Kia Soul 2023 Brake System User Guide
Introduction
With a focus on improving safety measures, the automotive industry has made significant strides in recent years. The brake system is one of the essential parts that guarantee the security of both drivers and passengers. In this thorough examination, we examine the brake system of the Kia Soul 2023, a well-liked compact car recognized for its cutting-edge technologies and inventive style.
Since its debut, the Kia Soul has stood for elegance, practicality, and dependability. The improvement of safety features has been a top priority for Kia since the launch of the 2023 model, and the brake system is essential to attaining this objective. We obtain important insights into the innovations that Kia has implemented to guarantee a safe and joyful driving experience by comprehending the numerous parts, technology, and design components of the Kia Soul’s brake system. Brake systems are unquestionably one of the most important safety components in any car since they enable drivers to slow down, stop, and maintain control under a range of driving circumstances. An effective brake system is essential for every car, whether it’s for preventing collisions, maneuvering through traffic, or guaranteeing smooth and predictable stops.
Design and brake system components of the Kia Soul:
The Kia Soul 2023’s brake system is proof of the company’s dedication to reliability and performance. It is made up of a number of essential parts, such as the brake pedal, brake lines, brake calipers, brake rotors, and brake pads, as well as a hydraulic system that flawlessly unites them all.
The Kia Soul 2023 features advanced brake technologies that have been added by Kia to improve the brake system’s overall performance in terms of safety. These technologies add an added layer of safety by helping the driver in a variety of situations while also enhancing the car’s braking performance.
Brake System
Your vehicle has power-assisted brakes, a parking brake, and various braking systems for safe driving.
Power brakes
Your vehicle has power-assisted brakes that adjust automatically through normal usage.
In the event that the power-assisted brakes lose power because of a stalled engine or some other reason, you can still stop your vehicle by applying greater force to the brake pedal than you normally would. The stopping distance, however, will be longer. When the engine is not running, the reserve brake power is partially depleted each time the brake pedal is applied. Do not pump the brake pedal when the power assist has been interrupted. Pump the brake pedal only when necessary to maintain steering control on slippery surfaces.
NOTICE
- When stepping on the brake pedal under a certain driving or weather condition. you may witness your car make a sound of squealing or some other noises. This is not a brake malfunction but a normal phenomenon.
- When driving on the road to which deicing chemicals are applied, the vehicle may witness noises from the brake or abnormal abrasion of tires because of such deicing chemicals. You should operate brake additionally so that you would be able to remove the deicing chemicals on the brake disk and pad under safe traffic conditions.
CAUTION
Brake Pedal
Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake pedal. This will create abnormally high brake temperatures which can cause excessive brake lining and pad wear.
WARNING
Steep hill braking
Avoid continuous application of the brakes when descending a long or steep hill by increasing the regeneration level. Continuous brake application will cause the brakes to overheat and could result in a temporary loss of braking performance. Wet brakes may impair the vehicle’s ability to safely slow down; the vehicle may also pull to one side when the brakes are applied. Applying the brakes lightly will indicate whether they have been affected in this way. Always test your brakes in this fashion after driving through deep water. To dry the brakes, apply them lightly while maintaining a safe forward speed until brake perfor-mance returns to normal.
In the event of brake failure
If service brakes fail to operate while the vehicle is in motion, you can make an emergency stop with the parking brake. The stopping distance, however, will be much greater than normal.
Parking brake
Avoid applying the parking brake to stop the vehicle while it is moving except in an emergency situation. Applying the parking brake while the vehicle is mov-ing at normal speeds can cause a sud-den loss of control of the vehicle. If you must use the parking brake to stop the vehicle, use great caution in applying the brake.
Disc brakes wear indicator
When your brake pads are worn and new pads are required, you will hear a high-pitched warning sound from your front brakes or rear brakes. You may hear this sound come and go or it may occur whenever you depress the brake pedal. Always replace the front or rear brake pads as pairs.
CAUTION
Replace brake pads
Do not continue to drive with worn brake pads. Continuing to drive with worn brake pads can damage the braking sys-tem and result in costly brake repairs, and can also lead to a serious accident.
WARNING
Brake wear
Do not ignore high-pitched wear sounds from your brakes. If you ignore this audi-ble warning, you will eventually lose braking performance, which could lead to a serious accident.
