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Picking the right oil filter for your Kia Soul matters because it helps keep engine oil clean, reduces wear, and supports consistent engine performance. You want a filter that balances fine particle capture, good flow, and a reliable seal so routine oil changes actually protect the engine. This guide covers seven shortlisted oil filters that meet common durability and filtration expectations for the Kia Soul. We evaluate each option against filtration efficiency, seal and gasket performance, construction quality, and ease of installation. Read on to see which features are most relevant to your driving habits and maintenance routine.
Looking for other parts? See all Kia Soul parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Reviewed A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Mobil 1 M1-108A Extended Performance Oil Filter (2-pack) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Bosch Premium Oil Filter 3330 with FILTECH Filtration |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | 4STEED MOTORS Engine Oil Filter 26300-35505 and Drain Plug Gasket 21513-23001 (3-pack) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | ACDelco PF64 Oil Filter |  |
| Most Sold A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Bosch Premium 3323 Engine Oil Filter with FILTECH Media |  |
| Best Value for Money The sweet spot between price and what you get | Acura (Honda) 15400-PLM-A02 Engine Oil Filter |  |
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | K&N Premium Oil Filter HP-1008 |  |
1. Mobil 1 M1-108A Extended Performance Oil Filter (2-pack)
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 2 |
| Material | Synthetic |
| Vehicle Service Type | Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Motorcycles |
Mobil 1 M1-108A Extended Performance oil filters are built to capture fine contaminants and withstand higher pressures than economy filters, which lets them protect oil for extended intervals. They are used like any standard spin-on filter during routine maintenance and are a direct replacement where the M1-108A fits Kia Soul models that require this thread size and specification. Notable features include a synthetic blend media that Mobil says removes over 99% of contaminants, an anti-drainback valve to prevent dry starts, a pliable nitrile gasket to reduce leak risk, and a heavy-duty canister rated for much higher system pressure than typical filters. In practice this means cleaner oil between changes, reliable cold-start protection, and a robust metal can that resists collapse under stress. The main limitations are that extended protection claims depend on using compatible oil and following manufacturer guidance, and a longer service interval may not be appropriate for all driving conditions or for owners who prefer strictly factory-recommended schedules.
Best for: A reliability-focused buyer who prioritizes extended engine protection and fewer filter changes, aiming to keep a Kia Soul running clean and dependable between services.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prefer strictly following short factory service intervals or those who want the absolute lowest-cost disposable filters for frequent budget replacements.
- High-efficiency synthetic blend media captures over 99% of contaminants for cleaner oil.
- Anti-drainback valve prevents dry starts, protecting engine bearings at restart.
- Durable metal canister resists high oil system pressures and reduces collapse risk.
- Pliable nitrile gasket ensures a secure seal and reduces chance of leaks during installation.
- Extended interval performance depends on compatible oil and driving conditions rather than the filter alone.
Verdict A durable, high-efficiency extended-performance filter ideal for Kia Soul owners who prioritize long-term engine protection and cleaner oil between services.
2. Bosch Premium Oil Filter 3330 with FILTECH Filtration
| Brand | Bosch |
|---|---|
| Thread Size | M14x1.5 |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car |
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
The Bosch Premium Oil Filter 3330 is a spin-on replacement designed to trap dirt and particles with Bosch's FILTECH media, holding up to 14 grams of debris to reduce contaminants circulating through the engine. It is used during routine oil changes as a direct-fit, vehicle-specific replacement and includes features intended to ensure reliable sealing and serviceability such as a silicone anti-drain back valve, a high-lubricity gasket for leak-free installation and easier removal, and a reinforced spiral-wound center tube for internal strength. In practical use the filter gives a balance of strong filtration and simple fit-and-forget convenience for DIYers and shops alike. Limitations to keep in mind are fitment: this specific cartridge/size needs to match the Kia Soul application you have, and its spin-on form factor may differ from other filter styles used on some engines. Also the product listing shows a chrome exterior which is cosmetic only and does not change filtration performance.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a reliable, easy-to-install factory-quality replacement that minimizes fuss at routine oil changes.
Less Ideal for: Owners who require a different filter style or size for a specific Kia Soul engine or who prefer performance filters with specialized media beyond standard OEM-quality filtration.
- FILTECH media captures and holds up to 14 grams of dirt for improved oil cleanliness
- Silicone anti-drain back valve helps ensure immediate oil supply on startup
- High-lubricity gasket provides a tight seal while easing removal during service
- Reinforced spiral-wound center tube improves durability under pressure
- Product fitment must be verified for Kia Soul engine/trims before purchase
Verdict A dependable, convenience-oriented oil filter that brings Bosch FILTECH filtration to routine Kia Soul oil changes as long as you confirm proper fitment.
