Kia Soul Remote Start: The Full Rundown

Published January 9, 2024
in Model Info and Features

First hitting American streets in 2010, the Kia Soul has built a reputation as a funky hatchback with accommodating cargo space. Beyond its distinctive looks, the Soul has many features that owners have come to depend on, including remote start. It’s arguably the ultimate convenience because owners don’t have to be exposed to chilly winter weather or blazing summer heat to get their Souls comfortable inside. With this in mind, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide about Kia Soul remote start.

You’ll learn about remote start basics, how this technology works in the Kia Soul, what to do if your Kia doesn’t have remote start, and the pros and cons of remote start.

What is Remote Vehicle Start?

Remote vehicle start (or remote start) is a technology that allows a car’s engine to be started from a distance using a key fob or smartphone app. Once the system is activated, the interior climate controls are engaged, enabling the cabin to reach a comfortable temperature when the driver enters.

The typical remote start system has a range of a few hundred feet and transmits an encoded signal to a receiving module in the vehicle, initiating an engine start-up. The car will run for a few minutes (usually 10-20 minutes, depending on the manufacturer) before automatically shutting down if the driver hasn’t entered the vehicle and stepped on the brake.

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Key Fob: Using Kia Soul Remote Start

Some Kia Souls come standard with a key fob that includes remote start capabilities. Here’s how to use this feature with your vehicle.

To start the engine remotely:

Ensure the Soul is parked safely with the gear shift in the P (Park) position.
Press the Lock button on the fob to ensure the doors are secure.
Immediately press the Remote Start button twice within four seconds. The hazard lights will flash, and the horn will beep once it’s successful.
Wait up to 10 minutes while the engine runs with the climate control activated. Then, enter the vehicle with the key fob and press the brake pedal to disengage the remote start mode. The engine will continue running normally.

Tips for key fob-based Kia Soul remote start:

Effective Range: The system should work up to 500 feet away. However, the effective range can be affected by buildings and other obstructions. Try getting closer or changing positions if the initial remote start attempt fails.
Duration: The engine will run for only 10 minutes per remote start session before shutting off, enough for most warm-up or cool-down needs.
Door Opening: The system will shut off if a door is opened during remote start mode.
Canceling Unwanted Starts: Press any button on the remote fob twice to cancel an unwanted remote start session.
Battery Replacement: Replace the key fob battery if the remote start system isn’t functioning normally.

Smartphone App: Using Kia Soul Remote Start

Kia’s smartphone app allows owners to start their Soul remotely from their iOS or Android device instead of relying only on the key fob. The app connects to your car over the cellular network as long as the app is installed and you have an active UVO subscription. Once logged into the app, tap the “Start” button to send the remote start command to your vehicle from virtually any distance.

As with the key fob, the engine will turn over and run for a pre-set time (usually 10 minutes). However, the app allows a custom run time of as few as two minutes. In addition, you can push the “Stop” button in the app to turn off the engine. The app also displays status symbols to indicate when remote start is engaged and notifications if the car fails to start or turns off.

Further, the Kia Soul remote start app includes a cabin temperature control feature, ensuring the interior is comfortable before you drive off.

KIA SOUL PROS & CONS

Keep reading to learn more about some significant Kia Soul pros and cons. What items make it one of the most popular selections on the road?

Aftermarket Options: Kia Soul Remote Start

While most newer Kia Souls come factory-equipped with remote start capabilities, some older models may lack this feature. Fortunately, aftermarket remote start kits are readily available for the Kia Soul.

Avoid cheap systems. Instead, go for a name-brand kit from Viper, Avital, Clifford, Python, Audiovox, or another well-known company. Prices range from $100 to $400 depending on the features, like:

Extended Range: Some systems boast an effective range beyond the few hundred feet found in factory key fob systems,
Smartphone Control: Get factory-like functionality with an app-based system
Security: Encrypted signals prevent hacking vulnerabilities
Extended Runtime: Some systems allow extended run times beyond 10-20 minutes.
Temperature Monitoring: Keeps the cabin at a preset desired temperature.

Expect to pay $150-$250 for a professional installation. It’s money well spent to avoid damaging your car’s electrical system.

Understanding the Pros and Cons of Kia Soul Remote Start

Just about every vehicle feature has pros and cons; here’s what to know about remote vehicle start.

Advantages of Remote Start

Cabin Preconditioning: As covered, remote start allows a hot vehicle to be cooled down or a cold one to be warmed up before entering. It’s a convenience that ensures every trip gets started with maximum comfort.
Defrosting: Using remote start in cold weather helps clear frost and ice from the windshield and windows before driving, increasing visibility and safety.
Battery and Engine Support: By starting the engine occasionally throughout cold weather, a battery charge is maintained, and essential fluids are circulated to protect the engine. These steps can promote battery and engine longevity.

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Disadvantages of Remote Start

Excess Idling: Excessive remote start sessions can lead to wasted gas and needless emissions, a concern for environmentally conscious drivers.
False Starts: A remote start system can become accidentally engaged, causing the vehicle to start while parked in a garage or elsewhere. This could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or other issues if the car is enclosed.
Security Vulnerabilities: Though rare, hackers tapping into unencrypted signals could potentially figure out how to start the car without a key or app. Upgrading older remote start systems with secure encryption helps prevent this issue.

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