Kia Soul 2023 Engine Start and Stop User Manual
Introduction
The Kia Soul 2023 is a well-liked compact crossover SUV that stands out for its usefulness and cutting-edge features. The Engine Start/Stop system, also referred to as the Idle Stop and Go (ISG) system, is one of the standout features offered by the Kia Soul 2023.
The Engine Start/Stop feature automatically turns off the engine when the car comes to a complete stop, such as at a stop sign or in heavy traffic, in order to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The system seamlessly restarts the engine when the driver lets off the brake pedal, enabling the car to move forward.
It’s important to note that in some circumstances, such as when the engine is not operating at its best temperature, the battery charge is low, or the climate control system requires more power, the Engine Start/Stop system may not activate. By firmly depressing the accelerator, the system can also typically be temporarily turned off, allowing the engine to continue running even when the car is stopped.
ENGINE START/STOP Button
(if equipped)
Your vehicle is equipped with four different ignition positions.
Illuminated ENGINE START/STOP Button
Whenever the front door is opened, the ENGINE START/STOP button will illuminate for your convenience
The light will go off after about 30 seconds when the door is closed. It will also go off immediately when the theft-alarm system is armed
ENGINE START/STOP Button Position
Your vehicle is equipped with four different ignition positions.
OFF
To turn off the engine (START/RUN position) or vehicle power (ON position), press the ENGINE START/STOP button with the shift lever in the P (Park) position. When you press the ENGINE START/STOP button without the shift lever in the P (Park) position, the ENGINE START/STOP button will not change to the OFF position but to the ACC position.
Vehicles equipped with the anti-theft steering column lock
The steering wheel locks when the ENGINE START/STOP button is in the OFF position to protect you against theft. It locks when the door is opened.
- If the steering wheel is not locked properly when you open the driver’s door, the warning chime will sound. Try locking the steering wheel again. If the problem is not solved, have the system checked by an authorized Kia dealer.
- In addition, if the ENGINE START/STOP button is in the OFF position after the driver’s door is opened, the steering wheel will not lock and the warning chime will sound. In such a situation, close the door. Then the steering wheel will lock and the warning chime will stop.
NOTICE
If the steering wheel doesn’t unlock properly, the ENGINE START/STOP button will not work. Press the ENGINE START/STOP button while turning the steering wheel right and left to release the tension.
NOTICE
You are able to turn off the engine (START/RUN) or vehicle power (ON), only when the vehicle is not in motion.
CAUTION
In an emergency situation, while the vehicle is in motion, you are able to turn the engine off and to the ACC position by pressing the ENGINE START/STOP button for more than 2 seconds or 3 times successively within 3 seconds. If the vehicle is still moving, restart the vehicle:
- Press the ENGINE START/STOP button when the vehicle speed is 3 mph (5 km/h) or over.
ACC (Accessory)
- Press the ENGINE START/STOP button while it is in the OFF position without depressing the brake pedal.
- The steering wheel unlocks and electrical accessories are operational.
- If the ENGINE START/STOP button is in the ACC position for more than 1 hour, the button is turned off automatically to prevent battery discharge.
ON
- Press the ENGINE START/STOP button while it is in the ACC position without depressing the brake pedal.
- The warning lights can be checked before the engine is started. Do not leave the ENGINE START/STOP button in the ON position for a long time. The battery may discharge, because the engine is not running.
START/RUN
To start the engine, depress the brake pedal and press the ENGINE START/ STOP button with the shift lever in the P (Park) or the N (Neutral) position. For your safety, start the engine with the shift lever in the P (Park) position
NOTICE
If you press the ENGINE START/STOP button without depressing the brake pedal, the engine will not start and the ENGINE START/STOP button changes as follow:
- OFF → ACC → ON → OFF or ACC
NOTICE
If you leave the ENGINE START/STOP button in the ACC or ON position for a long time, the battery will discharge.
WARNING
- Never press the ENGINE START/STOP button while the vehicle is in motion. This would result in loss of directional control and braking function, which could cause an accident.
- The anti-theft steering column lock is not a substitute for the parking brake. Before leaving the driver’s seat, always make sure the shift lever is engaged in P (Park), set the parking brake fully and shut the engine off. Unexpected and sudden vehicle movement may occur if these precautions are not taken.
- Never reach for the ENGINE START/ STOP button or any other controls through the steering wheel while the vehicle is in motion. The presence of your hand or arm in the area could cause loss of vehicle control, an accident and serious bodily injury or death.
- Do not place any movable objects around the driver’s seat as they may move while driving, interfere with the driver and lead to an accident.
Starting the engine
WARNING
- Do not start the vehicle with the accelerator pedal depressed. The vehicle can move and lead to an accident.
- Wait until the engine rpm is normal. The vehicle may suddenly move if the brake pedal is released when the rpm is high.
Starting the engine
- Carry the smart key or place it inside the vehicle.
- Make sure the parking brake is firmly applied.
- Place the transmission shift lever in P (Park). Depress the brake pedal fully. You can also start the engine when the shift lever is in the N (Neutral) position.