3. 4STEED MOTORS Engine Oil Filter 26300-35505 and Drain Plug Gasket 21513-23001 (3-pack)
| Manufacturer Part Number | 26300-35505 / 21513-23001 |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 3 |
| Material Type | Aluminum |
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
This 3-pack bundles three engine oil filters (26300-35505) and three aluminum drain plug gaskets (21513-23001) intended as direct-fit replacements for affected Hyundai and Kia models. For routine oil changes it supplies the core consumables you need to refresh filtration and reseal the drain at each service interval. The filter media is described as a mix of natural and synthetic materials aimed at improved particle capture and engine protection, while the aluminum crush washers simplify a proper drain plug seal. Buyers will appreciate receiving filters and gaskets together so they can complete a single oil change without hunting parts. Limitations to note are packaging quality reported by some customers and the listing covering many vehicle fits broadly rather than verifying exact model-year fitment at checkout, so confirming compatibility before purchase is wise. This set is a practical option for owners who perform their own maintenance or want OEM-style replacements on hand for scheduled oil changes.
Best for: A convenience-driven buyer who prefers keeping complete, vehicle-specific maintenance items on hand to do quick at-home oil changes or to hand to a technician without multiple trips to parts stores.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking premium aftermarket filtration technology with explicitly published micron ratings or advanced multi-layer media testing should consider higher-end specialty filters instead.
- Includes both oil filters and matching drain plug gaskets so one purchase covers a full oil change.
- Marketed as OEM-equivalent with matching part numbers and interchange info for easy identification.
- Filter media blends natural and synthetic fibers for improved filtration compared with basic generic elements.
- Three-pack reduces trips to buy parts and lowers per-filter cost compared with single units.
- Packaging has been reported as minimal and can allow boxes to be scuffed in transit.
- Listing includes a broad range of compatible models so buyers must double-check fitment for their specific year and trim.
Verdict A practical 3-pack of OEM-style oil filters and crush washers that keeps you ready for scheduled oil changes, provided you confirm exact year-fitment before buying.
4. ACDelco PF64 Oil Filter
| Thread Size | M16 x 1.5 |
|---|---|
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
| Vehicle Service Type | Sports Utility Vehicle, Truck |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 12605565 |
The ACDelco PF64 is a straightforward spin-on oil filter intended as a factory-quality replacement for compatible vehicles. It installs like a standard screw-on filter and is used during routine oil changes to trap contaminants and protect the engine. Notable practical features include a machined exterior for reliable sealing and a paper filtration element sized and threaded for vehicle-specific fitment. For routine maintenance the PF64 delivers predictable filtration performance and fits easily with common DIY oil change procedures. The main benefits are its factory-alike fit and consistent compatibility when it matches the vehicle part number, which reduces the chance of leaks or fitment headaches. Limitations are minimal for basic maintenance but include the standard lifespan and efficiency constraints of a paper-element filter compared with higher-end synthetic-media performance filters, so it is best for regular interval changes rather than extended oil change schedules. Packaging condition has occasionally been reported damaged in transit, so inspect the part before installation.
Best for: Budget-conscious owners prioritizing low-cost, reliable maintenance parts who want a straightforward, factory-quality replacement for scheduled oil changes.
Less Ideal for: Drivers planning extended oil change intervals or who want premium synthetic-media filtration for performance or extended protection should consider a higher-end filter option.
- Factory-quality replacement designed for direct fit and straightforward install
- Paper filtration media provides reliable particle capture for regular oil change intervals
- Machined exterior and correct thread size reduce risk of leaks and fitment issues
- Uses conventional paper media rather than higher-performance synthetic media
- Occasional reports of cosmetic damage to the retail box on delivery
Verdict A low-cost, factory-quality spin-on filter that gives reliable fit and basic filtration for routine oil changes on compatible vehicles.
5. Bosch Premium 3323 Engine Oil Filter with FILTECH Media
| Thread Size | M20 x 1.50 |
|---|---|
| Outside Diameter | 68 Millimeters |
| Number of Items | 1 |
The Bosch 3323 is a spin-on replacement oil filter built around Bosch FILTECH filtration media that claims up to 99% efficiency and the capacity to hold as much as 14 grams of dirt. It installs like a standard canister filter and is suited to routine oil changes, with a silicone anti-drain back valve to keep oil in the engine after shutdown and a high-lubricity gasket for leak-free sealing and easier removal. The strong steel base plate and spiral-wound center tube improve durability and reduce the chance of warpage or leaks under normal service. For routine maintenance the practical benefit is straightforward: consistent filtration performance from a well-known manufacturer without stepping up to a premium specialty filter. Limitations to note are that this is a conventional spin-on design so it must match the vehicle thread and size, and performance claims (filtration efficiency and dirt capacity) are based on Bosch testing so long-term lifespan depends on your driving conditions and oil change interval.
