Can a Kia Soul Be Flat Towed -

Many people love the versatility and functionality of the Kia Soul. It’s a compact car that offers ample space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for daily commutes and weekend adventures. But can it be flat towed?

Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing or four-wheel towing, is when a vehicle is towed with all four wheels on the ground. This method is often used by RV owners to tow a secondary vehicle behind their motorhome. It’s a convenient way to bring a car along while on a road trip.

When it comes to the Kia Soul, the answer is not straightforward. The ability to flat tow a vehicle depends on several factors, including the model year and drivetrain.

Model Year

If you own a Kia Soul manufactured after 2014, you’re in luck! These newer models are flat towable. However, if you have an older Kia Soul, particularly from 2013 or earlier, flat towing might not be recommended by the manufacturer. It’s always best to consult your owner’s manual or contact a Kia dealership for the most accurate information regarding your specific model’s towing capabilities.

Drivetrain

The drivetrain of a vehicle determines whether it can be flat towed or not. In the case of the Kia Soul, it depends on whether it has a manual transmission or an automatic transmission.

If your Kia Soul has a manual transmission, it is generally considered flat towable. Manual transmission vehicles have a neutral gear that allows the wheels to spin freely, disengaging the engine from the transmission. This feature enables safe and efficient flat towing.

On the other hand, if your Kia Soul has an automatic transmission, the process becomes a bit more complicated. Most automatic transmission vehicles require additional accessories or modifications to be flat towed. These accessories often include a transmission lube pump or a driveshaft disconnect device. Without these additions, flat towing an automatic Kia Soul may cause severe damage to the transmission.

It’s important to note that even if your Kia Soul meets the criteria for flat towing, there are still some precautions to take. Before flat towing, make sure to follow these guidelines:

Preparation Steps:

Check the owner’s manual for any specific instructions or limitations regarding flat towing.
Inspect the towing equipment, including tow bars, safety chains, and electrical connections, for any damage or wear.
Ensure that the Kia Soul is properly aligned and securely attached to the towing vehicle.
Double-check that the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
Engage the parking brake on the towing vehicle and release it in the Kia Soul.
Place the Kia Soul in neutral (for manual transmission) or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for putting it in neutral (for automatic transmission).
Keep the speed of the towing vehicle within the recommended limit, usually around 55-65 mph.

By following these steps and adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendations, you can ensure a safe and smooth flat towing experience with your Kia Soul.

In conclusion, if you own a Kia Soul manufactured after 2014 with a manual transmission, you can safely flat tow your vehicle. However, if your Kia Soul has an automatic transmission, additional accessories or modifications may be required. Always refer to your owner’s manual and consult a Kia dealership for accurate information on your specific model’s towability. With proper preparation and precautions, you can enjoy the convenience of flat towing with your Kia Soul.

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