Rear drum brakes (if equipped)
Your rear drum brakes do not have wear indicators. Therefore, have the rear brake linings inspected if you hear a rear brake rubbing noise? Also, have your rear brakes inspected each time you change or rotate your tires and when you have the front brakes replaced.
Parking Brake (if equipped) Applying the parking brake
To engage the parking brake, first, apply the foot brake and then pull up the parking brake lever as far as possible.
In addition, it is recommended that when parking the vehicle on an incline, the shift lever should be in a low gear on manual transmission vehicles.
CAUTION
- Driving with the parking brake applied will cause excessive brake pad and brake rotor wear.
- Do not operate the parking brake while the vehicle is moving except in an emergency situation. It could damage the vehicle system and make endanger driving safety.
Releasing the Parking Brake
To release the parking brake, first, apply the foot brake and pull up the parking brake lever slightly. Secondly, depress the release button (1) and lower the parking brake lever (2) while holding the button.
If the parking brake does not release or does not release all the way, have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
- Be cautious when parking on a hill. Firmly engage the parking brake and place the shift lever in the first or reverse gear (manual transmission). If your vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels into the curb to help keep the vehicle from rolling. If your vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb to help keep the vehicle from rolling. If there is no curb or if it is required by other conditions to keep the vehicle from rolling, block the wheels.
- Under some conditions, your parking brake can freeze in the engaged position. This is most likely to happen when there is an accumulation of snow or ice around or near the rear brakes or if the brakes are wet. If there is a risk that the parking brake may freeze, apply it only temporarily while you put the shift lever in first or reverse gear (manual transmission) and block the rear wheels so the vehicle cannot roll. Then release the parking brake.
- Do not hold the vehicle on the upgrade with the accelerator pedal. This can cause the transmission to overheat. Always use the brake pedal or parking brake.
WARNING
- Never allow anyone who is unfamiliar with the vehicle to touch the parking brake. If the parking brake is released unintentionally, serious injury may occur.
- All vehicles should always have the parking brake fully engaged when parking to avoid inadvertent move-ment of the vehicle which can injure occupants or pedestrians.
Check the brake warning light by turning the ignition switch or ENGINE START/STOP button ON (do not start the engine). This light will appear when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch or ENGINE START/STOP button in the START or ON position. Before driving, be sure the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off.
If the brake warning light remains on after the parking brake is released while the engine is running, there may be a malfunction in the brake system. Immediate attention is necessary. If at all possible, cease driving the vehicle immediately. If that is not possible, use extreme caution while operating the vehicle and only continue to drive the vehicle until you can reach a safe location or repair shop.
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) (if equipped)
After parking the vehicle, apply the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) to prevent the vehicle from being moved by an external force.
Applying EPB manually
- Depress the brake pedal.
- Pull up the EPB switch.
Make sure the warning light comes on. Also, the EPB is applied automatically if the Auto Hold button is on when the vehicle is turned off. In addition, if you pull up the EPB switch after the vehicle is turned off, the EPB will be applied.
WARNING
Risk of accident and injury due to children left unattended in the vehicle.
If you leave children unaccompanied in the vehicle, they may be able to set the vehicle in motion, for example by:
- Releasing the parking brake.
- Shifting the transmission out of P (Park) position.
- Starting the engine. In addition, they may operate vehicle equipment.
Never leave children and animals unattended in the vehicle.
When leaving the vehicle, always take the smart key with you and lock the vehicle.
NOTICE
On a steep incline or when pulling a trailer, if the vehicle does not remain at a standstill, do as follows:
- Apply the EPB.
- Pull up the EPB switch for more than 3 seconds.
Do not operate the EPB while the vehicle is moving except in an emergency situation.
NOTICE
A click or electric brake motor whine sound may be heard while operating or releasing the EPB.
These conditions are normal and indicate that the EPB is functioning properly.
Releasing EPB Manually
Releasing the parking brake with EPB switch,
- Have the ENGINE START/STOP button in the ON position.
- Press the brake pedal.
- Make sure the gear is shifted to P (Park) position.
- Press the EPB switch.
- Make sure the brake warning light goes off.
Releasing EPB automatically
The EPB is released automatically under the following conditions.
- Gear in P (Park)
With the engine running engage the brake pedal and shift out of P (Park) to R (Reverse) or D (Drive).