Best for: Risk-averse, mainstream buyers who prioritize dependable, factory-style replacements and predictable service intervals for general daily driving.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking extended-interval or high-mileage specialty filters for severe-duty or track use should consider purpose-built premium or high-capacity alternatives.
- FILTECH media with high claimed filtration efficiency to capture fine particles
- Silicone anti-drain back valve preserves oil pressure and reduces dry-start wear
- Strong steel base plate and spiral-wound center tube for durable, factory-style fit
- High-lubricity gasket for tight sealing and easier removal at service
- Fitment is vehicle-specific so you must verify it matches Kia Soul engine/thread before purchase
Verdict A reliable, factory-style spin-on filter that delivers strong filtration performance for everyday maintenance when matched to the Kia Soul's required fitment.
6. Acura (Honda) 15400-PLM-A02 Engine Oil Filter
| Thread Size | M14 x 1.5 |
|---|---|
| Material | Metal housing, fibrous filter media |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 15400-PLM-A02PE |
| Number of Items | 1 |
This is a factory-quality Honda/Acura engine oil filter designed to capture contaminants and protect the engine during oil changes. It installs like a standard spin-on filter using an M14 x 1.5 thread and is built with a metal housing and fibrous filter media to hold up under normal service. Typical use is straightforward: remove the old filter during an oil change, fit this unit, hand-tighten to spec, and replace the drain plug washer if required. The practical benefits are consistent fitment, durable construction, and filtration performance that matches factory expectations. Limitations for this article are compatibility with the Kia Soul platform, since this is a Honda part and not specifically produced for Kia models; buyers must confirm thread and size fit before ordering. Also the package does not include a crush washer for the drain plug which some owners prefer to have included for a complete service kit.
Best for: Practical optimizers who prioritize reliability and value from factory-quality parts and want a straightforward, serviceable oil filter for routine maintenance.
Less Ideal for: Buyers seeking a filter explicitly matched to Kia Soul without verifying compatibility or those who want a full service kit with drain washer included.
- Genuine manufacturer part offering factory-quality fit and filtration.
- Metal housing with fibrous media provides durable construction and reliable contaminant capture.
- Common M14 x 1.5 thread size used by many service procedures, making installation familiar for mechanics.
- Compact spin-on design makes replacements quick during routine oil changes.
- Not specifically designed for Kia Soul so fitment must be verified before purchase.
- Does not include a separate drain plug crush washer or additional service hardware.
Verdict A dependable factory-quality Honda oil filter that delivers reliable filtration and build quality but requires compatibility checks for Kia Soul fitment.
7. K&N Premium Oil Filter HP-1008
| Thread Size | M20 X 1.5 |
|---|---|
| Material | steel |
| Product Grade | Performance Part |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
The K&N Premium Oil Filter HP-1008 is a heavy-duty spin-on filter built for extended service intervals and consistent oil flow. It uses pleated synthetic-blend filtration media to capture contaminants while maintaining high flow rates, and the welded hex nut on the canister lets you remove the filter quickly when access is tight. Typical use is straightforward: install during an oil change on a compatible Kia Soul engine and run with synthetic or conventional oil as recommended. The canister construction and synthetic media give better durability and filtration capacity than many budget filters, which supports longer intervals between changes. Practical limitations: the filter is vehicle-specific so verify fit to your Kia Soul year and engine, and some users report the welded nut does not always protrude enough for every wrench or socket, which can reduce the intended convenience. The product is backed by a one-year limited warranty and is best used where owners want a balance of durability, filtration performance, and easier removal.
Best for: Balanced, all-round buyers who want a durable, higher-capacity replacement filter that supports longer service intervals without sacrificing everyday reliability.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prefer the absolute lowest-cost disposable filters or those who need a universal filter that fits multiple vehicle types without checking fitment.
- High flow design maintains consistent oil circulation for engine protection
- Pleated synthetic-blend media improves contaminant capture and capacity
- Heavy-duty canister construction resists deformation during service
- Welded hex nut enables easier removal when a wrench or socket can reach
- Welded nut may not protrude enough for some wrench setups, limiting removal ease
- Vehicle-specific fit means you must confirm compatibility with your Kia Soul
Verdict A durable, high-flow replacement filter that balances filtration capacity and convenience for Kia Soul owners seeking extended service intervals.
Choosing the Right Kia Soul Oil Filter: Key Factors to Consider
Filtration Efficiency and Micron Rating
Filtration efficiency indicates how well a filter captures particles that accelerate engine wear. A filter that traps smaller particles without excessively restricting flow reduces abrasive wear and helps maintain oil cleanliness between changes.
Look for stated micron ratings and efficiency percentages at relevant particle sizes. Balance is important: overly restrictive media can impede flow, especially during cold starts, while coarse media may let damaging particles circulate.
