Kia Problems

The Kia Souls sold in Australia are 4140mm in length.

Because you want to travel to the snow, and visit farms, I would suggest an all-wheel drive compact wagon, and with your need for low running and service costs I would suggest that it be an Asian brand. Models to consider would be a Subaru Forester, Nissan X-Trail or Kia Sportage.

If you don't drive like a complete Wally, then it will be fine. Anyone not experienced at driving in the snow should watch as many tutorials as possible and go slowly when the temperature starts to drop.

There is just one Phillips-head screw holding the door panel on, located behind a cover plug under the armrest. The door panel then pulls off its snap-lock clips, starting by tugging at the bottom corner and working upwards.

You have to take your key fob to Kia or a qualified locksmith who can code it to your car for you. Coding keys requires tapping into your car's computer using specialist software so it isn't a job Harry Homejob can do with basic tools.

Pop out the power and USB panel at the base of the console. Undo the Phillips head screws behind that panel, which hold the main console panel on. You can then pull that panel off, working from the bottom up. Remove the Phillips-head screws holding the radio unit to the dashboard, then pull the radio unit forwards and unplug it.

There are five colour combinations available on the Soul: Bright White, Clear Silver, Titanium Silver, Bright White with an Inferno Red roof, and Inferno Red with a Cherry Black roof.

It is likely that there is a head gasket problem; it was a common issue with the early Carnival. Buying a secondhand engine is inviting trouble. It could also be struck down with the same problem and you could find yourself back in the same situation. I would be doing the head gasket rather than buying a secondhand engine, that way you know it is fixed.

I doubt that it is intentional, particularly as they’ve offered to try and buff it out for you.

Your first port of call should be a Kia dealer or qualified mechanic. If you align the headlights incorrectly you could blind oncoming drivers, or not have enough light on the road to see properly.