(if Shift Lever is equipped) - Gear in N (Neutral)
With the engine running engage the brake pedal and shift out of N (Neutral) to R (Reverse) or D (Drive).(if Shift Lever is equipped) - Automatic transmission
- Start the engine.
- Fasten the driver’s seat belt.
- Close the driver’s door, hood, and tailgate.
- Press the accelerator pedal while the gear is in R (Rear), D (Drive) or manual mode.
Make sure the brake warning light goes off.
NOTICE
- For your safety, you can engage the EPB even though the ENGINE START/STOP button is in the OFF position, but you cannot release it.
- For your safety, press the brake pedal and release the parking brake manually with the EPB switch when you drive downhill or when backing up the vehicle.
Do not follow the above procedure when driving on flat level ground. The vehicle may suddenly move forward.
NOTICE
If the parking brake warning light is still on even though the EPB has been released, have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
CAUTION
Do not drive your vehicle with the EPB applied. It may cause excessive brake pad and brake rotor wear.
Applying EPB automatically
The EPB is applied automatically under the following conditions:
- Shift to P (Park) on a slope
- Engine OFF while AUTO HOLD button is on
- When the vehicle moves a bit in P (Park) position
- Conditions below while AUTO HOLD is activated:
- The driver’s door is opened
- Hood is opened
- Tailgate is opened
- Vehicle stops for more than approximately 10 minutes
- Requested by other systems
NOTICE
For Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) equipped vehicles with AUTO HOLD function used while driving, if the ENGINE START/STOP button has been turned OFF, the EPB will be engaged automatically. Therefore,
AUTO HOLD function should be turned off before the ENGINE START/STOP button is turned off.
EPB warning
The EPB will display a warning message with sound under certain conditions.
- If you try to drive off while engaging the accelerator pedal with the EPB applied, but the EPB doesn’t release automatically, a warning will sound and a message will appear.
- If the driver’s seat belt is not fastened and the vehicle hood, driver’s door or tailgate is opened, a warning will sound and a message will appear.
AUTO HOLDconditions not met. Close door, hood,and trunk/liftgate.
- If there is a problem with the vehicle, a warning may sound and a message may appear.
- If the above situation occurs, press the brake pedal and release EPB by pressing the EPB switch.
Parking Brake Use
- Never allow a passenger to touch the parking brake. If the parking brake is released unintentionally, serious injury may occur.
- All vehicles should always have the parking brake fully engaged when parked to avoid inadvertent move-ment of the vehicles which can injure occupants or pedestrians.
- A click or electric brake motor whine sound may be heard while operating or releasing the EPB. These conditions are normal and indicate that the EPB is functioning properly.
- When leaving your keys with a parking lot attendant or valet, make sure to inform him/her how to operate the EPB.
- The EPB may malfunction if you drive with the EPB applied.
- When you automatically release EPB by pressing the accelerator pedal, press it slowly.
When the conversion from Auto Hold to EPB is not working properly a warning will sound and a message will appear.
NOTICE
Engage the brake pedal when the above message appears for the Auto Hold and EPB may not activate.
If the EPB is applied while Auto Hold is activated because of an Electronic Stability Control (ESC) signal, a warning will sound and a message will appear.
A: Parking brake automatically engaged
EPB malfunction indicator
This warning light appears if the ENGINE START/STOP button is changed to the ON position and goes off in approximately 3 seconds if the system is operating normally.
If the EPB malfunction indicator remains on, comes on while driving, or does not come on when the ENGINE START/STOP button is changed to the ON position, this indicates that the EPB may have malfunctioned. If this occurs, have your vehicle checked by an authorized Kia dealer. The EPB malfunction indicator may appear when the ESC indicator comes on to indicate that the ESC is not working properly, but it does not indicate a malfunction of the EPB.
NOTICE
The EPB warning light may appear if the EPB switch operates abnormally. Shut the engine off and turn it on again after a few minutes. The warning light will go off and the EPB switch will operate normally. However, if the EPB warning light is still on, have your vehicle checked by an authorized Kia dealer. If the parking brake warning light does not appear or blinks even though the EPB switch was pulled up, the EPB is not applied. If the parking brake warning light blinks when the EPB warning light is on, press the EPB switch, then pull it up. Once more press it back to its original position and pull it back up. If the EPB warning does not go off, have your vehicle checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
Emergency braking with the EPB switch
If there is a problem with the brake pedal while driving, emergency braking is possible by pulling up and holding the EPB switch.
