Missing the convenience of a key fob on your 2010 Kia Soul base model? It’s a common issue for those who purchased used vehicles or opted for the no-frills version. Manually locking and unlocking doors can quickly become tiresome. Fortunately, regaining keyless entry is surprisingly affordable and achievable with a DIY approach. This guide will walk you through installing an aftermarket keyless entry system for your 2010 Kia Soul, mirroring a successful installation on a 2010 Kia Soul MT Base Model and bringing modern convenience to your ride without breaking the bank.
Parts and Tools You’ll Need
Before diving in, gather these essential items to ensure a smooth installation:
- Aftermarket Keyless Entry System: A budget-friendly option like the “Docooler Car Remote Central Lock Locking Keyless Entry System with Remote Controllers” (or similar) can be found online for around $20. These systems typically include a control unit, remote fobs, and wiring.
- Wire Strippers/Crimpers: For preparing and connecting wires.
- Snap-Together Wire Connectors (or Solder and Electrical Tape): For making secure and insulated wire connections.
- Zip Ties: To mount the control unit neatly under your dashboard.
- Basic Screwdrivers and Socket Set: To remove the knee guard panels under the steering column.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Follow these steps carefully to install your keyless entry system. Always disconnect your car battery before working on electrical components to prevent accidental shorts.
1. Preparation Under the Steering Column
- Remove Knee Guards: Locate and remove the plastic knee guard (usually held by screws) and the metal knee guard (typically bolted) under the steering column on the driver’s side. This will give you access to the wiring you need.
- Mount the Control Unit: Find a secure location to mount the keyless entry system control unit. A good spot is often near the fuse box wires, between the steering wheel and the door area. Use zip ties to secure it in place.
2. Wiring the Keyless Entry System Unit
Before connecting to the car’s wiring, you’ll need to make some modifications to the wires coming from the keyless entry system unit, as these universal kits are designed for various car configurations.
- Combine Door Lock Wires: Combine the door lock wires for both the driver’s door and other doors into a single wire (let’s call it wire A).
- Combine Door Unlock Wires: Combine the door unlock wires for the driver’s door and other doors into a single wire, then immediately split it back into two separate wires (wires B and C, approximately 2 inches long each).
- Combine Turn Light Wires: Combine the turn light wires for both ‘unlock’ and ‘lock’ signals into one wire, then split it into two (wires D and E).
- Keep Power, Ground, and Antenna Wires: Keep the positive power wire (F), negative ground wire (G), and antenna wire (H) separate and unmodified.
- Cut Unused Wires: Cut off and insulate the wires for trunk open, horn, hood, and starter motor, as these functions are not needed for basic keyless entry on this 2010 Kia Soul installation.
3. Connecting to Your Kia Soul’s Wiring
Locate the wiring bundles under the driver’s side dash. You’ll likely need to be on your back, looking upwards to access them.
- Lock Wire (A): Connect wire A to the RED/ORANGE wire in the top left (most hidden) bunch of wires. This will lock all doors.
- Unlock Wire for Driver’s Door (B): Connect wire B to the BROWN/WHITE wire in the same top left bunch. This will unlock only the driver’s door initially.
- Unlock Wire for All Other Doors (C): Connect wire C to the BLUE/ORANGE wire, also in the top left bunch. This ensures all other doors unlock.
- Turn Light Wire – Right Side (D): Connect wire D to the BLUE wire in the mid bunch of wires. This connects to the right turn signals.
- Turn Light Wire – Left Side (E): Connect wire E to the GREEN wire in the mid bunch. This connects to the left turn signals.
- Positive Power Wire (F): Connect wire F to the GREY wire in the lowest bunch of wires (mostly red). This is often the sunroof power wire, which is powered even if your Kia Soul doesn’t have a sunroof.
- Negative Ground Wire (G): Connect wire G to a METAL screw under the dash for a negative ground connection.
- Antenna Wire (H): Install the antenna wire (H) as high as possible. Try to run it up into the door hinge/windshield molding area to maximize range.
4. Final Steps and Testing
- Reinstall Knee Guards: Reinstall the metal and plastic knee guards under the steering wheel.
- Test the System: Reconnect your car battery and test the keyless entry system. Verify that the lock, unlock, and turn signal flash functions are working correctly with the new key fobs.
Enjoy Keyless Convenience
With approximately an hour of work and around $20 spent, you’ve successfully installed a keyless entry system on your 2010 Kia Soul. This DIY approach saves you significant money compared to dealership installation quotes, which can be upwards of $400. Enjoy the added convenience and security of your new 2010 Kia Soul Key Fob system!