- Press the ENGINE START/STOP button. It should be started without depressing the accelerator pedal.
- Do not wait for the engine to warm up while the vehicle remains stationary. Start driving at moderate engine speeds. (Steep accelerating and decelerating should be avoided.)
Starting and stopping the engine for turbocharger intercooler
- Do not race or accelerate the engine immediately after starting If the engine is cold, idle for several seconds before sufficient lubrication is ensured in the turbocharger unit.
- After high speed or extended driving, requiring a heavy engine load, idle the engine about 1 minute before turning it off.
This idle time will allow the turbocharger to cool prior to shutting the engine off.
CAUTION
Do not turn the engine off immediately after it has been subjected to a heavy load. Doing so may cause severe damage to the engine or turbocharger u
Starting the engine with smart key
- Even if the smart key is in the vehicle, if it is far away from you, the engine may not start.
- When the ENGINE START/STOP button is in the ACC position or above, if any door is opened, the system checks for the smart key. If the smart key is not in the vehicle, the
indicator and a message “Key is not in the vehicle” will appear on the instrument cluster and LCD window. And if all doors are closed, the chime will sound for 5 seconds. The indicator or warning will turn off while the vehicle is moving. Always have the smart key with you.
WARNING
The engine will start, only when the smart key is in the vehicle. Never allow children or any person who is unfamiliar with the vehicle touch the ENGINE START/STOP button or related parts. Pushing the ENGINE START/STOP but-ton while the smart key is in the vehicle may result in unintended engine activation and/or unintended vehicle movement.
CAUTION
If the engine stalls while the vehicle is in motion, do not attempt to move the shift lever to the P (Park) position. If the traffic and road conditions permit, you may put the shift lever in the N (Neutral) position while the vehicle is still moving and press the ENGINE START/STOP button in an attempt to restart the engine.
NOTICE
- If the battery is weak or the smart key does not work correctly, you can start the engine by pressing the ENGINE START/STOP button with the smart key.
- The side with the lock button should contact the ENGINE START/STOP button directly. When you press the ENGINE START/STOP button directly with the smart key, the smart key should contact the button at a right angle.
- When the stop lamp fuse is blown, you cannot start the engine normally.
- Replace the fuse with a new one. If it is not possible, you can start the engine by pressing the ENGINE START/STOP button for 10 seconds while it is in the ACC position. The engine can start without depressing the brake pedal. But for your safety always depress the brake pedal and clutch pedal (if equipped) before starting the engine.
CAUTION
- Do not press the ENGINE START/ STOP button for more than 10 seconds except when the stop lamp fuse is blown.
- Do not turn the ignition switch to the START position with the engine running. It may damage the starter.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the Engine Start/Stop system in the Kia Soul 2023?
By automatically turning off the engine when the car is stopped, the Engine Start/Stop system improves fuel economy and lowers emissions. - Can I deactivate the Engine Start/Stop system in the Kia Soul 2023?
In most cases, the system can be manually turned off by pushing a button or using the infotainment system. - Will the Engine Start/Stop system wear out the engine or battery?
The system is not intended to overwork the engine or battery; instead, it is built to function smoothly and efficiently. - What happens if I need to accelerate quickly after the engine has shut off?
In most cases, restarting the engine will give you immediate power when you press the accelerator pedal firmly. - Does the Engine Start/Stop system work in all driving conditions?
In some circumstances, such as when the battery charge is low or the engine is not running at its best temperature, the system may not engage. - Will the air conditioning or heating system be affected by the Engine Start/Stop system?
The system keeps the climate control system running even when the engine is off to maintain comfort. - Can I disable the Engine Start/Stop system permanently?
Normally activated every time you start the car, the system is also permanently deactivatable through dealership services. - Does the Engine Start/Stop system require any special maintenance?
No, compared to standard engine operation, the system doesn’t require any extra maintenance. - Will the Engine Start/Stop system engage while I’m driving?
No, the system is only intended to work when the car is stopped and your foot is pressed firmly on the brake pedal. - Can I override the Engine Start/Stop system if I don’t want the engine to shut off?
By turning off the system or firmly depressing the accelerator pedal, you can manually override the system. - Does the Engine Start/Stop system affect the performance of the Kia Soul 2023?
Generally speaking, the system runs without materially affecting the vehicle’s performance. - Does the Engine Start/Stop system save a significant amount of fuel?
The system can help save fuel, especially when driving in cities or when there are lots of traffic stops. - Can I use the Engine Start/Stop system in conjunction with cruise control?
To ensure smooth and uninterrupted operation, the system might not activate while cruise control is on. - Does the Engine Start/Stop system have any safety features or considerations?
The system was created with safety in mind, so it won’t turn the engine off when doing so might endanger people’s lives, like when they are braking suddenly. - Can I retrofit the Engine Start/Stop system in an older Kia Soul model?
Since the Engine Start/Stop system requires specialized hardware and integration with the vehicle’s electrical and control systems, retrofitting it may not be feasible or advised.
Useful Links
View Full User Guide: Kia Soul 2023 Owner’s Manual | Auto User Guide
Download Manuals: Kia | Owner’s Manuals and Documents