Braking is possible only while you are holding the EPB switch.
WARNING
Do not operate the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) while the vehicle is moving except in an emergency situation. Applying the EPB while the vehicle is moving at normal speeds can cause a sudden loss of control of the vehicle. If you must use the EPB to stop the vehicle, use great caution in applying the brake.
NOTICE
During emergency braking by the EPB, the parking brake warning light will appear to indicate that the system is operating.
If you notice a continuous noise or burning smell when the EPB is used for emergency braking, have your vehicle checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
When the EPB is not released
If the EPB does not release normally, take your vehicle to a professional work-shop by loading the vehicle on a flatbed tow truck and have the system checked. Visit an authorized Kia dealer.
AUTO HOLD
The Auto Hold is designed to maintain the vehicle in a standstill even though the brake pedal is not pressed after the driver brings the vehicle to a complete stop by pressing the brake pedal.
Applying the Auto Hold function
- Press the brake pedal and start the vehicle.
- Press the Auto Hold button. The white AUTO HOLD indicator will come on indicating the system is in standby
Before the Auto Hold will engage, the driver’s door and engine hood must be closed.
When coming to a complete stop by pressing the brake pedal, the AUTO HOLD indicator changes from white to green indicating the AUTO HOLD is engaged. The vehicle will remain at a standstill even if you release the brake pedal. If EPB is applied, Auto Hold will be released. If you press the accelerator pedal with the gear in D (Drive) or Manual mode, the Auto Hold will be released automati-cally and the vehicle will start to move. The indicator changes from green to white indicating the Auto Hold is in standby and the EPB is released. When driving off from Auto Hold by pressing the accelerator pedal, always check the surrounding area near your vehicle. Slowly press the accelerator pedal for a smooth launch.
Canceling Auto Hold function
- To cancel the Auto Hold operation, press the Auto Hold switch. The AUTO HOLD indicator will go out.
- To cancel the Auto Hold operation when the vehicle is at a standstill, press the Auto Hold switch while pressing the brake pedal.
NOTICE
- The following are conditions when the Auto Hold will not engage (Auto Hold light will not turn green and the Auto Hold system remains in stand-by):
- The driver’s door is opened
- The engine hood is opened
- The gear is in P (Park)
- The gear is in R (Reverse)
- The EPB is applied
- For your safety, the Auto Hold automatically switches to EPB under any of the following conditions (Auto Hold light remains white and the EPB auto-matically applies):
- The driver’s door is opened.
- The engine hood is opened.
- The vehicle is in a standstill for more than 10 minutes.
- The vehicle is standing on a steep slope.
- The vehicle moved for a few seconds.
In these cases, the brake warning light comes on, the AUTO HOLD indicator changes from green to white, and a warning sounds and a message will appear to inform you that EPB has been automatically engaged. Before driving off again, press foot brake pedal, check the surrounding area near your vehicle and release parking brake manually with the EPB switch.
- If the AUTO HOLD indicator lights up yellow, the Auto Hold is not working properly. Take your vehicle and have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of an accident, do not activate Auto Hold while driving downhill, backing up or parking your vehicle.
If there is a malfunction with the driver’s door, liftgate or engine hood open detection system, the Auto Hold may not work properly.
Take your vehicle and have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
NOTICE
A click or electric brake motor whine sound may be heard while operating or releasing the EPB, but these conditions are normal and indicate that the EPB is functioning properly.
Warning messages
The Auto Hold function will display a warning message with a sound under certain conditions.
When the EPB is applied from Auto Hold, a warning will sound and a message will appear.
A: Parking brake automatically engaged
When the conversion from Auto Hold to EPB is not working properly a warning will sound and a message will appear.
A: AUTO HOLD turning Off! Press brake pedal
NOTICE
When this message is displayed, the Auto Hold and EPB may not operate. For your safety, press the brake pedal.
If you do not apply the brake pedal when you release the Auto Hold by pressing the [AUTO HOLD] switch, a warning will sound and a message will appear.
A: Press brake pedal to deactivate AUTO HOLD
When you press the [AUTO HOLD] switch, if the driver’s door and engine hood are not closed, a warning will sound and a message will appear on the LCD display.
A: AUTO HOLD conditions not met. Close door, hood and liftgate
At this moment, press the [AUTO HOLD] button after closing the driver’s door and engine hood.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is designed to stabilize the vehicle during cornering maneuvers. ESC checks where you are steering and where the vehicle is actually going.
