Driving Your Vehicle

Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)

~2min read

This system further improves vehicle stability and steering response when driving on slippery roads or when detecting a difference in friction coefficient between the right and left wheels during braking.

VSM Operation

When VSM is operating, the ESC indicator (Kia Soul. Vehicle stability management (VSM)) flashes.

When the Vehicle Stability Management system operates properly, you may feel a slight pulsation in the vehicle. This is only the effect of brake control and does not indicate anything abnormal.

VSM does not operate when:

  • Driving on a road shoulder, such as a slope or incline
  • Driving in reverse
  • The ESC OFF indicator light (Kia Soul. Vehicle stability management (VSM)) remains on the instrument panel
  • The EPS indicator remains illuminated on the instrument cluster

VSM operation is turned off

If you press the ESC OFF button to turn off ESC, VSM will also be cancelled and the ESC OFF indicator (Kia Soul. Vehicle stability management (VSM)) illuminates.

To turn VSM on, press the button again. The ESC OFF indicator will turn off.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

VSM can be deactivated even if you do not cancel VSM operation by pressing the ESC OFF button. This indicates that a malfunction has been detected somewhere in the electric power steering system or the VSM system. If the ESC indicator (Kia Soul. Vehicle stability management (VSM)) or the EPS warning light remains on, have the system inspected by a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.

NOTICE

  • VSM is designed to operate at speeds above approximately 15 km/h in curves.
  • VSM is designed to operate at speeds above approximately 30 km/h when braking the vehicle on a split-mu road. A split-mu road consists of surfaces that have different friction coefficients.

WARNING

  • The Vehicle Stability Management system does not replace safe driving practices; it is only an supplementary function. It is the driver's responsibility to always check the speed and distance to the vehicle ahead. Always hold the steering wheel firmly while driving.
  • Your vehicle is designed to respond to the driver's intention, even with VSM installed. Always observe all normal precautions and drive at speeds safe for the conditions, including driving in inclement weather and on slippery roads.
  • Driving with tires or wheels of a different size may cause the VSM system to malfunction. When replacing tires, make sure they are the same size as your original tires.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Soul Owner's Manual quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.