synthetic oil that meets the API specification indicated by Kia.
- Follow the service interval suggested by Kia, and consider the oil life monitor in your vehicle for changes in driving conditions.
Concluding note: Using the correct oil type and viscosity is essential for engine protection, efficiency, and longevity. When in doubt, consult your dealership or the official Kia service documentation for the exact specification for your 2017 Soul.
Summary
For most 2017 Kia Souls, the standard oil is SAE 5W-20 synthetic for the base 2.0L engine, while the 1.6L turbo engine requires SAE 5W-30 synthetic. Always confirm using the owner’s manual or under-hood labeling, and choose a full synthetic oil that meets the indicated API standard for your engine configuration and climate.