Upgrading your 2016 Kia Soul's audio system can significantly enhance your driving experience. One popular modification is installing a double DIN head unit, which offers a larger display, more features, and improved functionality compared to the factory stereo. To seamlessly integrate a double DIN unit into your Kia Soul, you'll need a dash kit. This article explores the best double DIN dash kit options available for the 2016 Kia Soul, helping you choose the perfect one for your needs.

Understanding Double DIN Dash Kits

Before diving into specific recommendations, let's clarify what a double DIN dash kit is and why it's essential. A double DIN unit refers to a standard size for car audio head units, measuring approximately 7 x 4 inches. These units typically offer features like touchscreen displays, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. A dash kit is a plastic frame that fills the gap between the new head unit and the car's dashboard, ensuring a clean, factory-like appearance.

Why You Need a Dash Kit

• Seamless Integration: A dash kit ensures the aftermarket head unit fits perfectly into the existing dashboard opening, maintaining the car's interior aesthetics.
• Secure Mounting: The kit provides a secure mounting point for the new head unit, preventing it from moving or vibrating while driving.
• Professional Look: Without a dash kit, the installation can look unfinished and unprofessional. A dash kit gives the installation a clean, factory-installed appearance.
• Protection: It helps protect the head unit and the surrounding dashboard area from damage.

Choosing the right dash kit is crucial for a successful double DIN head unit installation. Factors to consider include the kit's material, finish, fit, and compatibility with your specific vehicle model. Opting for a high-quality dash kit ensures a seamless and aesthetically pleasing upgrade to your 2016 Kia Soul's audio system.

Top Double DIN Dash Kit Options for the 2016 Kia Soul

When selecting a double DIN dash kit for your 2016 Kia Soul, several excellent options are available. These kits are designed to provide a seamless and professional-looking installation, ensuring your new head unit integrates perfectly with your vehicle's interior. Here are some of the top choices:

1. Metra 95-7362B Double DIN Installation Kit

The Metra 95-7362B is a highly regarded option for 2014-2016 Kia Souls. This kit is designed for a precise fit and seamless integration, making it a popular choice among car audio enthusiasts. Metra is a well-known brand in the car audio industry, and their products are known for their quality and durability. The 95-7362B kit is no exception, offering a robust and reliable solution for installing a double DIN head unit in your Kia Soul.

Key Features:

• High-Quality Construction: Made from durable ABS plastic, the Metra 95-7362B is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The plastic is resistant to cracking and fading, ensuring that the kit will maintain its appearance for years to come.
• Seamless Fit: Designed specifically for the 2014-2016 Kia Soul, this kit provides a precise fit, matching the contours of the dashboard for a factory-like appearance. The tight fit also helps to reduce vibrations, which can affect the sound quality of your audio system.
• Easy Installation: The kit includes all the necessary hardware and instructions for a straightforward installation. While professional installation is always recommended, experienced DIYers can often install this kit themselves.
• Black Finish: The black finish complements the interior of most Kia Souls, providing a sleek and integrated look. The black color also helps to hide any minor imperfections or scratches that may occur over time.

The Metra 95-7362B is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and high-quality double DIN dash kit for their 2016 Kia Soul. Its durable construction, seamless fit, and easy installation make it a top contender in the market.

2. Scosche KA2402B Dash Kit

The Scosche KA2402B is another excellent double DIN dash kit option tailored for the 2014-2016 Kia Soul. Known for its user-friendly design and precise fit, Scosche is a reputable brand in car audio accessories, offering a range of solutions for various vehicle models. The KA2402B kit is specifically engineered to integrate seamlessly with the Kia Soul's dashboard, providing a professional and clean installation.

Key Features:

• Perfect Fit: The Scosche KA2402B is designed to match the exact dimensions and contours of the 2014-2016 Kia Soul's dashboard, ensuring a snug and seamless fit. This precise fit not only enhances the appearance of the installation but also helps to minimize vibrations and movement of the head unit.
• Durable Construction: Constructed from high-quality ABS plastic, this dash kit is built to withstand the demands of daily use. The robust material resists cracking, fading, and warping, ensuring long-lasting performance and maintaining its aesthetic appeal over time.
• User-Friendly Installation: The kit comes with comprehensive instructions and all the necessary hardware for a straightforward installation process. The intuitive design makes it accessible for both professional installers and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
• Sleek Black Finish: The black finish of the Scosche KA2402B complements the Kia Soul's interior, providing a cohesive and stylish look. The sleek design integrates seamlessly with the dashboard, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the vehicle's interior.