ESC applies the brakes at individual wheels and intervenes in the engine management system to stabilize the vehicle.
WARNING
Never drive too fast for the road condi-tions or too quickly when cornering. Electronic stability Control (ESC) will not prevent accidents. Excessive speed in turns, abrupt maneuvers and hydroplan-ing on wet surfaces can still result in serious accidents. Only a safe and atten-tive driver can prevent accidents by avoiding maneuvers that cause the vehi-cle to lose traction. Even with ESC installed, always follow all the normal precautions for driving – including driv-ing at safe speeds for the conditions.
The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system is an electronic system designed to help the driver maintain vehicle control under adverse conditions. It is not a substitute for safe driving practices. Factors including speed, road conditions and driver steering input can all affect whether ESC will be effective in preventing a loss of control. It is still your responsibility to drive and corner at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety. When you apply your brakes under conditions that may lock the wheels, you may hear a “tik-tik’’ sound from the brakes, or feel a corresponding sensation in the brake pedal. This is normal and it means your ESC is active.
NOTICE
A click sound may be heard in the engine compartment when the vehicle begins to move after the engine is started. These conditions are normal and indicate that the Electronic Stability Control System is functioning properly.
ESC Operation
ESC ON condition
When the ignition is turned ON, ESC and ESC OFF indicator lights appear for approximately 3 seconds, then ESC is turned on.
- Press the ESC OFF button after turning the ignition ON to turn ESC off. (ESC OFF indicator will appear). To turn the ESC on, press the ESC OFF button (ESC OFF indicator light will go off).
- When starting the engine, you may hear a slight ticking sound. This is the ESC performing an automatic system self-check and does not indicate a problem.
When operating 
When the ESC is in operation, the ESC indicator light blinks.- When the Electronic Stability Control is operating properly, you can feel a slight pulsation in the vehicle. This is only the effect of the brake control and indicates nothing unusual.
- When moving out of the mud or driving on a slippery road, the engine rpm (revolution per minute) may not be increased even if you press the accelerator pedal deeply. This is to maintain the stability and traction of the vehicle and does not indicate a problem.
ESC OFF condition
To cancel ESC operation:
- State 1
Traction Control disabled
Press the ESC OFF button shortly (ESC OFF indicator light and a message appear). At this state, the engine control function does not operate. In other words, the traction control func-tion does not operate but only the brake control function operates. - State 2
A: Traction and Stability Control limited - Press the ESC OFF button for more than 3 seconds. ESC OFF indicator light and message appears and ESC OFF warning chime will sound. At this state, the engine control function and brake control function does not oper-ate. In other words, the vehicle stabil-ity control function does not operate anymore.
If the ignition switch or ENGINE START/STOP button is placed to the LOCK/OFF position when ESC is off, ESC remains off. Upon restarting the engine, the ESC will automatically turn on again.
Indicator Light
ESC indicator light
ESC OFF indicator light
When ignition switch or ENGINE START/STOP button is turned to ON, the indica-tor light appears, then goes off if the ESC system is operating normally. The ESC indicator light blinks whenever ESC is operating or appears when ESC fails to operate. ESC OFF indicator light comes on when the ESC is turned off with the button.
CAUTION
Driving with varying tire or wheel sizes may cause the ESC system to malfunc-tion. When replacing tires, make sure they are the same type, size, brand, con-struction and tread pattern all four wheels.
WARNING
The Electronic Stability Control system is only a driving aid;use precautions for safe driving by slowing down on curved, snowy, or icy roads. Drive slowly and don’t attempt to accelerate whenever the ESC indicator light is blinking, or when the road surface is slippery.
ESC OFF Usage
When driving
- ESC should be turned on for daily driving whenever possible.
- To turn ESC off while driving, press the ESC OFF button while driving on a flat road surface.
Never press the ESC OFF button while ESC is operating (ESC indicator light blinks). If ESC is turned off while ESC is operat-ing, the vehicle may slip out of control.
NOTICE
- When operating the vehicle on a dynamometer, ensure that the ESC is turned off (ESC OFF light appeared).
- Turning the ESC off does not affect ABS or brake system operation.
WARNING
Never press the ESC OFF button while ESC is operating. If the ESC is turned off while ESC is operating, the vehicle may go out of control.
