2012 Kia Soul Steering Coupler Replacement Cost – A Comprehensive Guide

The 2012 Kia Soul is a popular compact SUV that has been manufactured since 2009. The steering coupler is a vital component of the vehicle’s steering system, and it needs to be replaced periodically in order to keep the car running properly. Replacing a steering coupler can be costly, as it requires specialized tools and parts as well as labor. However, the cost of this replacement varies depending on the make and model of the car, as well as any additional repairs that may need to be done along with the replacement. The cost of replacing the steering coupler in a 2012 Kia Soul can range from $150 to $600 depending on these factors.

What is a Steering Coupler?

A steering coupler is a device that connects the steering wheel to the rack and pinion mechanism in a vehicle. It allows the driver to control the direction of the car or truck by turning the wheel. It is made up of two parts, an input shaft and an output shaft, connected by a rubber coupling. The rubber coupling helps reduce vibration and noise from the road, making for a smoother, quieter ride.

Why is it Important?

The steering coupler plays an important role in how well your vehicle handles and maneuvers on the roads. If it becomes damaged or worn out, it can lead to poor handling, reduced braking performance, and increased wear and tear on other components. Without a functioning steering coupler, it would be impossible to steer your vehicle safely.

Kia Soul Steering Coupler Replacement Process

Replacing the steering coupler on a Kia Soul requires some mechanical knowledge and experience working with automotive systems. The process begins by removing all necessary components that are connected to the steering column such as the airbag module, center console trim panel, and dash trim panel. Once these components have been removed you can access the steering coupler itself which will need to be replaced with an OEM part from Kia.

Step by Step Guide

The first step in replacing the steering coupler is to disconnect the negative battery cable from its terminal post on your Kia Soul’s engine bay. Once this has been done you can move onto removing any components that are connected to or obstructing access to your vehicle’s steering column such as airbag module, center console trim panel, and dash trim panel. After these items have been removed you can begin loosening any bolts or screws that hold your old steering coupler in place before disconnecting it from its input and output shafts. At this point you can install your new OEM Kia Soul Steering Coupler using any necessary hardware such as nuts, bolts or washers then reassemble all of your components back onto their original positions before reconnecting your negative battery cable.

Cost of Kia Soul Steering Coupler Replacement

The cost of replacing your Kia Soul’s steering coupler will depend on where you purchase your part from as well as any labor costs associated with installation if you are having someone else do it for you. Generally speaking though you should expect to pay around $150-$200 for an OEM part plus any additional labor costs depending on where you get it done at.

Benefits of Replacing Steering Coupler in Kia Soul

Replacing a worn out or damaged steering coupler in your Kia Soul can provide many benefits that include improved handling performance due to better connection between input and output shafts as well as increased safety due to improved braking performance and reduced wear and tear on other components over time. Additionally replacing your old steering coupler with an OEM part will ensure optimal fitment which will result in smoother turning experience when driving your car or truck as well as peace of mind knowing that everything is functioning properly under its hood without having any issues due to poor quality aftermarket parts being used instead of genuine parts from Kia themselves.

Parts Required for Kia Soul Steering Coupler Replacement

When replacing the steering coupler on a 2012-2018 model year Kia Soul there are certain parts that are required for successful installation such as: one (1) OEM Steering Coupling; four (4) nuts; four (4) washers; two (2) bolts; one (1) cotter pin; one (1) tie rod end nut; one (1) tie rod end bolt; one (1) boot clip; one (1) boot retainer ring; one (1) dust cover seal; one (1) dust cover gasket; two (2) mounting pins; four (4) mounting bracket screws; four (4) bracket plate screws and nuts; two (2 )track rod nuts; two( 2 )track rod bolts ; eight( 8 )steering column mounting screws ; eight( 8 )steering column mounting nuts ; eight( 8 )steering column shield mounting screws ; sixteen( 16 )rack-and-pinion mounting screws ; sixteen( 16 )rack-and-pinion mounting nuts . Depending on where you purchase them from these parts may vary slightly in price but should cost anywhere from $50-$100 total if purchased separately rather than all at once as a kit which could save some money depending on what kind of deals are available at different stores or online retailers at any given time .

Tools Needed for the Job

When replacing the steering coupler on a 2012 Kia Soul, there are certain tools that are necessary in order to complete the job. The most important tool is a socket wrench set which will be used to loosen and tighten bolts and nuts. Additionally, having a torque wrench on hand is also important as it will allow you to ensure that the fasteners are tightened properly.

OE Parts Needed for Replacement

In order for the replacement of the Kia Soul’s steering coupler to be successful, you must have all of the original equipment (OE) parts necessary for the job. This includes two Kia Soul steering column shafts and couplers which can be purchased from your local Kia dealership or online.

Steps to Replace the Kia Soul’s Steering Coupler

The first step in replacing the steering coupler is disconnecting the battery in order to prevent any accidental electrical shocks. After this has been done, you must then remove both the upper and lower column cover in order to access the old coupler.

Once these components have been removed, you can then begin installing your new OE parts. This includes inserting both of your new bearings into place as well as installing any new clamps, bolts, nuts or other miscellaneous components which may be required.

Common Issues With Kia Soul’s Steering Coupler

As with any automotive repair job, there is always a chance that something could go wrong when replacing your steering coupler. The most common issue that may occur is faulty wheel alignment which can lead to uneven tire wear and unstable vehicle handling. It is important to take your time when performing this repair in order to prevent any such problems from occurring.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What is a steering coupler?
A: A steering coupler is a component that connects the steering wheel to the steering column and allows the steering wheel to turn when you turn the wheel. It is an important part of the car’s steering system, as it helps to transfer the power from the driver’s hands to the wheels.

Q: How do I replace a Kia Soul’s steering coupler?
A: Replacing a Kia Soul’s steering coupler requires disconnecting the battery, removing the upper and lower column cover, inserting new bearings into place, installing new clamps, bolts, nuts, etc., and reconnecting all components. It is important to use proper tools such as a socket wrench set and torque wrench when replacing the steering coupler.

Q: What parts are required for Kia Soul Steering Coupler Replacement?
A: The parts required for Kia Soul Steering Coupler Replacement include OE parts such as Kia Soul Steering Column Shafts & Couplers, as well as tools such as a socket wrench set and torque wrench.

Q: What are benefits of replacing steering coupler in Kia Soul?
A: Replacing a Kia Soul’s Steering Coupler can improve vehicle performance by enhancing handling and maneuverability, providing a smooth turning and driving experience. Additionally, replacing a Kia Soul’s Steering Coupler can increase safety and reliability by improving braking performance and reducing wear and tear on other components.

Q: What are some common issues with Kia Soul’s Steering Coupler?
A: Common issues with Kia Soul’s Steering Couplers include faulty wheel alignment (uneven tire wear), unstable vehicle handling, and improper functioning of other components due to lack of lubrication or wear on other components.

In conclusion, the 2012 Kia Soul steering coupler replacement cost is a fair price for the quality and reliability of the part. With regular maintenance, this component can last for many years. Kia also offers a warranty for this part, so customers should be aware of that before making a purchase. By replacing the steering coupler regularly, drivers can be sure that their vehicle is operating safely and efficiently.