The Scosche KA2402B is a reliable and visually appealing option for upgrading your 2016 Kia Soul's audio system. Its perfect fit, durable construction, and user-friendly installation make it a standout choice for achieving a professional-grade double DIN head unit installation.

3. American International K-961 Dash Kit

The American International K-961 Dash Kit is a solid contender in the market for double DIN installation solutions for the 2014-2016 Kia Soul. This kit is recognized for its reliable performance and straightforward design, offering a practical solution for integrating an aftermarket head unit into your vehicle. American International is known for producing a wide range of car audio installation accessories, and the K-961 is designed to meet the specific needs of Kia Soul owners.

Key Features:

• Custom Fit: The American International K-961 is engineered to provide a precise fit for the 2014-2016 Kia Soul, ensuring that the aftermarket head unit integrates seamlessly with the vehicle's dashboard. This custom fit helps to maintain the original aesthetics of the interior while providing a secure mounting solution.
• Durable Material: Constructed from high-quality ABS plastic, the dash kit is designed to withstand daily use and resist wear and tear. The robust material ensures that the kit maintains its shape and appearance over time, providing a long-lasting solution for your audio installation needs.
• Simplified Installation: The kit is designed with ease of installation in mind, featuring a straightforward design and including all necessary hardware. This makes it accessible for both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts to achieve a clean and professional-looking installation.
• Black Texture: The black texture of the dash kit complements the interior of the Kia Soul, providing a cohesive and integrated appearance. The finish is designed to blend seamlessly with the existing dashboard, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the vehicle's interior.

The American International K-961 Dash Kit is a practical and reliable option for those looking to upgrade their 2016 Kia Soul's audio system. Its custom fit, durable material, and simplified installation make it a solid choice for achieving a professional and clean double DIN head unit installation.

Installation Tips and Considerations

Installing a double DIN dash kit and head unit in your 2016 Kia Soul can be a rewarding DIY project, but it's essential to approach it with care and attention to detail. Here are some valuable tips and considerations to ensure a successful installation:

1. Gather the Right Tools: Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. This typically includes screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), wire strippers, wire crimpers, a socket set, electrical tape, and possibly a plastic trim removal tool to avoid damaging the dashboard.
2. Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative terminal of your car's battery before working on any electrical components. This prevents accidental short circuits and potential damage to your vehicle's electrical system.
3. Read the Instructions: Carefully read the instructions provided with both the dash kit and the head unit. Familiarize yourself with the installation process and any specific requirements or warnings.
4. Test the Head Unit: Before fully installing the head unit, connect it and test its functionality. Ensure that all features, such as the radio, Bluetooth, and any connected devices, are working correctly.
5. Secure Wiring: Properly secure all wiring connections using wire crimpers and electrical tape or heat shrink tubing. This prevents loose connections and ensures reliable performance.
6. Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable with the installation process, consider seeking professional assistance from a qualified car audio installer. They have the expertise and tools to ensure a safe and proper installation.
7. Check Compatibility: Verify that the dash kit and head unit are compatible with your specific vehicle model and year. This ensures a proper fit and avoids any potential issues during installation.
8. Use a Wiring Harness: Employ a wiring harness adapter to connect the aftermarket head unit to the car's existing wiring. This simplifies the installation process and avoids cutting or splicing any of the factory wires.

By following these tips and considerations, you can ensure a smooth and successful double DIN head unit installation in your 2016 Kia Soul. Taking the time to plan and prepare will result in a professional-looking and functional upgrade to your car's audio system.

Conclusion

Selecting the right double DIN dash kit is crucial for a seamless and professional-looking installation in your 2016 Kia Soul. The Metra 95-7362B, Scosche KA2402B, and American International K-961 are all excellent options, each offering a precise fit and durable construction. Consider your specific needs and preferences when making your choice. With the right dash kit and careful installation, you can significantly enhance your driving experience with an upgraded audio system.