To turn ESC off while driving, press the ESC OFF button while driving on a flat road surface.
Hill-start assist control (HAC)
Hill start Assist Control is a comfort function. The main intent is to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards while driving off uphill on an inclined surface. HAC holds the braking pressure builtup by driver during the stopping procedure for 2 seconds after releasing brake pedal. During the pressure-hold period, the driver has enough time to press the accelerator pedal to drive off.
The braking pressure is reduced as soon as the system detects the driver’s inten-tion to drive off.
WARNING
The HAC is usually activated only for 2 seconds. The driver should be careful from rolling backward causing an accident with behind objects or human, when the driver may feel the unintended rolling backward while driving off on hill due to insufficient brake hold pressure built up by driver during the stopping procedures.
NOTICE
- The HAC does not operate when the transmission shift lever is in the P (Park) or N (Neutral) position.
- The HAC activates even though the ESC is off but it does not activate when the ESC has malfunctioned.
Vehicle stability management (VSM) (if equipped)
This system provides further enhancements to vehicle stability and steering responses when a vehicle is driving on a slippery road or a vehicle detected changes in coefficient of friction between right wheels and left wheels when braking.
VSM operation
When the VSM is in operation, ESC indicator light ( ) blinks.
When the vehicle stability management is operating properly, you can feel a slight pulsation in the vehicle. This is only the effect of the brake control and indicates nothing unusual.
The VSM does not operate when:
- Driving on bank road such as a gradient or incline
- Driving rearward
- ESC OFF indicator light ( ) remains on the instrument cluster
- MDPS indicator light remains on the instrument cluster
VSM operation off
If you press the ESC OFF button to turn off the ESC, the VSM will also cancel and the ESC OFF indicator light () appears.
To turn on the VSM, press the button again. The ESC OFF indicator light goes out.
Malfunction indicator
The VSM can be deactivated even if you don’t cancel the VSM operation by pressing the ESC OFF button. It indicates that a malfunction has been detected somewhere in the Electric Power Steering system or VSM system. If the ESC indicator light ( ) or EPS warning light remains on, have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
WARNING
- The Vehicle Stability Management system is not a substitute for safe driving practices but a supplementary function only. It is the responsibility of the driver to always check the speed and the distance to the vehicle ahead. Always hold the steering wheel firmly while driving.
- Your vehicle is designed to activate according to the driver’s intention, even with installed VSM. Always follow all the normal precautions for driving at safe speeds for the conditions – including driving inclement weather and on a slippery road.
- Driving with varying tire or wheel sizes may cause the VSM system to malfunction. When replacing tires, make sure they are the same type, size, brand, construction, and tread pattern on all four wheels.
Brake Assistant System (BAS)
The Brake Assistant System provides additional pressure when the brake pedal is momentarily and strongly depressed in a situation sudden braking is required while driving. The Brake Assistant System reduces the time for ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) control to enter and consequently reduces the braking distance, by providing additional pressure up to the point of ABS intervention.
BAS operation
- When the vehicle speed is more than 30 km/h and the ABS control is not entered.
- When the brake pedal is depressed strongly over a certain level.
- When the friction of the road surface is above a certain level.
BAS operation off
- The vehicle speed is below 6 mph (10 km/h).
- The brake pedal is depressed over certain conditions.
- The friction of the road surface is below a certain level.
Brake Assist System (BAS) Limitations
The system may not operate depending on the driver’s driving habit, the degree to which the brake pedal is depressed, and the road surface condition.
Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) (if equipped)
The Emergency Stop Signal system alerts the driver behind by blinking the stop light when the vehicle suddenly stops or when the ABS activates in a stop. (The system activates when the vehicle speed is over 55km/h and the vehicle deceleration is over 7m/s² or the ABS activates when the vehicle emergency braking.) When the vehicle speed is under 40 km/h and the ABS deactivates or the sudden stop situation is over, the stop light blinking will stop.
CAUTION
The Emergency Stop Signal system will not work if the hazard warning flasher is already on.
Good braking practices
Good braking practices help keep occupants safe and extend brake life.
- Check to be sure the parking brake is not engaged and the parking brake indicator light is out before driving away.
- Driving through water may get the brakes wet. They can also get wet when the vehicle is washed. Wet brakes can be dangerous! Your vehicle will not stop as quickly if the brakes are wet. Wet brakes may cause the vehicle to pull to one side.