Bypass Valve Design and Performance
A bypass valve prevents oil starvation when the filter is cold or clogged by allowing unfiltered oil to circulate. Its opening pressure and reliability matter because a stuck valve can either block flow or let too much unfiltered oil pass.
Consider valves designed to operate at predictable pressures and that resist sticking over repeated thermal cycles. Filters intended for climates with frequent low-temperature starts should prioritize dependable bypass performance.
Seal and Gasket Materials
The gasket is the first line of defense against leaks at the filter-to-engine interface. Material choice affects durability, compression set over time, and resistance to oil additives and heat.
Search for gaskets made from nitrile, silicone, or other oil-resistant elastomers and designs that maintain a secure seal without excessive torque. A poor gasket can cause external leakage or allow contaminants to enter during operation.
Canister Construction and Anti-Corrosion Coating
For spin-on filters, the metal canister must withstand installation torque and resist corrosion over service life. A sturdy canister reduces the risk of dents or thread damage that can compromise sealing.
Anti-corrosion coatings and a robust crimping process for end caps improve durability. Strong internal supports for the media help maintain shape under flow and pressure, preserving filtration performance throughout the interval.
Compatibility with Oil Type and Flow Characteristics
Different oil viscosities and synthetic formulations interact with filter media and bypass behavior. Filters optimized for synthetic oils may use media and seals that handle higher detergent content and thinner flow at low temperatures.
Confirm that the filter's specifications align with the oil types you plan to use and that rated flow supports your engine's oil pump without excessive pressure drop. This is especially relevant if you change to a lighter or heavier viscosity than commonly used.
Ease of Installation and Removal
Practical installation features affect whether you can change the filter cleanly and without damage. Features such as knurled edges, compatible thread size, and an accessible gasket make home maintenance simpler.
Consider how the filter sits in the engine bay and whether the design reduces mess and makes removal straightforward during routine oil changes. A filter that is difficult to reach or remove can increase the chance of cross-threading or gasket damage.
FAQ
How often should I change the oil filter on a Kia Soul?
Change intervals vary with driving habits, oil type, and manufacturer recommendations. Many drivers replace the oil filter at every oil change, often between 5,000 and 10,000 miles depending on whether conventional or synthetic oil is used. Check your vehicle manual for the recommended interval and adjust for severe driving conditions such as frequent short trips or towing.
Can I switch to a synthetic oil filter with synthetic oil?
You can use a filter rated for synthetic oil when running synthetic lubricants. Filters designed with compatible media and seals handle detergent additives and different flow characteristics better. Ensure the filter specifies compatibility with synthetic oil or lists performance metrics that match your oil choice.
What causes an oil filter gasket leak and how can I prevent it?
Leaks often stem from an improperly seated gasket, overtightening, a damaged gasket, or a mismatched thread. Prevent leaks by cleaning the mounting surface, lubricating the gasket lightly with oil before installation, and tightening to the recommended torque. Inspect the gasket for cracks or deformation before installation.
Is a spin-on oil filter easier to replace than other types?
Spin-on filters are generally straightforward because they combine media and canister in one unit that threads onto the engine. They tend to be quicker to swap out than cartridge-style filters, which require access to a housing and sometimes a separate gasket. Ease of use depends on engine bay access and whether you have the right tools for removal.
How do I know the correct oil filter size for my Kia Soul?
The correct size is determined by the engine's thread pitch, gasket diameter, and overall fit within the filter location. Consult your vehicle manual or the parts guide for the exact fitment specification. Using the proper size ensures a correct seal and reliable installation.
How We Chose the Best Kia Soul Oil Filter
We selected filters based on attributes that directly affect longevity and engine protection for the Kia Soul. Primary criteria included filtration efficiency at relevant micron ratings, bypass valve design and performance to ensure oil flow under cold-start or high-clog conditions, seal and gasket materials and resistance to leaks, and construction quality such as canister strength and resistant coatings. We also looked at fitment accuracy and installation-friendly features like accessible thread size and spin-on ergonomics, plus compatibility with both conventional and synthetic oils. We excluded options lacking clear specification on micron ratings, filters with questionable seal materials, or units without documented fitment for the Kia Soul. We did not include niche racing-only products or filters intended for heavy-duty commercial engines. The filters presented balance real-world service intervals, effective contaminant capture, and reliable sealing for everyday passenger-vehicle use.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
Conclusion
Choosing an oil filter for a Kia Soul comes down to balancing filtration efficiency, reliable sealing, and durable construction. Prioritize a filter with documented particle-capture performance, a dependable bypass valve, and gasket materials that resist oil and heat. Also consider how the filter handles the oil type you use and whether installation will be straightforward in your vehicle. Focusing on those tradeoffs will help you pick a filter that supports long-term engine health and clean oil between service intervals.
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