- To dry the brakes, apply the brakes lightly until the braking action returns to normal, taking care to keep the vehicle under control at all times. If the braking action does not return to normal, stop as soon as it is safe to do so and call an authorized Kia dealer for assistance.
- Don’t coast down hills with the vehicle out of gear. This is extremely hazardous. Keep the vehicle in gear at all times, use the brakes to slow down, then shift to a lower gear so that vehicle braking will help you maintain a safe speed.
- Don’t “ride” the brake pedal. Resting your foot on the brake pedal while driving can be dangerous because the brakes might overheat and lose their effectiveness. It also increases the wear of the brake components.
- If a tire goes flat while you are driving, apply the brakes gently and keep the vehicle pointed straight ahead while you slow down. When you are moving slowly enough for it to be safe to do so, pull off the road and stop in a safe place.
- Be cautious when parking on a hill. Firmly engage the parking brake and place the shifter dial in P. If your vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels into the curb to help keep the vehicle from rolling.
- If your vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb to help keep the vehicle from rolling. If there is no curb or if it is required by other conditions to keep the vehicle from rolling, block the wheels.
- Under some conditions, your parking brake can freeze in the engaged position. This is most likely to happen when there is an accumulation of snow or ice around or near the rear brakes or if the brakes are wet. If there is a risk that the parking brake may freeze, apply it only temporarily while you put the shifter dial in P and block the rear wheels so the vehicle cannot roll. Then release the parking brake.
- Do not hold the vehicle on an incline with the accelerator pedal. This can cause the reduction gear to overheat. Always use the brake pedal or parking brake.
FAQs
- What type of brake system does the Kia Soul 2023 have?
Four-wheel disc brakes are included with the Kia Soul 2023. - Does the Kia Soul 2023 have an anti-lock braking system (ABS)?
An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is a standard feature of the Kia Soul 2023. - How does the ABS in the Kia Soul 2023 work?
The Kia Soul 2023’s ABS keeps the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to keep control of the steering. - Does the Kia Soul 2023 have electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)?
The Kia Soul 2023 is equipped with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), which optimizes performance by varying the amount of braking force given to each wheel. - What is the brake assist feature in the Kia Soul 2023?
The Kia Soul 2023’s brake assist system determines when emergency braking is necessary and uses the maximum amount of force to shorten stopping distances. - Does the Kia Soul 2023 have a parking brake?
The Kia Soul 2023 does, in fact, have a parking brake that can be manually applied to keep the car still when it is parked. - Are the brakes in the Kia Soul 2023 power-assisted?
The Kia Soul 2023 has a power-assisted braking system, which makes it simpler to apply braking pressure. - Can the Kia Soul 2023 alert the driver if there is a brake system malfunction?
If the brake system malfunctions, the Kia Soul 2023’s instrument cluster will glow with a warning light. - Are the brake pads and rotors in the Kia Soul 2023 easily replaceable?
A certified mechanic or a Kia shop can repair the brake pads and rotors on the Kia Soul 2023. - What is the expected lifespan of the brake pads in the Kia Soul 2023?
The Kia Soul 2023’s brake pads can last anywhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, depending on driving behavior and environmental factors. - Does the Kia Soul 2023 offer regenerative braking?
Regenerative braking is available on the Kia Soul 2023, which aids in battery recharging by transforming kinetic energy into electrical energy during acceleration. - Can the brake system in the Kia Soul 2023 be upgraded or modified?
To guarantee compatibility and safety, Kia advises speaking with a Kia dealership or authorized repair facility before making any alterations or adjustments to the brake system. - Does the Kia Soul 2023 have a brake override system?
The brake override mechanism in the Kia Soul 2023 prioritizes the brake pedal over the accelerator pedal to ensure that the car stops when both pedals are depressed simultaneously. - What should I do if I experience brake fade in the Kia Soul 2023?
If you encounter brake fade, which is a momentary loss of braking force brought on by overheating, you should slow down, downshift if you can, and gently pump the brakes until they cool. - Where can I find more information about the brake system in the Kia Soul 2023?
The Kia Soul 2023 owner’s manual has comprehensive information regarding the brake system, including instructions for maintenance, use, and troubleshooting.
Useful Links
View Full User Guide: Kia Soul 2023 Owner’s Manual | Auto User Guide
Download Manuals: Kia | Owner’s Manuals and Documents